tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32464221298043717452024-03-16T06:40:52.183+05:30Randeep Wadehra's BlogNews, Views and ReviewsRandeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.comBlogger530125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-87331930306448927582024-03-15T20:09:00.000+05:302024-03-15T20:09:14.539+05:30 What’s Good for India: Secularism or Right-Wing Liberalism?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSlycWpW2CMZgGjJbst_mXBYk-UCShqHXDK0bn6IW70nNVm1rN3QV3SB57S7ZI6MKlurwBQasyp6qRXO4EGDSeFWpmQRjzgSiettOYn0vlxqStZxRDWuqC7Cb5yg8rWgfK8xKYhzAPgoB43MpFhV4_FvJCP4_Qvwk1Sk7-xk6GGFM0RqlDe72jKnJ3X0XX/s2560/Thumbnail%20Secularism%20etc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSlycWpW2CMZgGjJbst_mXBYk-UCShqHXDK0bn6IW70nNVm1rN3QV3SB57S7ZI6MKlurwBQasyp6qRXO4EGDSeFWpmQRjzgSiettOYn0vlxqStZxRDWuqC7Cb5yg8rWgfK8xKYhzAPgoB43MpFhV4_FvJCP4_Qvwk1Sk7-xk6GGFM0RqlDe72jKnJ3X0XX/w400-h225/Thumbnail%20Secularism%20etc.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><b><i><a href="https://youtu.be/B03enJ4Eip0">YouTube</a></i></b></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">What is good for democracy – right-wing liberalism or secularism? This has become a key question ever since there has been a resurgence in right-wing governments in several democratic countries, especially in the West. It has become imperative to decide the role of religion in governance and public policy. Broadly speaking, there are two main approaches—right-wing liberal governments that promote religious values alongside individual rights and freedoms, and secular governments that emphasise separation of religion and state. There are reasoned arguments on both sides regarding which model best enables democratic ideals of representation, rights, equality, and stability. Here, we are not considering hard-core right-wing governments because they are antithetical to democracies. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In Western democracies like the United States, debates around issues like abortion, same-sex marriage and public funding for faith-based schools highlight the tensions between moral traditionalism rooted in religion versus more progressive, secular outlooks focused on civil liberties. Right-wing liberal governments led by Christian democratic and conservative parties have historically argued that religion, Christianity in particular, shapes national identity and shared moral purpose. However, critics contend that a close partnership between the church and the state privileges some faiths over others enables religious doctrine to limit personal freedoms, and contradicts separation of powers principles.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Most secular Western governments conversely seek a more pluralistic approach to religion’s public role, while granting some accommodation for majority religious traditions. For instance, the United States arguably keeps a greater separation of church and state than European secular democracies, where most accommodate majority Christian holidays, values and symbols in governance.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The United Kingdom has an established state church headed by the monarch, while Denmark and Iceland have official state churches supported by taxes. Germany gives the Lutheran and Catholic churches special legal and financial privileges compared to minority faiths. However, no European country imposes religion or discriminates against minority beliefs.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">France’s militant form of secularism, which prohibits conspicuous religious symbols in public schools, is perhaps on the far end of the Western secular spectrum in its aggressive removal of faith from the public sphere. France also bans full-face veils in public places and headscarves in schools, which critics allege discriminates against Muslim women’s religious expression. However, France’s secularism emerged partly to prevent Catholic-Protestant conflicts from again tearing the country apart, as occurred in the 16th-century Wars of Religion.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Most secular democracies seek a middle path between too-strict separation of church and state and excessive integration of religious values. However, interpretations vary, especially regarding majority religious accommodations versus minority rights and liberties. Western secular governments demonstrate these tensions but overall uphold principles of pluralism, equality under the law, individual freedom of belief, and religious tolerance, even if imperfectly.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Secularism in India: History and Critiques</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Secularism focuses on representing all citizens equally, regardless of religious affiliation, by separating state functions from religious institutions. The Indian Constitution embraces secularism, but its interpretation remains contested.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, championed secular nation-building to unite the country across caste and creed. For Nehru, grounding policy in ethics, reason and equality protects minority groups better than Hindu majoritarian governance. His administration banned caste and creed discrimination.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, critics allege that Congress governments long used secularism as a cover for minority appeasement and vote-bank politics. India’s asserted secularism retained Hindu influences in state symbols and policies. Demands grew for truly neutral governance, not favouring any religious community.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Hindu Nationalism’s Rise: Majoritarianism or Indian Values?</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The rise of the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) since the 1980s sparked debates about accommodating India’s Hindu majority within secular democracy. The BJP argues Hindu mores shape Indian identity and deserve policy accommodation. Party leaders believe they are promoting Indic, not religious, values.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">BJP policies like uniform civil code, status for yoga, or scrapping Muslim instant divorce are viewed as righting overdue reforms or reflecting Hindu customs. However, critics allege the BJP’s majoritarian Hindu nationalism threatens minorities, pluralism and individual liberties. Assessing this divide requires evaluating governance impacts.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Comparing Vajpayee and Modi’s Hindu Nationalism</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Despite shared Hindu nationalist lineage, former Prime Minister Vajpayee’s inclusive approach notably differed from current Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s uncompromising vision. This contrast illuminates the risks and benefits of incorporating Hindu values.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Vajpayee’s moderate Hindu nationalism encouraged religious tolerance and avoided majoritarianism. His policies focused on equitable rural development and poverty alleviation, regardless of faith. Vajpayee largely refrained from state interference in citizens’ private affairs or rights.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Meanwhile, critics contend Modi’s assertive Hindutva undermines secularism and minority welfare. His government forcefully regulates individual freedoms to impose Hindu traditional values in disregard of pluralism. Modi’s rhetoric regarding Pakistan and Kashmir encourages religious nationalism. His recent citizenship criteria overtly exclude Muslims in violation of Indian secularism.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhi’s Vision: Hinduism as Moral Anchor, Not Political Ideology</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mahatma Gandhi’s perspectives offer valuable insights into the principles that should guide a pluralistic Indian democracy. Despite being a devout Hindu himself, Gandhi firmly believed that faith should shape an individual’s personal ethics and moral conduct, but not dictate the governance of a nation. His vision championed the concept of sarva dharma sambhava, which translates to equal respect and acceptance for all religions and creeds.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhi welcomed the widespread prevalence of Hindu customs and traditions, which he believed infused India’s national character. He opposed the imposition of Hindu standards and practices through state coercion, viewing it as a violation of religious freedom. Instead, Gandhi believed that embracing shared values that cut across the diverse faiths practised in India would strengthen the nation’s democratic fabric.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">He advocated for a governance model that celebrated India’s rich religious pluralism while ensuring that no single religion held a position of dominance or privilege over others. Gandhi’s vision remained committed to upholding the fundamental rights of individuals to practise their chosen faith without fear of discrimination or coercion.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Balancing Pluralism and Majority Values</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India’s ideal system of governance should balance respecting its Hindu cultural roots and ensuring secular protections that safeguard the liberties, pluralism, and equality before the law for all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations. Appeasing minority groups in a manner that contradicts the principles of democracy is problematic. However, promoting Hindu majoritarianism that disregards the rights of minority communities is undesirable. Accommodating Hindu cultural practices and mores through state recognition may aid social cohesion. But it should be done without coercing individuals into religious practices. India must uphold the freedom of individual conscience and faith, shielding it from communal pressures. Navigating the complex role of religion in governance requires upholding both the tenets of democratic pluralism and respecting India’s Hindu foundations.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Right-Wing Liberalism: Majority Values Shape Policy</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The ideology of right-wing liberalism advocates for incorporating the religious values and moral frameworks of the majority community into the governance and policymaking processes of a nation. This approach is driven by the belief that aligning state policies with the dominant cultural ethos can foster social cohesion and national unity. In the Indian context, the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has embraced this philosophy, asserting that translating Hindu cultural mores into policy reflects the beliefs and value systems of nearly 80% of India’s citizens.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Proponents of this ideology argue that India’s Hindu cultural foundations nurture a shared sense of identity and moral frameworks that transcend sectarian lines. They contend that mainstream Hindu teachings, which extol principles such as human dignity, justice, compassion, and social responsibility, can serve as guiding principles for policymaking. The BJP believes it has received an electoral mandate to align state policies with the values held by the Hindu majority.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, critics raise concerns that a close partnership between the state and the majority religion risks discrimination against minority groups who do not share the same faith and value systems. They warn that right-wing agendas that allow religious doctrine to influence policy might limit personal freedoms and contravene the principle of separation of church and state, which is a cornerstone of secular democracies.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Navigating this complex issue requires striking a delicate balance between respecting the cultural and religious identities of the majority while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of minority communities, ensuring that no group faces marginalisation or discrimination based on their beliefs.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Hindu Majority as Social Stability Anchor</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Right-wing liberals consider India’s Hindu identity the greatest stabilising force for national unity and harmony. They argue minority appeasement and excessive secularisation undermine social cohesion by disregarding values shared by over 80% of citizens.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Accommodating majority Hindu beliefs is strengthening, not weakening, Indian pluralism by making all groups feel represented in the national fabric. Selective integration of Hindu traditions in governance gives it legitimacy across communities. Hindutva is presented as an anchoring social force, not a religious imposition.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Majoritarianism and Minority Rights</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, critics allege the Hindu nationalism touted by India’s right-wing liberals amounts to majoritarianism camouflaged in religious and cultural arguments. They contend policies, such as revoking Muslim-majority Kashmir’s autonomy or excluding Muslim migrants, impose the ruling BJP’s vision of Hindu dominance.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">While arguing they oppose minority appeasement, right-wing liberals are charged with disingenuously promoting Hindu primacy. At a minimum, Hindutva risks subtle state coercion of religious norms and erosion of free exercise of minority faiths. Non-Hindu Indians may effectively face second-class denizen status.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Secular Governance: Separating Religion and State</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Contrastingly, secular governance focuses on representing all citizens equally, regardless of religious affiliation, by separating state functions from religious institutions. The Indian Constitution embraces secularism, though its practice remains contested.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Supporters argue strictly secular policymaking avoids favouritism risks inherent in right-wing religious states. It theoretically allows maximum free religious expression. Basing laws on ethics and reason instead of theology can promote evidence-based policy.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Critics counter that attempted strict secularism often fails in religiously diverse societies. Excluding faith from politics is impossible when religious identities shape constituents’ worldviews. Militant secularism that disregards majority customs divides society.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Minority Political Power over Majority Rights?</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In India, secularism is charged with being a façade for minority appeasement and vote bank politics. Critics argue that supposed secular parties like the Congress exploit Muslim insecurities for electoral advantage. This is said to result in excessive minority influence over policy disproportionate to population share.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Right-wing liberals consider selective minority appeasement more dangerous to democracy than integrating majority Hindu values since it allows unrepresentative groups to capture state power. They present Hindutva as democratically reflecting India’s Hindu majority.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Principled Secularism: Ethics Beyond Religious Doctrine</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Proponents of secular governance argue that it is possible to represent India’s diversity while still recognising and accommodating the cultural customs and practices of the Hindu majority, provided that such efforts are guided by constitutional principles and not driven by ad hoc electoral politics or appeasement. They contend that truly secular political parties should ground their policies in inclusive ethical frameworks and robust protections for minority communities, rather than basing decisions on religious laws or doctrines.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This approach would entail facilitating the observance of Hindu practices and traditions without resorting to state imposition or coercion. The litmus test for upholding secularism lies in safeguarding individual liberties against potential infringement or coercive influence from any religious group, whether it represents the majority or a minority community.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Defenders of this stance assert that by enshrining constitutional values of pluralism, equality, and freedom of religion, the Indian state can balance respecting the Hindu cultural roots of the majority while ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all citizens, irrespective of their faith, are protected from encroachment by religious diktats or majoritarian impulses.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Conclusion: Contextual Secularism, Not Ideological Rigidity</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India’s approach to secularism needs to be contextual, striking a balance between respecting the cultural sensibilities of the Hindu majority while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of minority communities, rather than adhering to a militant or absolute separation of religion and state. Accommodation for Hindu customs and practices does not equate to establishing a theocratic majoritarian order, provided constitutional guarantees for pluralism and diversity remain.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, it is important to recognise that the advocacy of secular politics is often a veil for the appeasement of minority interests rather than true neutrality. India must strive to sustain an evolving yet principled model of secularism that upholds the foundational values of liberty, equality, and individual freedoms within the framework of its pluralistic democratic system.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This nuanced approach acknowledges India’s Hindu-majority roots while ensuring that the state remains equidistant from all religions, without preferential treatment or discrimination against any faith or community. By charting a middle ground between the extremes of rigid secularism and religious majoritarianism, India can cultivate an inclusive national ethos that celebrates its rich diversity while providing a robust constitutional framework to protect the rights and liberties of all its citizens, irrespective of their religious or cultural affiliations.</span></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-2289924787394730682024-03-12T11:14:00.005+05:302024-03-12T11:14:46.556+05:30 The Decline of Political Parties: A Complex Interplay of Factors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjah2LL0MEWUqpz0wTz8h0iTJ76y7blYN2WrSUYEcbJ84y1q6qQ9OPg79KZa9biUnK979c_q-PDhsor5W7VurP7nFe8yO7lAKnmeaMSgcoPenmGL5BRjpbug76rgzKnvLPuu-Tlqb7GEtJqts7el9XWVxe0WcZfixvq2PrY4GYVnNH2sFVcNHUUTJkePqt0/s2560/fall%20of%20political%20parties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjah2LL0MEWUqpz0wTz8h0iTJ76y7blYN2WrSUYEcbJ84y1q6qQ9OPg79KZa9biUnK979c_q-PDhsor5W7VurP7nFe8yO7lAKnmeaMSgcoPenmGL5BRjpbug76rgzKnvLPuu-Tlqb7GEtJqts7el9XWVxe0WcZfixvq2PrY4GYVnNH2sFVcNHUUTJkePqt0/w400-h225/fall%20of%20political%20parties.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><i><a href="https://youtu.be/QrvXvIRZ7KM" target="_blank">YouTube</a></i></span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Political parties play a pivotal role in the functioning of modern democracies, serving as vehicles for citizens’ representation, policy formulation, and governance. However, in recent decades, many established political parties across the globe have witnessed a decline in their influence and support base. This phenomenon can be attributed to a complex interplay of various institutional, societal, and external factors that collectively shape the destiny of political parties within a democratic framework.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Institutional Factors: The Framework of Governance</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A. Regime Type and Democratic Consolidation</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The nature of a country’s political regime significantly impacts the landscape in which political parties operate. Well-established liberal democracies with robust checks and balances, such as the United States, United Kingdom, and several Western European nations, provide a more conducive environment for multiple parties to compete for power and represent diverse interests.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Conversely, authoritarian regimes or hybrid systems that restrict genuine democratic competition pose significant challenges for opposition parties to thrive. In such contexts, the ruling party often wields excessive control, limiting the space for dissent and alternative voices, ultimately undermining the principles of democratic pluralism.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">B. Concentration of Power and Accountability</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Excessive concentration of power within a single party or government can breed corruption, nepotism, and a lack of accountability, ultimately eroding public trust and support. When power becomes overly centralised, it can lead to the curtailment of civil liberties, suppression of dissent, and alienation of large sections of the population.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian National Congress (INC) faced such challenges during periods of its dominance, particularly under the leadership of Indira Gandhi. Imposing the Emergency in 1975-1977, suspension of civil liberties, and allegations of nepotism and corruption contributed to a temporary decline in the party’s popularity and support base.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">C. Historical Legacy and Perception</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A party’s historical legacy can be a double-edged sword. While a proud legacy as a freedom movement or a force for positive change can garner respect, it can also become a burden if the party is perceived as being out of touch with contemporary realities or steeped in outdated ideologies.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For instance, the INC’s association with the freedom struggle against British colonial rule is a source of pride, but it has also led to perceptions of the party being too entrenched in the past and unable to adapt effectively to modern challenges. Similarly, its association with the Emergency period has left a lasting negative perception among certain sections of society.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Societal Factors: Bridging Divides and Representing Diversity</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A. Historical Background and Social Cleavages</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The historical background of a nation and deep-rooted social cleavages along ethnic, religious, linguistic, or economic lines can significantly influence the fortunes of political parties. Parties that fail to bridge these divides or cater to diverse interests may face fragmentation and a loss of voter confidence.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In India, the INC has grappled with the challenge of maintaining a broad-based support across various social divides. Allegations of catering more to specific interest groups, being perceived as elitist, or failing to adequately represent minority communities have contributed to the erosion of its support base.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">B. Rise of Identity Politics and Populism</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The rise of identity politics and populist movements has posed a significant challenge to traditional political parties in many democracies. Populist leaders and parties often tap into public discontent, amplify divisive narratives, and capitalise on economic insecurities or feelings of disenfranchisement among certain sections of society.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The success of Donald Trump’s “America First” populist movement in the United States and the rise of populist parties like the National Rally in France, Alternative for Germany, and the Freedom Party in the Netherlands exemplify this trend. These parties have gained significant ground by mobilising disaffected voters disillusioned with mainstream politics and capitalising on issues like immigration and economic insecurity. In India, the BJP has gained phenomenal success by resorting to identity politics. It has crafted a narrative of Hindu victimhood that has resonated with a sizeable chunk of Indians. By cleverly merging religion with patriotism, the BJP has become the most powerful political entity in India.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">C. Declining Voter Turnout and Disillusionment</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Low voter turnout and declining public participation in the democratic process can indicate a broader disillusionment with mainstream political parties and their ability to effectively address the concerns of the electorate. This phenomenon has been observed in various democracies, including the United States, where voter turnout had been declining in previous elections before rebounding in 2020.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the United Kingdom, voter turnout in general elections has been steadily declining since the 1990s, reflecting a growing disconnect between the public and the traditional political establishment. Such trends can further erode the credibility and legitimacy of political parties, exacerbating the cycle of disillusionment and undermining the principles of representative democracy.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mediating Variables: The Dynamics of Power and Governance</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A. Party System and Fragmentation</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The structure and stability of a country’s party system play a crucial role in shaping the fortunes of individual political parties. Fragmented party systems, characterised by many small parties and frequent shifts in alliances, can hinder effective governance and undermine the credibility of individual parties.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Italy and Spain serve as examples of how traditional two-party dominance has given way to a more fragmented and dynamic party system. In Italy, the rise of the Five Star Movement (M5S) and the League (Lega) has challenged the established centre-left and gunter-rigged coalitions. Similarly, in Spain, the emergence of Podemos and Ciudadanos has disrupted the traditional dominance of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) and the People’s Party (PP). These changes reflect the evolving dynamics of European politics, where stability and coalition-building remain ongoing challenges. Podemos and Ciudadanos are two relatively new political parties that have emerged in Spain and disrupted the traditional two-party dominance of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) and the People’s Party (PP).</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Podemos (meaning “We Can”) disrupted the status quo. Podemos, a left-wing party, emerged advocating for social justice and anti-austerity measures. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ciudadanos, also known as Citizens, is a liberal political party in Spain. It was founded in Catalonia in 2006, and initially emerged with a strong opposition to Catalan independence and Catalan nationalism. Its early motto was: “Catalonia is my homeland, Spain is my country, and Europe is our future.” Over time, it has been described as post-nationalist and has advocated for a populist Spanish nationalist ideology. Ideologically, Ciudadanos positions itself as progressive, secular, constitutional, European federalist, and post-nationalist. It rejects the autonomous communities’ right to self-determination. It started off as a left-of-centre party with social democratic and progressive liberal stances. Later, it shifted closer to the political centre, removing any mention of social democracy from its platform in February 2017.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The rise of these new parties has contributed to a multi-party system in Spain and the need for coalition governments, as no single party has commanded a majority in recent elections.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">B. Coalition Dynamics and Governance Challenges</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In many democracies, the formation of coalition governments has become increasingly common, often causing compromises and power-sharing arrangements among diverse and sometimes conflicting interests. While these coalitions can provide stability during their tenures, they can also lead to perceptions of policy paralysis, ineffective decision-making, and an inability to project a consistent and cohesive agenda.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian National Congress (INC) has been part of several coalition governments at the centre, such as the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) from 2004 to 2014. While these coalitions provided stability, the compromises and power-sharing arrangements often led to perceptions of policy inaction and ineffective governance, ultimately denting the party’s credibility and support base. However, unlike the two editions of UPA, the NDA has been quite stable during the two terms so far. This is because the BJP has been in the majority on its own, and its allies cannot destabilise the government no matter what their grievances may be.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">C. Governance Record and Public Trust</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A party’s governance record and its ability to deliver on promises and address the concerns of the electorate are critical factors that shape its political fortunes. Allegations of corruption, policy failures, or a perceived inability to provide effective and accountable governance can significantly erode public trust and support.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The short-lived tenure of the INC-led UPA-II government from 2009 to 2014, marred by corruption scandals and policy inaction, significantly dented the party’s image as an effective governing force. Similarly, the perceived mishandling of crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic by certain governments, has further undermined public trust in democratic institutions and the ability of political parties to respond effectively to pressing challenges.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">External Factors: The Influence of Global Dynamics</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A. Foreign Disinformation and Influence Campaigns</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the age of digital media and interconnectivity, concerns have arisen about the potential spread of disinformation and misinformation campaigns by foreign actors, particularly through social media platforms. While these campaigns may not directly target specific political parties, the dissemination of false or misleading information might influence public opinion and voter behaviour, indirectly impacting the fortunes of various political forces.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Russia, under President Vladimir Putin, has engaged in disinformation campaigns to undermine Western democracies. Putin aims to weaken Western unity, alter policies (e.g., economic sanctions), and revive Russia’s global role. Russian disinformation targets politicians and democratic institutions, including elections and independent media.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The United States has a long history of interfering in the political affairs of other nations, often through covert operations aimed at influencing or overthrowing foreign governments. One notable example is the 1951 Rawalpindi conspiracy in Pakistan, led by Maj. Gen. Akbar Khan, left-wing activists, and sympathetic officers, which aimed to overthrow the government of Pakistan’s first prime minister, Liaquat Ali Khan.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, Pakistan is far from the only victim of American interference. Between 1946 and 2000, the U.S. performed at least 81 overt and covert interventions in foreign elections. This includes the 1953 Iranian coup d’état, where the U.S. and the UK orchestrated the overthrow of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, the 1961 Bay of Pigs Invasion targeting Cuba, and support for the removal of Indonesian President Sukarno by General Suharto. The U.S. has also influenced national elections in countries such as Italy, the Philippines, Japan, Lebanon, and Russia.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">More recently, leaked documents suggest U.S. involvement in the 2022 no-confidence motion against former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, potentially because of his neutral stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. These instances highlight the extent of American interference in shaping the political landscapes of various nations around the world.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">B. Allegations of Foreign Funding</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Allegations of foreign funding being received by political parties from external sources or non-resident citizens have been a recurring issue in many democracies. However, these allegations are often unsubstantiated, and parties typically assert that they follow legal and regulatory frameworks for funding. Such allegations can contribute to public skepticism and erosion of trust in the political process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">C. Geopolitical Considerations and Narratives</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A country’s foreign relations and geopolitical alignments with various nations and blocs can influence domestic perceptions and narratives surrounding political parties and their policies. For instance, a party’s stance on issues such as trade agreements, military alliances, or diplomatic relations can shape public opinion and impact its support base, particularly among sections of the electorate with strong views on these matters.