Democracy has no Pillars, only a Base

Can WE stop fooling each other by naming few functionaries as pillars of democracy. There are roles defined for each and each has a role to play. Moreover these four pillars sound like shouldering something or someone to an end destination whereas Democracy is a vibrant and constantly evolving phenomenon. Democracy is run by the people, for the people. Keeping that construct in mind, shall we begin to say "Democracy only has a base which is nothing but its people. It’s the collective wisdom and ownership that has the responsibility and accountability to run democracy. Why should any profile be left out of taking up the ownership and responsibility for making the democracy run "smooth". Any chunk of people when becomes less responsible and less vigilant, directly or indirectly does impact the working of Democracy.

Of late there has been tom-tom about media being the fourth pillar. But then comes my follow-up question, which media? Electronic media, Print media, Social media, media driven by certified and trained journalists or anybody who does a story. No doubt each has its own distinct characteristics and significance. However media is now a tool of everybody. Thus basically covers everyone.

Anyway the purpose of news media is to present accurate and unbiased news and all types of views in front of people. Period. But the stray and instant, unreviewed and unsubstantiated running commentary all over the place makes them no different from any generic Facebook and Twitter user posting any story.

Sooner we get out of the feudal mindset and stop creating the hierarchy of professions, the better it’s for a democratic nation. Otherwise we land up worshiping the people and not the work.