An Introduction To Terapanth: [11] Combination of Democracy and Autocracy

There is harmonization of autocracy and democracy in the Terapantha order. Acharya Bhikshu was always concerned with both freedom and discipline. Autocracy exists in the sense that the Acharya is the supreme head in the organization, and hence, nobody can challenge his order. Democracy exists in the sense that everyone has the freedom to put forth his view with regard to conduct etc. to the Acharya. All disciples realize the importance of having the authority of Acharya and consider their lives to be secured under his able guidance and supervision. So, we find neither absolute autocracy nor absolute democracy, but a happy blending of both in the Terapantha order. It is a unique example of union of faith and freedom.