It appears that opposition in some States of India is going through difficult times. For some strange and selfish reasons the ruling dispensations in many States are tempting the MLAs from opposition parties to jump ship and join ruling dispensation to inflate their numbers, thereby strengthening their own government. These blatant abuses of democratic norms by promising the opposition MLAs particularly those who are vulnerable and weak, inducements in terms of money or plumb position or even cabinet berths have become rampant in Goa too, where already five elected representatives have left the parties on whose tickets they were elected.
Of course the most obvious and common reason being given is “for the development of our constituencies”.
The latest addition to the list of those looking forward for a “political transfer” is Cuncolim MLA, Clafasio Dias. Only consolation, it is different from earlier defections, his attempt to be open and vocal rather than secretive and quiet about his intentions. Besides he wants to give a new spin to his action, that he is doing with the tacit approval of his so called supporters.
Unfortunately this doesn’t augur well for Indian democracy. Governments and oppositions are two faces of the same coin. Both are essential to maintain a strong fabric of our democratic set up. Sadly this doesn’t seem to bother our politicians from either side. Everyone wants to be on winning side at all costs in the garb of development.
Such acts of treachery not only degrades the credibility of the opposition but also discredits the party in power that is perpetually looking out for greedy, vulnerable and irresponsible MLAs to cross sides. These actions of the government are unjust and highly deplorable and have no ethical justification. Using such strong arm tactics whereby it deprives the opposition constituencies from the normal and deserving development and employment opportunities to the youth and then tempts, coerces or incites their elected representative to leave the party to join its ranks. If that is not true then the government should come out and categorically deny that such defections are not due to lack of development in opposition constituencies.
It’s not to be forgotten that a truly democratic government takes care of each and every citizen of the State including those of opposition constituencies and endeavours to provide for the needs and aspirations of the people of the State and not indulge in partisan politics.
As the things are unfolding there’s apprehension in the minds of many sane people, whether Goa shortly will be left with every MLA being a part of treasury benches and with no opposition.
What will be the consequences with just one party government in power? Are we heading for an autocratic government as in China?