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Safeguarding Democracy: Strengthening Institutions and Fostering Accountability</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The complex interplay of factors contributing to the decline of political parties highlights the need for concerted efforts to safeguard democratic institutions, promote inclusive governance, and foster accountability. Governments, civil society organisations, and citizens must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these challenges.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Strengthening the independence and impartiality of democratic institutions, such as electoral bodies, judiciary, and media, is crucial to ensuring transparency and upholding the integrity of the political process. Promoting civic education and fostering a culture of critical thinking and informed decision-making can empower citizens to make informed choices and hold political parties accountable.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Political parties themselves must embrace reform and renewal, prioritising internal democracy, transparency, and responsiveness to the evolving needs and concerns of the electorate. Embracing inclusive policies, bridging social divides, and addressing issues of economic inequality and disenfranchisement can help restore public trust and revitalise the principles of representative democracy.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Conclusion</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ultimately, the health and vibrancy of political parties are intrinsically linked to the broader state of democracy within a nation. By addressing the complex challenges posed by institutional, societal, and external factors, and fostering a culture of democratic accountability and responsiveness, societies can safeguard the integrity of the political process and ensure that political parties remain effective vehicles for citizens’ representation and governance.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-72509805610629402962024-03-08T17:57:00.004+05:302024-03-08T17:57:44.053+05:30 Election Funding: India and Other Democracies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNy2VJklNnMARcQIcLs-38iTrILchxCxB9KyYaJwn91k0LK_GisR80rGD4Z7_OQUcy18YsPrj9iP_7RGyf4QJGKcHjVhr97XKiZEk-CMVQuaRclt9V4SZjJ1EWhV3j1AXkLw0FbhXUszSXZDt9ZWLVRYxtO-wZSl2bNYSCVYavjTA2geqlOks66OLM-1Q/s2560/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNy2VJklNnMARcQIcLs-38iTrILchxCxB9KyYaJwn91k0LK_GisR80rGD4Z7_OQUcy18YsPrj9iP_7RGyf4QJGKcHjVhr97XKiZEk-CMVQuaRclt9V4SZjJ1EWhV3j1AXkLw0FbhXUszSXZDt9ZWLVRYxtO-wZSl2bNYSCVYavjTA2geqlOks66OLM-1Q/w400-h225/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><i><a href="https://youtu.be/PesfJYsDIyg" target="_blank">YouTube</a></i></span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Democracy and elections are inseparable, as fair and free elections are essential for a democratic government. Election funding plays a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of democracy by ensuring equal access to information about candidates and issues, facilitating widespread distribution of voter education materials, and empowering citizens to make informed decisions. Adequate funding also supports the administration and oversight of the electoral process, maintains transparency, prevents fraud or manipulation, and provides resources for poll workers, voting equipment, audits, and non-partisan monitoring. Election funding enables campaigns and political parties to effectively communicate their platforms and policy proposals to the electorate, fostering robust exchange of ideas and informed decision-making. Transparent and regulated election funding mechanisms help mitigate the disproportionate influence of wealthy donors or special interests, promoting a more level playing field and preventing the undue sway of moneyed interests. Overall, sufficient and appropriately regulated election funding upholds key democratic principles while balancing various concerns to ensure the integrity of the democratic process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Does the election funding in India adhere to the above parameters? Before we answer this question, let us look at some important democracies.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Great Britain</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In Great Britain, the financing of electoral campaigns is governed by a comprehensive system that combines private contributions, state funding, and regulations. This system aims to balance the need for political parties and candidates to raise funds with the importance of maintaining fairness, transparency, and accountability in the electoral process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. Private Contributions:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Permissible Donors:</span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Only individuals registered on the UK electoral register, including overseas electors and those leaving bequests, can donate to political parties. This measure ensures that only those with a legitimate stake in the UK electoral process can contribute financially, preventing undue influence from external sources.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Companies: </span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Most UK-registered companies are also permissible donors, subject to certain restrictions and reporting requirements. This provision allows businesses to support political causes and candidates they believe will promote their interests, while maintaining transparency and oversight.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Political Parties and Trade Unions:</span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Great Britain-registered political parties and trade unions can receive donations from their members and supporters. These contributions play a crucial role in funding their activities, campaigns, and policy development efforts.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. State Funding:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Administrative Costs:</span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> State funding in Great Britain is primarily reserved for covering the administrative costs of political parties. This includes expenses such as maintaining party headquarters, paying staff salaries, and organising internal party activities. By providing financial support for these operational costs, the system aims to level the playing field and ensure that parties have the resources to function effectively.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Policy Development Grant:</span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Eligible parties receive a “policy development grant” to support their policy research and development efforts. The grant is calculated based on the number of votes received in the most recent general election, with a rate of **£3.00 per vote** in Westminster elections and **£1.50 per vote** in devolved and European elections. This funding mechanism recognises the importance of policy development in a healthy democratic process and helps parties engage in evidence-based policymaking.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Income Tax Relief:</span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> To encourage grassroots support and broaden political participation, donations up to £1,000 and membership fees to political parties are eligible for income tax relief. This incentive aims to motivate individuals to contribute financially to the parties they support, fostering a more inclusive and diverse funding base.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Spending Limits:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Candidates: Individual candidates have spending limits during UK Parliamentary general elections. These limits vary based on the constituency they contest, ensuring a level playing field among candidates within each constituency. This measure prevents candidates with substantial financial resources from overwhelming their opponents through excessive spending.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Political Parties:</span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Party spending is capped at £30,000 per constituency where they field a candidate. This means that if a party contests all 650 UK constituencies, the maximum total spend would be £19.5 million. These limits aim to prevent parties with substantial financial resources from overwhelming the electoral process and creating an uneven playing field.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">4. Regulations and Reforms:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (PPERA) was a landmark legislation that established the Electoral Commission, an independent body responsible for overseeing party and election finance in the UK. The Act set accounting requirements for political parties and introduced controls on donations to enhance transparency and accountability in campaign financing. Since then, various inquiries and reports, like the Hayden Phillips inquiry and the Committee on Standards in Public Life report, have proposed reforms to further increase transparency, control excessive spending, and strengthen the Electoral Commission’s powers. These efforts aim to address concerns about money’s influence on politics and ensure fairness in the electoral process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Reforms have been proposed to update campaign finance regulations for the digital age, addressing issues such as online advertising, micro-targeting, and social media use in political campaigns. As campaigning methods evolve, regulations must adapt to maintain integrity and prevent exploiting new technologies for undue influence. Ongoing debates and discussions centre around potential reforms to increase transparency, limit wealthy donors’ influence, and further strengthen oversight mechanisms to maintain public trust in the electoral process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Great Britain’s approach balances private contributions, state funding, and regulatory measures, upholding fairness, transparency, and accountability while providing parties and candidates necessary resources. However, continuous evaluation and adaptation are needed to address emerging challenges and meet a modern democracy’s evolving needs.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">United States of America</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Election funding plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and fairness of the democratic process in the United States. At the federal level, campaigns receive funding from individuals, corporations, and political action committees (PACs), subject to limits set by the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Public financing is also available for qualifying presidential candidates, though eligibility requirements and spending limits apply. The rise of Super PACs, following the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision, has allowed for the raising and spending of unlimited funds to advocate for or against candidates, significantly impacting the campaign finance landscape.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">At the state and local levels, rules and regulations governing campaign finance vary widely. Campaigns receive contributions from individuals, corporations, and PACs, with occasional federal appropriations provided to help administer elections, upgrading voting systems, and improving election security. However, critics argue that inadequate and inconsistent funding can compromise the integrity of the electoral process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The campaign finance system in the United States faces several challenges and concerns. Campaign spending has grown, with each election cycle surpassing the previous one in terms of total expenditures, raising concerns about the influence of money in politics and the potential for wealthy individuals and organisations to wield disproportionate power. Supreme Court decisions like Citizens United v. FEC (2010) and McCutcheon v. FEC (2014) have enabled wealthy individuals and entities to spend unlimited amounts on campaigns through PACs, including “Super PACs,” raising concerns about transparency and the influence of “dark money” from undisclosed or obscured sources.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Critics argue that “big money” dominates U.S. political campaigns, drowning out ordinary Americans’ voices and creating an uneven playing field. They contend candidates with substantial financial resources have a significant advantage, potentially undermining fair and representative democracy principles. Public opinion polls suggest most Americans believe preventing large donors from having undue political influence is essential, but many feel this situation persists, and there is support for increasing transparency and limiting money’s influence in politics.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Campaign financing in the United States involves a complex interplay of private contributions, public subsidies, and debates about transparency, fairness, and money’s role in the electoral process. As campaign spending rises and court decisions shape the landscape, discussions about campaign finance reform and the need for a more equitable system remain at the forefront of political discourse.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">France</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In France, the financing of presidential campaigns is subject to a comprehensive set of rules and regulations designed to promote transparency, fairness, and accountability in the electoral process. The system involves a combination of spending limits, government reimbursements, and regulations surrounding private financing.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. Spending Limits:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">During the first round of the presidential election, candidates are limited to spending a maximum of €16.85 million on their campaigns. This cap is intended to level the playing field and prevent excessive spending from distorting the electoral process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The top two candidates from the first round proceed to a second round, where they can spend an additional €5.66 million, bringing their total campaign expenditure to €22.51 million. This additional allowance recognises the heightened visibility and need for campaigning during the final round.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Notably, this spending limit is significantly lower than that applied to publicly funded candidates in the last U.S. presidential election, which was set at €103.7 million.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. Government Reimbursement:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In France, candidates securing over 5% of votes in the first presidential election round can receive up to €8 million from the government to reimburse campaign costs, alleviating financial burdens and encouraging diverse participation. Those below 5% are eligible for up to €800,423, acknowledging their efforts. All first-round candidates receive €200,000 in public funding to kick-start campaigns. For the second round, candidates can be reimbursed up to €10.7 million by the state, reflecting increased costs. This reimbursement system aims to level the playing field and facilitate participation in the electoral process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Historical Trends:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Historically, candidates who spend more fare better in French presidential elections. However, there are exceptions to this trend, and adhering to the established rules and spending limits is crucial.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">4. Private Financing Regulations:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">To promote transparency and prevent undue influence, France imposes strict regulations on private financing for presidential campaigns. Individual donations are capped at €4,600, limiting large donors’ impact. Cash payments are restricted to €150, promoting trackability and accountability. Candidates must maintain detailed financial records, including donations, expenditures, and funding sources, subject to scrutiny and audits for compliance.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The system balances state funding, spending limits, and private financing regulations, aiming for a level playing field, transparency, and preventing excessive wealthy influence. However, it faces ongoing debates and potential reforms as France strives to maintain electoral integrity amid evolving challenges.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India: Navigating the Labyrinth of Funding and Reform</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the light of above, India has a long way to go for funding of elections. The world’s largest democracy faces a complex and often contentious landscape for financing its elections. The system involves a mix of mechanisms. It faces significant challenges that raise crucial questions about transparency, accountability, and the potential for undue influence.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. Electoral Bonds: A Controversial Cloak of Anonymity</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Currently, the country is mired in electoral bonds controversy. The Supreme Court has declared these bonds as unconstitutional. Introduced in 2017, electoral bonds became a point of contention for injecting anonymity into political donations. These bearer instruments, similar to banknotes, allow donors to purchase bonds from specified State Bank of India (SBI) branches. The purchased bonds could then be anonymously deposited in the accounts of eligible political parties. However, this anonymity sparked fierce debate, with critics arguing that it shielded the identity of donors, effectively making them immune to public scrutiny. This, they claimed, fostered an environment where individuals or entities could influence political parties without public accountability. Worse, only the ruling party, through the SBI, has access to information about electoral bond transactions, further diluting the principle of transparency and raising concerns about potential misuse of funds. The debate surrounding electoral bonds has become a focal point in the broader discussion on campaign finance reform, with calls for increased transparency and accountability measures.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. FCRA Amendments: Blurring the Lines of Foreign Influence</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) of 1976 aimed to regulate foreign contributions to Indian political parties. However, in 2014, the Delhi High Court found two national parties guilty of violating the Act by accepting foreign donations. Interestingly, subsequent amendments in 2018 legalised these violations, permitting foreign companies to contribute to Indian political parties. This move has ignited fears of unchecked foreign influence impacting Indian policies and potentially compromising the sovereignty of the electoral process. Opponents express concern that foreign corporate interests could sway domestic policies and decision-making, jeopardising the integrity and fairness of the democratic system.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Companies Act Amendments: Loosening the Grip on Transparency</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Finance Bill of 2017 ushered in changes to the Companies Act, 2013, raising concerns about reduced transparency in campaign finance. Previously, only profit-making companies could contribute to political parties, with a 7.5% cap on their donations. However, the amendments removed these restrictions, allowing loss-making companies to donate and eliminating the limitation on contribution size. The requirement for companies to disclose disaggregated political donations was abolished. Critics argue that these changes have essentially opened the doors for increased corporate influence on political parties and policymaking, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the prioritisation of corporate agendas over public interest.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">5. Corporate Donations: Balancing Interests or Tipping the Scales?</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The impact of corporate funding on policy decisions in India remains a subject of intense debate. Estimates predict that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could receive an annual donation of a staggering ₹720,407 crore from corporate donors by 2025. This raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the disproportionate influence of businesses on the political landscape. Critics argue that excessive reliance on corporate funding could lead to policies that prioritise business interests over public needs, ultimately undermining the principles of a representative democracy. They believe that such a system risks neglecting the needs and aspirations of the public in favour of those deemed beneficial to corporate interests.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">4. State Funding: A Glimmer of Hope?</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India’s campaign finance system is widely recognised as needing substantial reforms to ensure transparency and accountability. By 2019, estimates suggest that elections in India had become the world’s most expensive, with a staggering total expenditure exceeding $8.6 billion. A significant portion of this expenditure is attributed to direct cash payments to voters, raising serious concerns about vote-buying and the integrity of the electoral process. To address these issues and level the playing field, the idea of state funding for elections has emerged as a potential solution. Proponents argue that this could curb the influence of wealthy donors and promote greater equality within the electoral process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Advocates of state funding contend that it would ensure a more level playing field, reducing the reliance on private and corporate donations, which can lead to undue influence and potential conflicts of interest. They argue that public funding would promote greater transparency and accountability while ensuring that all candidates have access to adequate resources to run their campaigns. However, opponents raise concerns about the potential misuse of public funds and the challenge of determining appropriate allocation mechanisms.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Road Ahead: Navigating Reform and Ensuring Fairness</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian election funding system undeniably faces a complex array of challenges. Addressing issues like transparency, foreign influence, and the role of corporate funding is crucial for maintaining a fair and accountable electoral process. While reforms aimed at increasing transparency, limiting foreign influence, and balancing private and public funding are essential, the conversation surrounding finding the right balance remains ongoing.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Navigating this labyrinthine system of campaign finance in India requires continued dialogue, robust regulations, and a commitment to upholding the principles of a free, fair, and representative democracy. It is a complex challenge that demands the collective efforts of policymakers, civil society organisations, and the public to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that the voices of all citizens are heard and respected.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-79353937244397366762024-03-04T21:08:00.002+05:302024-03-04T21:08:33.094+05:30 Personality Cult and Ideology: Their Impact on Democratic Functioning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIm5a5oYWLXh2N-82VpF8mGTE4LoO7bdRb_I3U5QK0BqbBhN6IJVDmOwMMAmOqhTFJYoj7QWTx86iIZHV9kw786FE2tmhyphenhyphenniBTa-pInbxkrMIS5jXf_uaTerWMwTZU_QTu2ZTcDrxjec6TjseULuQfewK-2LECOF6p627uJR0tqn_lEMuQFTA7I_dRrRrs/s2560/02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIm5a5oYWLXh2N-82VpF8mGTE4LoO7bdRb_I3U5QK0BqbBhN6IJVDmOwMMAmOqhTFJYoj7QWTx86iIZHV9kw786FE2tmhyphenhyphenniBTa-pInbxkrMIS5jXf_uaTerWMwTZU_QTu2ZTcDrxjec6TjseULuQfewK-2LECOF6p627uJR0tqn_lEMuQFTA7I_dRrRrs/w400-h225/02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><i><b><a href="https://youtu.be/0RRSbOqPuqQ" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></i></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In politics, personality cults and ideologies play a significant role in shaping power dynamics </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;">and public opinion. While these concepts are distinct, they often interlace to influence the functioning of democracies around the world. Let us understand the two concepts and their applications in the real world.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Personality Cult</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A. Definition and Characteristics</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A personality cult is a phenomenon in which an individual, usually a political leader, is idolised and revered to an excessive degree. This veneration often transcends the leader’s actual achievements and merits, creating an aura of infallibility and unquestionable authority. Its salient features are:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. Excessive adulation and glorification of the leader</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. Suppression of dissent and critical thinking</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Propaganda and media control to reinforce the leader’s image</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">4. Cultivation of a mythical narrative surrounding the leader’s life and accomplishments</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Examples and Case Studies</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Let us take just two examples to illustrate the above features.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">China: Mao Zedong</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mao Zedong, the founding father of the People’s Republic of China, was the centre of one of the most pervasive personality cults in modern history. The cult of Mao reached its zenith during the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976). It had a profound impact on Chinese society, politics, and culture.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The origins of Mao’s personality cult can be traced back to the early years of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Mao’s leadership during the Long March (1934-1935) and his strategic vision during the Chinese Civil War (1945-1949) established him as a revolutionary hero. After the People’s Republic of China was founded in 1949, Mao became an enduring cult figure.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the 1950s, the CCP launched a series of propaganda campaigns to elevate Mao’s status and cement his authority. Mao’s image became ubiquitous. It appeared on posters, in newspapers, and even on everyday objects like cups and plates. The media portrayed him as an infallible leader, a visionary thinker, and a saviour of the Chinese people. Mao’s writings, particularly the “Little Red Book”, became sacred texts, studied and recited by millions of Chinese citizens.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The cult of Mao reached its apex during the Cultural Revolution. It was a decade-long political and social upheaval that Mao launched to reassert his control over the party and the country. The Red Guards, a mass student-led movement, played a crucial role in propagating the cult of Mao. They carried out a campaign of “destroying the four olds” (old customs, old culture, old habits, and old ideas). The campaign involved violent attacks on perceived enemies of the revolution. It also desecrated historical and cultural artefacts.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">During this period, Mao’s image became even more pervasive. His portrait hung in every home, school, and workplace. The Red Guards organised mass rallies where participants would wave Mao’s “Little Red Book,” chant slogans, and perform loyalty dances. Mao badges, pins, etc., were worn as symbols of allegiance to the Chairman.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The cult of Mao had far-reaching consequences for the Chinese society. It suppressed critical thinking. Any questioning of Mao’s authority was counter-revolutionary and led to severe punishment. The cult fuelled the excesses of the Cultural Revolution. The Red Guards and other zealous followers of Mao engaged in violent purges, public humiliation, and the destruction of cultural heritage.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Even after Mao died in 1976, his legacy continued to shape Chinese politics and society. Deng Xiaoping emerged as China’s paramount leader in the late 1970s. He had to navigate the challenges of reforming the country while maintaining the legitimacy of the CCP, which was still closely tied to Mao’s image.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the decades following Mao’s death, the Chinese government has sought to distance itself from the excesses of the Cultural Revolution. Today, Mao’s portrait continues to hang on Tiananmen Square, and his mausoleum remains a place of pilgrimage for many Chinese citizens. However, the cult of personality surrounding Mao has been significantly toned down. Apparently, the CCP has recognised the dangers of excessive idolisation and the need for a more pragmatic approach to governance.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Vladimir Putin</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Vladimir Putin is another interesting case study. Russian President Vladimir Putin has had a significant influence on Russian politics since he first took office in 2000. Putin’s personality cult has been carefully crafted through a combination of media control, propaganda, and political manoeuvring. This has helped him maintain a tight grip on power for over two decades.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Putin’s administration has ensured that the media projects his image in a positive light. State-owned media outlets and pro-Kremlin news channels consistently depict Putin as a strong, decisive leader who can protect Russia’s interests and restore the country’s global influence.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Putin’s public persona emphasises his masculinity and physical prowess. He is often depicted engaging in outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and horseback riding, as well as practising martial arts. This image resonates with many Russians, who see him as a strong and virile leader, capable of defending the nation against external threats.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Putin’s personality cult is closely linked to Russian nationalism and anti-Western sentiment. He has positioned himself as a defender of traditional Russian values and a bulwark against the perceived encroachment by Western influence. This has helped to foster a sense of national pride and unity. Putin is portrayed as the embodiment of Russia’s resurgence on the global stage.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">His high approval ratings have been consistently above 60% for most of his tenure. This has enabled him to consolidate power and marginalise opposition figures. The cult of personality surrounding Putin has made it difficult for potential challengers to gain traction. They are often portrayed as unpatriotic or working against Russia’s interests.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Putin’s assertive stance on issues such as the annexation of Crimea, intervention in Syria, and alleged interference in foreign elections has been widely popular among Russian citizens. They see him as a powerful leader willing to stand up to Western powers. This has allowed Putin to pursue a more aggressive foreign policy agenda, even in the face of international criticism and sanctions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, the reliance on Putin’s personality cult has also raised concerns about the long-term stability of the Russian political system. Critics argue that the concentration of power around a single individual has weakened democratic institutions and smothered political competition. This has made the country overly dependent on Putin’s personal leadership. This may hurt the interests of Russia and its people in the long run.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ideology</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">An ideology is a set of beliefs, values, and principles that shape an individual’s or group’s worldview and guide their actions. In the political context, ideologies serve as the foundation for various movements, parties, and policies. So, an ideology is a coherent and structured belief system. It is prescriptive because it offers solutions to the issues facing a nation. It is a powerful tool for mobilising and uniting individuals around common goals. But it has the potential to encourage dogmatism and rigidity.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ideology plays a significant role in all three political systems – democracy, communism, and military dictatorship – but its relevance and manifestation vary in each case.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Democracy:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In democracies, ideology shapes the political landscape and provides a framework for policy-making and public debate. Different ideologies, such as liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and environmentalism, compete in the marketplace of ideas. This allows voters to choose the vision that best aligns with their values and interests. For example, in the United States, the two main political parties, the Democrats and the Republicans, represent different ideological positions on issues like the role of government, social welfare, and individual rights. Again, in many European countries, such as Germany and Sweden, social democratic parties have successfully promoted policies based on the ideology of democratic socialism. This emphasises social welfare, economic equality, and collective responsibility.