Guarding democracy justice chandrachud framed the search for truth as an aspiration in a democratic society he’s right

Guarding democracy justice chandrachud framed the search for truth as an aspiration in a democratic society he’s right

The essence of democracy is in the participation of decisions in public policy by citizens, regardless of their means. That presupposes they are adequately informed. In a speech last week, Supreme Court judge DY Chandrachud framed the issue in terms of what citizens can do, but it also points to how much they are allowed to do. The speech dwells on the relationship between truth and democracy. At one level the health of any democracy rests on the foundation of governments being truthful about current state of affairs.

Chandrachud posits that the relationship between truth and democracy is both a sword and shield. In effect, a democracy depends on how effectively citizens can exercise their rights to ensure that there is a systemic effort to place the truth in front of them. In a practical sense, as the judge observed, citizens need to do their bit to ensure that the media is free. More so, in the context of strengthening public institutions. A recent development that does not further this goal is the Information Technology Rules introduced in February this year. It imposes draconian restrictions on a responsible medium that is fast growing. A consequence will be that fake news, which undermines the health of a democracy, will proliferate through other digital platforms.

Education is a key to strengthening the intrinsic strength of democracy and keeping it vibrant. Both the education system and democracy work well when children are allowed to develop a temperament that allows them to pose questions to power. This is rightly highlighted as a duty where citizens have a role and responsibility in strengthening democracy. Another area where India’s growing middle class can do more is in elections. Voting is a right in India, something that people in many other countries cannot take for granted. However, this right needs more involvement from India’s more privileged citizens.

Truth is inextricably intertwined with India’s national motto and emblem. The speech serves as a reminder to what the political class and citizens can do to realise these ideals. Framing it in the discourse of aspirations, the judge observed that the commitment to search for truth is a key aspiration of our society. The best way to realise this goal is to allow the plurality that characterises Indian society free expression. Democracy produces the best results when it creates a platform for multiple opinions. The most effective decisions come out considering multiple points of view.