Indian theologians applaud election outcome

Wiki Image

Source: ITA

Indian theologians have welcomed the outcome of the recent general election as a 'victory for democracy'. In an official statement they say:

The Indian Theological Association (ITA) acknowledges and appreciates the decision of our fellow citizens to reject the exclusive majoritarian government of the last decade and instead, choose inclusive coalition politics in the recently held general elections.

The majority of Indian voters have overwhelmingly opposed populism, polarization, and post-truth narratives in today's politics. These influences go against India's foundational principle, 'unity in diversity'. They also push for extreme viewpoints by favouring emotions over factual evidence. Indian voters have shown great wisdom in exercising their democratic rights and have set an example for navigating the complexities of the Indian political landscape.

The recent election results in India demonstrate the rejection of the notion that an absolute majority for a single party in parliament is necessary for national progress as propagated by the ruling party. The Indian citizens have witnessed the hardships experienced by the underprivileged, farmers, labourers, small business owners, and entrepreneurs due to unilateral decisions made by the previous administration without engaging in parliamentary discussions. Dalits, tribal communities, women, minorities, and human rights activists have been adversely affected by undemocratic governance, and the misuse of central agencies against them. This resounding rejection of such politics underscores the value Indian voters place on the involvement of regional parties in governing the federal administration.

We urge all newly elected lawmakers to respect the will of the people by working towards removing the communal poison that tarnishes the soul of India. Urgent issues such as unemployment and the distress of farmers must be addressed.

The 2024 election has been a litmus test on Indian democracy. Now, with a strong Opposition emerging from the election results, we hope that the secular democratic values as enshrined in the Constitution of our Nation will be upheld so that the rights of all the citizens, especially of those on the margins are defended.

This election mandate calls upon social activists, social and religious leaders and independent institutions of our nation to stand up more firmly and work more vigorously for safeguarding our Constitution and its inherent values.

Prof A Alangaram SJ, President, Indian Theological Association
Prof Sr Evelyn Monteiro, Vice-President
Dr Joseph Victor Edwin SJ, Secretary
Prof Jacob Parappally MSFS, Dr Jacob Naluparayil, Dr Kochurani Abraham, Dr Anthiah Kondaveeti, and Dr Rajesh Kavalackal CMI (Executive Committee Members)