December 16, 2024

In the previous blogs, ‘Democracy A Responsibility: Part 1 ’  and ‘Democracy A Responsibility: Part 2’, we saw the definition and understanding of democracy, the basic to advanced requirements to continue democracy, and the relationship of democracy with freedom in every aspect of life. We also saw essential elements of democracy that, if we do not follow, will create terrible trouble in the lives of every citizen. I request that you read both blogs thoroughly. In this blog, ‘Democracy: A Responsibility—Part 3,’ we will elaborate on the need for and requirements for maintaining democracy. But before we begin, this blog is in addition to what is left in the blogs mentioned above. So, to enjoy and understand what’s going on here, you must know about these blogs first. If you don’t know the importance of democracy, then seriously, you must study the environment in a few countries like North Korea, Libya, and Venezuela. Even though China claims to be a democratic country, everything is being tracked there: your faces in public places, your devices, your bank accounts, the work you do, the property you possess, and the comments you post on social media. Responsibilities of Citizens in a Democracy Promote Inclusivity A healthy democracy is inclusive and representative of all citizens. Individuals should advocate for the rights of marginalised groups and ensure their voices are heard. Promoting inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the democratic process. Citizens can support initiatives that aim to increase representation and participation among underrepresented communities. Consequences – The most significant disadvantage of non-inclusivity and non-support for marginalised groups and minorities is that religious powers take advantage and provide the same support they need and convert the minorities to their religion. This has happened in India on a mass scale. There are a lot of controversial stories written in the books, in the news and on the social media. If the government or citizens of that country do not provide what minorities want, they will catch other sources that will fulfil their requirements, and then they will be forced to accept the terms and conditions of such sources. For example, if you want to take a loan, the finance provider will impose the rules, not you. Then, you may or may not have the choice but to accept it. Mostly, when we see every financial institution imposing the same rule, you do not have a choice but to accept it. In the same way, minorities or tribals get whatever they want freely, then they are exposed to being converted or doing such illegal activities that harm the country, society and themselves. Solution – Various organizations, governments, and high-net-worth individuals (HNI) must provide humanitarian aid and financial support and meet legal needs so that they can participate in democracy and feel inclusive. Such a community is vulnerable to committing crimes, becoming rebels, supporting rebels, and carrying foreign agendas. Our efforts are essential before it turns into a nightmare. Be Informed About Rights and Responsibilities Citizens must understand their rights and responsibilities within a democracy. This knowledge empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and others. It also helps citizens recognise when their rights are being violated. Educational programs and resources can help individuals learn about their rights and the democratic process. Honestly, a separate topic must be included in high school and college to explain the rights and duties of citizens in a democracy. Education should consist of law, politics, the constitution of that country, history and its effects on society, mass media and news reporting, etc.   The same organization that can promote inclusivity can also bring education about rights and responsibilities.  There is a serious need for such organizations in niche and integral parts of the country, including cities. Refrain from engaging yourself in money laundering and drug peddling activities Money laundering and drug peddling or consumption are not only offences but also break your country. Untaxed money or undisclosed income used to avoid tax is called black money. Such black money is sent to various cash transactions to make it white and bring it into the central system. Running any country requires funding. The primary source of financing is taxes. Other sources include government-owned businesses, loans, and so on. Taxes are the primary source of income, and it is our duty to pay them honestly. A smaller tax means a smaller budget for the country. A smaller budget limits spending on defence. It can become a threat to your own country. Is it ok if your country compromises on defence? Also, a smaller budget means smaller spending on infrastructure. Is it okay if your country fails to introduce the latest infrastructure? Is it alright if your government fails to produce more jobs, which will later generate more taxes? Similarly, drugs are killing the youth of your country. A drug peddler’s racket can go to any level to destroy your country. They think drugs are the way to make easy and big money, but the consequences are deadly. If the drug reaches to ordinary people, it destroys their lives. If it doesn’t reach ordinary people and the peddler is caught, the law takes excellent care of them. This includes ‘to hang them till death’. The drug is another way of money laundering. 100% of the transaction happens in cash. That means there can never be accountability. Once the country’s working class is destroyed, its taxable income is reduced. So, it hits the country in two ways. Because of drugs, the government loses working-class people, thereby reducing the taxable income, per capita income and GDP. Also, drug addicts often go to any extent of crime to get the drugs. So, the crime rate increases. Increasing crime and reduced GDP further shake confidence in the investors’ minds. So, it again impacts private sector jobs and investments, creating more unemployment. Rights in Democracy The second point mentioned above concerns the need for awareness of rights and responsibilities; this point will provide information about common rights across

