The opposition is an essential watchdog that ensures checks and balances on the power of the government in a flourishing democracy. It is essential to express different viewpoints, represent different aspects of society, and hold the government accountable for its actions. Tolerance, genuine political opposition, and faith in the ability of citizens to resolve disputes amicably are all prerequisites for democracy. A weak and fragmented opposition may stand idly by and allow the tyranny and whims of the majority party to take over. Though a healthy opposition is essential for the smooth functioning of the government, to counter occasional excesses and prevent disruptions, the absence of opposition will endanger the liberty and life of the people as a whole and will also threaten the rule of law.
Priyanka Saurabh
To strengthen democracy, the government and the opposition must work together constructively. But the quality of legislative deliberation in India has deteriorated further due to growing polarization in parliamentary debates, frequent disruptions, and the dominance of rhetoric over substantive debates. Inadequate policy debate hinders genuine dialogue between the government and the opposition. Partisan issues are often used to derail discussions on important subjects that require broad national consensus, such as foreign policy and technological development. The effectiveness of parliamentary debates is diminished when political animosities lead to chaos rather than debate. The government’s legislative agenda and its unwillingness to meaningfully engage with the opposition show that it is unwilling to take responsibility for its actions. Parliamentary processes should facilitate debate and policy reform, but growing partisanship has weakened these processes. Pre-legislative consultations and discussions on important policies are not taking place with much effort.
Government needs a strong opposition to maintain checks and balances. Recognizing this, the American Founding Fathers established multiple levels of government. They were very wary of big government, which is why they thought it was difficult and complicated to run. They were unaware of other members using legitimate but unethical means to prevent legislation from being passed. “Talking over a bill” or “not talking over a bill” refers to unnecessary speechmaking and time-wasting aimed at preventing a meaningful bill or law from actually being passed. The opposition can sabotage the government and prevent laws from being passed, rendering them ineffective. In the absence of a strong opposition, the current government becomes autocratic and unaccountable and can create laws that benefit a few people or a specific tribe or group. As the saying goes, “Power corrupts,” and sadly, this does happen. The so-called “benevolent” kings of the past were not actually in positions of authority. Before the first Nigerian military takeover in the 1960s, there was a strong opposition in the country. However, divide-and-rule tactics and imprisoning leaders on charges of treason succeeded in crushing it.
As a result, people killed all those they considered corrupt because they felt their complaints were not being heard and the government had become irresponsible and corrupt. This resulted in coups. Civil wars broke out after politicians belonging mainly to a particular tribe were assassinated. Even if the leader believes he is acting in the best interest of the people, people will feel oppressed if they have no say in the matter. The ability of a current or former leader to address representatives of the people and hold them accountable for their actions is amazing. All dictators start by suppressing any form of dissent in the press, which is another important element. This then gives them the opportunity to attack non-governmental organizations.
One way to improve parliamentary functioning is to focus on policy rather than political rhetoric. Parliamentary debates should prioritize governance issues rather than old-fashioned blame games or election campaigning. Frequent, organized contact between the opposition and the ruling party can promote issue-based dialogue and help avoid confrontation. Mechanisms such as parliamentary committees should be strengthened to ensure that policy debates remain fruitful.
Explaining the government’s actions through regular discussions on urgent national issues is something the Prime Minister and other important ministers should do. It is possible to guarantee accountability by reviving forums like Question Hour and organized policy discussions. Instead of creating political divisions, foreign policy, development, and economic transformation should be seen as party issues that require long-term consensus. Parliamentary disruptions should be reduced by establishing more stringent rules and ethical norms for discussions. It is necessary to enhance the role of the Speaker and parliamentary committees in maintaining decorum and guaranteeing equitable participation. Constructive criticism should be the role of the opposition party. Issues and bills are more debated and discussed because of the opposition; otherwise, they will be passed without any discussion or consideration of the needs of others, which would be fatal to democracy and could turn it into autocracy. On any important issue, it is the opposition party that will go to war.
Effective governance requires constructive cooperation between the government and the opposition. Since the government is the main body in charge, it is its duty to lead efforts to reach a compromise and ensure that debate in Parliament focuses on solving India’s problems rather than widening political divides. In a democracy, the vigor and strength of the opposition is often an indicator of its health. Strengthening the opposition in India requires strengthening not just political parties but the overall democratic system. Important policies include promoting internal democracy within parties, providing equal access to the media, and allocating state funds. A strong and successful opposition is essential to make democracy dynamic, responsive, and accountable.
