Citizens play an important role in Democracy. There would probably be no Democracy without the co-operation and commitment of Citizens. Citizens must be aware of their rights and responsibilities as without the awareness among the citizens, a government may turn into a Monarchy.
Democracy assures basic fundamental rights for citizens like the right to vote, rght to ask, right to liberty, right to practice any religion or be irreligious, right to information. Citizens should participate in every event in democracy with full enthusiasm to ensure the existence of democracy.
A Democratic citizen has all the rights to check the accountability of the ruler. Citizens should do everything to hold their rights as Baba Sahab Ambedkar said,’ Lost Rights are never regained by the appeals to the conscience of the usurpers, but by relentless struggle. Goats are used for sacrificial offerings and not lions.”
Besides the rights, a citizen has many responsibilities in a democracy. Citizens must not bow down to any leader irrespective of any ideology. They should always be aware and critical of what the government is doing. Citizens should also check how Institutions like Investigating agencies, lawmaking agencies, and even civil servants that are put in place for the well-being of the democracy, are working.
At the same time, while being critical, citizens must also not lose faith for the collective conscience. A positive kind of discourse should be maintained and development should be the main priority.