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Governor Ravi Reasserts India's Millennial Democratic Roots

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. asserts-india-s-millennial-democratic-roots.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 0:53 GMT by The Hans India
      Locales: Tamil Nadu, INDIA

Chennai, January 28, 2026 - Governor of Tamil Nadu, R.N. Ravi, delivered a compelling address today at a conclave commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Indian Republic, hosted by SRMIST. The core of his message wasn't a celebration of the recent establishment of a modern republic, but a powerful assertion that the roots of democracy in India stretch back millennia, predating and differing significantly from Western conceptions of the system.

Governor Ravi's remarks, made on Wednesday, challenge the conventional narrative that democracy is a relatively recent import to the Indian subcontinent. He argued that democratic principles are not simply adopted by India, but are deeply embedded within the nation's cultural and societal fabric - a fundamental part of the 'DNA', as he put it, of the Indian people. This isn't merely a historical claim, but a vital component in strengthening the nation's identity and charting its future course.

The significance of this assertion lies in its potential to reframe the understanding of India's political evolution. For decades, discussions surrounding Indian democracy have often centered on its post-independence journey - the challenges of implementation, the complexities of a diverse electorate, and the influence of Western political thought. Governor Ravi's speech encourages a shift in perspective, urging a deeper exploration of indigenous systems of governance that flourished long before colonial influence.

He specifically highlighted the ancient practice of Panchayats - village councils - as a key example of this organic democratic tradition. These councils, prevalent across the Indian landscape for centuries, functioned on the principles of local self-governance and consensus-based decision-making. Unlike the often adversarial nature of Western parliamentary systems, Panchayats prioritized dialogue, deliberation, and the collective well-being of the community.

Historians and anthropologists have long documented the existence of these self-governing village communities, often highlighting their sophisticated systems of dispute resolution, resource management, and social welfare. These weren't simply rudimentary forms of administration, but often complex systems with established rules, customary laws, and mechanisms for accountability. The emphasis on consensus, rather than majority rule, is a particularly distinguishing feature. Decisions were reached through extensive discussions and attempts to address the concerns of all members, fostering a sense of inclusivity and social harmony.

Beyond Panchayats, evidence of democratic tendencies can be found in various forms throughout Indian history. Ancient texts refer to Sabhas and Samitis - assemblies and committees - where rulers consulted with learned individuals and representatives of different social groups before making important decisions. While not universally representative in the modern sense, these bodies demonstrate a tradition of seeking counsel and incorporating diverse perspectives into governance.

Furthermore, the system of guilds and merchant associations in ancient and medieval India often operated on democratic principles, with members electing representatives to manage their affairs. These organizations provided a platform for collective action, economic cooperation, and the protection of their members' interests.

The Governor's speech arrives at a crucial time, as India navigates the complexities of the 21st century. Reviving awareness of this indigenous democratic heritage could contribute to strengthening local governance, promoting greater citizen participation, and fostering a more inclusive and representative political system. By acknowledging and building upon these ancient foundations, India can forge a unique democratic identity that is both modern and deeply rooted in its history.

Dr. P. Sathya Narayanan, Chancellor of SRMIST, Dr. R. Sharma, Vice-Chancellor, and Dr. K. Mohamed Ibrahim, Registrar, were also present at the conclave, indicating the institution's commitment to fostering discussions on India's socio-political landscape.