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Communism:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ideology is central to communist systems. As we know, communism is based on the Marxist-Leninist ideology. It emphasises class struggle, abolition of private property, and establishment of a classless society. Communist regimes use ideology to legitimise their rule, mobilise the population, and guide policy decisions. For example, in the Soviet Union, Marxist-Leninist ideology was the foundation of the Communist Party’s monopoly on power. It justified the centralised economic planning, suppression of individual freedoms, and promotion of the global communist revolution. Again, in China, Maoism served as the guiding ideology during Mao Zedong’s rule, shaping policies such as the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Military Dictatorship:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ideology is less central in a military dictatorship. Military dictatorships prioritise order, stability, and preservation of the military’s power. They have less use for adherence to a specific ideological framework. However, sometimes military dictatorships align themselves with particular ideologies. For example, in Chile, during the military dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet (1973-1990), the regime embraced neoliberal economic policies. These were influenced by the free-market ideology of the Chicago School economists. Again, in Argentina, the military junta that ruled from 1976 to 1983 espoused a nationalist ideology. It emphasised traditional values, anti-communism, and the suppression of left-wing opposition.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Therefore, an ideology is highly relevant to both democracy and communism. It provides a framework for political action, shapes policy decisions, and influences public debate. In democracies, competing ideologies allow for a plurality of views and the peaceful transfer of power. In communist systems, a single dominant ideology is used to legitimise the ruling party’s power and guide policy. In military dictatorships, ideology is less central, but it can still play a role in shaping the regime’s policies and justifying its actions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Interaction between Personality Cults and Ideologies</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Personality cults and ideologies can strengthen each other. Ideologies can validate and justify the power and influence of the venerated leader. The leader can become the personification of the ideology, facilitating the mobilisation of support and the consolidation of control.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, personality cults and ideologies can be at odds with each other. The leader’s actions and choices may stray from the core tenets of the ideology, leading to internal tensions and contradictions. The passing or ouster of the revered leader can create a power vacuum, revealing the shortcomings of a system overly reliant on a single personality.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Protecting Democratic Values</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Democracies need to counteract the adverse effects of personality cults and extreme ideologies. They should safeguard the autonomy and efficacy of key democratic institutions, including the judiciary, media, and civil society organisations. Cultivating a culture that encourages questioning, debate, and critical analysis is essential. This would help resist the uncritical acceptance of authority and dogmatic beliefs. They should foster an inclusive environment that respects diverse viewpoints and enables constructive dialogue across ideological boundaries. It is important to establish robust mechanisms to ensure leaders are held accountable, prevent the misuse of power, and uphold citizens’ rights.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Conclusion</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Historically, ideology has a more enduring effect on a nation’s political culture. While personality cults can have a significant impact during the tenure of a charismatic leader, their influence often wanes once the leader is no longer in power. In contrast, ideologies can shape a nation’s political landscape, institutions, and public discourse for generations.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Why do ideologies have a more enduring effect? Some reasons are given here.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. Institutionalisation: Ideologies can become deeply embedded in a nation’s political institutions, legal frameworks, and policy-making processes. For example, many countries have incorporated the principles of liberal democracy, like the separation of powers, rule of law, and individual rights, into their constitutions and political systems, surpassing the influence of specific leaders.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. Intellectual legacy: Ideologies often derive from a body of ideas, theories, and philosophical traditions that can be examined, discussed, and reinterpreted. This intellectual legacy allows ideologies to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring their relevance and longevity. For instance, the works of thinkers like John Locke, Karl Marx, and Friedrich Hayek continue to influence political thought and inspire new generations of activists and scholars.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Multi-generational appeal: Ideologies can attract different age groups by tackling core societal issues such as power distribution and the individual-state dynamic. This multi-generational appeal allows ideologies to transcend the lifespan of individual leaders and become a lasting feature of a nation’s political culture.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">4. Resilience to change: Unlike personality cults, ideologies can endure even when leadership and political situations change. For example, even after the fall of the Soviet Union, communist ideology remains influential in political movements and parties worldwide, adjusting to new contexts and challenges.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, it is important to note that personality cults can have a lasting impact when they are closely intertwined with a particular ideology. For instance, Mao Zedong’s enduring influence stems from the fact that his personality cult was inextricably linked to Maoism—the CCP’s adaptation of Marxist-Leninist ideology—leaving a lasting imprint on China’s political culture and policies long after his passing. Again, while personality cults profoundly impact politics, ideologies imprint more enduringly on political culture by becoming institutionalised, fostering intellectual legacies, appealing across generations, and showing resilience despite leadership changes. However, when personality cults fuse with particular ideologies, the cult figures’ influence persists for decades or centuries by shaping national political landscapes.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-20872105017815524792024-02-29T19:16:00.005+05:302024-02-29T19:16:30.547+05:30 Reinventing the Congress Party: Rahul Gandhi’s Ultimate Test<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSO9FG1haxfzVYfhyByelHW0k-xb13ws-oS2X4n5AgO_XBzO39J5RWiQt0NywMF9iVdeIHdgEVr13ym_1vX_DZAvY-13aZBfqGJfFfn41rv5KEInMii5LjzebZMkGxQEgec6kXZhC0peWEmGx_owyRvG-FGxGcHyoguDojA3UvnrEd1lVaQtNPcjh8f7p/s2560/foolhardy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSO9FG1haxfzVYfhyByelHW0k-xb13ws-oS2X4n5AgO_XBzO39J5RWiQt0NywMF9iVdeIHdgEVr13ym_1vX_DZAvY-13aZBfqGJfFfn41rv5KEInMii5LjzebZMkGxQEgec6kXZhC0peWEmGx_owyRvG-FGxGcHyoguDojA3UvnrEd1lVaQtNPcjh8f7p/w400-h225/foolhardy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><i><b><a href="https://youtu.be/nGEd8XSYStk" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></i></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Can Rahul Gandhi’s audacious Bharat Jodo Yatras revive the Indian National Congress? Or much more needs to be done to keep the Grand Old Party relevant to the 21<sup>st</sup> Century's political scenario?</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul Gandhi’s Nyay Yatra can be described as an extension of his Bharat Jodo Yatra. The two nationwide yatras have definite aims. To rediscover the role of the Indian National Congress and come up with a strong political narrative. It is Rahul’s high-stakes bid to transform a beleaguered party desperately clinging to past glory, into a renewed force in tune with the 21st century realities. This quest is fraught with monumental challenges but pregnant with immense promise.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Will the Grand Old Party regain electoral relevance in the Modi era? Rahul’s goal is to redefine the ideological pole and cultural temperament of the Congress, and he is striving to accomplish just that. The party’s future in the Modi era will probably be determined by his ability to imagine and carry out a transformative roadmap.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul’s Cross-Country Odyssey: An Unparalleled Political Experiment</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Few politicians today have embarked on gruelling, months-long marathons spanning thousands of kilometres on foot. While opposition leaders have previously held rallies during elections, such expansive cross-country journeys are unprecedented in scale and symbolism among recent political figures. Rahul’s months-long yatra stands apart in covering immense ground solely by foot, enduring physical hardship in a way unseen in contemporary politics to connect with people across state borders. His marathon represents an exceptional effort to galvanise support through direct grassroots engagement.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Retooling Brand Rahul</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul’s political makeover attempt through his first Yatra in 2017 steered perceptions away from derision about his capability. By conveying humility, earnestness and determination to understand people’s concerns through gritty physical outreach, he could put to rest accusations of being disconnected and reluctant. The first Yatra thus served to re-energise loyalist constituencies dispirited by electoral setbacks.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Yet beyond rehabilitating his image as a serious leader willing to put in the hard yards, Rahul was also cementing foundations for an alternative vision centred on secularism, welfare justice and pitting inclusiveness against BJP’s divisive nationalism. This quest has found full-throttled articulation in his latest Yatra with explicit statements on resetting the Congress’s ideological orientation towards positive secularism fusing religious pluralism and economic egalitarianism.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In framing this journey explicitly as a ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, and now ‘Nyay Yatra’, with unmistakable evocative parallels to Mahatma Gandhi’s iconic Dandi March, Rahul has indulged in politically potent theatrics. The ‘padayatra’ nomenclature carries deep cultural resonance, imbuing his outreach with spiritual overtones of inner reform and contemplative self-realisation. This allows him to subtly yet unmistakably emphasise the continuity between India’s historic freedom movement legacy and his present exertions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul’s decision to walk thousands of miles, rejecting comforts, showcases his humility and sincerity. By doing this, he can present himself as truly immersed in the lives of regular people, attentively listening to their daily challenges—a priceless political asset that counteracts the advantage of his dynastic upbringing. No imagery could have conveyed greater authenticity and relatability for a leader seeking to emotionally reconnect with voters invested in the idea of the virtuous public servant living simply.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul’s political theatre portrays him as a leader who walks among citizens, challenging the distant and inaccessible politicians of the past. Rahul’s renunciation of privilege reveals the stark contrast between his understanding of people’s pains and the BJP’s detachment from societal fractures.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">From Image Makeover to Ideological Battle</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Following years of ridicule and underestimation, Rahul embarked on his first pilgrimage, defying the perception of him as an entitled successor who lacked meaningful political achievements. It marked a crucial inflexion point in this prevailing narrative. It cast Rahul as a leader invested in understanding the people’s challenges through extensive grassroots interactions. It enabled him to discard the ‘reluctant prince’ caricature and be taken seriously as someone with genuine political conviction. Rahul aimed to distance himself from corruption and misgovernance by framing his padayatra as a ‘Save Composite India March’ against hatred and communal polarization. It enabled him to tap into the nostalgia for the Congress Party’s traditionally secular stance, which appealed to minorities, liberals, and moderate Hindus who felt alienated by Hindutva extremism.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Yet image transformation was only the starting point. Through the timing of the second yatra near the 2024 general elections, Rahul has launched a complete ideological challenge to the BJP’s powerful hold on political messaging. He is attempting to reclaim the secular, pluralist, welfare-oriented space that the Congress Party ceded to unchecked Hindutva expansion under two decades of directionless drift.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul has notably sharpened the secularism plank, declaring that “Genuine Hinduism needs a shakeup to weed out radical elements that have distorted its essence”. He underscored his stand against the politicised weaponisation of religions cutting across faith lines. He addresses the problems of inflation, unemployment, and agrarian distress, creating a narrative of economic deprivation and inequality under BJP rule instead of focusing on cultural debates.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This signals renewed efforts towards carving out a clear ideological platform combining singular messaging against communal polarisation, welfarism and inclusive development. Hence Rahul’s second long march across the heartland signals more than just an image makeover. It is his opening salvo in an impassioned ideological struggle to challenge the very philosophical foundations and policy priorities guiding India’s trajectory under the prevailing dispensation.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">An Audacious Bet to Transform the Grand Old Party’s Fortunes</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul seems to have understood that the Congress Party’s decline is rooted in the abdication of coherent political messaging. The party’s weakened position has allowed ascendant forces to seize the narrative vacuum by deftly employing welfare populism and nationalist mobilisation that align with the aspirations of a transforming India. Reclaiming relevance therefore depends on infusing a sense of purpose and identity, which the existing leadership forestalled during their passive custodianship. Reconciling socialist welfare legacies and secular nation-building ideals is necessary to uphold aspirational economies, cultural reset, and nurture grassroots leadership. Therefore, Rahul has been sharply focusing on unemployment, farmer distress and reorienting party ideology towards fusing religious pluralism with modernist outlooks.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">His initiatives must, however, translate intent into concrete actions on nurturing state leaders beyond tokenism. There is a need for formulating internal consensus around policies through collaborative thinking and visible demonstrations of developmental commitment beyond rhetorical positioning. Translating buzz around conceptual slogans into grounded messaging, connecting with popular sensibilities, remains a work in progress.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul intends to employ these yatras to reshape the Congress Party’s identity and political positioning to effectively compete against the BJP’s powerful election-winning apparatus. Of course, all this cannot be achieved in the short term. Rahul has bet his entire political legacy on pulling off the far more challenging structural transformation of the Congress ecosystem itself.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Party’s Organisational Malaise</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Congress Party’s steep decline from dominance to the brink over the past decade has resulted from deeper organisational malaise. Deprived of ideological convictions, the party lost its moorings. It could not adapt to the fast-evolving societal dynamics. Worse, the internal factional struggles weakened the party structure. From a vibrant political force, the party was reduced to an old boys’ club.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Things became so bad that smooth generational change became almost impossible. The old guard wouldn’t budge from its privileged positions, and the younger leaders were too impatient to wait any longer. We witnessed this in Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, etc. The party thus transformed from a vibrant arena, nurturing diverse ideological currents and local influences into an empty shell trading on past glory. This created a vacuum for more organisationally disciplined outfits, speaking the languages of renewed aspiration and identity to dominate. It has become vital to engineer generational transition by inducting younger faces, dismantling entrenched power networks, decentralising leadership and planning a collective decision-making environment. The success of these transfusions hinges on whether party veterans take it upon themselves to recede from prominence.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Congress requires rewiring its ideological core, reorienting its strategic direction and overhauling its internal culture. The yatras are aimed at reviving the party apparatus by building personal and emotional relationships with citizens, thus elevating the morale and cohesion of the cadre. They signal ideological rejuvenation pivoted on secularism, inclusive development and social justice to drive party purpose.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rahul’s Vision for a Resurrected Congress: New Secularism and New Alliances</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Congress needs to acquire intellectual depth and maturity for nuancing secularism beyond reactive anti-BJP positioning. It should understand the importance of being unambiguous on pluralism and minority rights as integral to India. It should articulate affirmative policies for socio-economic justice across communities. The party must reclaim the doctrine of ‘Sarva Dharma Samabhava’ that goes beyond the liberal secular state’s neutrality between religions to embrace India’s civilizational syncretism.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The most formidable challenge entails reconstructing a rainbow coalition among socio-economic blocs that once made up the party’s unbeatable axis dominating the heartland. The path to resurgence goes through constructing broad social coalitions and alliances against the homogenising exclusion of Hindutva nationalism. The party ought to reconcile caste and identity faultiness by championing the aspirations of marginalised groups that feel threatened by upper-caste triumphalism. With 80% of India’s voters occupying the non-upper caste Hindu spectrum, the urgency around regaining traction among upwardly mobile OBCs, SCs whose aspirations BJP has cultivated and Muslims feeling marginalised in political representations has assumed existential proportions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Constructing broad yet cohesive coalitions against the Hindutva juggernaut without diffusing policy directions or reducing Congress to secondary status compared to assertive regional players will demand supreme political dexterity. Reorienting messaging towards backward classes, and forging opportunistic alignments while retaining Nehruvian-Gandhian idealism will be the litmus test.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Ultimate Test of Leadership</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Rahul Gandhi has taken the first purposeful steps in what promises to be a demanding marathon to revive the electoral fortunes of the Congress Party. This monumental effort cannot succeed without setting the party's ideological home in order and recasting secularism as an emancipatory doctrine that facilitates the broad-basing of rights across communities, classes and genders. </span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Hi</span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">s determined quest may appear quixotic given the existential threats looming over the Grand Old Party. But there is a steely resolve evident in his actions that cannot be dismissed as foolhardy. </span></span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Rahul’s</span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> political destiny now hinges on transforming the party's rejuvenation efforts into vehicles of ideological consolidation and institutional resurrection. The keys to unlocking this transformation lie in the ideational gateways he must traverse. But turning conceptual breakthroughs into electoral realities will demand political skills and strategies of epic proportions. </span></span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">He</span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> faces the ultimate test of political leadership. His success depends on reforming the deeply ingrained problems that have long plagued the Congress Party, overcoming inevitable resistance from established interests. He must prioritize ideological clarity while restraining the impatient junior members and convincing the old guard to retire. The public marches he has undertaken represent the first moves in this ambitious effort filled with uncertainty. Given the Congress' immense structural weaknesses, there are no quick fixes to spur its electoral revival. Rallying unanimous support for </span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Rahul</span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">’s transformative vision across party lines and maintaining epic patience will be critical to sustaining the course he has charted. </span></span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The acid test for </span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Rahul</span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">’s leadership, however, is whether he can steer the party away from its dynasty culture and put systems in place that facilitate young leaders to succeed him in future. Structural overhauls in organizational functioning are imperative, without which the rediscovery of ideological purpose or the solidification of electoral alliances will be ineffective. For this, young leadership must be nurtured while entrenched power citadels within local party units are dismantled. This will empower the emergence of a new generation of eloquent grassroots leaders deeply connected to the people through their experience in decentralized governance. </span></span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The delicate generational transition requires phasing out older figures who occupy binding roles while preserving their wisdom and mentorship. Packing organizational posts with younger figures bereft of mass support can perpetuate existing infirmities rather than curing them. As </span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">he</span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> walks this political tightrope, the ultimate yardstick by which his transformational leadership will be judged is his willingness to put the interests of the Congress Party above the dynasty.</span></span></strong></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-73775785666129112802024-02-25T19:48:00.000+05:302024-02-25T19:48:03.280+05:30 The Indian Media Landscape: Navigating Challenges and Criticism<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0vZITlHqznJqF85HH7wuVy6W68t0pj82KALG_fR81SmA3Uw02MyJzlIWwGhWvcSnrPdQAIqa7N5KfyHK1W05r7EUeSSrLmYuZq4qVUXrSLaDDQK_m55LYcgS8mIYMzLQyxWoOVXapm4gh7Npi_WbOOL9PrfiQmam85zgPLUbks4sNIbyEK69Fc2dS1Abh/s2560/media%20thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0vZITlHqznJqF85HH7wuVy6W68t0pj82KALG_fR81SmA3Uw02MyJzlIWwGhWvcSnrPdQAIqa7N5KfyHK1W05r7EUeSSrLmYuZq4qVUXrSLaDDQK_m55LYcgS8mIYMzLQyxWoOVXapm4gh7Npi_WbOOL9PrfiQmam85zgPLUbks4sNIbyEK69Fc2dS1Abh/w400-h225/media%20thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://youtu.be/a6-hApLfTvo" target="_blank">YouTube</a></span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Introduction</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian media landscape is vast, diverse, and complex, encompassing an array of outlets ranging from national newspapers to regional television channels. This diversity reflects the country’s rich linguistic, cultural, and socio-economic plurality. However, the media’s operations are not without challenges and criticisms, as it navigates through a web of regulations, corporate influences, and accusations of furling extremism. Today we’ll delve into the intricacies of the Indian media ecosystem, examining the key issues it faces and the efforts to address these challenges.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Defamation and Sedition Laws</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">One of the defining characteristics of the Indian media landscape is its regulatory framework. It has to deal with the laws that curb critical journalism. Defamation and sedition laws have often been misused to curtail freedom of expression.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Sedition Charges Against Journalists</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In 2021, journalists from The Wire and other media organisations were charged with sedition for their coverage of the farmer’s protests against the government’s agricultural reforms. Critics argued that the sedition law was being used to suppress dissent and criticism of the government.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The defamation laws in India have been used by powerful individuals and organisations to file cases against journalists and media outlets, often to intimidate and silence criticism. According to the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index 2022, India ranked 150th out of 180 countries, with legal harassment being one of the key factors contributing to the country’s low ranking.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Content Regulations and Censorship</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The media are subject to various content regulations imposed by regulatory bodies, such as the Press Council of India, the News Broadcasting Standards Authority, and the Advertising Standards Council of India. These regulations aim to maintain standards and prevent disseminating of harmful or objectionable content. These regulations are open to abuse for influencing editorial decisions, leading to self-censorship.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Biased Coverage and Divisive Narratives</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian media have been accused of playing a role in the rise of religious extremism in the country. Certain sections of the media have amplified divisive narratives and given disproportionate coverage to issues that fuel religious tensions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Babri Masjid Demolition and Media Bias</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the aftermath of the Babri Masjid’s demolition in 1992, several media outlets were criticised for their biased coverage, with some channels openly supporting the Hindu nationalist narrative. This contributed to the polarisation of communities and the rise of religious extremism.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: CAA Protests and Negative Portrayal</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The coverage of events such as the Ayodhya Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid dispute, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests, and the Delhi riots has been criticised for being skewed and polarising, often portraying minority communities in a negative light. According to a study by the media watchdog Polis Project, over 60% of the coverage of the CAA protests in Indian news channels portrayed the protesters as anti-nationals and disrupting law and order.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Amplifying Misinformation and Hate Speech</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The media have been accused of not doing enough to counter the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and conspiracy theories on social media platforms. This has further inflamed religious tensions and contributed to the growth of extremist ideologies.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Concentration of Media Ownership</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">There is an unpleasant trend of the rising influence of corporate interests on the Indian media. Media ownership has become more concentrated in the hands of a few large corporate houses. Allegations of self-censorship and bias have surfaced.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In 2020, a report by Reporters Without Borders highlighted the growing concentration of media ownership in India. There are four major corporate groups controlling over 70% of the television news market. The report expressed concerns about the potential for editorial decisions to be influenced by business considerations.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Conflicts of Interest and Self-Censorship</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Media outlets have been reluctant to report on issues that could jeopardise their commercial interests. They cannot afford to strain their relationships with powerful corporate entities that are often closely tied to political establishments. This has led to concerns about self-censorship and a lack of editorial independence. Some media houses are being accused of prioritising profits over journalistic integrity.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Paid News Controversy</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The phenomenon of “paid news,” where businesses or political parties allegedly pay media outlets for favourable coverage, has emerged as a significant issue in recent years. This practice not only undermines the credibility of the media but also raises questions about the integrity of the information being disseminated to the public.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the run-up to the 2009 general elections, the Press Council of India investigated allegations of paid news and found many instances of media outlets accepting money for favourable coverage of certain political candidates. This raised concerns about the media’s ability to provide unbiased and accurate information to the public during elections.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Independent and Investigative Journalism</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Despite these challenges, the Indian media landscape remains diverse, with a range of outlets and journalists who strive to uphold the principles of free speech, independence, and critical journalism. There are many examples of media organisations and individual journalists who have pursued investigative reporting, exposed corruption and wrongdoing, and given voice to marginalised communities.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Exposing the 2G Spectrum Scam</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian Express’s investigative coverage of the 2G spectrum scam in 2010 played a significant role in exposing one of the largest corruption scandals in Indian history, leading to the resignation of the then Telecommunications Minister and cancelling several controversial telecom licenses.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rise of Digital and Alternative Media</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The rise of digital and alternative media platforms has provided new avenues for dissenting voices. This has helped independent journalism to thrive. Citizen journalism, online news portals, and social media have empowered individuals and organisations to bypass traditional media structures and reach audiences directly.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Covering Marginalised Communities and Social Movements</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian media have often been criticised for its insensitive and stereotypical coverage of marginalised communities and social movements.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: LGBTQ+ Issues and Media Bias</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Many media outlets have been accused of sensationalising stories related to the LGBTQ+ community or portraying them in a negative light, perpetuating stigma and discrimination. News reports about same-sex marriages, adoptions, or LGBTQ events like pride parades are sometimes embellished with dramatic language and imagery that mock or deride the community. Even positive coverage relies on tropes and superficial depictions, reinforcing outdated attitudes. Such biased reporting, with a lack of nuances and sensitivity, further marginalises an already disadvantaged community. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Student Protests and Media Portrayal</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">During student protests against issues like fee hikes or campus policies, the media has often portrayed the protesting students as disruptive troublemakers, rather than giving due attention to their grievances. News reports focus more on blocked roads, vandalism, and confrontations with authorities during student agitations. The concerns that compel students to come out and protest, sometimes putting their academic careers at risk, are often sidelined. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Caste-based Discrimination and Media Silence</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The media’s coverage of caste-based discrimination and atrocities against lower-caste communities has been sporadic and superficial. For instance, brutal crimes like the 2020 Hathras gang rape failed to elicit sustained national outrage or media spotlight. Cases of everyday discrimination and violence often go unreported while systemic issues like educational marginalisation, lack of political representation, and economic disenfranchisement of Dalits are rarely discussed in-depth. This results in a lack of accountability and allows caste-based oppression to become normalised in society. The media must prioritise consistent, in-depth, and sensitive reporting that highlights systemic issues, humanises victims, and mobilises public opinion to address the roots of caste-based injustices.