S Jaishankar's Befitting Reply to US Senators Democracy Remark Creates Social Media Stir, Shows Inked Finger to Highlight India's Vibrant Democracy

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar strongly countered the West’s concerns over democracy being in trouble, asserting that India’s democratic system is thriving and delivering tangible results. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference during a panel discussion titled ‘Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience’, Jaishankar dismissed the notion of global democracy being under threat, stating that in India, democracy is alive, well, and effective.

Jaishankar Counters 'Political Pessimism' on Global Democracy at Munich Security Conference

Jaishankar made a striking statement by holding up his inked index finger, symbolizing his recent participation in elections. "For us, democracy is actually delivered," he emphasized. He pointed out that India, with an electorate of nearly 900 million, sees around 700 million voters participating in national elections, with results counted in a single day. Unlike the doubts that often arise in other parts of the world, India’s election results are widely accepted without dispute, he added.

'Democracy Does Put Food on the Table' – Jaishankar’s Sharp Response

Countering US Senator Elissa Slotkin’s claim that "democracy doesn't put food on the table," Jaishankar argued that in India, democracy does exactly that. "Since we are a democratic society, we give nutrition support and food to 800 million people," he said, highlighting India’s extensive welfare programs that ensure food security for millions.

He further pointed out that different parts of the world experience democracy in unique ways, and the challenges faced by some nations should not be generalized. "Maybe there are parts where it is not working, and those parts need to have honest conversations about why it's not," he remarked. He attributed some of the global issues to flaws in the globalization model followed over the past 25-30 years, suggesting that many current crises are the result of long-standing policy decisions rather than democracy itself.

Social Media Applauds Jaishankar’s Strong Stand

Jaishankar’s sharp rebuttal to Western skepticism has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many praising his confident defense of India’s democratic framework. His display of the inked finger as a symbol of India’s electoral strength has resonated with many, reinforcing India’s reputation as the world’s largest and most vibrant democracy.

His remarks serve as a powerful reminder that democracy is not just about elections but about governance, accountability, and delivering results—a principle that India continues to uphold successfully.