In the lead-up to the Assembly election in Karnataka, political parties engaged in fierce battles, but it was civil society in the state that made a lasting impact on the history of elections in India. Without any political alliance or affiliation, civil society organizations came together under the banner of “Eddelu Karnataka” (Wake up, Karnataka) and fought against the strategies employed by political parties. This united front, consisting of 102 associations and organizations, dedicated approximately six months to the cause before the elections, and the outcome has resonated across the nation.
Unlike traditional campaigning methods, civil society did not engage in arguments with the public or campaign against any specific party. Instead, they focused on urging people to awaken to the pressing issues at hand. They listened attentively to the concerns and challenges faced by the people and effectively highlighted these genuine issues. One of their key objectives was to combat the divisive politics of bigotry propagated by communal forces, which sought to exploit sensitive topics such as the hijab, azaan (call to prayer), and the concept of “love jihad.” By addressing these concerns, civil society groups paved the way for a more positive, inclusive, and peaceful political discourse in the state.
Importantly, civil society also shed light on the phenomenon known as “Operation Kamala,” which involved the dubious practice of political defections by one major party. They drew attention to the subsequent legal battles and the manipulation of constitutional means to whitewash criminal acts. By exposing these dishonest game-playing tactics, civil society further strengthened their case for clean and transparent politics. The Janata Dal (Secular), one of the political parties implicated in these practices, suffered a significant defeat in the elections, reflecting the rejection of such unethical behavior by the people of Karnataka.
The intervention of civil society in this election showcased the power of collective action and the influence of grassroots movements. By mobilizing various organizations under a common cause, they were able to transcend political affiliations and bring attention to the real issues affecting the lives of ordinary citizens. Their efforts opened up new avenues for positive politics, emphasizing the importance of secularism, peace, and the well-being of society as a whole.
In an era where political manipulation has become all too common, the role played by civil society in Karnataka’s Assembly election serves as a beacon of hope. It demonstrates that concerned citizens can join forces, rise above partisan interests, and work towards a fairer and more just political landscape. The indelible mark left by civil society in this election will undoubtedly inspire similar movements across the country, reinforcing the belief that people power can bring about meaningful change in the realm of politics.