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Reporting on Sexual Violence</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Sensationalism and Victim Blaming</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian media’s coverage of rape cases, especially after the Nirbhaya in 2012, has been a subject of intense scrutiny and criticism. While the media’s role in raising awareness and sparking public outrage over sexual violence is commendable, there have been several instances where their reporting has been problematic and biased.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Victim Shaming and Sensationalism</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In many rape cases, the media has been accused of sensationalising the incidents and indulging in victim-blaming. Instead of focusing on the crime and holding the perpetrators accountable, some media outlets have highlighted details about the victim’s clothing, lifestyle, or actions. They perpetuate the myth that victims are to blame for the crimes committed against them.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Revealing Victim Identities</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Despite laws prohibiting the disclosure of a rape victim’s identity, some media outlets have revealed names, photographs, and other identifying details, violating the victims’ privacy and causing further trauma. This breach of ethics has led to criticism and legal action against journalists and media organisations.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Unbalanced Reporting and Lack of Analysis</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In cases involving influential or high-profile individuals as perpetrators, the media has often been accused of providing biased coverage that either downplays the severity of the crime or focuses on the accused’s reputation and status. This unbalanced reporting can influence public perception and undermine the pursuit of justice.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">While the initial reporting on rape cases may generate significant media attention, there is often a lack of sustained coverage and in-depth analysis of the broader societal issues surrounding sexual violence. The media have been criticised for failing to follow up on cases, track the progress of investigations, and provide a meaningful commentary on the systemic issues that enable such crimes.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Reinforcing Prejudices</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Sometimes, the media’s coverage of rape cases has reinforced stereotypes and prejudices based on the victim’s or perpetrator’s religious, caste, or socioeconomic backgrounds. This has the potential to further stigmatise certain communities and hamper efforts to address sexual violence as a societal issue that transcends specific identities.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Responsible and Ethical Journalism</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, it is important to note that not all media outlets have followed the same patterns of problematic reporting. There have been instances of responsible and ethical journalism, where media organisations have prioritised the privacy and dignity of victims, provided balanced and accurate coverage, and engaged in a meaningful analysis of the broader issues surrounding sexual violence.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Addressing the Challenges</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Legal and Regulatory Reforms</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">To address the challenges faced by the Indian media, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. Reforms to outdated laws and regulations, such as the defamation and sedition laws, are crucial to creating an enabling environment for press freedom. Strengthening the independence and autonomy of regulatory bodies can help ensure fair and impartial oversight without undue government interference.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Media Organisations’ Responsibilities</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Media organisations themselves must prioritise ethical journalism, invest in training and capacity building, and adopt robust editorial policies to maintain objectivity and integrity. Encouraging media literacy among the public can also help counter the spread of misinformation and enable citizens to evaluate the credibility of news sources.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Promoting Media Plurality and Ownership Diversity</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The government needs to promote media plurality and diversity of ownership. This will mitigate the influence of corporate interests and ensure a more balanced representation of viewpoints and perspectives in the media landscape.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Case Study: Sustaining Democracy, Sustaining Journalism Campaign</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In 2021, the Editors Guild of India launched a campaign called “Sustaining Democracy, Sustaining Journalism” to address the challenges faced by the media and promote ethical journalism. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the importance of a free and independent press and advocate for reforms to strengthen media freedom in the country.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Collaboration and Collective Efforts</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Collaboration between media organisations, civil society, and academic institutions can foster research, discussions, and initiatives to address the challenges faced by the Indian media and strengthen its role as a pillar of democracy.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Conclusion</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian media has seen highs and lows, mirroring India's complex sociopolitical landscape. While challenges remain, many journalists uphold free speech and critical journalism, offering hope for a more robust, independent media. As India navigates democracy, media enables transparency, accountability, and an informed public. By addressing concerns around laws, corporate influence, and divisive narratives, and promoting ethical journalism and diversity, the Indian media can strengthen its position as a guardian of public interest and catalyst for positive change. To nurture a free, responsible, and vibrant media landscape requires efforts from all so that Indian media can serve as a watchdog for democracy and give voice to perspectives shaping the nation.</span></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-42129718166110153452024-02-22T18:17:00.003+05:302024-02-22T18:17:12.159+05:30India’s Judicial System: Striving for Equity and Justice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WVd-j9MidhYyR_TlnL-RWV1ym60JpcS5Gon6sPrn1VcHSBXiOOEUXTXo9eoyZdPHTMXj2tLmxRJUm401-lNkzI5gWapYxhhvsgE47spFVN3F0QMgQ3p8QvyquxQ5VRzPAeJAjzWevyQbfur1xP3WEMmtrcWRpv9ktezUC5p3nR2yHSo1x1DexR6ifL6r/s2560/Judiciary%20thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WVd-j9MidhYyR_TlnL-RWV1ym60JpcS5Gon6sPrn1VcHSBXiOOEUXTXo9eoyZdPHTMXj2tLmxRJUm401-lNkzI5gWapYxhhvsgE47spFVN3F0QMgQ3p8QvyquxQ5VRzPAeJAjzWevyQbfur1xP3WEMmtrcWRpv9ktezUC5p3nR2yHSo1x1DexR6ifL6r/w400-h225/Judiciary%20thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><i><b><a href="https://youtu.be/CkQIW1-tJyY" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></i></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">India’s judicial system is a cornerstone of the world’s largest democracy. Whether it is the Chandigarh Mayor elections, the Secret Electoral Bonds or an individual citizen’s rights, the system ceaselessly grapples with the complex task of upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the rights enshrined in the Constitution. This colossal undertaking, however, is fraught with challenges that raise concerns about fairness, affordability, and accessibility for the common citizen. Let us examine the Indian judiciary’s intricate architecture, take stock of its strengths and weaknesses, and address the shadows of corruption and political interference that threaten its integrity.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>The Judicial Hierarchy: A Towering Structure</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The Indian judiciary operates in a three-tier structure, with the Supreme Court at the apex, followed by 25 High Courts, and a vast network of district and subordinate courts across the country. This pyramidal structure grants the Supreme Court the power to interpret the Constitution, resolve disputes between states and the central government, and act as the guardian of fundamental rights.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The High Courts exercise broad jurisdiction within their respective states. These courts serve as the highest courts in their respective states and union territories and play a crucial role in the Indian judicial system. They oversee lower courts and adjudicate on significant legal matters. District and subordinate courts handle the bulk of civil and criminal cases, serving as the first point of contact for justice for most citizens.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Fairness and Access to Justice: Upholding Rights, Overcoming Barriers</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The Supreme Court and High Courts have set important precedents by upholding the rights of marginalised communities, tackling environmental issues, and promoting social justice. Landmark decisions like the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India case (2018) and recognising transgender rights in the National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India case (2014) stand as testaments to the judiciary’s role in evolving and interpreting the law to meet societal needs.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">However, concerns persist about uneven access to justice for the disadvantaged. The society’s weaker sections feel daunted by lengthy court proceedings, complex legal procedures, and the inability to navigate judicial formalities. Factors like poverty, illiteracy, geographical remoteness, gender, and social status worsen these inequalities, creating a system where justice often seems far-fetched for the most vulnerable.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The case of Akkai Padmashali, an LGBT activist, highlights the systemic challenges faced by marginalised groups. Padmashali was charged with sodomy in 2000 and underwent traumatic abuse for being transgender. Her case lingered for several decades, violating her right to a speedy trial. The Karnataka High Court acquitted her in a landmark judgment upholding the rights of the marginalised.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The case of Hussainara Khatoon vs. Home Secretary, State of Bihar (1979) highlighted the plight of thousands of undertrials languishing in jails because of their inability to understand legal proceedings or secure legal representation. The Supreme Court’s intervention led to the release of many such individuals, underscoring the need for accessible legal aid and linguistic support.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Similarly, the Nirbhaya case exposed the struggles of a working-class victim’s family in navigating the legal system without means or connections. The perpetrators were convicted and sentenced. But this was possible because of the intersection of public pressure, media attention, political will, and citizen resources rallying for years with legal perseverance. Many similar cases languish, unheard and unnoticed.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Affordability: A Barrier to Justice</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The high cost of legal representation remains a significant barrier to justice for many. Lawyer fees, court fees, and other associated expenses can be prohibitive for low-income individuals. This renders the judicial system beyond their reach. While free legal aid schemes exist, their reach and effectiveness are limited. Many are unaware of such schemes.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In a country where a significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line, affordability remains a critical hurdle to ensuring equal access to justice. Unlike the organised Industry bodies and associations, individuals with limited means are at a great disadvantage. Worse, the lack of class action lawsuits or collective redressal mechanisms deprives the financially weaker sections of a fair chance of seeking justice. </p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) data indicates that around 60% of Indians cannot afford a lawyer because of poverty. India spends only 0.1% of its GDP on legal aid, covering just 9-10% of the country as per 2017 data. Clearly, much needs to be done to enable common people to avail of their constitutional right to legal aid.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Accessibility: Bridging Geographical and Linguistic Divides</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">India’s vast expanse and diverse population pose accessibility challenges. Many people find it difficult to access courts because of enormous distances and connectivity issues. Language barriers further complicate matters. The National Judicial Data Grid indicates that over 85% of pending cases are in local languages, but a vast majority of judgments are written in English. This hampers access to justice for most people.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Many remain unaware of how to navigate the judicial system and claim entitlements. To make justice available to all, bridging geographical, linguistic, and knowledge gaps is essential. Efforts such as establishing virtual courts, translation services, and legal literacy campaigns can help mitigate these challenges.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>The Shadow of Corruption and Political Interference</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">While the Indian judiciary enjoys a reputation for independence, concerns about corruption have surfaced in recent years. Allegations of judicial misconduct, financial impropriety, and nepotism have adversely affected public trust in the system. Instances of influential lawyers manipulating case allotments, bias in appointments, and quid pro quo deals between lawyers, law enforcement, and judges have dented faith in the judiciary’s integrity.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The lack of a robust and independent mechanism for addressing complaints against judges further weakens accountability. This casts a shadow on the impartiality of the judicial system. Addressing these concerns requires strong institutional reforms. There is a need to establish judicial standards and accountability. The norms ought to be transparent. It should be mandatory for judicial officers to disclose their assets. Effective in-house vigilance mechanisms are essential for ensuring the integrity of the judicial system.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The spectre of political interference looms large. The design of the collegium system aims to secure judicial independence in appointments to higher judiciary positions. It has come under scrutiny for lack of transparency and potential executive influence on selection. Disagreements between the executive and judiciary over appointments have resulted in court vacancies.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Concerns have been raised about the government’s attempts to influence judicial decisions through legislative or executive measures. These undermine the separation of powers enshrined in the Constitution. The Supreme Court’s landmark judgment in the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) case (2015) struck down the NJAC Act. This Act aimed to give the executive a role in the appointment of judges.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Maintaining the judiciary’s independence from political agendas is crucial for upholding the rule of law and ensuring fair and impartial judgments. Insulating appointments and transfers from ideological leanings, coupled with restoring the robustness of institutions like the Lokpal and Lokayukta, will help safeguard judicial independence.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Judicial Delays and Pendency: Justice Delayed, Justice Denied</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">One of the most pressing issues plaguing the Indian judicial system is the massive backlog of cases, leading to unfair outcomes and denial of justice. As of September 2022, over 4.5 crore cases were pending across Indian courts. According to the National Judicial Data Grid records, at least 3 crore cases are stuck at High Courts and lower courts.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Such massive case pileup leads to unfair outcomes. Millions are languishing in jails without timely trials. They are forced to wait for court verdicts for years. The case of the TADA (Terrorist and Disruptive Activities) Act, where individuals were acquitted after decades of incarceration because of flimsy or unfair arrests. The human costs of judicial delays and overreach only add to the miseries of disadvantaged individuals and communities.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Police Excesses and Custodial Violence: A Tarnished Narrative</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The Indian judicial system’s quest for fairness and accessibility is marred by police excesses and bias. Not much has been done by the government to curb custodial violence against the marginalised. Poor people are denied a fair chance at justice from the outset. This is because they face the brunt of unfair or flimsy arrests and detentions.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Arrests under the draconian TADA serve as a grim reminder of the human costs associated with such excesses. Reports of perseverance by the victims of excesses, who fought for decades to clear their names, underscore the resilience required to navigate a system that can be stacked against the disadvantaged.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>The Road Ahead: Reforms, Capacity Building, and Technology</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">India’s judicial system faces a constant balancing act between upholding its constitutional duty and responding to the evolving needs of a diverse and complex society. To strengthen its effectiveness and regain public trust, several critical steps are necessary.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Firstly, reforms must be implemented to streamline court procedures, reduce the pendency of cases, improve the judge-to-population ratio, and make the system more accessible to the common people. Initiatives like introducing e-courts, online case management systems, and videoconferencing can help expedite proceedings and enhance transparency.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Secondly, initiatives to improve legal literacy and awareness, especially among women, rural, and marginalised communities, are crucial to empowering individuals to claim their rights. Legal aid clinics, community outreach programs, and partnerships with civil society organisations can play a vital role in this endeavour.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Thirdly, strengthening accountability mechanisms within the judiciary through greater transparency and independent anti-corruption oversight bodies is essential to maintain the system’s integrity. Measures such as establishing a National Judicial Commission, periodic audits, and robust grievance redressal mechanisms can help restore public confidence in the judiciary.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Finally, continuous efforts to expand legal aid services, bridge language and digital accessibility gaps, and sensitise the law enforcement machinery are vital to ensure that justice is not just a right on paper but a lived reality for all Indians.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Conclusion: Upholding the Promise of Justice</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">India’s judicial system is grappling with the challenges of ensuring fairness, affordability, and accessibility to all sections of society. It has contributed to upholding the rule of law and protecting fundamental rights. But the road ahead is fraught with obstacles that must be overcome through bold reforms, augmented capacity building, and the embrace of technology.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Apart from legal and administrative reforms, it is morally imperative to uphold the promise of justice enshrined in the Constitution. There is a need for concerted action by our judiciary, the executive, civil society, and the citizenry to strive for a fair and just system. It should uphold the principles of equity, fairness, and access to justice for every individual, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural background.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">By confronting the challenges head-on and implementing comprehensive reforms, India can pave the way for a judicial system that serves as a beacon of hope, ensuring that the scales of justice are balanced, and the rights of every citizen are protected.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /><br /><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-46165053006179084312024-02-19T19:04:00.006+05:302024-02-19T19:04:48.831+05:30 Strategic Implications of the Tibet Factor for China, India & the US<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7C2M9SPjgqa3mT21yDNrVCw-pzeJCG6WkxHX-zDx3W7utkGRIOAqqdtGUoB_wFobGz77EPIklpQTMJhQ7BeW3jUO43skzCKl3UidPBWip8-aYsC7cv_-YNdkAnF9P4hHyOJ48pZcy4A9I6v0JwrZb6hZGG2xc3x2JCt5uMWhuCHlCSW00rgt5br5y764m/s2560/tibet%20thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7C2M9SPjgqa3mT21yDNrVCw-pzeJCG6WkxHX-zDx3W7utkGRIOAqqdtGUoB_wFobGz77EPIklpQTMJhQ7BeW3jUO43skzCKl3UidPBWip8-aYsC7cv_-YNdkAnF9P4hHyOJ48pZcy4A9I6v0JwrZb6hZGG2xc3x2JCt5uMWhuCHlCSW00rgt5br5y764m/w400-h225/tibet%20thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><i><b><a href="https://youtu.be/5Bv701Sn-DA" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></i></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">On February 16, 2024, the US House of Representatives passed the ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act,’ aka the Resolve Tibet Act. It has reignited the longstanding controversy surrounding Tibet’s contested status. The prolonged dispute between China and the international community has expanded to include human rights, cultural preservation, and strategic geopolitical concerns.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">China claims sovereignty over Tibet, stating it has been part of the nation for centuries. Tibetans argue that they have always had a unique cultural, religious, and linguistic identity. The Chinese military invasion in 1950 was an illegal occupation. The Resolve Tibet Act proposes a range of measures to increase pressure on Beijing and support the Tibetan cause. The US government wants to appoint a Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues to safeguard the rights and cultural identity of the Tibetan people.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mineral Wealth</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Yet, the reasons behind the Resolve Tibet Act go beyond the Tibetan people’s welfare and China’s exploitation.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Tibet possesses abundant strategic resources, such as water, minerals, and potential sources of energy. It holds approximately 17% of the world’s lithium deposits, making it a valuable asset for China’s global lithium market goals. Lithium is a crucial component in the production of rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles and consumer electronics. Tibet also has abundant reserves of at least 126 valuable minerals like copper, zinc, lead, iron, uranium, borax, and potash, etc. Critics claim that China values economic gain over the well-being of Tibetans and their cultural heritage, as they exploit the region’s mineral wealth.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Geostrategic Reasons</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">China has been aggressively expanding its borders and influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The United States wants to halt the rampaging dragon. Tibet is strategically located on historic trade routes, like the Silk Road. Its proximity to important waterways, such as the Brahmaputra River, could impact regional trade and economic interests. So, a friendly and independent Tibet can provide a strategic foothold for the US and its allies in the region. A self-governing Tibet could function as a neutral zone, separating nuclear-armed China and India, who have a history of territorial disputes along their shared borders. Often, these disputes result in skirmishes.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The rivalry between the US and China in the Indo-Pacific is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. It results from the shifting balance of power, divergent interests, and competition for influence. The Indo-Pacific region, which extends from Africa to the Americas, contains over half of the global population. It holds immense importance for trade and strategic hotspots. There are other powerful actors in the region, such as India, Japan, Australia, and ASEAN, each with their own interests and perspectives on the regional order.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The US-led Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy aims to promote a rules-based order, uphold freedom of navigation and overflight, and enhance economic and military cooperation in the region. The FOIP strategy aims to enhance alliances, increase military presence, and offer alternative development initiatives to counter China’s BRI.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">China has constructed and militarised man-made islands in the South China Sea. Its geostrategic ambitions have escalated naval and air activities in the East China Sea and Indian Ocean. Clearly, the dragon is throwing a not-so-subtle challenge to the US and allied influence in the area, which has intensified tensions in the region.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), a loose grouping of the US, Japan, Australia, and India, seeks to coordinate policies and actions on regional security issues, such as maritime security, counterterrorism, disaster relief, and cybersecurity. The Quad has been revived and upgraded in recent years, amid growing concerns over China’s behaviour and intentions in the region.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Entities such as ASEAN, the EU, the UK, and France have varying degrees of involvement and engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. Many endorse the FOIP strategy and the Quad. Others have adopted different visions, such as the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, the EU Strategy for Cooperation, and the UK Integrated Review. The aim of these actors is to foster stability and prosperity in the region by maintaining harmonious relations with both the US and China.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">While the US may employ the Tibet issue to challenge China’s stance on Taiwan, it is essential to consider the nuances and potential implications of such a strategy. The Tibet and Taiwan issues have distinct historical and legal backgrounds. These have different implications for regional and global stability. Overplaying the Tibet card or explicitly linking it to the Taiwan issue might provoke China and escalate tensions. This will undermine the prospects for dialogue and cooperation. Experts point out that the US should pursue a more nuanced and balanced approach that respects the differences and complexities of each issue.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Implications India</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Resolve Tibet Act could have both positive and negative implications in India’s efforts to secure its borders against China’s aggression. On the positive side, the Act could signal the US support for India’s position on the Tibet issue and its solidarity with India in the face of China’s actions. This could strengthen the growing partnership between India and the US, particularly in the Quad, which aims to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">On the negative side, the Resolve Tibet Act could provoke China to retaliate against the US and its allies, and escalate tensions in the region. China could view the act as a serious interference in its internal affairs and a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity over Tibet. China might respond by intensifying its military and diplomatic pressure on India, increasing its activities and presence in Tibet and along the India-China border. Beijing might also retaliate economically by targeting Indian businesses operating in China or disrupting trade and investment flows between the two countries.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Resolve Tibet Act has far-reaching implications for the strategic dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. While the Act ostensibly aims to support the Tibetan cause and address human rights concerns, it also serves as a tool for the United States to challenge China’s assertiveness and expansionist ambitions in the region, particularly regarding Taiwan.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The effectiveness of the Resolve Tibet Act in aiding India’s efforts to secure its borders against China’s aggression and expansionism depends on the coordination and cooperation between the US and India on the Tibet issue. For this to be successful, all parties involved must adopt a peaceful, inclusive, and cooperative approach to resolve the Tibet issue. This approach requires addressing the broader regional security concerns while respecting each other’s strategic interests.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Tibet issue is intertwined with complex geopolitical considerations, including the struggle for control over strategic resources, such as minerals, water, and potential energy sources. The escalating tensions surrounding Tibet could intensify this resource competition between China and the US. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For India, the Resolve Tibet Act presents both opportunities and challenges. It could strengthen the growing partnership between India and the US, particularly in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad). The US’s support for the Tibetan cause could be seen as an extension of its broader strategy to counter China’s assertiveness in the region, and India could leverage this to bolster its own position in the ongoing border disputes with China.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Act could complicate India’s delicate balancing act between its strategic partnership with the US and its efforts to maintain stable relations with China. India has historically been cautious about overtly taking sides in the Tibet issue, recognising China’s sensitivity and its own strategic interests in maintaining neutrality. The Resolve Tibet Act could force India to navigate this complex diplomatic landscape more carefully, potentially straining its ties with either the US or China.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ultimately, a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the Tibet issue and the broader regional tensions will require a nuanced and cooperative approach that respects the legitimate concerns and interests of all parties involved. This approach must uphold the principles of human rights, self-determination, and international law, while also addressing the broader regional security concerns and respecting each other’s strategic interests.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The success or failure of the Resolve Tibet Act in aiding India’s efforts to secure its borders against China will depend on how China reacts to the legislation, and how the US and India coordinate their policies and actions on the Tibet issue. It is crucial for all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue, seek mutually acceptable solutions, and avoid escalating tensions or taking unilateral actions that could further destabilise the region.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-46302043347722577502024-02-16T23:00:00.005+05:302024-02-16T23:00:24.850+05:30 The Electoral Bonds Scheme Verdict: RTI Act in Focus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAyh5SQl3pUs0rCytaorATRL1uD6KJ7XKMwQ_UZQZtTz2UGDRo1VCXg4wNEfYKs9v2uI5LFqy2s9jA1i1TjRbsXhQCWqkzXY7SDVqeZHOihSuWrG07LITwzH6k_6Pn3I0JPKL9mK_wuCz0TLVPI32ExhtThdu9sx1cI4aznKK5T7kS37Vn1bUwlLR-11U/s2560/RTI%20THUMBNAIL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAyh5SQl3pUs0rCytaorATRL1uD6KJ7XKMwQ_UZQZtTz2UGDRo1VCXg4wNEfYKs9v2uI5LFqy2s9jA1i1TjRbsXhQCWqkzXY7SDVqeZHOihSuWrG07LITwzH6k_6Pn3I0JPKL9mK_wuCz0TLVPI32ExhtThdu9sx1cI4aznKK5T7kS37Vn1bUwlLR-11U/w400-h225/RTI%20THUMBNAIL.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://youtu.be/mZsawpLE9MQ" target="_blank">YouTube</a></span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">There comes a time when one wonders why our honourable courts allow inordinate delays in saying the obvious when it comes to such vital issues as the rights of citizens, the tenets of democracy and the Constitution of India’s clear requirements. We can point out to the political environment as an excuse, but that does not hold water really.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In an inexplicably delayed but significant verdict the Apex Court has strengthened transparency in political funding. On February 15<sup>th</sup>, it unanimously struck down the controversial Electoral Bond scheme. The judgment declared the scheme “unconstitutional,” arguing that its anonymity provisions violated fundamental rights around access to information and free expression that are vital to a democracy’s health.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, heading the five-judge Constitution Bench, asserted that while secret ballots maintain fair elections, political donations should not be afforded the same opacity as individual votes. The court acknowledged concerns over black money in politics but contended the Electoral Bond solution enabled excessive secrecy detrimental to public trust in governance.