Politicians becoming disproportionately powerful and wealthy, often bypassing democratic norms

The phenomenon of ruling party politicians becoming disproportionately powerful and wealthy, often bypassing democratic norms, can be traced to systemic flaws and socio-political dynamics.

1. Factors Behind the Rise of Politician Power and Wealth

1. Control Over Resources:

Ruling party politicians control state machinery, funds, and decision-making, allowing them to allocate resources in ways that benefit themselves or their allies.

2. Weak Institutional Checks:

Regulatory bodies, judiciary, and oversight agencies often lack independence or face political pressure, enabling unchecked abuse of power.
3. Crony Capitalism:

Politicians form alliances with influential businesses, benefiting from mutual financial and political support.

4. Use of State Machinery:

Law enforcement and administrative agencies are often weaponized to suppress dissent or target opponents (e.g., house demolitions and suspensions).

5. Centralization of Power:

Over time, power has become concentrated in the executive branch, reducing the role of local governance and public accountability.

2. Role of the Constitution

The Indian Constitution emphasizes democracy, equality, and accountability, but systemic flaws have allowed deviations:

1. Ambiguities and Loopholes:

Certain provisions, such as emergency powers or the lack of clear anti-corruption mechanisms, are sometimes exploited.

2. Lack of Enforcement:

Constitutional values rely on effective institutions to uphold them. Weak enforcement or political interference undermines this balance.

3. Erosion of Federalism:

The increasing centralization of decision-making undercuts local autonomy, concentrating power in ruling party hands.

3. How Has This System Evolved?

1. Colonial Legacy:

The centralized governance model of the British era continued post-independence, giving excessive power to state machinery.

2. Electoral Dynamics:

High election costs and vote-buying encourage politicians to amass wealth, often through corrupt means, to sustain their political careers.

3. Populism and Personality Politics:

Leaders cultivate cult-like followings, overshadowing democratic institutions.

4. Weak Civic Engagement:

A lack of widespread political awareness and civic participation allows politicians to dominate unchecked.

4. What Can Be Done?

1. Strengthen Institutions:

Make oversight bodies (e.g., Election Commission, CAG) more independent and transparent.

2. Judicial Reforms:

Ensure swift action against corruption and abuse of power.

3. Electoral Funding Reforms:

Introduce caps on political funding and stricter monitoring to curb money power.

4. Empower Civil Society:

Promote awareness, activism, and participation to hold politicians accountable.

5. Enforce Decentralization:

Strengthen local governance systems to reduce power concentration at higher levels.

Conclusion

The consolidation of wealth and power by ruling party politicians stems from systemic flaws, weak institutional safeguards, and societal apathy. While the Constitution provides a robust framework for democracy and accountability, its principles need to be actively upheld through institutional reforms, public vigilance, and stronger civic engagement to curb such abuses of power.