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The eroding quality of the critics and debates needs course correction sooner than later. Failure to do so will shrink intellectual space, reduce potential to solve societal problems and misplace priorities.
Looking at the popular debates and more importantly the opinions of supporters of political parties, the possibility of a dignified debate and an informed choice looks bleak. Let me cite few examples cutting across political lines to elaborate it
1.) Modi – So often the images of Mr Modi looking at the camera is circulating online, it is cited by his critics often as a symbol of lack of statesmanship and with sharp condescending remarks. This is despite the overwhelming adulation he has received to promote Brand India.
2.) Rahul Gandhi – More often termed as Buddhu and Pappu, his critics has never sought to debate on the views and opinions of him on issues despite he being known amongst Congress Ranks as a fantastic ground worker.
3.) Arvind Kejriwal – His recent hug with Lalu Prasad Yadav at the swearing in ceremony is cited by his critics as a mark of him abandoning of principles over politics. A farfetched conclusion going by his Road to politics and the recent passage of JAN LOKPAL BILL by the cabinet.
All the examples point on the same direction, a direction where supporters and critics of political parties are losing interest in holding their representatives resentatives responsible rather showing great keenness in defaming the opposite political parties and persons to keep their own votes leaders in high esteem. In a way it is what one could call as reverse democracy, a democracy where supporters defend the bad actions of their elected representatives rather than elected representatives defending the electorate’s rights. The debates should be on the lines of diplomatically pointing out mistakes and gracefully accepting mistakes. The debates should be on the issues which matters, the issues which touch lives of people and the issues which can change lives of people for the good. There is very limited time and space for common man and intellectuals to debate, agree and disagree. The debates and opinions we convey shape our future and contribute in its own way in solving society’s issues and shaping people’s opinions.
Sooner than later, this debate based on mudslinging and condescending views of their political adversaries ought to change. For innovation, creativity and positivity to thrive a professional environment in the media and social media space is necessary. Let us do our part in bringing about this change where opinions are dignified. Else we fail ourselves and our democracy.
