The problem with this zero-sum approach is that very often even if the criticism of government policy and action is valid, the perception is that it is just opposition for the sake of opposition and there is neither any sense nor any sensibility in the criticism. It would probably make more sense for the opposition to take credit for any change in tack by the government in response to its clamour rather than swing to the other side and criticise the government for doing what it was asking it to do, and in the process compromising its own credibility. _________________________. After all, it is so much easier to ride to power by demonising your rivals, cementing your vote banks, mouthing seductive populist political slogans that are impractical, instead of doing the difficult job of worsting your rivals by presenting with solid alternative policies that will deliver on the ground.

The problem with this zero-sum approach is that very often even if the criticism of government policy and action is valid, the perception is that it is just opposition for the sake of opposition and there is neither any sense nor any sensibility in the criticism. It would probably make more sense for the opposition to take credit for any change in tack by the government in response to its clamour rather than swing to the other side and criticise the government for doing what it was asking it to do, and in the process compromising its own credibility. But doing this would mean changing the political paradigm in India, something that no politician really wants. After all, it is so much easier to ride to power by demonising your rivals, cementing your vote banks, mouthing seductive populist political slogans that are impractical, instead of doing the difficult job of worsting your rivals by presenting with solid alternative policies that will deliver on the ground.