Why Can't Pakistan Be a Stable Democracy Like India?

The question of whether Pakistan can achieve a stable democracy similar to India is deeply rooted in historical, political, and socio-economic contexts. Drawing from the insights of both countries, this analysis explores why Pakistan faces unique challenges in establishing a stable democratic framework.

Comparing Democracy: Pakistan vs. India

Comparing the two nations is not about denouncing their democratic frameworks, but understanding the complexities each faces. India and Pakistan both strive for a stable democracy, yet the paths they have taken have diverged significantly. While India is often celebrated for its vibrant democracy, Pakistan has faced numerous challenges that have hindered its democratic progress.

Pakistan's Challenges

One of the most critical factors affecting Pakistan's journey towards stability is its historic context. Emerging from the Partition of British India in 1947, Pakistan entered the world with a nation divided, faced with internal and external conflicts, notably the Kashmir issue, which remains unresolved. This conflict has not only affected geopolitical alliances but also strained domestic politics, leading to periods of political instability.

Political Instability and Military Interventions

The early years of Pakistan's independence saw a series of coups and military interventions. For instance, President Iskandar Mirza's attempt to abrogate the constitution and declare martial law in 1958 led to a coup d'état by Ayub Khan. This period marked a turning point, leading to a series of military regimes, including those of Yahya Khan and General Zia-ul-Haq. Each subsequent military government further weakened the democratic institutions, hampering the establishment of a stable foundation.

Economic and Social Reforms

Ayub Khan's presidency (1958-1969) witnessed significant economic growth through initiatives such as the Green Revolution, the Indus Basin Project, and the establishment of Pakistan Steel Mills. These projects aimed to modernize Pakistan and drive economic progress. However, despite the economic growth, political instability persisted, culminating in the erosion of democratic structures after the 1971 separation of East Pakistan to form Bangladesh.

Post-1977: Bhutto and Democratic Challenges

The election of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1971 marked a shift towards more inclusive governance. Bhutto implemented social and economic reforms, promoting nationalization of industries and introducing labor rights. Despite these efforts, his tenure was marred by political polarization and allegations of corruption and authoritarianism. This period underscored the challenges of democratic governance in Pakistan, with frequent transitions between military rule and civilian governments.

India: A Case Study in Democratic Backsliding

While India is often cited as a shining example of democratic governance, recent years have raised concerns about democratic backsliding. Since 2014, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its leader Narendra Modi have dominated the political landscape, marking a significant shift in India's democratic trajectory.

Challenges to Democratic Institutions

The rise of the BJP has led to concerns about the erosion of institutional autonomy, particularly the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and the media. Instances of politicization and interference in these crucial bodies have raised questions about their independence and effectiveness. This has been exacerbated by the use of sedition laws and restrictions on civil society organizations, which have further curtailed the space for dissent and activism.

Press Freedom and Censorship

Freedom of expression is another area of concern. There have been instances of censorship and the stifling of dissent. Journalists and activists who criticize the government face various forms of harassment, including attacks and legal actions. These incidents have led to a chilling effect, limiting the space for open dialogue and free expression.

Religious and Ethnic Minorities

The treatment of religious and ethnic minorities under the BJP-led government has also sparked significant criticism. The promotion of Hindu nationalist agendas has contributed to a climate of religious polarization and discrimination. Incidents of communal violence, vagrancy, and targeted persecution of religious minorities have raised alarms about the protection of fundamental rights and inclusivity.

Concluding Remarks

While Pakistan faces unique challenges in establishing a stable democracy, the experience of India in maintaining democratic integrity suggests that systemic issues can undermine even the strongest democratic frameworks. The erosion of institutions, the politicization of power, and the suppression of dissent are critical issues that need to be addressed to create a more stable and inclusive democratic system in Pakistan.

It is essential to learn from both the successes and failures of both nations to pave the way for a more sustainable democratic future in Pakistan.