Democracy is a political system based on absolute sovereignty inherent to the people. Democracy is the system of government which is formed by the people’s representatives. The term democracy has been defined variously by different politicians and scholars but, in fact, it is the system of governing the state by the people’s representative, because ‘demo’ refers to people and ‘cracy’ refers to rule. Nowadays, most of the countries of the world are existing democratic system because it is said to be the best form of the government.
Democracy is regarded as the best form of the government because of its salient features and strengths. There are certain norms of a democratic government. In a democratic system of forming the government elections are periodically held. The governing party or power should not misuse the state power to influence the people to vote to the particular party. The governing power should compete with the other parties or opponents on equal terms. Government should be chosen by reasons and foresight, but not by greed and fear. Democracy should be democratic in substance, not only in form.
Sovereignty, the supreme power of the state inherent to people provides the environment to develop the country properly, and it controls the misuse of power as well. The democratic state provides equal opportunity to every individual concerned. Besides, democracy cultivates freedom, peace and justice for the betterment of the people. Human rights can be properly cultivated in a democratic system. Democracy makes the people aware of their duties and rights. The government is formed by the people is representative. If the governing power doesn’t care the people’s need, voice and demand, it will not be elected in the next election.
Though democracy is said to be the best form of the government, some drawbacks can be noticed in its application. Some people say that, because of the frequent elections, the money to be used in the development is taken away: and by the result, development paces slowly. Unfortunately, some elections can claim human lives too. The misuse of power in the elections leads democracy to failures.
Although democracy may possess certain drawbacks, it is absolutely the best form of the government because of its salient features as merits. But democracy should be democratic in substance, not only in form, and it is possible only if the citizens concerned are well informed in their duties and rights.
Sabina Thapa
Class - 9