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This ruling marks a major victory for government accountability and levelling the playing field for political parties. The elimination of anonymity forces parties to disclose their funding sources, giving voters the information they need to evaluate influences on platforms and leadership. While the need for solutions to address illicit money in campaigns persists, the verdict reinforces the crucial role of transparency in maintaining a fair and inclusive democracy. It helps India strengthen electoral funding regulations, protecting against doubts of illegitimacy, conflicts of interest, and corporate influence that can undermine public trust.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The unanimous rejection of secrecy mechanisms around donations signifies the dawn of a new era strengthening civil liberties protections, checking unbridled party power, and upholding ideals of participatory self-governance free from opacity’s corrosion of institutional legitimacy. India’s democracy emerges as more transparent, accountable and justice-oriented.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The scheme was challenged by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), the Communist Party of India (Marxist), Congress leader Jaya Thakur, and activist Spandan Biswal.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The bench, headed by the Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, and comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna, B R Gavai, J B Pardiwala, and Manoj Misra, delivered two separate and unanimous verdicts on the pleas challenging the scheme.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The activists had filed the case based on information gathered under the Right to Information Act. So what is this Act’s history?</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Let us be clear. India is not the only country that has an enabling law of this kind. There are many more. Here are some countries that have laws similar to India’s RTI Act for transparency in governance and how it has impacted governance there:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. United Kingdom—The UK’s Freedom of Information Act came into force in 2000. It has enabled public access to information held by public authorities to promote transparency. There is evidence that the FOI Act has improved citizen participation, accountability, trust as well assisted media investigations to expose scandals, malpractices across governance levels.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. United States—The 1966 Freedom of Information Act legally obligated federal agencies to provide government records to the public upon request. Several expert analyses correlate FOIA with a significant decline in corruption over 25 years, leading to improved efficiency in welfare, healthcare and other citizen-services alongside increasing public trust.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Mexico—Mexico’s Federal Transparency and Access to Public Government Information Law enacted in 2002 is considered a pioneering legislation internationally. Civil society organisations leveraged the law for evidence-based citizen monitoring of government performance. Researchers have quantified improvements in governance quality over a decade across states which underwent transparency-driven participation.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">4. Bangladesh—The Right to Information Act enacted in Bangladesh in 2009 followed the Indian legislation closely to empower citizens and civil society to reduce corruption, remedy gaps in services, expose human rights violations, improve law enforcement and ensure transparent use of funds for poverty alleviation. Targeted advocacy campaigns have unlocked high-impact small gains across rural regions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The common patterns across jurisdictions indicate that operationalising laws which codify citizens’ right to access information about government functioning significantly bolster accountability, public debate, efficiency, analytical monitoring and participation. This cascades into widespread incremental improvements in reaching development goals through better performing public systems. There is evidence that RTI laws, when comprehensively enforced and adopted in the true spirit of transparency, can transform governance quality across levels.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Right To Information (RTI) Act, 2005, was a landmark legislation passed in India that strengthened democracy, transparency, and accountability in governance. It empowered Indian citizens to seek information from public authorities, thus promoting transparency and tackling corruption. However, over the years, successive governments have attempted to dilute the RTI Act through amendments.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Right To Information (Amendment) Bill, 2006, was one such controversial amendment bill introduced during the Congress-led UPA government. This bill proposed to exclude file notings of public authorities from the definition of information under the RTI Act, except for those related to social and development projects. File notings often contain important considerations, opinions, and decision-making rationale of government functionaries that citizens have the right to access. Excluding file notings would have thus diluted the transparency enabled by the RTI Act.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The 2006 amendment bill also aimed to remove the power of the Central Information Commission (CIC) to decide on complaints against its own decisions. This would have seriously undermined the independence and authority of the CIC, which acts as a watchdog empowered to safeguard citizens’ right to information. The CIC also has powers to direct public authorities to disclose information if it concludes that they have violated provisions of the RTI Act. Thus, the 2006 amendment bill provoked vehement opposition from civil society activists, RTI activists and transparency advocates who contended that it violates the spirit of the landmark RTI Act.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">After much public outcry and opposition, the Right To Information (Amendment) Bill, 2006, was eventually withdrawn by the government in 2009 in the face of vociferous protests. However, in 2019, the Modi government introduced another controversial RTI Amendment bill that also faced criticism as an attempt to undermine the RTI Act.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Right To Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 amended the RTI Act to give the central government greater powers over the tenure, salary, allowances and terms of service of Information Commissioners at both central and state levels. For instance, it removed the provision that required their salary and tenure protections to be on par with Election Commissioners. This dilution of safeguards for RTI watchdogs was perceived by critics as a ploy to erode the independence of Information Commissions and increase government control over them.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The 2019 Amendment Bill also faced opposition from activists who moved the Supreme Court, challenging its legality and conformity with constitutional principles. They contended that information commissions need functional autonomy and insulation from government interference in order to effectively carry out their mandate of upholding citizens’ right to information. The case remains sub-judice in the Apex Court, which is yet to deliver its verdict on the constitutional validity of the 2019 RTI Amendment Act.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thus, over the years, through controversial amendment bills, successive central governments have attempted to erode the autonomy of information commissions, exclude information from the ambit of the RTI Act and dilute statutory safeguards meant to empower these transparency watchdogs. Such regressive actions have provoked public outcry and legal challenges from civil society that views them as threats to one of the country’s most revolutionary transparency laws—the RTI Act of 2005.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The RTI Act has been praised globally as one of the most empowering legislations, enhancing transparency, promoting good governance and enabling citizens to hold public authorities accountable. Over the fifteen years since the Act was passed, ordinary citizens have accessed information about government functioning that was hitherto inaccessible. Such information has exposed monumental corruption scandals, human rights violations, environmental dangers and systemic governance failures—strengthening democratic principles of transparency and accountability. Activists have successfully used the RTI Act as an anti-corruption tool to improve governance delivery systems spanning public distribution systems, MNREGA, healthcare, education and various other schemes.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As per government estimates, over 6 million RTI applications are filed in India annually. Information commissions continue to direct timely and proper disclosure of information sought by applicants. The Act has thus ushered in more transparency regarding government policies, decisions and performance across sectors and schemes. It has shifted power from the opaque corridors of power towards citizens through their legally enforceable right to question public authorities, access official information and thus take part in informed policymaking.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Considering these profound advancements in democratic governance achieved via the RTI Act, civil society perceives recent amendments as regressive steps that will disempower ordinary citizens while making the government less answerable. Any dilution of statutory safeguards for information commissions or attempts to restrict the ambit of ‘information’ under the RTI Act is therefore vociferously challenged. It could signal declining government commitment towards transparency when much more needs to be done to tackle pervasive corruption by making governance truly open. Unless the government introspects and reverses its attempts to erode RTI, it risks disenfranchising millions who have found their voice through this Act. The hard-won RTI law remains a primary tool of empowerment that must be protected to deepen India’s democracy.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-64211450526143973922024-02-12T21:32:00.004+05:302024-02-12T21:32:20.858+05:30 Pakistan’s Oligarchy of Generals versus Democracy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHamCy8GrnXZHONlgP0qF2V-FHoXgDvQiIvlkZFfMJ3anVfl2iPJ_bIAxB2yX_r02G0nP92vYuqFVGh39QERuw3tZYsKLxQac3vuNWXp2018VcJZnQ9DP-tF09TmVvV-PLIsiOHL4j7xKSkIxIeSMlIkDi9jpuEBRkoRJLfLVDxuJiojbBFYx28RfLI3mY/s2560/Thumbnail%20oligarchy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHamCy8GrnXZHONlgP0qF2V-FHoXgDvQiIvlkZFfMJ3anVfl2iPJ_bIAxB2yX_r02G0nP92vYuqFVGh39QERuw3tZYsKLxQac3vuNWXp2018VcJZnQ9DP-tF09TmVvV-PLIsiOHL4j7xKSkIxIeSMlIkDi9jpuEBRkoRJLfLVDxuJiojbBFYx28RfLI3mY/w400-h225/Thumbnail%20oligarchy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><a href="https://youtu.be/xtia7kpozm0" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">It will not be wrong to describe Pakistan as the Oligarchy of Generals. The military top brass have been ruling the roost for several decades. The recent election results have significant implications for them. The generals have remained true to form and done what they have been doing since the country’s birth. But, Imran Khan’s supporters have posed a mortal challenge to their hegemony. Before we go any further on the Army’s manipulative shenanigans and the civilian pushback, let us have a look at how the latest election results may affect Pakistan’s political, economic, and strategic health.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. Political Impact:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">a. Imran Khan’s Victory Against Unnerving Odds:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Candidates backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party founded and led by Imran Khan, secured a stunning victory after bitterly contested polls. This is despite Khan being barred from politics and jailed. In the weeks leading up to elections, PTI leaders faced arrests, protests were outlawed, and the media gagged—part of a clear military-led effort to sabotage PTI’s chances.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Independent candidates affiliated with Imran Khan's PTI have secured 93 Assembly seats. Nawaz Sharif's PML-N won 75 seats. Bhutto-Zardari’s Pakistan People's Party (PPP) secured 53 seats, and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) got 17 seats out of 265 National. These are supposed to be “official” figures. There have been claims of the PTI having actually won 173 seats. But even the Pakistan Election Commission’s figures show that the voters have rejected the military backing for Sharif.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">b. The Military Facing Public Pushback:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Pakistan’s military has historically been the most powerful broker wielding control over weak civilian governments through coercion and cooption. Former Prime Minister Sharif, known to have close military ties in the past, claimed victory to form the government—but faces legitimacy issues. For the military, engineering an election win while jailing the principal opponent, Khan, proved impossible because of PTI’s popularity. For whatever reasons unexpectedly large number of Pakistanis have voted in favour of the candidates affiliated to the PTI. The establishment may be forced to change tactics from overt threats to more subtle influence. Buying and appeasing Imran Khan’s allies is not ruled out. After all horse trading is a common feature of South Asian democracies.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">c. An Uncertain Coalition Politics on the Horizon:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">With no party having won a clear majority, a coalition government supported by smaller regional parties seems likely. Sharif has already invited the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) to join him. A potential coalition between PML-N, PPP, and other parties may secure majority seats. However, smaller parties might extract steep concessions for their support, given PML-N’s lack of a majority. This could hamper governance. The military could still influence coalition-building efforts behind the scenes to ensure that the national security policy space remains protected, regardless of public disappointment over electoral engineering.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">PTI’s against-the-odds electoral victory has dented the military’s image as the ultimate arbiter of power in Pakistan’s fragile democracy. But the generals remain relevant in the absence of a single-party majority—volatility that could weaken civilian rule without meaningful power-sharing. If we go by the reports that several PML-N candidates were not allowed to win by the Army, the generals may have manipulated the elections in such a manner that no political party gets the majority in the parliament. This would enable them to play the puppeteer with impunity – a role they play with great aplomb. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Although far-fetched, what if Imran Khan becomes the Prime Minister again? This is possible if the claim of 173 seats for PTI turns out to be true. Would that spell the end of the Republic of Generals?</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. Economic Implications:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Pakistan is grappling with a severe economic crisis characterised by dwindling foreign currency reserves, high inflation touching 27%, and a widening current account deficit. The country faces a $1 billion bond payment due in two months, further straining its precarious financial situation. The $3 billion funding program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) expires on April 12. The new government would need to negotiate urgently to prevent default.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">An IMF bailout with strict conditionalities seems imminent. But reforms mandated by the IMF could stir public anger over rising inflation. Seeking aid from friendly countries like China and Saudi Arabia could provide temporary relief but increase dependency. Creating employment, and tackling poverty and inequality also require long-pending structural reforms—from tax policy to governance. Initiatives around CPEC have slowed because of political changes. Bringing projects back on track is important for growth.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The election stalemate has raised grave concerns about Pakistan’s ability to tackle its economic crisis, secure crucial foreign funding, implement reforms and maintain internal stability. Pakistan’s political and economic uncertainty may worsen. Restoring macroeconomic stability should be the top-most priority, including bolstering foreign currency reserves and bringing debt under control. Hard decisions around subsidy cuts, privatisation, and austerity measures need political will.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Strategic Considerations:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Pakistan’s geographic location at the crossroads of South and Central Asia has strategic importance, yet also poses complex foreign policy and security challenges. Bordering Afghanistan, China, India and Iran, Pakistan sits amidst multiple fault lines. Tensions with India over the disputed Kashmir region periodically spike, raising the risk of conflict between the nuclear-armed foes. Pakistan also faces threats from domestic and cross-border terrorism, traced to groups operating along the porous Afghan-Pakistani border. Securing stability in Pakistan is thus critical for regional security and global efforts to curb nuclear proliferation.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Pakistan’s relations with the major powers further complicate its geopolitical manoeuvring. After the US withdrew from Afghanistan, the China-Pakistan partnership has intensified significantly. Chinese investment in Pakistani infrastructure, energy, and ports through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) tops $60 billion. While boosting Pakistan’s development, this nexus with China alarms the US and India. Meanwhile, the new coalition government in Islamabad will face the complex task of managing relations with the Afghan Taliban while containing domestic militancy. Despite stated counterterrorism commitments, militant groups retain influence within Pakistan.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Navigating these interconnected policy dilemmas requires deft diplomacy and leadership. Pakistan aims to balance ties to competing major powers while asserting its national interests. Regional security and prosperity will depend on Pakistan’s ability to consolidate domestic stability and peaceful relations with its neighbours. A less crisis-ridden South Asia is the ideal scenario, but getting there poses profound challenges for Pakistani statecraft.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">How the Military Ascended to Power</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The history of Pakistan’s military is a complex tapestry of conflicts, struggles, and political manoeuvring. Let’s explore how the Pakistan Army has wielded substantial influence over the country’s governance:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. The British Colonial Origins:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The history of the Pakistan military’s roots trace back to the British Indian Army regiments comprising troops and officers from today’s Pakistan. The modern Pakistan Army was born out of military units allocated to Pakistan after the 1947 partition. Many early Pakistani military leaders like Ayub Khan had fought for the British during World Wars, shaping the Army’s professional outlook. Despite its basis as a parliamentary democracy, the military rapidly emerged as the most cohesive and organised institution wielding power in the fledgling state, struggling with existential threats, massive refugee flows and resource constraints after independence.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. Military Coups and Political Interventions Over Decades:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Political stability has never been a feature of Pakistan’s polity. The Dominion of Pakistan was established on August 14th, 1947, upon the end of British rule in India. The Muslim League leader Muhammad Ali Jinnah became Pakistan’s first Governor-General, while Liaquat Ali Khan took charge as the nation’s inaugural Prime Minister. Jinnah is considered the founder of Pakistan, having led the push for an independent Muslim homeland on the subcontinent.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Jinnah died on September 11th, 1948, just 13 months into Pakistan’s existence. This first transfer of power was significant, as it deprived the fledgling nation of its highly respected founding leader and guiding force. Liaquat Ali Khan took over additional powers in the aftermath.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan was shot dead on October 16th, 1951 while addressing a public rally. His assassination caused tremendous political instability and conflict within Pakistan’s government in the early years of independence.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Pakistan’s first homegrown constitution was approved and implemented in March 1956, formally declaring the nation an “Islamic Republic.” It established a parliamentary form of government with a National Assembly and electoral process.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">On 27 October 1958, General Ayub Khan seized power in the nation’s first military coup. He suspended the constitution, imposed martial law, and dismissed President Iskandar Mirza. He became the sole governing authority and President. This set the precedent for military rule.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Public discontent had grown against Ayub Khan’s autocratic policies and his handling of the 1965 war with India. Anti-regime protests erupted nationwide in 1968 and 1969. Khan resigned on 25 March 1969 and handed control over to General Yahya Khan.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">After the Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a majority in Pakistan’s 1970 general elections, there were brazen attempts by the Pakistani military regime under President Yahya Khan to deny Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s democratic mandate to form the government. This led to a civil war breaking out in East Pakistan in March 1971. The failure of the Pakistani military command to contain the civil war enabled India to intervene to support East Pakistan’s independence movement in November and December 1971. This ultimately led to the secession of East Pakistan as the independent state of Bangladesh on December 16th, 1971, under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This was an enormous blow to Pakistan, geographically shrinking the country and reducing its population significantly. On December 20th, 1971, President Yahya Khan transferred power to Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, who became the President and Chief Martial Law Administrator of what remained of Pakistan.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Bhutto assumed the mantle of President and later Prime Minister on December 20th under a new constitution, creating a semi-presidential system with broad executive powers. His leftist Pakistan People’s Party dominated politics thereafter.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">On July 5th, 1977, General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq seized power from Prime Minister Bhutto in a bloodless coup, following protests over election-rigging allegations. Bhutto was later convicted and executed on dubious charges, altering Pakistan’s trajectory significantly.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">President Zia-ul-Haq was killed on August 17th, 1988, along with senior military commanders, when their plane exploded minutes after takeoff. Foul play was widely suspected but never proven. Zia’s death sparked fresh political instability and a renewed push for democracy.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Between 1988 and 1993, governments under Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif alternated through elections and power tussles. While representing tentative steps towards sustainable democracy, accusations of corruption and incompetence persisted during this period.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s push to replace army chief Pervez Musharraf prompted Musharraf to seize power on October 12th, 1999 in a bloodless coup while Sharif was overseas. Musharraf became President and Chief Executive. Sharif was later exiled after a treason conviction.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Musharraf resigned on August 18th, 2008 to avoid possible impeachment, after a coalition government took charge earlier in 2008 and his political allies deserted him. His rule had become untenable under combined opposition pressure and dismal popularity.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Civilian rule was restored, with the Pakistan Peoples Party’s Asif Ali Zardari becoming President. Later governments alternated between the PPP and Nawaz Sharif’s PML(N) through reasonably free and credible elections under an increasingly assertive judiciary.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Longtime opposition leader Imran Khan was elected Prime Minister in 2018, signalling a new political direction. Khan headed a PTI-led coalition government.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In 2022, Imran Khan’s government was removed after losing a no-confidence vote on April 10th. Shehbaz Sharif of PML(N) replaced him as Prime Minister on April 11th. Intra-government friction and pressure from the military establishment paved the way for Khan’s ouster.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Wars and Conflicts as Justification for Army’s Outsized Role:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Pakistan’s military has fought three major wars with India over the disputed territory of Kashmir—in 1965, and 1971 and the intense Kargil conflict in 1999. The 1965 and 1971 wars involved direct clashes between Pakistani and Indian forces over Kashmir, while the 1999 Kargil conflict saw Pakistani troops cross the Line of Control in Kashmir, sparking clashes. These wars bolstered the Pakistani Army’s domestic legitimacy as defenders of the nation against the traditional rival, India.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Besides these inter-state wars, the military has also been involved in suppressing domestic insurgencies and militancy within Pakistan. This includes launching operations to quell the separatist insurgency in resource-rich Balochistan province. It also includes Pakistan’s controversial role of actively supporting and arming the Afghan Taliban after the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, with active encouragement and funds from the United States. However, after 9/11 and the US-led invasion of Afghanistan, Pakistan sided with the US as a key ally in the War on Terror, turning against the Pakistani Taliban and Al-Qaeda groups operating along the porous Af-Pak border areas.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Pakistani military has used periodic eruptions of military tensions and security threats—both domestic and international—to justify its disproportionate dominance over Pakistan’s national security policies, budgets and nuclear doctrine. This has sidelined the foreign policy bureaucracy and civilian perspective in favour of a security-centric view driven by the military establishment.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">4. The Military’s Economic Empire and Societal Reach:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As unchallenged rulers of Pakistan, the military generals have become the Moguls-in-Khaki of Pakistan. They control business assets worth over $100 billion in sectors like manufacturing, transport, and construction. The Army wields power over natural resources and real estate allocation, giving it intangible control over politicians and businesses. Public welfare initiatives and disaster relief by Army help it project a progressive outlook and win mass appeal for its activities. The military also runs schools, colleges and hospitals across Pakistan, giving jobs to those dependent on it for livelihoods and access to services. The Army has expanded infiltration into the everyday lives of citizens shaping public opinion.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">5. Resilience Despite Periodic Setbacks:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Despite periodic criticism and pushback around its outsized role, the military has displayed remarkable resilience—recovering cohesion and public trust even after apparent setbacks. For instance, after the 1971 loss to India, which led to Bangladesh’s independence and surrender of its 93,000 troops to India, the Army soon rebuilt itself, presenting the conflict as a political failure, while promoting patriotism and Islam post-war. Again in the 21st century, when Gen Musharraf’s long rule ended, the Army accepted public anger over letting US forces capture Osama inside Pakistan. But it soon regained its image as the protector of sovereignty. For 75 years, the military has shaped Pakistani democracy and society through periods of both direct control and indirect influence from behind the scenes. Backed by business interests, it remains highly relevant despite periodic public disappointments.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Based on the evolving socio-political dynamics in Pakistan, there are signs that the military’s traditional stranglehold over governance is weakening. However, it may be premature to suggest a total loss of the army’s influence in the foreseeable future. A few key factors should be considered:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. Public pushback against electoral manipulation in 2024 has definitely dented the army’s image as the ultimate arbiter. Imran Khan’s surge in popularity and defiance of the establishment has been a rare political challenge.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. Younger, urban, middle-class electorate has led calls for genuine democracy rather than tacitly accepting army rule. This may progressively reduce the military’s public credibility and acceptance if it tries overt political interventions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. The military retains powerful levers and business interests permeating Pakistan’s economy and institutions. Its role in national security policymaking also remains pivotal. Deep state ties cultivated over decades won’t unravel easily.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">4. Pakistan’s recurring financial crises and geostrategic vulnerabilities could enable future indirect military influence under the garb of restoring governance and sovereignty—their classic justification for political meddling.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">5. Even if civilians consolidate political power going forward, they may have to strike deals with the generals sacrificing some foreign policymaking space and budgetary oversight to ensure functional governance. The odds are stacked against any civilian leader, even Imran Khan, completely shaking off the army tutelage. The Army has learnt its lessons and will do everything in its power to ensure that no politician with majority support ever becomes the Prime Minister of Pakistan.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">While the overt political manipulation in 2024 backfired, signalling that the unelected establishment’s absolute power stands challenged, it may be overly optimistic to expect the military to lose all control. The decades-old power dynamic that has shaped the state’s trajectory cannot dramatically unravel in just one electoral cycle. An incremental rebalancing seems more likely than a sweeping loss of influence. Constitutional reforms could speed up civilian supremacy in Pakistan’s national affairs. But the military will certainly adapt to retain relevance through indirect channels. The stakes are too high for it to give up its hold on the levers of power.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /><br /></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-73975994061314399812024-02-08T19:25:00.005+05:302024-02-08T19:25:28.488+05:30 The crucial 2024 General Elections in Pakistan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraUi6_2UxQkBQiNvQ3ax71AuJZFoQWpRUNl17eOx0P_xTgXbSm5Ut8NtoampAIvLsH5EH369nrgJfhnV2inQK_nmoGMsM2_m58uRJYIcu1yIfR4ReNqRkFiFkT9sEBrFOwvuGw0efTm8vc9ytZq7V27R-Z6rZEQHeMm1HSRpPm0EVc5r__CcMuKl-J7hS/s2560/FINAL%20THUMBNAIL%20PAK%20ELECTIONS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraUi6_2UxQkBQiNvQ3ax71AuJZFoQWpRUNl17eOx0P_xTgXbSm5Ut8NtoampAIvLsH5EH369nrgJfhnV2inQK_nmoGMsM2_m58uRJYIcu1yIfR4ReNqRkFiFkT9sEBrFOwvuGw0efTm8vc9ytZq7V27R-Z6rZEQHeMm1HSRpPm0EVc5r__CcMuKl-J7hS/w400-h225/FINAL%20THUMBNAIL%20PAK%20ELECTIONS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><a href="https://youtu.be/_rcz1YbGd3Q" target="_blank">YouTube</a></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">By the time this video is published, voting in the Pakistan general elections would have ended. The results will be announced on February 22nd. Why have the elections become necessary? They have been long overdue. Following the parliament’s dissolution on August 9th, 2022, a caretaker government headed by Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, was established. As per the Pakistan constitution, the elections should have been held within 90 days of the dissolution. But that did not happen because the deep state was looking for a pliant alternative. We all know Imran Khan was proving to be a thorn in the Pakistan Establishment’s flesh. Anyway, the caretaker government has been tasked with ensuring fair and transparent elections. Despite this, there are still concerns about the impartiality of the caretaker regime and Election Commission of Pakistan, considering the prolonged crackdown on opposition leader Imran Khan and his PTI party. Let us not forget that the Pakistan Army has preferred puppets as PMs. There is no way it is going to be different this time either.