The rise of common man as political force

The rise of common man as political force

Introduction
Indian politics is on the cusp of change. One of the latest trends to hit the scene is the view of common man as a political force. With a theme of anti-graft as its slogan, a fledgling political party aims to end corruption in the country.

International as well as national newspapers and news channels are following the upcoming Indian elections with renewed interest to see the final outcome of the campaign crafted for dispelling graft and catering to the needs of the common man. But, it is incorrect to say that there is a rise of the common man as a political force. This is because those who are contesting elections and leading the nation are very far from common themselves though they claim to be one of the masses.

Viewpoint

• There is nothing common about the leaders who have opted to be part of India’s newest anti-graft party. Noted corporate ex-honchos and owners of large companies are becoming members of this party. It has a passion for raising issues without suggesting concrete solutions. The biggest disservice this “common man” party can do is to disrupt the growth of the economy. Though it seeks to expand in rural areas, it is questionable as to what extent this new party will be able to reach the masses in India’s villages.

• Other leading parties in the national and regional scene are also filled with scions of political dynasties and persons with criminal records. Political leaders who have violated the basic human rights of Indian citizens are also at the helm. It is indeed a tragedy that common man has in fact not emerged as a political force.

• From a store owner to a school teacher, common men and women continue to pin their hopes on these political leaders as India moves from one election to another. With over 1.2 billion people living in this country, Indian society is divided into segments and there are clashes of interests on the political scene on account of this. Each party has its own lobby and coterie of businessmen. Unfortunately, common man is excluded from the political process to a very large extent.

• Common man still struggles to get a job and hold on to his home. He still faces power shortages and violation of his basic human rights. Common man has to face demands for bribes when he wants to admit his daughter to a nursery school. Common man has to work hard for a living.

• India’s political classes are a privileged lot. They have private planes and large homes. Even the latest kids on the block such as the common man party are not averse to perks and privileges. They claim to be acting in the interests of the average person. But, they themselves are not transparent in their functioning.

• Power corrupts, but absolute power corrupts absolutely. From making laws that allow those in criminal detention to contest elections to taking no active role in curbing the growing menace of corruption, India’s political leaders are turning out to be detrimental to the interests of common man. Funds for the utilization of social welfare schemes are still to be used. Corruption is still rampant in the power corridors of Delhi.

Conclusion

While the question remains whether common man will ever emerge as a strong political force in the country, Indian citizens continue to hope that anti-graft parties become more committed to the cause. Even established political leaders need to re-examine their priorities and work towards helping the common man to become more than just a motto or a slogan. Indian voters continue to look for a viable political solution to the ills that plague our society and nation.

Perhaps in the future generations, the rise of the common man as a political force may become a reality and not just an empty promise on the part of all our present day leaders and political parties.