For nearly a decade, the image of Britain has been overshadowed by its economic struggles, political missteps, and decaying infrastructure. This perception, however, is undergoing a transformation, presenting a unique opportunity for India to draw valuable lessons from British politics.
One of the most striking features of the United Kingdom is its extraordinary multiculturalism. The UK stands out as perhaps the most multicultural society globally, evidenced by its leadership diversity. The country has had a Prime Minister of Indian origin, several Chancellors, Foreign Secretaries, and Home Secretaries of Black or Asian descent, along with heads of Scotland, Wales, and London from ethnic minorities. Thirteen percent of the recently elected MPs in the House of Commons are of Black, Asian, or ethnic minority origins, up from 10% previously. Among them, 29 are of Indian origin, 15 of Pakistani origin, and 12 are Sikhs. This representation is significant considering that Asians constitute only 8% and Blacks 4% of the UK population, with people of Indian origin at 3.1% and those of Pakistani origin at 2.7%.
In stark contrast, India, where Muslims make up nearly 15% of the population, has a disproportionately low representation in politics. Proportionately, there should be 74 Muslim MPs in the Lok Sabha, but there are only 24. In comparison, the numbers were 26 in 2019 and 23 in 2014. Moreover, India does not have a single Muslim Chief Minister among its 28 states; in 15 states, there is no Muslim minister at all, and in 10 states, there is only one. Most notably, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) does not have a single Muslim Lok Sabha MP. In Uttar Pradesh, with a nearly 20% Muslim population, the BJP has no Muslim member in the legislative assembly, a pattern consistent since 2017. Similarly, in Gujarat, the BJP has not fielded a Muslim candidate in any Lok Sabha or Vidhan Sabha election since 1998, reflecting a quarter-century of systematic exclusion despite Muslims comprising 9% of the state’s population.
Another crucial lesson India could learn from Britain is the response to electoral defeat. When Rishi Sunak led the Conservatives to their worst-ever defeat, he resigned within 12 hours, even before all the results were fully declared. The Conservative Party promptly began a public debate on its future, involving media scrutiny, internal disagreements, and leadership contests. This transparent and rigorous process, though often messy, is expected to eventually produce a revitalized party.
In contrast, when the Indian National Congress faced its worst defeat in 2014, no immediate resignations followed. The party did not engage in an introspective debate about its future. Sonia Gandhi remained president for three more years before passing the baton to her son, Rahul Gandhi, without a contest from outside the Gandhi family until 2022. Even today, despite Mallikarjun Kharge being the nominal president, the Gandhis hold significant influence, with Sonia Gandhi, though ailing, continuing as chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party.
Lastly, the transition of power in Britain provides a lesson in efficiency. After resigning, Sunak left Buckingham Palace in a private car, and Keir Starmer, upon his appointment as Prime Minister, promptly moved into 10 Downing Street. This seamless transition, completed within hours, contrasts sharply with the prolonged and ceremonious process seen in many other democracies, including India. The British approach underscores a commitment to governance over spectacle, ensuring that the work of government begins without delay.
In conclusion, the British experience offers India valuable insights into multicultural representation, responsive political leadership, and efficient transitions of power. Embracing these lessons could significantly enhance India’s democratic processes and governance.
