The Use of Dirty Politics in Indian Elections

Amidst the high stakes of Indian politics, where power is as cherished as it is contested, a concerning trend of dirty politics has emerged. This practice involves the use of unethical, underhanded, and often illegal methods to secure political advantage. As various political parties vie for control, instances of such tactics have come to the forefront, raising questions about the integrity of contemporary democratic processes.

BJP’s Quest for Continued Power

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is one of the oldest and most influential right-wing political parties in India. Formed in 1980, the BJP has since played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of the nation. Currently, the BJP is at the helm of power, with a strong majority in both houses of the Indian parliament. However, the party’s primary goal is not to serve the public interest but to maintain their position and continue their rule.

Opposition Parties’ Ambitions

The opposition parties are equally ambitious and eager to take over the reins of power. They aim to come to power as soon as possible, driven by the desire for the control and influence that comes with governance. These parties, while advocating for change, often resort to unethical political tactics to achieve their goals. The race for power has created a worrying atmosphere where integrity and ethical standards take a backseat.

Abuse of Power and Campaigning During Lockdown

The ongoing global pandemic has brought the entire nation to a standstill, with a nationwide lockdown imposed to curb the spread of the virus. Despite the critical nature of the situation, political leaders across the spectrum have shown a lack of regard for public health and safety. Here are a few instances that highlight the игнорирование (ignoring) of lockdown norms by political leaders:

Leader’s Son’s Birthday Party

During the lockdown, one political leader arranged a grand party for their son, completely disregarding the government guidelines and public health advisories. This was a clear violation of the lockdown rules and a blatant disregard for the well-being of citizens. When called out by the media and public, no action was taken against the individual, leaving an impression of impunity for those in power.

Relaxed Lockdown Restrictions for Political Support

Another notable incident involved a leader from Bihar who sought permission to bring his stranded child from Kota to their home town. Astonishingly, the Chief Minister of Bihar, despite the stringent nationwide lockdown measures, issued a pass for the leader to breach the restrictions. In stark contrast, the CM took the opportunity to give a lecture on the importance of the lockdown, highlighting the double standards prevalent in the political realm.

Unfolding of the “Chip Politics” Game

These instances exemplify the practice of chip politics, where political leaders use their power to secure personal and party gain, often at the expense of public interest. The term "chip politics" refers to the playing of the political system for personal benefits, much like playing cards, irrespective of the consequences for the larger population. This behavioIr is not limited to any single party but is indicative of a broader trend in Indian political culture.

Conclusion

The current political climate in India is marked by the use of dirty politics, where the ultimate goal is power at all costs. From invoking personal matters to relaxing lockdown measures for political gain, the ethical boundaries are continuously being pushed. While there are some politicians who genuinely strive to serve the public, the alarming prevalence of unethical practices calls for greater scrutiny and accountability within the political system. As citizens, it is essential to remain vigilant and demand transparency and integrity in governance.