Every Congress MLA who has defected in the past no longer truly represents the will of the people. Most have switched sides out of self-interest ” to gain power or financial benefits ” and not because their voters wanted it. The Assembly today includes many such defectors who must seek a new mandate through the 2027 elections to regain public trust. Once in power, these MLAs often abandon the ideology on which they were elected and follow the new party’s agenda. Nearly 80% of MLAs have reportedly changed sides, affecting around ten lakh citizens who are left following leaders they did not choose.
There should be a recall system to ensure accountability. Many defectors secure plum posts through political bargaining, while voters remain silent, believing their constituency will benefit. However, such promises are rarely fulfilled. Like sheep led to the slaughter, people continue to fall for the same political tricks every election. Stronger anti-defection laws are essential to end this cycle. The Tenth Schedule should be made tougher by introducing penalties such as the forfeiture of deposits and disqualification for at least seven years. Defectors make a mockery of democracy and tilt the balance of power through greed.
Elected members should interact more across parties to build trust and reduce backroom deals. Defectors should be required to resign and contest again before joining another party. Transparent party funding and greater public awareness about the harm caused by defections can also help reduce the problem. Our democracy can only grow stronger when both politicians and citizens act responsibly. Leaders must prioritise public interest over personal gain, and people must stay alert and demand accountability from those they elect.
