How to get the best of Democracy

Democracy may or may not be the best political institution, but it’s the one we have and till the advent of a better institution, we are stuck with it. If we have to live with democracy, then we’ll have to find a way to make the best of it.

Some of the perils of democracy are not associated with the government but the people. In democracy, we, the people, are king-makers. Therefore, the failure of the government can be often traced back to us. All the jokes on the government are actually the mockery of the people. If we hadn't elected them, they wouldn't be in charge, in the first place.

The majority of people aren't always right, but we can still try. The mob drives on slogans and thrives on publicity but, more often than not, it brings about a revolution. Then, the populace can surely, elect a responsible government.

How to get the best of Democracy

1. Think about what you really want in a government and make a list.Voting is much, more important decision-making than buying a car or an apartment. You need to get it right.
2. Do not fall prey to the publicity campaign of any party.The best advertisement doesn't necessarily showcase the best product. Check out the actual achievements and work done.
3. Do not accept bribes in the form of cheap food grains and such concessions. A government elected on the basis of bribery cannot be expected to be free from corruption.Besides, most of the incentives are actually our rights, which belong to us anyways. These were supposed to be given at the beginning itself and not on the advent of elections.
4. Do not support communalism.Communalism will be disastrous in the long run. It doesn't matter if you are on the winning side. Secularism doesn't mean not supporting any religion. It means not differentiating between religions. A secular government is supposed to support people regardless of their religion.
5. Your allegiance should be with the country not some political party.You may love some political party but if you feel the country is better without them, go for someone else. Think with your brain not your heart. You can change your vote every five years as the circumstances demand. You owe it to your nation to give the best possible option.
6. Get the list of all the candidates running for elections in your ward and compare them.The information is easily available in the govt.'s website. Don't you compare all the brands before buying a mobile? So, you know how it's done.
7. Lastly, don't forget to vote.The election day is declared holiday for that reason. It's not the day to plan the trip you've been long dreaming. Cast your vote, you matter. If you feel that none of the candidates deserve your vote, then go for 'no vote'. That is also an available option. Don't underestimate the value of your vote.

Next time, you point finger at the government, remember there are three more fingers pointing back at you. If after you best efforts, there is no change in the situation, don't worry. This isn't really the end of ideology. Keep trying, democracy will either improve or make way to a better institution.