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The 70-year-old Khan was removed from office in April 2022 after a no-confidence vote. He had been pushing for early elections since his ousting, but was apprehended in August 2022 on allegations of corruption. Khan, though released on bail, was later imprisoned again on charges related to the political misuse of a diplomatic cipher. To make matters worse, the PTI has lost its election symbol. So, its candidates are fighting the elections as independents.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and PML-N leader Shehbaz Sharif, are other major political parties in the election fray. The previous ruling coalition was formed by the PPP and PML-N.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">For the statistically minded, here are some facts and figures related to the current elections:</p><ul><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">About 13 crore registered voters are eligible to vote in the 2024 Pakistani General Elections</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">Male registered voters make up about 7 crore (53.87%) of the total.</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">There are about 6 crore (46.13%) female registered voters</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">Over 2 crore new voters added since 2018 elections</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">44.22% voters are between ages 18-35</p></li></ul><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">National Assembly</p><ul><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">Voters will elect 336 Members of the National Assembly</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">266 seats will be filled through first-past-the-post single-member constituencies</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">60 seats are reserved for women, allocated proportionally based on general seats won</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">10 seats are reserved for non-Muslims, allocated proportionally</p></li></ul><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Provincial Assemblies</p><ul><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">749 members will be elected across 4 provincial assemblies</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">593 general seats are allocated through first-past-the-post system</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">132 seats are reserved for women</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">24 seats are reserved for non-Muslims</p></li></ul><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Reserved Seats Nominations</p><ul><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">459 women candidates have filed for 60 National Assembly reserved seats</p></li><li><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">1,365 women candidates have filed for 132 provincial assembly reserved seats</p></li></ul><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The elections are taking place at a time of economic turmoil and rising militant attacks across Pakistan. The outcome will be crucial in determining the country’s future policy trajectory across multiple fronts.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Context and Significance</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">As the world’s fifth most populous nation, Pakistan faces monumental challenges that require competent leadership and good governance. The February 8th general election is thus pivotal for the country’s 237 million citizens and regional stability in South Asia.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Pakistan spent much of 2023 on the brink of potential debt default. It is crucial to cooperate with the IMF and international lenders to sustain the recent economic recovery. The crisis had severe consequences, including inflation, shortages, and hardship, emphasising the urgent need to restore living standards. Add to that the increasing number of militant attacks and you have the picture of a very vulnerable nation.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Fair polls and smooth transitions in government are vital amid such underlying volatility. The new administration will need to deliver on multiple fronts—spurring growth, generating jobs, relieving poverty, enhancing basic services, improving security and pushing reforms.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Candidates and Election Mechanism</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">More than 22,700 candidates from over 80 parties are competing for 1,085 seats in the national and four provincial assemblies. As stated earlier, top contenders include former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which has been barred from using its election symbol, and the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) coalition led by Shehbaz Sharif’s PML-N and the Bhutto family’s PPP.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) conducts polls under constitutional oversight. Technology enhances transparency—electronic voting machines are being introduced and over 800,000 security personnel deployed. Biometric verification minimises identity fraud. Women’s reserved seats encourage participation.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Yet, allegations abound regarding misuse of state resources to influence results. The ECP’s autonomy and ability to prevent rigging also face questions given crackdowns on the PTI. Such issues could spur post-election discontent.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Economic Woes and Public Hardship</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Whoever forms government will inherit an economy that saw growth plunge below 2%, inflation breach 27% and reserves nosedive in 2022. Devastating floods compounded underlying weaknesses.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Costly energy and food imports strain external accounts. Debt servicing and defence expenditures limit fiscal flexibility. Falling rupee value stokes price pressures. Loss-making state-owned firms add to inefficiencies. Tax revenues are not enough to meet routine expenditures. To secure $3 billion financing, Islamabad devalued currency, raised taxes, energy tariffs and interest rates—hitting people already reeling from job losses and reduced incomes.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Pakistan economy’s future prospects hinge on continuing reforms—broadening the narrow tax base, enhancing productivity, curbing wastages and maintaining consistency in policies. Innate resilience, overseas aid and China’s infrastructure support offer hope. But leadership vision is essential.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>The problem of extremism and its impact on security.</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The Pakistan Taliban’s resurgent militancy producing rising civilian casualties spotlights instability in border regions and major cities. Ethno-nationalist groups remain active in Balochistan despite state attempts at pacification. Militant attacks surged in 2023, killing over 1,000 people—the highest toll in six years. Ongoing security threats have been compounded by developments in Afghanistan and the intricate dynamics in provinces such as Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Weak police capacity allows criminal gangs and militant penetration of urban areas. Corruption saps efficiency of institutions managing internal security challenges.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Approaches to Military Control and Counterterrorism</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">National security policies in Pakistan, concerning both external defence and internal militancy, are shaped by the country's military, including the influential Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Attempts by non-military leaders to gain more control have been unsuccessful. This imbalance has produced mixed outcomes.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Although the army is perceived as a source of stability, its approach in troubled areas such as Balochistan has led to increased alienation because of human rights abuses. Space for operation is still maintained by militant groups, particularly those aligned with perceived strategic interests.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Calibrated approaches are vital—avoiding blunt force while crafting political solutions wherever possible. This includes conditional amnesties that incentivise demilitarisation. Regional security partnerships to eliminate cross-border havens also remain important.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Yet the failure of multiple peace attempts with groups like the TTP underlines risks. Temporary deals enabled militants to regroup before resuming attacks. Force modernisation is essential to counter militancy—both technology upgrades and enhancing soldier capabilities to execute specific missions like counterinsurgency in non-traditional battlefields.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Afghan Refugee Crisis and Regional Instability</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Decades of conflict in Afghanistan have resulted in a vast refugee population in Pakistan—1.3 million registered and over a million more unregistered. This protracted humanitarian crisis has sparked tensions. Refugees drain socioeconomic resources and distort labour markets. Clashes with locals flare up, especially where refugees outnumber Pakistani inhabitants.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Islamabad now seeks a coordinated Afghan policy with China, who considers stability vital for regional trade and security obligations regarding dissident Uighur groups. But border tensions persist despite the Taliban administration in Kabul. Pakistani extremist factions continue to find sanctuary and support across the border.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In effect, while shared interests drive China-Pakistan cooperation on Afghan reconciliation and counterterrorism, results remain uncertain. Extremism survives as the foremost existential threat to Pakistan, requiring consistent long-term measures rather than tactical deals alone.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>The Impact of Climate Change</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Extreme weather events in Pakistan highlight climate vulnerability. Floods and heatwaves in 2022 followed similar disasters in 2010 and 2015 on a compressed timeline. Such calamities destroy livelihoods and push millions into poverty each time.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Strengthening resilience is thus an urgent priority. Upgrading dams and drainage capacity, improving forecast systems, enhancing social safety nets and diversifying agriculture are vital along with climate-proofing infrastructure. Effective regulation and restoration of natural buffers like forests can mitigate future climate risks.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Experience from previous emergencies provides templates for disaster management and rehabilitation frameworks. But prevention through climate adaptation and mitigation policies needs leadership backing along with community participation. Resolving governance shortcomings in crisis response is also essential.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Conclusion: </strong><strong>Will the Election Outcome Affect</strong><strong> India-Pakistan Dynamics?</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Pakistan remains locked in a tense rivalry with neighbouring India, even as both countries face pressing domestic issues from poverty to governance deficits. The 2024 elections are hence not just critical for Pakistan’s internal stability, but also broader South Asian geopolitics.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">A dysfunctional Pakistan heightens regional volatility. Election irregularities or a confrontational government in Islamabad would inhibit reconciliation attempts with New Delhi. It may even spur escalatory rhetoric for nationalist diversionary purposes. In contrast, mature policymaking focused on institutional reform and economic revival would shrink space for cross-border tensions.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Democratic continuity and strengthening governance in Pakistan—critical to improving internal security, extremism and investor confidence—also bears positively on India ties. Bilateral progress enables breakthroughs in trade, counterterrorism coordination and reducing defence costs. Plus, averting external crises allows Pakistan to concentrate resources on domestic needs.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In effect, Pakistan’s ability to resolve its monumental economic and political challenges through reformist leadership and people-centric policies would ease historical rivalry with India. But failure on internal fronts risks greater regional instability and enmity—limiting progress for both countries beset by poverty, inequality and climate risks. The 2024 election is thus the first test of Pakistan’s path ahead, with significant implications across borders.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-76281855808597886842024-02-06T20:56:00.000+05:302024-02-06T20:56:01.592+05:30Spectacular Political Theatre: Contrasting Legacy of Gandhi’s Salt March and Advani’s Hindutva Rath Yatra<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityXFpWrFUWMQKmVGTKbVmGDQeiXDaS_9BMjMGRJhLJW-zP0tKi5fMHGvidcxWkCB6VLCzdBnkVJWby2s-cR25mAXEZhJnVxbs3ETfF-5LvhJ9JMzTPEKizbl8cOTJQWyY09MOWLS0pqNTOquaxBiivbncnaErWoNqR7w7S1g07AtBoiiynvGDH_xM2V4_/s2560/Yatras%20Thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityXFpWrFUWMQKmVGTKbVmGDQeiXDaS_9BMjMGRJhLJW-zP0tKi5fMHGvidcxWkCB6VLCzdBnkVJWby2s-cR25mAXEZhJnVxbs3ETfF-5LvhJ9JMzTPEKizbl8cOTJQWyY09MOWLS0pqNTOquaxBiivbncnaErWoNqR7w7S1g07AtBoiiynvGDH_xM2V4_/w400-h225/Yatras%20Thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><a href="https://youtu.be/59Nl7ynSah0">YouTube</a></b></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As India completed 75 years of independence, it compelled introspection on the idea of Indian nationalism and secularism. More so, in the light of Bharat Ratna awarded to Mr LK Advani – the titan of Right Wing politics.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Let us revisit the two spectacular political marches from 20th-century history that had a transformative effect on India’s political scenario—Mahatma Gandhi’s 1930 Dandi Salt March during the freedom struggle and LK Advani’s 1990 Hindutva Rath Yatra. A look at the two events provides us with logical insights into their leading characters’ differing visions of Indian identity. Let us not forget that both events had stirred up mass sentiment by using potent symbolism.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Backdrop: Crumbling Raj Versus Fading Congress Dominance</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1930 was marked by growing dissatisfaction against British policies burdening common Indians through repressive taxation, laws and non-redressal of political rights. Non-cooperation movement had emerged but lacked coherent direction. It was in 1929 that Congress resolved on complete independence through peaceful, legitimate means. Gandhiji assessed the mood and brewing unrest to conceive the Salt Satyagraha.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In contrast, 1989 saw Congress’s dominance fade away after four decades of single-party rule. Socialists and Jan Sangh had briefly held power highlighting a growing appetite for political alternatives. There were clear indications that religion was becoming a factor in the political discourse. BJP championed Hindu nationalism to expand the space vacated by Congress. Advani recalibrated the BJP’s strategy using religion-based mass mobilisation by launching the Rath Yatra.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ideological Mooring: Inclusive Pluralism Versus Majoritarianism</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhiji’s conception of the Indian freedom struggle was rooted in equal rights and stakes for all citizens, regardless of identities. His vision was moulded by his experience of racism abroad. Therefore, he rejected the exclusion of minorities. Every aspect of the march from its multi-faith composition to repeated stress on Hindu-Muslim amity reflected Gandhiji’s nationhood anchored in empathy, cutting across man-made divisions. Gandhiji protested against the salt laws because the use of salt was universal, and the rise in its price affected the poor across religions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In contrast, Advani’s Rath Yatra vision was fashioned on the premises of identity politics, which fed on alienation and conflict. It tapped into Hindu victimhood and lost glory, resurrecting the century-old Ram Janmabhoomi dispute. The narrative focused on the erection of Babri Masjid after destroying Ram’s birthplace. It pitched the mosque’s destruction as an atonement for historical wrongs by Muslim rulers. It mobilised mass Hindu resentment and resurrected communal memories while viewing Indian identity only through Hindu icons.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Potent Messaging: Everyday Essential Versus Faith Symbolism</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhi picked salt to protest unfair taxation—a basic necessity for Indians irrespective of social status. By positioning the state’s oppressive restrictions as hampering millions from accessing their staple food, Gandhi framed Swaraj as not just political freedom but economic justice and liberation from poverty. The Dandi march was engineered around this universal right and denial, drawing people across caste, class, and regional barriers.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Advani repackaged the decades-old Ram Janmabhoomi temple cause around the journey of a symbolic chariot undertaking a pan-India sojourn for Lord Rama. It evoked Hindu cultural exclusivity rendered as the return of prestige to Hindus after alleged historical humiliations, making their identity synonymous with ancient Hindu kingdoms. The Rath, with Portraits of Ram-Sita, became an exhibit drumming up religious fervour and forging common identity around faith symbols rather than everyday rights.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Meticulous Organisation for Maximum Spectacle</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhi involved all Congress Presidencies in the detailed planning of the 24-day march. Its route touched many villages vital for night halts and food. Well-drafted speeches attacking unjust taxation that condemned the poor to poverty elicited mass emotion along the route. From what satyagrahis wore to their nightly prayer routines to every other detail were strategised, anticipating government crackdowns. It became a spectacle as foreign journalists picked up minor details, given Gandhi’s global stature post-South Africa success.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Likewise, Advani consulted RSS and VHP to plan the daily schedule several weeks in advance, including how to attract the masses to the Rath. It halted at historical Hindu monuments, and major metro cities allowing for renewed media hype. Advani lambasted ‘pseudo-secularists’ in speeches calling on Hindus to reclaim lost dignity. His crafted narrative dubbed siding with Babri Masjid as endorsing tyranny against Hinduism. The Rath Yatra gained exponential attention thanks to TV cameras broadcasting the Rath showcasing the Hindu deities, which attracted vast crowds.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Triggering Mass Frenzy Through Careful Orchestration</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhiji’s march touched an emotional chord because it showed ordinary people undertaking extraordinary struggles. By the time Gandhiji raised a fistful of natural salt at the Dandi beach violating British law, the stage was set for eruption. Careful pamphleteering ensured widespread awareness; dharma prayers and bhajans infused spiritual flavour, alighting fervour. People emulated civil disobedience by producing salt illegally as arrests peaked.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Advani’s Rath Yatra succeeded in its aim through months of drum beating about the roadshow, wanting to liberate Ram Janmabhoomi despite obstacles. The metaphor of the lone chariot taking the message nationally swelled Hindu passions with Advani portrayed as a warrior. Timing it with Ramshila Pujan, Advani ensured the limelight for his project. When Advani was arrested en route, it triggered an immediate backlash and calls for united Hindu action in defiance; thus solidifying his strategy.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Legacy of Integrating versus Divisive Nationalism</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhiji’s march birthed a constitutional civil disobedience movement that awakened national consciousness and unity against imperialism. By walking over 390 km across communities, Gandhi amplified inter-faith bonds. He rebutted communal distrust as dangerous for Swaraj, a legacy that endured even amidst the Partition’s carnage. Advani’s mass religious mobilisation dented the Gandhian legacy. It reopened and deepened religious faultiness, ratcheting up the politics of cultural nationalism at the cost of secular ethos. Advani set the foundations for the re-crafting of Indian nationalism by making it exclusive, instead of integrative, through Hindu-Muslim polarisation. Gandhiji’s politics was that of a visionary statesman, whereas Advani’s was an unapologetic attempt to solidify the sense of victimhood among Hindus and thus establish a lasting vote bank for the BJP.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Verdict: Spectacular Theatre Advancing Opposite Political Ideologies</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhiji and Advani’s marches reveal how elaborately crafted political spectacles channel mass opinion to advance different political ideologies. With iconic symbols tactically layered on secular everyday rights or religious myths woven around alleged historical wrongs, they framed nationalism and state’s role according to their respective worldviews. Their ability to capture public imagination through dramatic mobilisation remains unparalleled. The enduring and uncompromising clash between Gandhiji’s equitable pluralism and Advani’s selective glory resting on blood and belief, represents incompatible visions of Indian nationhood.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India at a Crossroads: Will Gandhi or Advani’s Legacy Define its Political Future?</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As India marches ahead towards its centenary of independence in 2047, it stands at the cusp of a historic transition. On one hand, it can build on the Gandhian vision of inclusive and progressive nationhood. On the other, contemporary politics witnessed the rise of majoritarian nationalism that challenges pluralism. Revisiting the divergent legacies inherited from Gandhiji’s iconic Salt March during the freedom struggle and LK Advani’s watershed Hindutva Rath Yatra of 1990 offers clues to alternative political futures that await India.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Salt March Legacy: Vision of Pluralism and Socio-Economic Justice</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Gandhiji’s satyagraha, unleashing civil disobedience against repressive British salt tax laws, left defining marks on India’s national consciousness. By choosing salt—a secular commodity central to the lives of rich and poor Indians alike—Gandhiji framed the struggle as one for securing both political freedom and economic emancipation. His ability to bring together diverse communities during the Dandi march sowed early seeds of unity in diversity. Repeated stress on Hindu Muslim amity and equality across castes and classes allowed the emergence of an integrative nationalism. In Gandhiji’s worldview, the rights and opportunities accessible to citizens from all social groups became a central promissory note of the Republic. Affirmative action, and minority rights enshrined in the constitution had a clear lineage to Gandhiji’s philosophy. Gandhiji’s Salt March captured global attention, amplifying moral voice against imperialism, and setting precedents for human rights movements worldwide.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This ability to stir empathetic public opinion by placing shared humanism at the centre—be it farmer protests or anti-corruption movements—continues to endure in contemporary India as well. Gandhian mass mobilisation privileged non-violent civil liberties over authoritarian diktats, which kept state excesses in check.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Rath Yatra Legacy: Scripting Majoritarian and Authoritarian Politics</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In contrast, the political spectacle engineered by Advani’s Rath Yatra reopened old inter-faith disputes which kept the communal fault lines simmering. Its messaging invoked alleged historical wrongs against Hindus by Muslim rulers for electoral mobilisation of the majority community. By calling on Hindus to unite and reclaim lost honour tied to places of worship like Ayodhya, it amplified a sense of victimhood and past humiliations against one community. This philosophical mooring sought to strip the nation of its centuries-old composite culture. The Rath Yatra’s symbolism brought about religious consolidation. This has reduced Indian identity to only its Hindu heritage. BJP’s Hindu majoritarian ideology has a limited appetite for pluralism, which places minorities outside the mainstream.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Since Advani’s model relies on faith-based identity politics, it encourages an increased role of religion in electoral battles. Competitive communalism has led to growing majoritarian policies and the imposition of regressive discriminatory practices. Unlike Gandhiji, who had the moral authority to check the state’s authoritarian ambitions, the contemporary Indian state under this model has turned intolerant, displaying a penchant for clamping down on democratic dissent in the name of defending culture. This indicates a dangerous trajectory where brute force is used to suppress alternate viewpoints and impose the writ of an aggressive, exclusionary nationalism that undermines the foundational pluralism of India as envisaged by its Constitution.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Legacy More In Tune With India’s Constitutional Ethos Will Endure</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Analysing past trajectories and current status, the Gandhian legacy of constructive rather than combative nationalism, his ability to secure liberation through mass awakening rather than capture of power appears more aligned with the egalitarian, progressive vision of India’s founding fathers. It allowed the gradual deepening of civic liberties and grassroots democracy. Gandhiji’s adherence to constitutional methods, non-violence and checking the state’s coercive powers enhances rather than undermines a common Indian identity. Compared to this, politics fashioned after Advani’s yatra has relied on propagating hate and wielding state apparatus for cultural dominance or electoral success. This risks undoing decades of nation-building.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As India looks ahead at 100 years of freedom, it stands at the cusp of history. There are two opposite choices before us. One is to follow, preserve and strengthen the Gandhian legacy of humanism by concretising the vision of our Republic’s founding fathers. The other is abandoning constitutional values and letting Advani’s communal polarisation legacy prevail. Which of the two choices will serve the people of India well? The answer is obvious. Is it to you also?</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-75969107062815798632024-02-03T19:22:00.001+05:302024-02-03T19:22:03.937+05:30 Annie Besant: The Brit Who Fought the British for India’s Freedom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Faua5yZ5AVh3-pZ0ZOiBDDlSOqVs3l_59axogiSrI49MDXtnSxmZcRIzUinfD-VBl9ZSfepcAnkCadJST1-HutmidiQWrFvibQn3opmUGYo5gDyJto7DNunjG2Qzgxt-0f067iabBgNXp2TRfbuxleHIcImM2cQpF6qNyEIEUZTpkoX1Dscxcld9ID4I/s2560/Annie%20Besant%20Thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Faua5yZ5AVh3-pZ0ZOiBDDlSOqVs3l_59axogiSrI49MDXtnSxmZcRIzUinfD-VBl9ZSfepcAnkCadJST1-HutmidiQWrFvibQn3opmUGYo5gDyJto7DNunjG2Qzgxt-0f067iabBgNXp2TRfbuxleHIcImM2cQpF6qNyEIEUZTpkoX1Dscxcld9ID4I/w400-h225/Annie%20Besant%20Thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><i><b><a href="https://youtu.be/kQ7T3V0ak0s" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></i></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The British colonialists were exploiters and oppressors. But many stood by India and fought for the country’s freedom. Annie Besant was one of such almost forgotten personalities. She was a British socialist, educationist and women’s rights activist who played a pivotal role in the Indian freedom struggle through her advocacy for Indian self-rule and by founding institutions focused on education and social reform. Remarkably, she was the founder of India’s Home Rule League and Varanasi’s Central Hindu College, which later became the nucleus for the prestigious Banaras Hindu University. Annie established a newspaper that played a major role in rousing public awareness and a powerful voice for the freedom movement.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Early Life and Background</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Annie Wood was born on October 1, 1847, in London to middle-class parents William Burton Persse Wood and Emily Morris. She was educated at home as a young child because of her fragile health. As a teenager, she rejected Christianity and adopted rationalist and freethinking philosophies after undergoing a crisis of faith.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">At age 20, she married Anglican minister Frank Besant but separated from him over religious differences in 1873. Left with two children and no income, she began writing and lecturing on secularist ideals. She joined the Fabian Society and became involved in left-wing politics.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Theosophy and Travels in India</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Annie Besant was intrigued by Theosophy’s emphasis on Eastern knowledge systems. After a meeting with its founders in London, she embraced Theosophy in 1889. It is an esoteric philosophical and spiritual movement begun in 1875 by Helena Blavatsky, Henry Steel Olcott, and others seeking universal truths and focusing on mysticism and metaphysics.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Through her Theosophical travels, Annie observed social conditions in India at close quarters. She was pained by the extent of poverty, lack of education and access, repression of women through traditions like child marriage, and caste-based discrimination faced by marginalised groups. This strengthened her conviction that India needed self-governance and social reforms.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In 1898, along with fellow Theosophists, she helped establish the Central Hindu College in Varanasi aimed at educating Indian youth in both Eastern mystical knowledge and Western analytical systems and humanities. This college later formed the nucleus of the Banaras Hindu University.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Over time, her Theosophy-inspired understanding of Indian philosophy shaped her Swadeshi or indigenous nationalist position. She saw potential in uniting India’s spiritual traditions with modern values and institutions.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>New India Newspaper</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In 1907, Annie Besant took her Indian activism a step further by founding and editing New India, a nationalist newspaper published from Madras, now Chennai. Modelled after Irish papers, it highlighted issues and grievances around British rule and repression.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The newspaper kept the language simple to appeal to the Indian masses. It focused on key nationalist themes like Swaraj, Swadeshi economic self-sufficiency, uplifting repressed groups like women, ending social evils, and promoting modern education suited to Indian conditions.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The New India gave a media voice to Annie Besant’s uncompromising positions on Indian self-rule, unitary nationhood and reform, which were more radical than the moderate early Congress. Along with political commentary, it also covered spirituality, arts and culture aimed at defining Indian national identity against colonial stereotypes.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">As it grew popular for airing public disaffection openly, the British authorities marked it as seditious and dangerous. Its offices were repeatedly raided and fined, while Besant was warned and monitored closely, bringing her into direct conflict with the establishment.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Through the New India, Annie Besant powerfully harnessed print media for public impact to build nationalist consciousness, which aligned with her leadership of the Home Rule League demanding immediate self-governance. It marked an important communication shift in India’s independence movement.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Entry into Politics and Home Rule Movement</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Annie Besant formally entered politics in 1913 by joining the Indian National Congress, which had been founded in 1885 as a forum for prominent Indians to petition for a greater voice in running the country. Under leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Badruddin Tyabji and Pherozeshah Mehta, the early moderate Congress mainly passed resolutions seeking civil liberties, democratic reforms and greater Indian participation within the colonial state structure.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">However, their loyalist, constitutional approach failed to wrest significant authority from the British. The Congress remained a debating society, unable to mobilise mass support. Frustrated with the ineffectiveness, Annie positioned herself as a firebrand leader demanding outright self-rule or Swaraj along the lines that Irish nationalist leader Charles Stewart Parnell had envisaged for Ireland under the British Empire.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>All India Home Rule League</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In 1916, Besant founded the All India Home Rule League, modelled after the Irish home rule movement. Along with co-founders Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, she explicitly demanded Home Rule or self-governance for India within two years.