Indian politics and character of politicians: A harsh reality behind democratic ideals

Kushal Jyoti Malakar 

(kjmalakar66@gmail.com)

India, the world’s largest democracy, operates under a multi-party system grounded in the Constitution. In theory, political parties are institutions created to uphold democratic principles, represent the voice of the people, and serve as instruments of public service and nation-building. They are expected to function with transparency, responsibility, and a strong ideological foundation. Unfortunately, in practice, these ideals are often lost amidst the growing dominance of power politics, personal ambition, and corruption.

Democracy: On Paper vs. In Practice

The Indian democratic system provides every citizen with the right to vote and the power to choose their representatives. It promises justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Political parties, according to this framework, are supposed to serve as the bridge between the people and the government. They are meant to reflect the aspirations of the people and work selflessly for the progress of the nation.

But today, if we ask whether this is actually happening, the answer—more often than not—is a firm “No.”

The Greed for Power and Wealth

It is no secret that the majority of politicians today see politics as a career for personal enrichment, rather than a platform to serve the nation. From aspiring MLAs and MPs to ministers at the state and national level, many are driven by the desire to acquire enormous wealth, power, and status. The motive of entering politics is no longer guided by sacrifice or service, but by the benefits the position can bring.

Once elected, many politicians use their position to gain control over contracts, resources, and influence. Their focus shifts from public service to building personal empires, securing the future of their families, and consolidating their influence, often at the cost of the taxpayer. What should be public office turns into private business.

Social Service: A Mask,

Not a Mission

While political leaders frequently use the language of “public service,” in reality, these are often hollow words designed to project a favourable image. Events, welfare schemes, and public interactions are frequently used as photo opportunities or political tools rather than genuine efforts to uplift the people.

Even when social work is done, it is commonly linked with vote-bank politics, targeted at winning elections rather than solving real issues. Many politicians and parties organise symbolic relief programs, distribute freebies, or make public announcements that rarely materialize into concrete outcomes.

Ideology: For Workers,

Not Leaders

Most political parties in India claim to have strong ideologies—be it nationalism, secularism, socialism, or regional pride. These ideologies are taught to and enforced upon grassroots workers and volunteers. Party workers are often sincere and loyal, genuinely believing in the party’s mission.

However, the situation is starkly different among the top leadership. Senior politicians often treat ideology as a tool to control the cadre, while their own actions reflect opportunism and hypocrisy. It’s not uncommon to see leaders switching parties for personal gain, forming alliances with ideological opponents, or contradicting their past positions when convenient.

To them, ideology is a slogan—not a sacred principle. It becomes evident when we see politicians laughing off serious issues, dodging accountability, and engaging in power games while the public suffers.

A Culture of Corruption

and Compromise

Over the years, this attitude has developed into a political culture where corruption is normalized, accountability is rare, and ethical governance is an exception rather than the rule. The system rewards loyalty to power, not performance. Political dynasties flourish. Criminal backgrounds are ignored. And election promises are forgotten as soon as power is attained. This has led to widespread public cynicism. People now view politics as a ‘dirty game’ rather than a noble calling. Honest voices are often sidelined or silenced, while the system protects and promotes those who are politically convenient.

Conclusion: The Need for Reform

While it would be unfair to say that every politician is corrupt or self-serving, the vast majority today seem to have lost sight of their original purpose—to serve the nation and its people. Indian democracy is alive, but its spirit is under threat from within.

What India needs is a new generation of leaders who value integrity over influence, who uphold ideology over identity politics, and who remember that politics is not a privilege but a sacred responsibility. Until that happens, the gap between what democracy promises and what it delivers will continue to grow—and the people will continue to pay the price.

In a democratic nation, political power is not a personal privilege but a sacred responsibility entrusted by the people. Citizens elect their representatives with the hope that they will work sincerely for the development of the country, uplift the marginalized, protect the constitution, and uphold justice. However, when politicians—regardless of their political party or position, whether in government or in opposition—misuse this power for personal gain, they commit a betrayal of public trust.

If any public representative accumulates wealth through corrupt practices such as bribery, favouritism, misuse of public funds, or manipulation of administrative machinery, it is nothing short of looting the nation’s resources. That wealth does not belong to them; it belongs to the people of the country. They were never given power to become rich at the cost of the public—it was given to serve, to lead with integrity, and to be a guardian of the people’s welfare.

Such wealth, when gained illegally or unethically, should not remain in the hands of the individual. It should be identified, recovered, and deposited back into the government treasury. This money must be used for the welfare of the poor, for building infrastructure, and for healthcare, education, and employment—areas where the public truly benefits.

No law, no influence, and no party affiliation should protect those who betray their duties. There should be strict mechanisms of transparency and accountability. The wealth and assets of politicians must be audited regularly, and any disproportionate accumulation must be thoroughly investigated. The principle is simple: “Public power is for public service, not personal enrichment.”

The time has come when people must demand clean politics—not only through votes, but also through constant vigilance and public pressure. Unless we hold our leaders accountable, corruption will continue to eat into the foundations of our democracy.