[ Takheng Lamnio ]
The recent bandhs, protests, and demands for the resignation of ministers and MLAs in Itanagar, over bills and Acts placed before the Legislative Assembly raise an important question: What is the responsibility of voters in a democratic system?
First, during elections, voters generally know the political parties, their ideologies, and the leaders seeking public office. Political parties contest elections based on their manifestos, policies, and visions for governance. Citizens therefore have an opportunity to evaluate these positions before casting their votes.
Second, voters are aware that ministers and MLAs are elected representatives entrusted with specific constitutional and legislative functions. Their duties include debating public issues, formulating policies, introducing bills, and passing laws in the Legislative Assembly. These powers are not hidden from the electorate; they are fundamental aspects of representative democracy.
Third, many of the issues that later become subjects of public controversy are often linked to broader policy debates that exist before elections. Citizens therefore have a responsibility to remain informed about public affairs, governance, and the likely consequences of policy choices.
Fourth, elections should ideally be decided on merit, integrity, vision, and public service. However, in many places, voters may be influenced by factors such as money, personal favours, caste, clan loyalties, religious affiliations, family connections, or short-term benefits. When electoral choices are made primarily on such considerations, the long-term consequences of governance may be overlooked.
Fifth, when elected representatives exercise their lawful authority by introducing or supporting bills and Acts, public disagreement is natural and democratic. Citizens have every right to protest peacefully and express opposition. However, such moments should also encourage society to reflect upon the choices made during elections. If voters believe that elected leaders are not acting in accordance with their expectations, the solution lies not only in protest but also in greater awareness and responsibility during future elections.
Another concern often raised during political controversies is the possibility of contradictory political behaviour. At times, some leaders or MLAs belonging to the same political party may publicly condemn a protest while privately encouraging or supporting it for political advantage. Whether such allegations are true or not, such perceptions can create confusion among citizens and weaken public trust in democratic institutions. Political leaders should therefore act with transparency, consistency, and accountability, so that their public positions reflect their actual intentions and actions.
At the same time, citizens should understand that democracy does not end on polling day. Voting is only the beginning of civic responsibility. Voters must continue to follow public affairs, understand proposed laws and policies, engage in constructive debate, and hold their representatives accountable through democratic means. An informed electorate is the strongest safeguard against poor governance.
Democracy is a shared responsibility. Leaders must act in the public interest, but citizens must also make informed decisions when choosing those leaders. Rather than being guided by money, favouritism, caste, clan affiliations, religious considerations, or personal benefits, voters should carefully assess the character, competence, vision, integrity, and policies of candidates before casting their votes.
The lesson for the future is clear: elections are not merely events held once every few years. They are decisions that shape governance, legislation, public policy, and the future direction of society. If citizens later disagree with the actions of those they elected, they should certainly exercise their democratic right to voice their concerns. However, they should also reflect on whether sufficient attention was given to policies, ideology, competence, and public interest at the time of voting.
Ultimately, the quality of leadership in any democracy reflects the quality of choices made by its citizens. Let us therefore learn from every election and every controversy. Let us choose leaders based not on money, favouritism, caste, clan, religion, or personal relationships, but on merit, integrity, accountability, and commitment to public service. By doing so, we strengthen both democracy and our collective future. (The writer is an advocate)
