Challenges, the Emergency, and you

Democracy is like a garden: it needs constant care, from institutions and from citizens. The Constitution gives us rights, but expects us to use them responsibly. So democracy is not just elections; it shows in everyday behaviour.

"Can ordinary people harm democracy?" Yes. The book lists things that weaken it:

• damaging public property;
• spreading misinformation;
• breaking public rules;
• simply not caring about public issues.

Challenges India still faces:

• illiteracy;
• misinformation, especially fake news on social media, which can sway opinion, confuse people and even lead to conflict;
• inequality and poverty;
• regionalism;
• gender inequality and social discrimination, which block equal participation;
• weak implementation of laws and policies, which reduces trust in institutions.

The Emergency, 1975–77. The book calls this one of the major challenges to Indian democracy. In the early 1970s, rising unemployment, inflation and charges of misgovernance against the government led by Indira Gandhi brought widespread protests. In June 1975, the government declared a National Emergency on the grounds of internal disturbance.

During the Emergency:

• most Fundamental Rights were suspended;
• the press was censored;
• many political leaders and activists were arrested;
• democratic institutions were under severe strain.

Mass movements led by Jayaprakash Narayan, known as Lok Nayak, brought students and citizens together, especially in Bihar and Gujarat.

The Emergency was lifted in 1977, and general elections were held. The ruling government was defeated. The book draws two lessons: the period showed the weakness of democratic institutions, but also their resilience, and why constitutional safeguards, civil liberties and active citizens matter.

The Constitution's emergency provisions are in Articles 352 (National Emergency), 356 (President's Rule) and 360 (Financial Emergency).

Democracy and you. The book's list for young citizens (Fig. 6.9):

• be media literate: check what you read;
• understand the Constitution;
• follow your fundamental duties;
• take leadership in school and your community;
• join nation-building activities: NCC, NSS and Bharat Scouts and Guides.

Stay informed from reliable newspapers and news, and use the internet responsibly.

Civic responsibility also means respecting other people's rights, using social media responsibly, following laws and rules, valuing India's diversity, and joining activities that build unity.

The chapter in one breath: democracy is self-government through institutions, rules and practices at every level, local, state and national, not just elections. It is guided by transparency, participation, inclusion, fairness, equality and accountability. Its roots in India go back to the sabhā and samiti. And in the end, its strength depends on informed, responsible citizens.