The birth of an independent India occurred amidst challenging circumstances and the arduous task of nation-building. In contrast to many other countries that opted against democracy, citing the need for national unity and potential conflicts, India faced similar conditions. After gaining freedom from colonialism, these countries witnessed non-democratic forms of governance, such as nominal democracy controlled by a single leader, one-party rule, or direct military control. Although non-democratic regimes initially promised a return to democracy, they proved entrenched and difficult to remove once established.

However, the leaders of newly independent India chose a more challenging path, which was not unexpected considering the profound commitment of the freedom struggle to the principles of democracy. Recognizing the crucial role of politics in any democratic system, these leaders viewed politics not as a problem but as a means of addressing societal issues. Every society faces the task of determining it's governing and regulatory mechanisms, weighing diverse policy alternatives, and reconciling conflicting aspirations. Democratic politics emerged as the solution to these challenges.

Why did the leaders of independent India choose the path of democracy?

None of the above

The correct answer is Option 4: None of the above

The leaders of independent India chose the path of democracy because of their deep commitment to democratic principles, which had been central to the freedom struggle. They believed that politics could be a constructive tool to address societal problems and reconcile conflicting aspirations through democratic means—not because they were influenced by other countries, sought to eliminate all conflicts, or wanted one-party rule.