ISLAMABAD - Corrupt, autocratic and opportunist political leaders were more responsible than the military for the instability of democracy in South Asia, observed speakers at the second day of the three-days symposium on "Strengthening democratic practices in South Asia". The symposium, which would conclude today (Thursday), was organized by Citizens' Commission for Human Development (CCHD) in collaboration with United Nations' Fund for Democracy. Junaid Ahmed, William and Marry College, USA, Dr Karen Gabriel, Center for Women's Development Studies, India, Dr Golam Hussain, Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh and Aziz Ahmad Khan spoke at the second day of the symposium. Dr Golam highlighted weaknesses among the political parties and pointed out that the political leaders in South Asia spoke for democracy outside their parties and maintained remained autocratic inside. Moreover, the political leaders in Bangladesh and Pakistan, who came in power after the fall of dictatorial regimes, failed to deliver better to their nations, he maintained. He further said that the same disappointed the public and paved the way for military adventurism once again. He said that democracy was the most accepted and acclaimed form of government, however, it should not remain merely government of the elected majority but should listen to the voices of the people. Besides, he maintained, it should encourage pluralism and accommodate different ideas and opinions, groups, associations, organisations and institutions. Dr Karen Gabriel observed that attacks on the Muslims in Gujarat were well planned and state-sponsored, for the exploitation of popular sentiments of the Hindu majority to vote again for Narender Modi. She said the local print and electronic media also played a criminal role in promoting the violence and provoking sexual violence against the Muslim women. She said political leaders utilised various tactics for shaping public opinion for their purposes and maintained that awareness among the masses regarding the contemporary politics was of greatest importance to help prevent the Gujarat like happenings in future. Aziz Ahmad Khan said constitution of India guaranteed basic human rights to all its citizens, but the worst form of discrimination and denial that the minorities, especially Dalits and the Muslims were facing, a serious challenge to its democratic credentials.