India‘s 76th Republic Day celebrations are a poignant reminder of the country’s remarkable achievement in sustaining its democracy, despite numerous challenges. As the world’s largest democracy, India stands tall in a global landscape where many neighboring nations and others around the world grapple with political instability, oligarchic governance, and even authoritarian regimes. India’s ability to maintain a democratic republic, despite the external and internal pressures it faces, is an achievement that deserves celebration. However, this celebration must be tempered by an honest reflection of the struggles that continue to threaten its democratic fabric.

India’s 76th Republic Day comes at a time when the country’s constitutional rights—long cherished and fought for—are once again under threat. These threats, although not new, have intensified in recent years, particularly with regard to freedom of expression, the suppression of dissent, and the increasing influence of the government over the media. Despite these challenges, India remains a beacon of hope and a symbol of democracy on the global stage. However, the ongoing threats, both to its democratic principles and the well-being of its citizens, require urgent attention.

The Indian Republic, founded on the ideals enshrined in its Constitution, has shown remarkable resilience, weathering numerous challenges over the years. The Constitution, which came into effect on January 26, 1950, was designed to ensure a just, inclusive, and secular republic. India adopted a parliamentary system of government and instituted fundamental rights for its citizens, promising justice, equality, and freedom for all. Despite facing challenges such as economic disparities, social unrest, and regional conflicts, India has managed to uphold its democratic ideals.

However, there have been periods when the rights of citizens have been compromised. Notably, the Emergency period of 1975-1977, when fundamental rights were suspended, remains a dark chapter in India’s democratic history. In the decades since, constitutional rights have occasionally been under threat, and the current situation, in which the freedom of expression is endangered, suggests that the country still faces significant challenges in fully realizing its democratic potential. In recent years, this fundamental right has come under growing pressure. The government has been accused of using various means to suppress dissent, silence critics, and control the media narrative.

The increasing control over the media has become a significant concern. Once considered a fearless institution that held power to account, the Indian media has gradually fallen under the influence of the ruling powers. Many media outlets have been accused of being compromised, whether through political pressures, economic incentives, or direct influence from the government. The result is a shrinking space for independent journalism and critical voices, which are essential to a functioning democracy.

Furthermore, journalists and activists who speak out against the government have faced intimidation, legal harassment, and even violence. The decline in press freedom has been noted by international watchdogs, with organizations like Reporters Without Borders and Freedom House highlighting India’s deteriorating media environment.

While it is important to acknowledge that not all is lost, and many independent journalists and media outlets continue to operate with integrity, the reality is that the threat to freedom of expression in India is very real and growing. If this trend continues, it could have long-term consequences for the health of the Indian democracy.

Another major challenge India faces today is the growing inequality in wealth and opportunity. Although India is often celebrated for its impressive economic growth, with projections of becoming a $5 trillion economy in the near future, this growth has not been evenly distributed. The wealth divide is staggering: less than 10% of India’s population controls more than 70% of the country’s wealth, leaving the vast majority of the population struggling to access even basic resources.

The rise of extreme inequality is a major concern, as it undermines the democratic principle of equal opportunity. While a small percentage of the population has prospered, the rest of the nation remains mired in poverty. Over 20% of Indians still live below the poverty line, and more than 50% of the population faces deprivation in terms of education, healthcare, and other essential services. This economic disparity is particularly visible in rural areas, where a large portion of India’s population resides.

The gap between the rich and the poor is not just economic but also social. Education, healthcare, and employment opportunities are often distributed unevenly, based on factors such as caste, religion, and region. Despite the government’s efforts to implement welfare schemes and poverty alleviation programs, the scale of the problem is so vast that progress has been slow.

India’s rise as a global economic power is undeniable, but the persistence of extreme poverty and inequality is an issue that cannot be ignored. Economic growth should benefit all sections of society, and it is crucial that the government address these disparities to ensure that the fruits of growth are shared more equitably.

India’s aspirations to become a developed nation by 2047—the centenary of its independence—are ambitious. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has frequently spoken about transforming India into a global economic powerhouse, with the aim of making it the third-largest economy in the world, after the United States and China. While this is a laudable goal, it raises an important question: Can India truly be considered a developed nation when more than half of its population lives in poverty?

India’s development trajectory must prioritize inclusive growth, which means ensuring that economic development benefits the most marginalized sections of society. It is difficult to imagine India becoming a fully developed nation while such a large portion of the population remains impoverished. Sustainable development must focus on eradicating poverty, reducing inequality, and improving access to basic services for all citizens, irrespective of their economic, social, or religious background.

Despite these significant challenges, India has made tremendous progress in various fields. Indian scientists, engineers, and professionals have contributed to advancements in space exploration, technology, healthcare, and more. The nation has earned respect on the global stage for its achievements in these areas.

However, true progress cannot be measured by economic or technological achievements alone. A nation’s greatness is also determined by the well-being of its people and the strength of its social fabric. India’s future greatness will depend on the ability of its leaders to create a society where all citizens, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to prosper.

Furthermore, ensuring peaceful and harmonious relations among the diverse religious and social groups in the country is crucial. India’s pluralistic society is one of its greatest strengths, but it must be protected from divisive forces that seek to undermine this unity. It is the duty of the rulers to provide conditions for peace, justice, and equality. If the government fails to do so, the very democratic structure that India holds dear will be at risk of crumbling.

Let this Republic Day be a reminder of the need for India’s rulers to pledge themselves to the democratic ideals enshrined in the Constitution—not for the propagation of any one ideology or faith, but for the advancement of the nation as a whole. Only then can India truly fulfill its promise as a vibrant, democratic republic.