Ethics, Power, and Rights: Mapping the Ethical–political Nexus in Human Rights Debates

The interface between ethics and politics occupies a central place in sustaining constitutional democracy, particularly in a diverse and complex polity like India. In recent years, Indian citizens have increasingly witnessed governance crises despite the presence of a comprehensive written Constitution. This paradox raises critical concerns about the ethical foundations of political practice and the politicisation of constitutional interpretation. The paper argues that multiple and often conflicting interpretations of constitutional provisions have enabled ruling elites to selectively invoke legal opinions that align with partisan interests, thereby weakening democratic accountability. By examining the ethical implications of such practices, the study highlights how political expediency frequently overrides constitutional morality, contributing to declining public trust in democratic institutions. The paper concludes that strengthening the ethical–political interface through constitutional fidelity, institutional autonomy, and civic vigilance is essential for preserving India’s democratic ethos.