Published on April 10, 2026
In a thought-provoking discussion on the state of parliamentary democracy in India, veteran civil liberties activist G. Haragopal has expressed concerns that the nation may be entering a new and uncertain phase. Haragopal argues that there is a significant gap between the state’s narrative of having succeeded in ending left-wing extremism and the harsh structural realities that persist, particularly regarding land dispossession, institutional decline, and a growing trend toward the criminalisation of dissent.
According to Haragopal, the government has consistently framed its efforts in combating left-wing extremism as a success story, suggesting that peace and stability have been restored in affected regions. However, he notes that this narrative obscures deeper issues that continue to plague communities, particularly those in rural areas who are facing the adverse effects of land acquisition and displacement due to industrialisation and other development projects.
He stresses that the phenomenon of land dispossession is not simply a relic of the past but an ongoing crisis that displaces thousands of people, often leading to violent unrest. “Communities are being uprooted from their lands under the guise of development, leaving them without means of livelihood and stripping them of their cultural heritage,” Haragopal states.
Moreover, Haragopal highlights the decline of democratic institutions as another critical issue that poses a threat to parliamentary democracy. “The very institutions that are meant to uphold the rule of law and protect civil liberties are being weakened,” he asserts. This institutional decay, he argues, undermines the accountability mechanisms that are vital for any functioning democracy and contributes to an environment where dissent is increasingly viewed through the lens of criminality.
The growing criminalisation of dissent is another area of concern for Haragopal. He points out that activists and ordinary citizens who speak out against government policies or advocate for social justice are frequently branded as anti-national or insurrectionists. This trend not only stifles free expression but also instills fear within communities, discouraging them from voicing their grievances.
Haragopal calls on citizens to remain vigilant and engaged as the country navigates these turbulent waters. “It is crucial for all of us to understand the implications of these developments on our democracy and to stand up for our rights,” he urges. He believes that a robust civil society and active participation in democratic processes are essential to countering these threats and ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard.
As India moves forward, the insights from Haragopal serve as a timely reminder of the need to critically assess the narratives promoted and to confront the underlying issues that challenge the very foundations of parliamentary democracy. The path ahead may be uncertain, but the call for civic engagement and solidarity remains ever relevant.