Hamid Ansari: Electoral Malpractices Persist, Money Power Distorts Outcomes

• Former Vice President Hamid Ansari states India has failed to eradicate electoral malpractices, with money power distorting outcomes.
• In his new book "Arguably Contentious", Ansari argues that India's democracy remains "half full" and not fully representative.
• He highlights "ideological decadence" in the political process and a declining observance of constitutional morality.
• Ansari points to majoritarianism and weaponization of history aggravating social cleavages, particularly affecting religious minorities.
• He criticizes Parliament's declining effectiveness in scrutiny and accountability, leading to a reduction in debate and dissent.

Why It Matters: Hamid Ansari criticizes India's electoral system and democratic health, citing persistent malpractices and ideological decline.