A win for Indian democracy

Droupadi Murmu's election as president represents inclusiveness

Droupadi Murmu’s election as the 15th president of independent India and, at 64, the youngest to hold the office, reflects a significant moment for Indian democracy. As a tribal woman, Ms Murmu’s election as head of the Indian state is an affirmation of the values of social inclusiveness that undergird the Constitution. Although the tribals account for just 8 per cent of India’s population, they represent some of the country’s most disenfranchised communities. Ms Murmu’s election may not radically change their situation but her elevation to Rashtrapati Bhavan stands as a symbol of achievement and points to the opportunity open