जैनधर्म और प्रजातान्त्रिक जीवन
Summary
The article examines democratic governance as reflected in Jain literature and argues that participatory political order existed in early Indian traditions, particularly within Jain thought. It traces the evolution of social organization from the primordial *Kulakara* system to state formation, describing how growing population and social conflict led to the selection of rulers for maintaining order. According to Jain narratives, Ṛṣabhadeva became the first king through public consent, indicating that governance originated from collective approval rather than arbitrary authority. The article also cites Vedic references and historical examples to support the existence of elective kingship and proto-democratic institutions. The author emphasizes that Jain democratic life was guided by ethical values central to governance and public welfare: non-possession (*aparigraha*), non-violence (*ahimsa*), religious tolerance, social equality beyond caste discrimination, karmic accountability, and women’s participation and status. Jain rulers are portrayed as accountable to public welfare, morally restrained, and respectful of freedom in religious practice. The article further links health discipline, moral conduct, and social harmony with stable governance. Referring to the republican tradition associated with Mahāvīra’s period, especially the Licchavi polity, the article concludes that Jain democratic principles—rooted in ethics, equality, restraint, and collective welfare—could contribute to an ideal social order if widely adopted.
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Conclusion
The article concludes that democracy in Jain thought is not merely a political arrangement but an ethical system grounded in public welfare, moral restraint, equality, and accountability. By presenting governance as emerging through collective consent and sustained through principles such as non-violence, non-possession, religious tolerance, karmic responsibility, and social inclusion, the article argues that a stable and just polity depends on ethical conduct as much as political authority. Drawing from the republican traditions associated with Jainism, it ultimately suggests that democratic governance attains durability when rulers and citizens alike are guided by discipline, mutual responsibility, and the common good.