RULE OF LAW IS THE HALLMARK OF DEMOCRACY: BHAI DINESH

RULE OF LAW IS THE HALLMARK OF DEMOCRACY: BHAI DINESH

20-JUNE-ENG 7

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA-------------------------------In any democratic system, the authority to administer justice rests with the courts. If a person commits a crime, they should be arrested in accordance with the law and produced before a court. The punishment determined by the court upon conviction represents the only just and constitutional process.

An 'encounter' can only be justified when the police or security forces face a life-threatening attack and are compelled to retaliate in self-defense or to maintain law and order. However, killing an accused person after their arrest and labeling it an 'encounter' cannot be considered consistent with the spirit of justice, the Constitution, or the rule of law.

In a democracy, government power is guided by the law, not by emotions or fleeting popularity. The public, too, must maintain faith in the courts and the Constitution, for the enduring foundation of justice is the law, not the desire for instant retribution.

The government's primary responsibility is to provide a transparent and accountable administration to the public. Even today, ordinary citizens face unnecessary hardships and corruption while trying to get routine tasks done at various administrative offices—be they at the block, circle, police station, sub-division, or district level.

The poor, farmers, laborers, students, and common citizens are often forced to make repeated rounds of government offices to avail themselves of welfare schemes or to exercise their rights. If the government truly wishes to establish good governance, it must take strict action against corruption, enhance administrative accountability, and ensure the timely delivery of services to the public.

Development is not achieved merely through grand announcements; it occurs when the common man receives justice and essential services without the need for bribes or recommendations. This is the true litmus test of good governance.

One of the most serious challenges facing society today is the growing adulteration of food products and medicines. In a race to maximize profits, some individuals are using chemicals that are extremely harmful to human health. This practice is increasing the risk of numerous serious ailments, including cancer, heart disease, and kidney-related disorders.

It is the government's duty to activate the Food and Drug departments and take stringent action against adulterators, thereby ensuring that safe food and medicines are available to the public. Moreover, demolishing the homes of poor families cannot be considered an achievement for any government. True success lies in providing the homeless with dignified housing, basic amenities, and the opportunity for a secure life. Development is not merely about construction; it is about ensuring a dignified life for even the most marginalized person in society.

Uplifting the standard of living of the poor, the working class, and the underprivileged should be the greatest success for any compassionate government.