What Was the Jungle Raj

Successful attempts have been made in the past to end the Jungle Raj in Bihar by implementing processes like speedy trials and convictions of criminals. However, it is very much a part of Bihar politics even today

- K.M. KISHAN

WHEN the Rule of Law ceases to exist, Jungle Raj takes over. The most primitive law that exists is natural. Justice and equity are not found in natural law. The maxim of natural law is “might is right”. The principle of the food chain runs through all living species. Exactly then was the advent of Homo Sapiens on earth.

Humans collectivised and slowly, the esoteric concept of justice grew. This was definitely a quantum leap from the primitive lawless jungle existence. The concept of dominance over resources to equitable distribution of natural resources became an order of the evolutionary process.

As equity and justice evolved, replacing natural laws, the concept of state power grew as well. The state power evolved in various shapes and forms and human society took pride in it. Various regions of the earth ran the whole course of history of the evolution of state power, ranging from kingship to electoral democracy. Society sought equity and justice the most from the state it had given unto itself. The form of the state survived only as long as society was satisfied with the manner in which justice was delivered. Long stretches of dissatisfaction would create societal upheavals, leading to changes in the shape and form of state power.

The mid-20th century saw the evolution of the Parliamentary form of electoral democracy. Equity was given massive importance through the concept of equality of votes. Justice was not given the same weight as equity. In India, the creation of high courts and the Supreme Court was thought to be enough. Initially, equity and justice ran hand in hand as inseparable. With the passage of time, a phased lag grew between the two. Equity became too precious for every segment of society. The justice system couldn't match the aspirations of equity.