BJP Also Takes Out ‘Save Democracy’ Rally While in Power: Who Is Actually Threatening Democracy? Political Showdown Leaves Citizens Puzzled

BJP’s street campaign in response to the Opposition’s Save Democracy movement sparks debate; questions emerge over good governance, corruption-free administration and government accountability

(SDNA) NEW DELHI: Indian politics is witnessing an unusual contest over who can claim to be the true defender of democracy. Interestingly, the call to protect democratic values is coming not only from opposition parties but also from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre.

On November 1, 2026, opposition parties organised a rally highlighting the need to protect democracy and citizens’ voting rights. In response, the BJP also took to the streets with a ‘Save Democracy’ march, presenting its own political position and challenging the Opposition’s campaign.

With both sides claiming to be fighting for democracy on the same day, an important question has emerged among ordinary citizens: Who exactly is threatening Indian democracy? Is the country’s democratic system genuinely facing a crisis, or has the issue of protecting democracy increasingly become a political instrument for targeting opponents?

Why Does a Party in Power Need to Take to the Streets to Save Democracy?

The BJP is in power at the Centre and also governs several states. Against this backdrop, the ruling party’s decision to organise a campaign to save democracy has become a subject of political discussion.

The BJP argues that the Opposition is questioning constitutional institutions and creating confusion and distrust among citizens. The Opposition, meanwhile, maintains that raising concerns about electoral transparency, voter lists and democratic rights is part of its constitutional responsibility.

However, a fundamental question deserves attention: If the government is committed to strengthening democracy, should it not focus equally on winning public confidence through transparent governance and accountability?

Questioning the government is not an act of anarchy. Similarly, every criticism of the government should not automatically be dismissed as an attack on democracy. At the same time, opposition parties must also support their allegations with facts and credible evidence.

Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Claims Must Also Face Public Scrutiny

The BJP has consistently highlighted good governance, development, anti-corruption initiatives and transparent administration as important elements of its political agenda.

Therefore, citizens naturally expect the ruling party, while speaking about protecting democracy, to demonstrate these principles through its actual governance.

Unemployment, inflation, farmers’ concerns, the condition of education and healthcare services, the future of young people, transparency in government schemes and allegations of corruption remain important issues affecting ordinary Indians.

Are political parties discussing these concerns with the same seriousness with which they organise rallies against one another? Are anti-corruption investigations conducted without political considerations? Are ordinary citizens receiving timely solutions to their grievances in government offices?

These questions cannot be answered through political speeches alone. They require measurable results, administrative accountability and an honest assessment of governance.

The Opposition Cannot Remain Beyond Accountability

In a democracy, the Opposition has an essential responsibility to question the government, expose administrative shortcomings, raise public concerns and ensure that those in power remain accountable.

However, opposition parties must also demonstrate that their fight to protect democracy is not limited to political gains or the ambition of returning to power.

Parties advocating democratic values should also uphold transparency, internal democracy, leadership accountability and public responsibility within their own organisations.

Likewise, the ruling party must recognise that a strong democracy requires a strong Opposition and independent constitutional institutions.

Democracy Is Not the Private Property of Any Political Party

Indian democracy does not belong exclusively to any one political party, ideology or alliance. Its foundation rests on the voting rights of millions of citizens, constitutional freedoms, freedom of expression and a fair electoral system.

The ruling establishment must accept criticism as an essential part of democracy. The Opposition must question the government responsibly and on the basis of facts. Constitutional institutions, meanwhile, must maintain their independence, neutrality and credibility.

Democracy becomes stronger only when those in power are willing to answer difficult questions and the Opposition fulfils its responsibilities honestly.

Citizens Want Results, Not Political Showmanship

The political developments of November 1 have left behind an important question. When both the ruling party and the Opposition are taking to the streets claiming to save democracy, ordinary citizens want to know what tangible difference these campaigns will make.

People are more concerned about when their children will get employment, how they will receive relief from inflation, when government hospitals will provide better treatment, how corruption will be effectively controlled and when ordinary citizens will receive dignity and justice in government offices.

Political parties must understand that democracy is not merely a system for winning elections and forming governments. It is fundamentally about public accountability, protection of citizens’ rights and the responsible exercise of political power.

Ultimately, before claiming to be the protectors of democracy, every political party must demonstrate its commitment through its actions. Whether in government or in Opposition, every party must answer the questions raised by citizens.

Democracy is not strengthened by slogans at political rallies. It is strengthened through transparent governance, impartial institutions, freedom of expression and the effective protection of citizens’ constitutional rights.

The real question is simple: Are political parties fighting to defeat one another in the name of saving democracy, or are they genuinely working to win the trust of the people?

(SDNA)