Andhra Pradesh has supposedly pioneered a new concept in electoral politics, one that deserves to be remembered not as democratic progress but as a shameful assault on democracy itself.
The state has witnessed numerous electoral malpractices over the years, including rigging, booth capturing, ballot-box theft and ballot tampering. But the widespread obstruction of opposition candidates from filing nominations in local-body elections represents an especially disturbing development.
Videos circulating from various locations have raised serious questions about the conduct of local leaders, officials and the police, including allegations of police complicity.
If the ruling establishment allows such practices to flourish, it is not merely undermining one election; it is poisoning the democratic system for generations.
The most dangerous consequence is the precedent being set. Tomorrow, whichever party comes to power may feel entitled to replicate the same tactics. Local leaders, officials and police personnel could become instruments of political manipulation, while elections are reduced to carefully orchestrated exercises in manufactured unanimity.
For a candidate, winning without anyone contesting means no election expenses, no competition and no fear of losing. If forcing opponents out of the race becomes an easy way to win, why would politicians bother to follow democratic rules at all?
Andhra Pradesh has already seen how money has spoiled elections. During Chandrababu Naidu’s earlier rule, the practice of giving Rs 500 to voters is alleged to have encouraged a culture where people began expecting money in return for their votes, while candidates were forced to spend more and more during elections.
Now, if stopping opposition candidates from contesting through threats and force becomes another easy way to win, the damage to democracy will be even worse.
Today, opposition candidates fear being stopped from contesting elections. Tomorrow, ordinary people may fear losing their land, property and rights if government officials and the police start working to serve those in power rather than protect the public.
If the police and government officials, who are supposed to protect people and uphold the law, are themselves accused of helping those who break it, then who will protect the common people?
Democracy cannot survive if politicians care only about winning elections at any cost and do not respect people’s right to choose their leaders freely and fairly.
This is not a new achievement or a great idea. It is a dangerous practice that could destroy democracy, and Andhra Pradesh must never allow it to become normal.
Madhunandan Akkishetty