Democracy is a system of government where power lies with the people. It allows citizens to participate in decision-making processes. This participation can take many forms, including voting, advocacy, and civic engagement. However, democracy is not just a privilege but also a responsibility. Citizens must actively engage in their democracy to ensure it functions effectively. This blog explores the responsibilities of individuals in a democratic society and offers solutions for fostering a culture of active participation. Understanding Democracy Before delving into responsibilities, let’s define democracy. The term originates from the Greek words “demos,” meaning people, and “kratos,” meaning power or rule. Thus, democracy literally means “rule by the people.” In a democratic system, citizens have the right to elect their representatives and influence laws and policies. This system promotes equality, freedom, and justice. Democracy can take various forms, including direct democracy and representative democracy. In direct democracy, citizens vote on laws and policies directly. In representative democracy, citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. Regardless of the form, the core principle remains the same: the power resides with the people. When we say democracy promotes equality, freedom, and justice, it is not always the case. Sometimes, society’s elected representatives can be biased and make policies favouring a particular group. Responsibilities of Citizens in a Democracy Educate Yourself One of the primary responsibilities of citizens in a democracy is to educate themselves about political issues. Knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions. Citizens should stay updated on current events, political candidates, and proposed legislation. This understanding enables them to engage in meaningful discussions and make choices that reflect their values. But, as I mentioned in my previous blog, ‘Democracy A Responsibility: Part 1 – PolyBlogger.com’, respect and value others’ opinions as well.  Vote Voting is a fundamental right and responsibility in a democracy. Citizens must participate in elections at all levels—local, state, and national. Each vote counts and can significantly impact the outcome of an election. By voting, citizens express their opinions and influence the direction of their government. It is essential to research candidates and issues before casting a ballot. Selecting your candidate means safeguarding your interests, community, territory, unity, infiltration, laws, peace, prosperity, etc. Now, you can decide whether to vote or to enjoy that day as a holiday and later repent of unwanted nuisances. Engage in Civic Activities Civic engagement goes beyond voting. Citizens should participate in community activities like town hall meetings, public forums, and local organisations. Engaging in civic activities fosters community and encourages dialogue among citizens. It also provides opportunities to voice concerns and advocate for change. Most importantly, civic activities exchange views on important issues or developments. They also exchange intellect, business, and other types of ideas. They help build a sense of unity, togetherness, and support for civic society. It isn’t always a good thing to be introverted and reserved. In fact, such activities push away any introversion and reservedness. If everyone says, “Let others handle it; I have better things to do,” soon, you will end up compromising on many things because you didn’t participate. Then, history will question society and its actions when such incidents were happening freely. Remember, you can change the present and future but certainly not the past. Now you decide if you want the past to look in the golden words or bizarre dreamlike. Advocate for Change In a democracy, citizens have the right to advocate for policies and changes they believe in. This can involve writing letters to elected officials, participating in protests, or joining advocacy groups. Advocacy helps raise awareness about important issues and can lead to meaningful change. Citizens should feel empowered to speak out on matters that affect their lives and communities. However, when one writes about advocacy, the chance to influence our thought process is a cent per cent. Spreading false propaganda about the government and its policies is a prime business of many, especially those who want to break the country’s core values. Please be aware of it. Just for mere money or short-term benefit, do not spoil the future of your generations. So, study yourself before some idiots influence you. Hold Elected Officials Accountable Democracy requires citizens to hold their elected officials accountable. This means monitoring their actions and decisions. Citizens should demand transparency and integrity from their representatives. If officials fail to meet their responsibilities, citizens must voice their concerns and push for accountability. This can involve attending public meetings, contacting representatives, or participating in campaigns. Respect the Rule of Law In a democracy, the rule of law is paramount. Citizens must respect laws and regulations, even if they disagree with them. This respect ensures that society functions smoothly and that everyone is treated equally. Citizens should also understand their rights and responsibilities under the law. This knowledge helps them navigate legal issues and advocate for justice. Moreover, studying the law and inspecting and analysing it may provide a better solution than the current law. Of course, making the new law is difficult, but amending it is even more difficult. But eventually, it may happen. Those who do not respect the law, believe me, are either one or multiple of the terrorists, traitors, disloyal to the country, quisling, fifth columnists, infiltrators and anti-national. Though it is hard and harsh to say but, we don’t want them. They should be deported back; their asylum should be cancelled; they should be jailed. Sometimes, some groups of organisations (like terror organisations) demand separate laws, a complete change of laws and constitution change, a separate country, etc. They, on quite a few occasions, should be assassinated. One may think, how harshly can I speak so? But think of it differently. What if the law be changed entirely to favour them or drown your community, society, values, or beliefs? What is your constitution that will change and suddenly become against you? If you think this has never happened in history, maybe you need to read real history and a little brain