No Vikas Without Freedom
(Page 8, The Hindu Delhi Edition, Editorial Section)
Also Read: The Indian Express Editorial Analysis: 10 July 2025
Also Read: The Hindu Editorial Analysis: 10 July 2025
| Topic: GS Paper 2 (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice) |
| Context |
|
Introduction
-
The article highlights a concerning trend where governments prioritize infrastructure and economic development while ignoring democratic dissent and fundamental rights.
-
Cites incidents involving journalists and protestors where state actions have come under question.
Democracy and Development:
-
False Dichotomy: The piece argues that the dichotomy between development and democracy is misleading. True development cannot occur without respect for freedoms.
-
Judiciary’s Role: Criticism of the judiciary for not proactively protecting civil liberties; delays and denial of bail seen as problematic.
-
Use of UAPA and Sedition: Laws like UAPA, sedition, and misuse of preventive detention are seen as tools of suppression.
Freedom of Expression:
-
Dissent is a cornerstone of democracy.
-
Targeting of journalists and students undermines India’s democratic ethos.
-
Media trials, prolonged incarceration without conviction undermine legal processes.
Key Constitutional Concerns:
-
Violation of Article 21 (Right to Life and Liberty): The article argues many arrests and detentions occur without due process.
-
Right to Protest (Article 19): Peaceful protestors face violence or criminalisation, violating fundamental rights.
Way Forward:
-
Strengthen judicial oversight to prevent executive overreach.
-
Repeal or reform draconian laws like UAPA and sedition.
-
Restore public trust through transparency and accountability.
-
Promote inclusive development that respects constitutional values.
| Practice Question: (GS-2 | 15 Marks | 250 Words) There can be no development without freedom.’ In the context of recent instances of civil liberty violations, critically analyze the relationship between democracy, development, and fundamental rights in India |
