Highest In World: 67% Indians Endorse Autocracy, 72% Military Rule
India-West News Desk
WASHINGTON, DC – In the latest Pew Research Center survey titled ‘Representative Democracy Remains a Popular Ideal, but People Around the World Are Critical of How It’s Working,’ India stands out. While 79 percent expressed support for representative democracy, the country exhibits the highest endorsement of autocracy among surveyed nations, reaching 67 percent—an increase from 55 percent in 2017.
The correlation between income levels and acceptance of unchecked authority is notable, suggesting a tendency for those with lower incomes to lean towards autocratic rule. Additionally, individuals with lower education levels are more inclined to view autocracy favorably compared to their more educated counterparts.
Globally, there is a significant rise in support for technocracy, where individuals with specialized expertise govern. In India, this support surged from 65 percent in 2017 to an impressive 82 percent in 2023, potentially influenced by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
The survey underscores skepticism among Indian respondents towards elected officials, with 55 percent believing that officials do not prioritize the views of the general populace. However, there is optimism regarding gender representation, as 68 percent believe that policies would improve with more women in elected positions. This aligns with the recent introduction of a gender quota through the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, aiming to provide one-third reservation to women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emerges as one of the most favorable leaders globally, boasting a remarkable 79 percent approval rating. In the realm of opposition leaders, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also garners significant support, with a 62 percent favorability rating among Indian respondents.
The Pew Survey report compiled data from nationally representative surveys conducted among more than 27,000 adults across multiple countries, utilizing phone and face-to-face interviews.