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">This nationalist demand marked a sharp shift from the early Congress’ piecemeal reform agenda. Annie organised a strong organisational structure for the League, travelling extensively to give public lectures, mobilising students, women and the working classes towards civil disobedience against unjust British policies.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Her uncompromising stand attracted youth leaders like Motilal Nehru and his son, Jawaharlal, into the League. However, her open defiance alarmed British officials, who saw it as a dangerous spark that could ignite wider unrest and disorder.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Crackdown & Imprisonment</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In 1917, the rattled authorities arrested Annie under charges of sedition and she was placed under house arrest in Ooty for 6 months, causing outrage among her followers. Gandhi held protests demanding her release, as did both League members and moderate Congress leaders like Jinnah, which was a sign of growing pan-Indian unity around the demand for self-rule.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Besant was freed after she reluctantly signed a promise that she would disband such nationalist work against the state. However, her detention had the opposite effect of popularising her as a martyr and symbol of defiance.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Congress Presidency</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In December 1917, immediately after her release, Annie was elected President of the Indian National Congress. As the organisation’s first female President, it represented the increasing power of radical voices within a party that had long been a loyalist elite forum.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">The moderate and aggressive factions of the Congress joined hands under her. They committed themselves to the demand for self-governance, economically uplift the masses and an end to repressive policies. This gave a coherent shape to the national movement, which would intensify in the coming Gandhian era.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Thus, Annie Besant played a catalysing role in transforming the early Congress from piecemeal constitutional petitioning to outright mass struggle for overthrowing colonial rule. Through the Home Rule League and her fearless speeches, she spread the seditious doctrine of Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence), which became a catchphrase for the quintessential nationalist goal.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Educational Activism</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Parallel to her political battles, Annie Besant made profound contributions to expanding modern Indian education. She looked upon education as a means of social reform and national awakening. She firmly believed that India’s regeneration required a radically new learning ecosystem rooted in both its indigenous knowledge traditions and contemporary Western sciences.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In 1898, during her early Theosophy years, she co-founded the Central Hindu College in Banaras along with fellow scholar Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya. They aimed to provide an integrated education experience synthesising ancient Indian wisdom, spiritualism and language study with a rigorous modern curriculum.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">This college developed into the nucleus of what became the Banaras Hindu University, which was established formally in 1919. As a key founder and fundraiser, Annie Besant helped construct this premier institution and shape its educational philosophy. Built on a vast 1300-acre campus on the outskirts of Banaras, the BHU became one of Asia’s largest residential universities focusing on science, technology and liberal arts education. Of course, it retained the foundations of Hindu studies and theology. It followed a model of autonomy and broad access regardless of religion, caste or class that was rare for the era under a repressive colonial environment. The stress was on learning integrated with character development, social consciousness, self-representation and nation-building—when advanced education was a privilege of tiny Indian elites serving British interests. This fulfilled her vision of modern education as a tool to dismantle colonial strangleholds.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Annie Besant served as Vice President of the Central Hindu College committee and then as Trustee of the BHU foundation for many years. Through regular fundraising lectures abroad, she mobilised donations, infrastructure and intellectual support to help nurture BHU during its formative years.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong>Later Initiatives</strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Even in her final years, Besant continued founding innovative educational institutions—like building the first model school in Bombay along progressive lines. In Varanasi, she established the World University, which focused on global peace and intercultural study.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Her stress was always on contextual learning to bridge India’s circumstances with wider advances. Through her hands-on institution-building spanning schools, colleges and universities over decades, Annie Besant actively fostered the social revolutions in Indian education, intellectual development and youth empowerment that she considered vital for national resurgence.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">Her legacy is most visible in the Banaras Hindu University’s status as independent India’s largest residential university concentrating on liberal professional education grounded in ethics and community orientation—principles that Besant specified at its founding.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;">In 1931, she became ill and died on 20 September 1933, at age 85, in Adyar, Madras Presidency, British India. Her body was cremated. She was survived by her daughter, Mabel.</p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-35810890808709840562024-01-31T16:03:00.003+05:302024-01-31T16:03:19.638+05:30 INDIA Coalition and the Saffron Tsunami<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqGTac4_xRGbbyoAshrW9ulZxOxrEjc6O9OeW4J7SBHJhiiyF7E4swgqSNtRIZuv1a9r0N6R_5eHQZC9PwNCGtgAh_KKeRFneoWSn11XKCfr5EWDezyOCtKeOGLsCtikIEdtcsjWtOYio-OwJY_KjSDeDuP2Y2QhV5kDgyqZBRhPSXsE1FxPL6Pidi-sY/s2560/THUMBNAIL%20INDIA%20COALITION.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqGTac4_xRGbbyoAshrW9ulZxOxrEjc6O9OeW4J7SBHJhiiyF7E4swgqSNtRIZuv1a9r0N6R_5eHQZC9PwNCGtgAh_KKeRFneoWSn11XKCfr5EWDezyOCtKeOGLsCtikIEdtcsjWtOYio-OwJY_KjSDeDuP2Y2QhV5kDgyqZBRhPSXsE1FxPL6Pidi-sY/w400-h225/THUMBNAIL%20INDIA%20COALITION.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><i><b><a href="https://youtu.be/grpHMeAm5Dg" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></i></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Nitish has done it again. He has re-entered the BJP camp showing no sign of shame or scruple. But then, this is how politics in India works. Nitish is not the first nor will he be the last to change sides for political advancement, survival or greed. He has certainly made the likes of Bhajan Lal of Haryana look like novices in this game. Imagine, getting sworn in as chief minister thrice in 2 years without the state assembly being dissolved! That’s Nitish Kumar for you! By the way, some creative media outlets have described this as Ghar Wapsi! Now, which exactly is Nitish’s ghar? Not BJP and certainly not UPA. Not even his brainchild, the INDIA coalition. His real ghar is the CM’s chair, which he has used every low and high trick to keep under his occupation.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">But this is not purely about Nitish, it is more about the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance or INDIA which he had assiduously knitted together in 2023 to create a united opposition front against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections. Now he has jumped into the BJP camp, which he had sworn to defeat in the 2024 general elections!</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, even before Nitish did his latest backflip, deep ideological differences between the INDIA partners had become manifest. TMC and AAP were wary of Congress asserting its dominance on the national stage. There were conflicts over sharing chief minister posts in states like Bihar and Jharkhand, where no single party was in the majority. The disjointed campaigns and statements during state elections exposed the lack of coordination. Their failure to mount a united challenge led to the NDA scoring comprehensive victories in Tripura, Nagaland, and Meghalaya. Although they put up a better performance in Karnataka, the opposition was far from posing any serious threat to the NDA in the Lok Sabha polls.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Desertions and Distrust Deepen the Crisis</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In Maharashtra, senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar led a faction to merge with the BJP, toppling the Congress-led government in the state. These key defections are signs of the deep crisis facing the INDIA coalition. It points towards the self-serving political ambitions of regional leaders who have repeatedly betrayed any sense of opposition solidarity. Their ideological and political commitment to the alliance stands highly questionable.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mamata’s Regional Ambitions Limit Her Value to Opposition Unity</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">While TMC could have played a pivotal role in challenging BJP’s dominance through a united opposition, Mamata’s regional ambitions make her reluctant. She wants TMC to stay independent while keeping national options open depending on 2024 equations.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Fresh from two straight West Bengal election victories, with over 200 seats, Mamata Banerjee’s TMC dominates the state’s politics. This allows Mamata to maximise home advantage without accommodating demanding alliance partners by going solo. She harbours national ambitions for herself and the TMC as a Third Front, challenging both national parties. Contesting independently gives her more post-poll bargaining power compared to being a minor UPA or united opposition player. Past battles with Congress in the state also make TMC cadres wary of aligning with WB Congress leaders again.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mamata keeps her options open for post-poll alignments by not openly tilting towards Congress. This allows negotiating better terms closer to the 2024 polls before any understanding. The TMC wants to avoid an alliance with Congress because the latter is still battling various investigations. The TMC too is vulnerable to investigation because of scams like ‘cut money’.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This calculative strategy may maximise TMC’s West Bengal clout but risks dividing the anti-BJP vote. It highlights the persistent challenge of powerful regional satraps harbouring national ambitions within the UPA bloc.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Uddhav Thackeray is facing a severe crisis in his party after a massive split led by Eknath Shinde, who defected to the BJP along with 40 MLAs and became the chief minister of Maharashtra. Uddhav’s faction, which was left with only 15 MLAs, also lost the party name, symbol, and office to the Shinde camp. Uddhav has challenged the Election Commission’s verdict in the Supreme Court, but the legal battle has drained his resources and morale. Uddhav resigned as the chief minister after the split and is now trying to retain his loyal supporters in the Mumbai-Konkan region, where he hopes to gain sympathy from the voters who feel betrayed by the BJP and the Shiv Sena rebels. However, his party has become weak and irrelevant in the rural areas of Maharashtra, where the BJP has a firm hold and influence. Uddhav is also seeking to revive his party by appealing to the Marathi identity and pride, and by opposing the BJP and the Shiv Sena rebels on various issues.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">But Uddhav is in a difficult situation after losing his majority and power in the state. His faction is struggling to survive and compete with the BJP and the Shiv Sena rebels, who have the upper hand in terms of numbers and resources. Uddhav’s only hope is to rebuild his party from scratch, with the help of the sympathy factor in some urban areas.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Sharad Pawar’s NCP</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), led by veteran leader Sharad Pawar, performed better than its allies in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, which collapsed after the Shiv Sena split. The NCP has a stable base of around 50-55 MLAs, making it the second-largest party in the state after the BJP. The NCP has yet to declare its strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and is exploring various options for forming a coalition against the BJP. However, the party is facing a lot of pressure from the central agencies, which are conducting raids and investigations into the corruption charges against some of its leaders and ministers during the MVA government. The BJP is trying to tarnish the NCP’s image, which was built on Pawar’s reputation and experience. The party also witnesses some infighting and defections in some of its strongholds, such as western Maharashtra, where some leaders are unhappy with Pawar’s decisions.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The NCP is still a relevant force in Maharashtra politics, thanks to Pawar’s leadership and experience. However, the party is on the back foot, as it has to deal with the challenges posed by the BJP, the central agencies, and the internal dissent. The party’s future depends on how well Pawar can forge an anti-BJP alliance, manage the internal conflicts, and counter the allegations arising from the previous MVA tenure.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Other partners, too, are choosing different paths for themselves.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Samajwadi Party is aspiring to regain lost ground in Uttar Pradesh. Its boss, Akhilesh Yadav, has announced that the party will fight the 2024 polls alone without aligning with Congress or other regional parties as it limits its positioning.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Biju Janata Dal enjoys a dominant position in Odisha. Naveen Patnaik has kept BJD independent of national alliances to maintain flexibility. This stand continues for 2024.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The YSR Congress Party won a landslide victory in Andhra Pradesh in 2019. So, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy aims to sweep the state in 2024 single-handedly without requiring coalition support.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The abandoning of the INDIA coalition by these regional bigwigs further weakens and isolates the Congress-led opposition bloc. It cedes greater space for the BJP-led NDA to exploit in the upcoming electoral battle of 2024.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Indian National Congress is facing internal desertions and strife. The latest deserter is Milind Deora of Mumbai, who has joined Shinde’s Shiv Sena. Earlier, Ghulam Nabi Azad, a veteran Congress leader, had resigned in August 2022 after spending over 50 years in the party. He has since launched his own political outfit, the Democratic Azad Party. Jaiveer Shergill, a young Supreme Court lawyer and national spokesperson, resigned citing internal conflicts within Congress. He later joined the BJP. RPN Singh, a Congress heavyweight from Uttar Pradesh, joined the BJP before the 2022 state elections. Jitin Prasada, a former minister under UPA rule, switched from Congress to BJP in 2021. Jyotiraditya Scindia, reputedly close to the Gandhi family, and a former Union Minister under Congress, joined the BJP in 2020, resulting in the collapse of the Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh. Sushmita Dev, a former MP and Congress women’s wing chief resigned in 2021 and joined TMC. Priyanka Chaturvedi quit as a Congress spokesperson in 2019 to switch allegiance to Shiv Sena.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Can </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">the</span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> ‘Bharat Jodo </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Nyaya</span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Yatra’ Revive </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">the Congress Party’s</span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Electoral Fortunes?</span></strong></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Unfazed by the desertions and intrigues, the Indian National Congress has embarked on a high-profile mass contact program called the ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ now renamed ‘Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra’ led by Rahul Gandhi. It aims to reconnect with people and mobilise grassroots support ahead of key state and national elections. However, this outreach faces deep organisational and structural challenges that have eroded Congress’ electoral competitiveness for decades.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The yatra has generated initial public interest, as is clear in decent turnouts and media coverage. Rahul comes across as more confident, combative, and in touch with people’s issues. However, early euphoria seems to give way to familiar troubles like thin attendance, factionalism and an inability to translate rally support into booth-level mobilisation.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Congress continues to suffer from a lack of decisive leadership, bureaucratic conflicts, mass desertions to the BJP and an inability to build strong regional alliances. Unless Congress undertakes serious organisational revamps—around leadership, governance and alliances—high-profile rallies cannot mask the deep rot that has rendered it electorally ineffective.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">If the Indian National Congress is really serious about staging a comeback, it must restore genuine internal democracy. This will facilitate new leadership talent with a vision more in tune with the needs of 21st-century India. The old fogies surrounding Rahul are incapable of rejuvenating the party.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">It would be a good idea for Rahul, Priyanka and Sonia to take political sanyas and let the Indian National Congress sink or swim in political seas hit by the saffron tsunami!</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><br /><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-4112245254804644062024-01-25T18:37:00.007+05:302024-01-25T18:37:47.543+05:30 Semites, Anti-Semitism and Historical Processes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRoulCbkTDmcqyDYgYkhBqjcEubeP3EogynWFwBIRf0TRdviCFA-473UrASePiYMoAYbQRfxv5sbqQzzKYXc65IEXLvt5B2qc1ap8nftIzITYHk_CKlxJP_hdAY41V_WTfPNtH295cn5WfARbJ1oIH9IDCLKXbIQtQulhXco0c-jpgVrutlY3tkUNw_jt7/s2560/SEMITES%20THUMBNAIL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRoulCbkTDmcqyDYgYkhBqjcEubeP3EogynWFwBIRf0TRdviCFA-473UrASePiYMoAYbQRfxv5sbqQzzKYXc65IEXLvt5B2qc1ap8nftIzITYHk_CKlxJP_hdAY41V_WTfPNtH295cn5WfARbJ1oIH9IDCLKXbIQtQulhXco0c-jpgVrutlY3tkUNw_jt7/w400-h225/SEMITES%20THUMBNAIL.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><b><a href="https://youtu.be/iFa0cdwp4lM" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Why has anti-Semitism become a perennial controversy that keeps erupting like a semi-active volcano on global media headlines? The latest instance is of the presidents of three prestigious American Universities known for their liberal ethos—Harvard, Penn and MIT—who recently faced intense Congressional interrogation over outbreaks of antisemitism across US campuses since the October 2022 flare-up of Israel-Hamas hostilities.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b>Who are Semites?</b></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Before dealing with the anti-Semitism phenomenon, let us understand who Semites are and what their history is. Also why anti-Jewish sentiment is considered anti-Semitism but anti-Arab is not considered so.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The ancient Israelites are considered original Semites, descending from the biblical patriarch Abraham. Moses is seen as their key religious leader, said to have united and freed the Israelites from Egyptian slavery circa the 13th century BCE. Over centuries, the Israelites established two Biblical Jewish kingdoms centred around Jerusalem, with rulers like the heroic King David and the wise King Solomon.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The original Semites spoke related Semitic languages and inhabited the Middle East and North Africa. Key ancient Semitic cultures and figures include:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">- Akkadians: Semitic civilization centred in ancient Mesopotamia (modern Iraq/Syria). The Akkadian Empire reigned 2334-2154 BCE under Sargon the Great.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">- Phoenicians: The Phoenician civilization emerged around 3200 BCE in the Levant region (eastern Mediterranean). As renowned ancient sea traders, the Phoenicians spread across the Mediterranean, establishing key ports and trade networks.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">- Assyrians: The ancient Assyrians formed a powerful civilization in Upper Mesopotamia, growing over the 2nd and 1st millennia BCE into a warlike empire dominating the Middle East under rulers like Tiglath-Pileser I and Sargon II.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">- Babylonians: Babylonian civilization emerged centred on Lower Mesopotamia, inheriting earlier Akkadian/Sumerian traditions. The Babylonians most famously constructed the ziggurat of Etemenanki of Babylon under King Nebuchadnezzar II’s reign 605-562 BCE. The ziggurat was a stepped pyramidal temple tower characteristic of major Mesopotamian cities between around 2200 BCE and 500 BCE. Constructed using a mud brick core and baked brick exterior, the tower had no internal rooms. Ziggurats were typically square or rectangular at the base, averaging about 170 feet (50 meters) square or 125 by 170 feet (40 by 50 meters). Roughly 25 ziggurats have been discovered, with equal numbers originating from the Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian civilizations.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Overall, the long interwoven histories of ancient and modern Semitic peoples remain complex. While the semantics focus heavily on Jews now, we must understand these connections through balanced, ethical approaches, accounting for all groups affected across history.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b>Arabs and Jews</b></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In ancient times, both Arabs and Jews traced their ancestral origins back to the Biblical patriarch Abraham. Arabs consider their forefather to be Abraham’s son, Ishmael, by the Egyptian slave Hagar. The Jewish people descend from Isaac, who was Abraham’s son by his wife Sarah. Despite these early connections, Arabs and Jews largely developed separately for centuries.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Jews had ancient kingdoms centred in the Levant region but faced conquest first by Babylon and then by Rome. After Rome adopted Christianity, Jews became marginalised as a religious minority, facing periodic persecution. As Christianity took hold across the Middle East and North Africa, many Jewish communities assimilated into the dominant Arab society. Arabic-speaking Jewish scholars, like Maimonides, gained influence in the medieval Islamic world during its Golden Age.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In the 7th century CE, Islamic Arab armies emerged from the Arabian peninsula led by the Prophet Muhammad. They quickly conquered the Middle East and North Africa, including areas that had remained predominantly Jewish like Palestine. Over the following centuries, most Jews adopted Arabic language and culture.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Under early Muslim rule, Jewish people were considered dhimmis, a protected minority, although facing certain restrictions and extra taxes. While there were sporadic outbreaks of violence, Jewish communities generally flourished culturally and economically during the early Islamic period. There was substantial interfaith cooperation and coexistence.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">During the 11th century under caliph Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, however, Jews faced heightened persecution like forced conversions or property confiscation. Such repression continued periodically under later Muslim rulers. Things deteriorated substantially during the Crusades when both Jews and Muslims were massacred by Crusader armies moving through the region.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In the 19th and 20th centuries, tensions heightened over the issue of Jewish settlement in Ottoman and then British Palestine and the creation of a Jewish national homeland there. This conflict ultimately resulted in the 1948 Arab-Israeli War following Israeli independence. It launched over a century of ongoing struggle between Arab states and Palestinian nationalist groups against the state of Israel. The long history of relatively peaceful coexistence gave way to protracted, violent conflict in the modern era. Efforts continue to broker peace.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b>Anti-Semitism in the West</b></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Jews faced extensive persecution and antisemitism in Western countries, especially in Europe, over many centuries. Some key examples include:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In medieval Europe, antisemitism was widespread based on religious grounds. Myths accusing Jews of killing Christ, host desecration, well poisoning and “blood libel” led Catholic mobs, and those inspired during the Crusades to attack Jewish communities. Thousands of Jews were massacred, especially during the Black Death. Jews faced expulsions from England, France and Spain during the 13th-15th centuries.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In Imperial Russia, Jews were restricted to living in the Pale of Settlement and endured pogroms, resulting in thousands killed, especially in the 19th century. Antisemitic persecution increased under the Czar following the assassination of Alexander II.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In the late 19th century, fake antisemitic conspiracy theories like The Protocols of the Elders of Zion falsely accused Jews of plotting global domination. This fuelled racial antisemitism across Europe.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In Germany, Nazi leader Adolf Hitler engaged in virulent, racist antisemitic propaganda. After taking power in 1933, Hitler’s regime enacted the Nuremberg Laws, depriving Jews of rights. Violence against Jews escalated through events like Kristallnacht, then expanded into a horrifying, industrial genocide, killing 6 million Jews across Europe.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In the United States, while founding ideals promoted religious tolerance, antisemitism emerged in forms like people barring Jews from clubs, hotels and universities. The lynching of Leo Frank in 1915 and the refusal to accept a ship of Jewish refugees fleeing Hitler exemplified American antisemitism early on. Today, antisemitic incidents still occur, but decreasing overall as tolerance expands.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In Western countries, Jews endured everything from legal restrictions to mob violence to attempted genocide based on virulent antisemitism emerging out of Christianity and then morphing into racial hatred in the modern era in Europe. More acceptance emerged slowly in the 20th century. In recent years, there have been controversies regarding anti-Semitism on the campuses of some prestigious American universities.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1) Harvard University: In 2020, a Harvard student group calling itself the Palestine Solidarity Committee held an event featuring a speaker who compared Zionists to Nazis and defended calls for Israel’s destruction. The event sparked outrage from Jewish students and alumni. Harvard conducted a review and the student organisers apologised for hosting antisemitic content. But some, like Alan Dershowitz, alleged institutional anti-Semitism among certain student groups and faculty persists.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2) New York University (NYU): In April 2022, an NYU dorm resident received antisemitic texts from another student. NYU’s President condemned the messages amid a rise of campus antisemitism nationwide. Still, Jewish students noted administrators declined meeting requests to address their safety concerns fully prior.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">3) University of Southern California (USC): A student leader in 2020 was removed after questioning whether a student could “maintain an impartial view” for their council position because they were Jewish and involved in campus Jewish groups. The comments renewed scrutiny of previous allegations that the USC student government maintained institutional bias against pro-Israel Jewish students. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Overall, these controversies sparked tensions on these elite campuses regarding perceptions of unchecked anti-Semitism. Administrators condemned incidents, but disagreements simmer over the pervasiveness of anti-Jewish bias within campus cultures and student organisations. Balancing free speech, and inclusion and combating bigotry remains an evolving challenge.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Anti-Jewish sentiment has deep historical roots and remains persistent in parts of Europe and the United States today. However, it is complex, with signs of gradual change towards more tolerance as well. Some relevant details:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In Europe, anti-Semitism emerged early on within Christian-majority societies. Myths falsely accusing Jews of crimes like “blood libel” or blaming them collectively for Jesus’ death fuelled periodic mob violence for centuries. By the 20th century, these transformed into racist conspiracy theories like Nazism, leading to the Holocaust genocide across Europe. So the roots run deep.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b>De-Nazification Efforts</b></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Post-WWII de-Nazification efforts combated some explicit antisemitism in public spheres. But implicit bias and neo-Nazi sentiments never fully disappeared in sections of European society and re-surged with events like the 2015 Paris Kosher market attack. Surveys indicate some decline more recently in overt antisemitic views among European populations, especially younger demographics. However, incidents still occur and memories of WWII atrocities linger culturally.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In the US, less pronounced but still very damaging legacies of early anti-Jewish discrimination left impacts. For decades, Jews faced restrictions like being barred from clubs, hotels and universities with notions they didn’t fully fit white Christian American identity. High-profile incidents like the Leo Frank lynching case reinforced perceptions of them as perpetual outsiders. This fuelled lasting insinuations about divided national loyalties.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">However, post-WWII shifts towards meritocracy, growing diversity and expanded civil rights protection helped foster gradual mainstream acceptance of American Jewish identity today, especially among younger generations, based on recent surveys. Still, fringe nativist groups prone to various racism/antisemitism remain active with incidents reported annually from vandalism to online trolling campaigns. It likely requires sustained, concerted efforts across schools, media, etc. to completely counterbalance centuries-long legacies at societal levels. But positive trends exist.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b>Why Jews Were Hated</b></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">While historically the Jewish people have endured tremendous persecution, to promote balanced discourse, there are instances in history where Jewish individuals or groups have also perpetrated harmful acts or exploitation against others. Some examples include:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">As early financiers and moneylenders in Medieval Europe, several Jewish businessmen engaged in predatory lending practices that, while common across the industry, increased anti-Semitic backlash when peasants blamed all Jews collectively for abusive high-interest loans. However, context is vital, as lending was one of the few professions open to Jews who faced exclusion from guilds, land ownership and many occupations.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Some Zionist factions in British Palestine following WWII, most notably the Irgun and Lehi paramilitary groups, employed highly violent militant tactics. This included bombings that killed hundreds of Arab civilians along with British authorities before Israeli independence. Their actions tainted early Israeli state formation in the eyes of the Arab world.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">More recently, examples persist of Israeli politicians making extremist remarks promoting prejudice or harmful policies against Israeli Arabs and Palestinians. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Vocal human rights organisations counter the Israeli government’s controversial occupation and settlement policies in Palestinian territories from a place of conscience, law and ethics. And nobody can ignore what has been done to the hapless people of Gaza.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b>Arabs are Semites too</b></span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Why violence – verbal or physical – against Jews, and not Arabs, is labelled anti-semitism? Aren’t the reasons more political than historical?