In Bharat, professionals like doctors, engineers, and civil servants must pass rigorous exams to prove their competence before taking on responsibilities. Yet, politicians—the very individuals who create policies affecting millions—face no such requirement. This gap raises an important question: Shouldn’t those who govern the country have at least a basic understanding of its polity, constitution, and governance?
One essential reform is the introduction of a basic eligibility exam for politicians, conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI). This exam would test fundamental knowledge of the Bharatiya Constitution, governance structures, public administration, and national symbols. The purpose is not to restrict democracy but to ensure that only informed individuals contest elections, reducing the presence of leaders who lack even the most basic understanding of the nation they aim to govern. This step would help filter out those who enter politics solely for personal gain rather than to serve the people.
However, passing an exam is not enough. Continuous education is necessary to ensure effective governance. Therefore, elected representatives should be required to attend mandatory policy-making classes, where they are educated on governance, economic policies, and law-making. To promote inclusivity, these sessions should be primarily conducted by SC, ST, and women educators, ensuring diverse perspectives in leadership training. This would not only enhance the knowledge of politicians but also uplift historically marginalized communities by giving them a role in shaping governance.
To enforce accountability, a minimum attendance requirement must be in place. If a politician misses three classes, they should receive a rose in their respective legislative house—a symbolic but public reminder of their absence. Furthermore, attendance records should be made public, allowing voters to assess whether their representatives are taking their education seriously. This would encourage politicians to stay engaged and committed to improving their leadership skills.
Another crucial reform is the implementation of the Right to Recall, allowing voters to remove non-performing leaders before their term ends. If a politician fails to implement effective policies or neglects public welfare, citizens should have the power to hold them accountable beyond just waiting for the next election. While some fear that this could lead to political instability, safeguards—such as requiring a minimum tenure before recall and a verified percentage of voter signatures—could prevent misuse.
Critics might argue that an exam and education system for politicians could create barriers to democracy. However, democracy is not just about elections; it is about responsible and informed governance. Just as citizens have the right to elect their leaders, they also deserve leaders who understand governance, policy-making, and ethics. Ensuring that politicians are knowledgeable, accountable, and committed to continuous learning will not only strengthen policy implementation but also restore public trust in politics.
Bharat’s democracy needs competent, informed, and accountable leaders. Implementing these reforms will ensure that politics is not just about power, but about service to the nation. The time has come to rethink how we choose our leaders—because an educated leader is an empowered leader, and an empowered leader builds a stronger nation.
– Sahil Tomar
