Yoga guru Baba Ramdev on Monday, 19 October called on all political parties and citizens to confine their demands for change strictly within India's constitutional and democratic framework, warning that bypassing constitutional institutions amounts to anarchy. Speaking to reporters in Haridwar, Ramdev weighed in on the ongoing controversy over calls for a change in government leadership that have echoed from street protests to Parliament.

Key Remarks on Constitutional Process

Ramdev drew a sharp distinction between legitimate political agitation and unconstitutional methods, particularly with regard to the office of the Chief Election Commissioner. “Whatever happens in the country must remain within the framework of democracy and the Constitution. There is a constitutional and democratic process for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner, just as there is a defined constitutional and democratic process for removing one. You cannot run constitutional institutions from the streets, nor can you appoint someone to a position or remove someone from a post through street protests,” he said.

He acknowledged that shortcomings exist across the legislature, judiciary, and media, and extended that critique to sectors such as education and health. “There are shortcomings in the legislature, judiciary and media. Every sector of the country, whether education, health or any other field, has its own shortcomings. Therefore, there should be protests as well as reforms,” he added.

On Civil Society and the CJP

Ramdev offered a measured take on the role of civil society in a democracy, suggesting that independent voices gain credibility when the public loses confidence in both ruling and opposition parties. “In a democratic system, when people begin to have doubts regarding both the ruling side and the opposition, certain social organisations — what are referred to in English as civil society — or some individuals emerge. These are individuals of authentic character who have made genuine contributions to the nation, and the country listens to them,” he said.

Referring specifically to the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP), Ramdev said its character, contribution, and credibility were yet to be assessed, though he noted that young people were joining the organisation. He expressed hope that they would raise relevant issues and work in the interests of the country's youth and people.

Condolences Over Chorbagan Stampede

Ramdev also expressed condolences over the stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal, offering prayers for the souls of those who lost their lives and for strength for their families. “We pray for all the devotees who have lost their lives, for their salvation and the liberation of their souls, and we pray that Goddess Bhagavati gives strength to their family members so that they can overcome this deep pain and crisis,” he said.

He called for comprehensive safety arrangements at religious gatherings, including adequate firefighting facilities, noting the particular risk posed by ceremonial lamps in crowded spaces.

Sanatan Vision and Women's Dignity

On the spiritual dimension, Ramdev emphasised that the Sanatan tradition holds all forms of womanhood as divine, not merely young girls. He said this worldview should inspire purity of thought and conduct, leaving no room for what he described as lust, immorality, or corruption.

His remarks come at a politically charged moment, with debates over electoral institutions and civil society organisations intensifying ahead of upcoming legislative sessions. How political parties respond to his call for constitutional restraint is likely to shape the next phase of the ongoing controversy.