Vol. 9, Issue 6, Part B (2023)

Abstract
Democracy in India, as an enduring ideal, is deeply rooted in principles such as equality, justice, freedom, and participation. Since its independence, India has viewed democracy not only as a political system but as a way of life that reflects the nation’s pluralistic society. However, contemporary India faces numerous challenges in maintaining democratic ethics, such as political polarization, corruption, declining institutional trust, and societal divisions. This study aims to examine the state of democratic ethics in India through a meta-analysis of 20 scholarly works, reports, and case studies, focusing on how these ethics are preserved, challenged, or compromised in the present context. The research objectives are to explore the theoretical foundations of democratic ethics and assess their relevance in India, as well as to provide actionable recommendations to address gaps in the practice of these ethics. The study finds that while democratic principles are resilient, challenges such as misinformation, the digital divide, and systemic inequalities impede their full realization. Moreover, issues like caste, gender inequality, and economic disparity pose significant barriers to inclusive democratic practices. The findings emphasize the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusive policies to strengthen democratic ethics. To sustain India’s democratic values, collaborative efforts across civil society, institutions, and policymakers are necessary to uphold justice, equality, and freedom in the face of emerging socio-political challenges. This research provides crucial insights into reinforcing democratic resilience and mitigating vulnerabilities in India’s democracy.