Prime Minister Narendra Modi said democracy is a cultural value ingrained in Indians rather than just a political system during a speech in New Delhi [1, 2].
The remarks follow the announcement of assembly and by-election results across several states. This affirmation of democratic strength comes as the administration seeks to highlight the stability and legitimacy provided by the nation's electoral institutions [1, 3].
Modi highlighted the historic level of civic participation during the recent elections. He specifically noted an approximate 93 percent voter turnout in West Bengal [4]. The Prime Minister said that this level of engagement demonstrates the deep connection citizens have with the electoral process [4].
"Democracy is not just a system for us, it is a culture running in our veins," Modi said [4].
Speaking on Thursday, the Prime Minister said that the democratic spirit resides in the minds and veins of the population [1, 2]. He framed the high turnout and the functioning of democratic institutions as evidence of India's enduring political resilience [1, 3].
"Democratic spirit runs in India's veins and minds," Modi said [2].
By framing democracy as a cultural identity, the Prime Minister linked the act of voting to a broader national heritage. This perspective suggests that the stability of the government is rooted in the active participation of the electorate across diverse states [1, 3].
“"Democracy is not just a system for us, it is a culture running in our veins."”
By characterizing democracy as a cultural trait rather than a mere administrative system, Modi is reinforcing the legitimacy of the current political order. Highlighting the 93 percent turnout in West Bengal—a state often marked by intense political volatility—serves to project a narrative of national unity and institutional strength following a period of electoral competition.
