Many citizens describe Uttarakhand’s politics as “dirty” not out of cynicism, but from lived experience. The frustration usually comes from a pattern, not a single event.
1) Power over people
Decisions often appear driven by political survival rather than public interest. Whether it’s land use, mining, or big infrastructure in fragile zones, voices of local communities feel sidelined.
2) Corruption without consequences
Allegations surface, inquiries are announced, but accountability rarely follows through. When investigations drag on or quietly fade, public trust erodes.
3) Identity politics replacing governance
Instead of serious debates on employment, education, healthcare, migration, or disaster preparedness, politics slips into symbolism and polarisation—useful for elections, harmful for solutions.
4) Weak local self-government
Panchayats and municipalities are often underpowered. Real authority stays concentrated, making grassroots democracy more decorative than decisive.
5) Exploitation of a sensitive state
Uttarakhand’s ecology and demography make it unique. Yet policy frequently treats it like any other state—ignoring mountains, disasters, and migration realities—until tragedy strikes.
The result:
People don’t just feel angry; they feel unheard. When politics stops being a tool for service and becomes a marketplace of deals, it earns the label “dirty.”
But there’s a counter-truth:
Uttarakhand also has a strong tradition of people’s movements, environmental consciousness, and vocal civil society. The problem isn’t the people—it’s the political culture.
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