In 2004 a report published in the USA pointed to the increasing inequalities in that country. Inequalities in income are reflected in the participation of people in democracy. It also shaped their abilities to influence the decisions taken by the government. The report highlighted that:

I. If an average Black family earns $ 100 then the income of an average White family is $ 162. A White family has twelve times more wealth than the average Black family.

II. In a President's election nearly 9 out of 10 individuals in families with income over $ 75,000 have voted. These people are the top 20% of the population in terms of their income. On the other hand, only 5 people out of 10 from families with income less than $ 15,000 have voted. They are the bottom 20% of the population in terms of their income.

III. About 95% contribution to the political parties comes from the rich. This gives them the opportunity to express their opinions and concerns, which is not available to most citizens.

IV. As poor sections participate less in politics, the government does not listen to their concerns – coming out of poverty, getting jobs, education, health care and housing for them. Politicians hear most regularly about the concerns of business persons and the rich. Write an essay on ‘Democracy and Poverty’ using the information given in this report but using examples from India.