A Call for Equality

Have you ever wondered why politicians in India seem to play by a different set of rules? Why does the system appear to favor those in power while the common citizen faces stringent regulations? This disparity is not just a perception but a harsh reality that raises serious questions about the fairness and integrity of the Indian electoral system.

Consider these glaring contradictions:

1. Dual Standards in Elections:
A politician can contest elections from two different seats simultaneously, yet a common voter cannot vote at two different places. This discrepancy undermines the principle of equal participation in the democratic process.

2. Jail Time Double Standards:
While an ordinary citizen loses the right to vote if they are imprisoned, a politician can contest elections even while behind bars. This raises questions about the ethical standards upheld by those in power.

3. Employment Disparities:
An individual who has been to jail cannot secure a government job, no matter the circumstances. Conversely, politicians with criminal records, including serious charges like murder or rape, can still aspire to and hold the highest offices in the land, including Prime Minister or President.

4. Qualification Disparities:
To secure a simple bank job, a citizen must be a graduate. However, an illiterate politician can become the Finance Minister, controlling the nation's economic policies. Similarly, stringent physical and educational requirements exist for a soldier, but an uneducated and physically unfit politician can become the Defense Minister or even the Education Minister.

5. Pension Inequality:
A government employee does not receive a pension despite decades of service, whereas a Member of Parliament (MP) or Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) earns a pension after just five years in office. This disparity raises questions about the value placed on public service by ordinary citizens versus politicians.

These contradictions are not just anomalies but reflect systemic issues that violate the Right to Equality and the principle of Equality before Law enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The system seems designed to protect and privilege politicians at the expense of the common people, creating a divide that is both unjust and unsustainable.

A Call to Action

If you believe that this system is flawed and needs reform, it is crucial to raise your voice and demand change. There should be a single set of laws governing both politicians and citizens, ensuring fairness and equality. By spreading awareness and calling for reforms, we can hope to build a more equitable system that truly represents the democratic values of India.

As we reflect on these issues, it is imperative to ask: Can we afford to let these double standards continue? Will we remain silent and complicit, or will we demand a fair and just system that treats every citizen equally? The choice is ours, and the time to act is NOW. For a generation without fairness is a generation without hope.