</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Well, anti-Semitism is specifically associated with prejudice or discrimination against Jewish people, not Arabs or other Semitic peoples, for a few reasons:</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1. History of the term: The term "anti-Semitism" was coined in 1879 by German journalist Wilhelm Marr to refer specifically to anti-Jewish racism. It was never intended to apply to discrimination against other Semitic peoples like Arabs. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2. Semantics: While Arabs, Assyrians, and other groups are technically also Semites ethnically, in common usage "Semitic" refers primarily to Jews. This is likely because Jews have faced the longest history of prejudice and discrimination among Semitic groups.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">3. Uniqueness of anti-Jewish racism: Anti-Semitism targeting Jews has some unique elements that set it apart from discrimination against other ethnic or religious groups, such as conspiracy theories about global Jewish control. These unique forms of anti-Jewish racism have come to define what anti-Semitism refers to.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">4. Accepted usage: Leading scholars on racism and both Jewish and Arab advocacy groups accept that "anti-Semitism" refers specifically to anti-Jewish attitudes and not to discrimination against Arabs or other Semitic groups. This accepted usage precedence further solidifies the term's meaning.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">So, history, semantics, the uniqueness of anti-Jewish racism, and widely accepted usage all contribute to anti-Semitism being identified with hostility targeting Jews rather than blanket discrimination against all Semitic peoples. The term has never applied equally to atrocities against Arabs or other groups. </span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Vagaries of historical processes?</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Well, that’s how it is.</span></p><p align="justify" style="background: none; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span><br /><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-62474200456332039952024-01-12T16:45:00.006+05:302024-01-12T16:46:31.224+05:30The Resurgence of Right-Wing Politics in the 21st Century<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMo-gU6XU8gnGb3r5ZQmt_C3eBnzUmkq2x57MhVkwEX4uKsB2bRTLCdXPg0-1mskiuJ8OhPIOomRDJEExQbgSyE9uxVil_7pbMVkmfUDOUVX4YSnl7muNCiykd_pf8AWuZGHPGgYmU6D-lZyLhW7r6fDb1HDnQFcNCpcfcnPkYULsNLrSCnL7srzLrqT1Y/s1920/RIGHTWING%20THUMBNAIL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMo-gU6XU8gnGb3r5ZQmt_C3eBnzUmkq2x57MhVkwEX4uKsB2bRTLCdXPg0-1mskiuJ8OhPIOomRDJEExQbgSyE9uxVil_7pbMVkmfUDOUVX4YSnl7muNCiykd_pf8AWuZGHPGgYmU6D-lZyLhW7r6fDb1HDnQFcNCpcfcnPkYULsNLrSCnL7srzLrqT1Y/w400-h225/RIGHTWING%20THUMBNAIL.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p align="left" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><strong><a href="https://youtu.be/a94mMW8F8SE" target="_blank">YouTube</a></strong></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">A wave of right-wing nationalism and populism has been sweeping across many countries in recent years, representing a global resurgence of conservative and reactionary political forces. This phenomenon reflects a backlash against globalisation, immigration, and establishment politics by those who feel left behind economically and culturally. </p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Key examples of this rightward shift include Donald Trump’s election in 2016, which embodied a turn towards economic nationalism and anti-immigration sentiments in the United States. In Europe, far-right parties have gained ground, including the Alternative for Germany, which emerged as the third largest party in Germany’s 2017 federal election. The United Kingdom’s narrow vote to leave the European Union in 2016 also typified this nationalist populism. And in countries from Brazil to the Philippines, a crop of right-wing democratic leaders has risen to power.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">This right-wing revival likely stems from a variety of factors, including economic strains from the Great Recession, fears of globalism undermining national identity, cultural backlash against progressive values, and dissatisfaction with political elites. Whatever its precise causes, this conservative wave has disrupted the Western liberal democratic order and placed ethnonationalism, protectionism, traditionalism, and anti-immigration policy firmly back on the political agenda. Its long-term implications remain to be seen.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>The Genesis of Right Wing Governments</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">There is no definitive consensus on which right-wing party was the first to come to power in a democracy. However, here is some historical context on the rise of right-wing parties in democratic systems:</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">In the 1920s-1930s, some of the early right-wing populist parties that experienced electoral success in democratic nations included:</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">1) The Nazi Party (National Socialist German Workers’ Party) in Germany: Came to power in 1933 when Adolf Hitler was appointed Chancellor. It used far-right nationalist messaging and later established a fascist dictatorship.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">2) The People’s Party in Spain: Led by Jose Maria Gil-Robles, it won the 1933 elections. It was a conservative Catholic party with authoritarian leanings.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">3) The Silver Legion of America: A Fascist, white supremacist group led by William Dudley Pelley that saw rising, though limited, support in the 1930s US.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">In the post-World War 2 era, the Italian Social Movement, a neo-fascist party in Italy, had some electoral success in the 1950s.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">In recent decades, scholars often cite the rise of Margaret Thatcher and the Conservative Party in Britain starting 1979 as a key milestone for a modern right-wing party coming to power through democratic means and implementing their agenda. The Reagan Republicans also rose around the same time in the 1980s US.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">While extremist right-wing parties gained traction worldwide in the early 20th century, Thatcher’s Conservative Party victory in 1979 Britain marked a turning point for mainstream right-wing politics in the contemporary era.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">The 21st Century has witnessed a pronounced global swing towards right-wing nationalism and populism across established democracies. This ideological shift stems from a confluence of technological, economic and demographic transformations shaping the 21st century world. Examining the principal factors energising this political phenomenon provides insight into its extensive contemporaneous impacts.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Economic Resentment and Inequality</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">The 2008 financial meltdown and ensuing austerity regimes have stoked tremendous economic anxiety and anger against status quo governance. Stagnant incomes, chronic unemployment and rising costs of living have made workers in North America and Europe feel abandoned by establishments perceived as complicit in the modern economy’s structural inequities.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Shrewd right-wing politicians have capitalised on this uncertainty by presenting immigrants and globalisation as convenient scapegoats. Protectionist trade policies and immigration crackdowns have emerged as accessible solutions to complex phenomena like automation and uneven post-recession recoveries exacerbating inequality. This nationalistic rhetoric resonates more strongly when fused with generous tax-cut pledges and dog whistles around welfare nationalism.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Technology and Social Media</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">The exponential expansion of social media over the last decade has provided a robust architecture for nationalist propaganda and misinformation to rapidly proliferate. Engagement-focused algorithms inadvertently boost the visibility of extremist content and recruitment efforts instead of demoting them.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Encrypted messaging networks have also enabled paranoid far-right groups to secretly radicalise newcomers and orchestrate violent demonstrations like the 2021 U.S. Capitol storming. The Strasbourg extremist shooting in 2018 similarly highlighted how online disinformation, combined with social media’s scale, now readily spurs unrest.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Shifting Demographics and Identity Politics</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">High immigration levels and declining domestic birth rates have stoked nativist fears of white Christian cultures being displaced from within Western heartlands. Anxieties about such demographic change have been seized upon by unscrupulous ethno-nationalists using xenophobic rhetoric that singles out migrants and minorities as social outgroups.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Politicians from Trump to France’s Le Pen have controversially employed racist tropes and dehumanisation when discussing marginalised groups, casting them as menaces causing punitive action. The marked global increase in hate crimes this past decade shows how such tribal ‘us versus them’ rhetoric legitimises real-world violence targeting vulnerable populations.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>The Tailwinds of Early Wins</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">The initial electoral breakthroughs of formerly fringe nationalist parties and leaders acted as tipping points, bringing extreme ideology firmly into mainstream discourse. Events like Trump’s 2016 presidential victory, Brexit’s success and European xenophobic groups gaining parliamentary influence provided strong momentum for even more reactionary elements to emerge worldwide.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Creep of Authoritarian Tactics</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">The Covid-19 outbreak granted additional momentum to the rise of heavy-handed governance by right-wing figures like Trump, Modi and Bolsonaro. The health crisis enabled unchecked expansion of intrusive surveillance and violations of civil rights under the pretext of public health safeguards. These regimes have since entrenched executive domination, intimidated critics and weakened institutional checks on their power.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">The pace of democratic backsliding over the past five years makes clear that the global ideological shift powered by economic displacement and ethnic nationalism has also critically damaged liberal democracy’s stability across three continents. Reining in political extremism and rights infringements constitute the foremost early challenges for nations in the 2020s.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Cascading Impacts Across Spheres</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">These political dynamics oriented around exclusionary nationalism and authoritarian leadership have already precipitated adverse transformations across facets of economy, society, governance and global relations.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Economic Fallout</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Doctrinaire governance eschewing pragmatism for ideological purity has damaged fiscal conditions, exacerbated inequality and generated sectoral crises in multiple countries. Trade protectionism shrinking export markets has backfired across agriculture and manufacturing, causing business shutdowns and job losses instead of growth and investment.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Generous tax handouts to mega-corporations accompanied by cuts in education, healthcare and other social spending have also drained trillions in revenue while condensing wealth among elites and reducing purchasing power for consumer classes. Sweeping deregulation of finance and environmental standards has similarly stoked instability risks without commensurate upside.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Democratic Decay</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Right-wing governance patterns prioritising centralised authority and marginalising dissent have steadily corroded foundations of accountable democracy. Populating public institutions with partisan loyalists, defanging of data bodies’ independence and coercion of civil society groups have compromised transparency around administrative decision-making.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Police excesses targeting rights activists and critics even under purportedly democratic regimes have intensified. The resultant trust deficit in state institutions and noticeable declines in civic freedoms point to a generational setback from fragile progress made.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Foreign Policy Shifts</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Doctrinaire aspects of nationalism first have generated more zero-sum, unilateral and transactional regimes in international diplomacy. Decreased cooperation on tackling pressing transnational issues like climate change, global public health and humanitarian relief marks a departure from collective multilateralism towards competitive self-interest.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Inward-looking stances maintaining distance from world bodies on universal rights, governance benchmarks and defending strategic partnerships have diminished both material outcomes and ethical persuasion in foreign policy. Such postures also enable geopolitical rivals space to consolidate spheres of influence.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><b>Unravelling Social Fabric</b></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Mainstreaming of dehumanising rhetoric has ruptured communal bonds of trust and inclusive values undergirding healthy, heterogeneous societies. Increased normalisation of racism, misogyny and bigotry has replicated historical segregation barely overcome through 20th century civil rights advocacy. Surveillance schemes pre-textually targeting specific groups have rendered citizens wary of institutions supposed to ensure collective welfare.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">With nationalism idealising majoritarian primacy over minority rights, tenuous social justice gains by oppressed groups now face setbacks from reactionaries occupying positions of power. Vitriolic propaganda around immigration and diversity has also spawned subcultures zealously validating prejudice instead of combating it through facts. Reconstructing universal citizenship in fractured environments poses a generational challenge.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">The swelling influence of exclusionary nationalism and authoritarian governance has precipitated measurable deterioration across economic equality, civic liberties, interstate partnerships, and intercommunity relations within many countries. While societal shifts manifest over decades, the pace of democratic declines and rights erosion in a few years makes clear the need for urgent course correction to mitigate further regressive damage from hyper-nationalist politics. With ascendant far-right elements continuously pushing boundaries of acceptable conduct, resistance through legal avenues and civil activism constitutes the last institutional buffer preserving pluralism against illiberal extremes.</p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: repeat; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, serif; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-41320567156858244492024-01-03T17:09:00.003+05:302024-01-03T17:09:10.454+05:30 Indian Economy: Future Projections<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqkPUeGJY3t4dGnRy99Ohnc0XZKROlpZfWDLTe_8lXZ3Bp4gQZFFgp3FqYNRzFq4iBEQEdZAW9QUvE6CcBKHatw3fVTgRIz5MW2EaJIimnujNNuruYs7dhVZJXP0tHUu5s2eY-t-QeIMUBd3XbooNsjnqS1u48EJ0AlFU8cfHhnED8UydPTyOwGfMz7G9/s1920/Indian%20Economy%20Thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqkPUeGJY3t4dGnRy99Ohnc0XZKROlpZfWDLTe_8lXZ3Bp4gQZFFgp3FqYNRzFq4iBEQEdZAW9QUvE6CcBKHatw3fVTgRIz5MW2EaJIimnujNNuruYs7dhVZJXP0tHUu5s2eY-t-QeIMUBd3XbooNsjnqS1u48EJ0AlFU8cfHhnED8UydPTyOwGfMz7G9/w400-h225/Indian%20Economy%20Thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="left" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://youtu.be/E39x_Ebf6A0" target="_blank">YouTube</a></span></span></span></strong></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>India’s Economy in 2023</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As of 2023, India is the world’s fifth largest economy, with a GDP of $3.5 trillion. India has been among the fastest growing major economies in recent years with an average annual GDP growth rate of 6-7% between 2015 and 2020. However, growth slowed to 4.5% in 2020-21 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. India is expected to bounce back with over 7.5% growth in 2023-24 backed by a recovery in investment and consumption demand, according to the IMF.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Key Drivers of Future Growth</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India has several favourable conditions and emerging trends that are likely to propel rapid, sustainable and more inclusive economic growth over the next 5 decades.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Demographic Dividend:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> India has one of the youngest populations in the world with a median age of 27 years. It is projected to provide the world’s largest workforce over the next 20 years, benefitting from rapid urbanisation and rising education levels. Around 92% of India’s working-age population will be skilled by 2047, compared to just 42% in 2018 aided by the New Education Policy focused on vocational training and adult education.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Rising Investments:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> India has been steadily rising on the global scene, attracting higher foreign investments with government initiatives like Make in India, Digital India and various production-linked incentives. Total investments could rise from around 30% of GDP currently to over 45% by 2040. Flagship schemes such as PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan aim to boost multi-modal infrastructure connectivity, leading to enhanced efficiencies, productivity and investments across sectors.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Thriving Private Sector:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> India is home to over 100,000 startups, including over 150 unicorns with many homegrown champions across manufacturing and services. Increased digital adoption, financial inclusion initiatives, global trade integration and industry-friendly policies will enable the private sector to catalyse growth across urban and rural areas over the next two decades.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Infrastructure Creation:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> India plans to invest over $2.7 trillion between 2023-2030 on mega infrastructure projects across highways, railways, power generation & distribution, gas pipelines and urban rejuvenation programmes as part of the National Infrastructure Pipeline and Gati Shakti initiatives.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Global Integration:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> India has signed trade deals with Australia, UAE and working on agreements with the UK, Canada and EU focused on greater mobility of professionals and students, boosting services trade. It is also strengthening regional connectivity and cross-investments with neighbours under initiatives such as BIMSTEC, or </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="background: rgb(80, 151, 255);">Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, and</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> I2U2—which is </span><em><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-style: normal;">a grouping of India, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States—</span></span></em><span style="font-size: 12pt;">to amplify economic ties leveraging geographical proximity.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Sectoral Growth Projections</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Based on the above drivers, the growth opportunities and projections across major sectors over the next 25 years have been outlined below:</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Manufacturing Resurgence</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India’s manufacturing sector holds tremendous potential to emerge as an engine of economic growth contributing up to 30% of GDP by 2047, in line with the Make In India goals. The PLI scheme offers financial incentives worth $26 billion by 2030 across 14 major sectors, from electronics, automobile and pharma to textiles and food processing to enhance domestic capabilities. Competitive labour costs combined with cluster-based infrastructure development across industrial corridors and rising local demand positions India as an alternate manufacturing destination for multinationals seeking to diversify supply chains. Total investments in the sector could exceed $1 trillion by 2030, leading to over 30% </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="background: rgb(80, 151, 255);">Compounded Annual Growth Rate</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> in exports. Employment generation is projected to triple from the current 50 million to over 150 million by 2040, benefitting from industrialisation in coming decades.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Thriving Services</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Services sector will continue its rise. It is expected to contribute about 60% of India’s GDP by 2040, which will be among the highest globally. Sub-sectors like IT and IT-enabled services, telecom, banking, insurance, tourism, education and healthcare services can sustain over 8% annual growth rates boosted by India’s skilled English-speaking workforce, booming consumer class and increased technology adoption.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India’s IT industry revenue could exceed $650 billion by 2030, benefitting from high global demand for software services and digital transformation across verticals. Telecom sector growth will speed up with the 5G and 6G rollout over the next decade, enabling digital connectivity and innovations serving as backbone for Digital India.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Financial services sector growth would be aided by rising incomes, higher penetration of formal credit channels and proactive policy efforts on financial inclusion of MSMEs. Insurance market is projected to reach $250 billion in retail premiums while bank credit may see 3x expansion by 2030 supported by a conducive regulatory ecosystem.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The education sector has witnessed a surge in e-learning solutions, vocational training and public-private partnerships in R&D activities to equip over 500 million skilled workforce by 2030, catering to domestic and global economy. By tapping the medical tourism and wellness industry, India can witness massive expansion in healthcare services over the next 10 years.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Infrastructure Building</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Central government capital expenditure on infrastructure could exceed Rs 30 lakh crore between 2023 and 2028 on diverse projects spanning transport networks expansion, power sector investments, clean energy capacities, digital connectivity and urban rejuvenation programmes filtering down to construction demand uptick across industrial, commercial and residential segments over the next decade.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Annual infrastructure spending would average over $250 billion between 2025 and 2040 centred around PM Gati Shakti National Masterplan, aiming for integrated planning and synchronised infrastructure development across 1,700 projects.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The transport infrastructure augmentation across rail, roads, ports and waterways network will halve freight and passenger traffic times, reduce fuel consumption by 15-20% benefitting from multi-layer planning of connectivity corridors. Government’s capital outlay and viability gap funding for infrastructure serves as a growth catalyst for private sector investments across large foundation laying down payments.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For sustainable growth, 50% of India’s electricity capacity addition would be via non-fossil fuel sources aligned to the goal of achieving 500 Gigawatts renewable energy by 2030 to meet half of total capacity through green routes. Development of new industrial cities, specialised manufacturing clusters and economic zones integrated with multimodal transport links and renewable power will shape India into a global manufacturing and innovation hub over the long term.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Agriculture Modernisation</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">India’s agriculture sector is undergoing steady transformation via significant productivity gains, efficient irrigation techniques, integrated farming practices, organised supply chains and adoption of agriculture-technology, which aim to raise farm incomes on a sustainable basis contributing up to 18% of GDP by 2040.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thrust on micro-irrigation coverage to rise from 10 million hectares currently to 25 million hectares by 2030, combined with precision-agriculture adoption techniques, can raise major crop yields substantially while rationalising cultivated area. Effective implementation of reforms spanning unified national marketplaces for agri-trade, legalisation of contract farming and private sector investments in supply chain along with adequate price support can enable stable farmer incomes insulating against output price risks and climate uncertainties over the long run.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Livestock, horticulture and fisheries sectors also provide tremendous scope for investments in productivity, value addition by food processing companies benefitting from diversified export opportunities that can triple agri-exports to over $100 billion by 2030 benefitting farmers immensely while enhancing India’s farm sector competitiveness globally across select crops, spices, marine products and organic segment.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Overall Growth</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Effective policy action across above sectors can stimulate GDP growth to average 7-8% over 2023-2040, facilitating the transition to a high middle-income economy by 2032 and doubling aggregate income per capita to $5000 by 2040 benefitting from a limited period demographic dividend till 2050.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Such rapid expansion would make India the world’s third-largest economy nearing $7 trillion by 2031 and potentially crossing $20 trillion by 2047 on sustained investments in human capital and infrastructure. Significant public and private capital formation is essential to uplift living standards for all sections via affordable healthcare, financial inclusion, efficient transportation solutions and digital economy ecosystem.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">With over 90% of India’s working-age population projected to be skilled by 2050 and increased women’s workforce participation, India will have abundant economic prospects to transition into a high productivity-high income country over the coming decades.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Critical Enablers</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Realising sustained 7-8% GDP growth for India over the next 25 years calls for effective policy initiatives and continued reforms across following dimensions:</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Incentives for Industrial Capabilities: </b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Providing performance-linked incentives for major manufacturing sectors in electronics, textiles, and food processing will be crucial to expand export competitiveness. Cluster-based special economic zones and industrial digital transformation via emerging technologies adoption are imperative for job-creation.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Demographic Dividend and Human Capital: </b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Leveraging India’s young workforce causes increasing public health spend from 1% to 3% of GDP by 2030, ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare for all. Implementing the vision of universal school education and initiatives like Gati Shakti University grants for priority science and technology domains will amplify innovation and skill-building.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Infrastructure Boost:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> The government’s capital investments in multi-modal connectivity projects integrated through the Gati Shakti portal aims at synchronised infrastructure building across over 1700 projects expanding economic opportunities to the grassroots, spurring growth equitably.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Technology Adoption:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> India must rapidly increase digital penetration currently at 50% to over 90% population coverage by 2030 by providing affordable access to digital public goods in regional languages which can significantly improve ease of living, efficiency of welfare schemes and extend market access to remote corners.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Sustainability Focus: </b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Adopting sustainable mobility pathways, renewable energy usage targets across electric vehicles, green hydrogen and localising production for chemicals and electronics can provide resilience to energy price uncertainty triggered by geo-political events. Implementing climate resilient urban development will also insulate populations from extreme weather events.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Financial Inclusion:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Expanding access and usage of formal credit, insurance channels and digital payments ecosystem for India’s large unbanked population will channel domestic savings into productive investments more effectively. Extending integrated financial services covering credit, insurance, pensions, particularly for workers in informal economy, will propel formalisation.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Institutional Reforms:</b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Rapid economic growth needs efficient public delivery systems via institutional reforms across judiciary, police, bureaucracy combined with extensive technology adoption and data-driven performance management for transparency and accountability.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Risk Monitoring</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Prudent fiscal policies, expanding social security coverage and rapid technology adoption across sectors will help address periodic downside risks preventing sustained rapid growth.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Countering global demand slowdown requires counter-cyclical expenditures by the government, combined with policies encouraging domestic consumption and attracting export-oriented FDI inflows. Rapidly changing global trade policies cause aligning India with high-quality certifications, becoming part of select GVCs by forging strategic partnerships.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Climate adaptation strategies covering irrigation, coastal areas, climate-sensitive sectors are vital to deal with risks of climate change given India’s high exposure. In addition, clean energy investments, energy efficiency mandates and EV adoption programs can provide resilience to fossil fuel price volatility.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Expanding cyber security systems, upgrading critical </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="background: rgb(80, 151, 255);">Information and Communication Technology</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> infrastructure proactively, and implementing stringent personal data policies will counter rising threats of large-scale disruptive cyber attacks.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Developing heat and drought resilient crop varieties, R&D investments, micro irrigation coverage expansion and distribution efficiency enhancement are essential to counter periods of water stress constraining agriculture output.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">By pursuing economic reforms decisively, adopting emerging technologies proactively and monitoring risks judiciously, India seems well within reaching its aspirational growth targets, translating into substantive welfare gains for the entire population over the coming decades. Real GDP growth averaging 7-8% on a sustained basis from 2023 to 2047 can facilitate India’s transition into a developed nation status by 2047 benefitting immensely from its demographic dividend.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-48383129799385620512023-12-28T07:38:00.004+05:302023-12-28T07:38:53.962+05:30 Hinduism, Hindutva and Neo-Hindus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpThK9cayElBelQWswbuGDam1PUxU-XiwW5dV7q3iQZFcEYQY9YcIDyvVImFbeEy7Ss8DhDqYBeOIzLgrtFOM1JCO6inkiwtEcuYmWo43S1gW_TwwtVMrHRtDgG92pp8JPHxgbrM8nG_87unh3xMfeyU4Xxo6pIV2ZLyEkD7d-5q8jUtYoGGFKKcTvfF9/s1920/thumbnail.hindism.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpThK9cayElBelQWswbuGDam1PUxU-XiwW5dV7q3iQZFcEYQY9YcIDyvVImFbeEy7Ss8DhDqYBeOIzLgrtFOM1JCO6inkiwtEcuYmWo43S1gW_TwwtVMrHRtDgG92pp8JPHxgbrM8nG_87unh3xMfeyU4Xxo6pIV2ZLyEkD7d-5q8jUtYoGGFKKcTvfF9/w400-h225/thumbnail.hindism.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><a href="https://youtu.be/L-ANt-mIFx0" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">After decades of efforts, Hinduism—an inclusive way of life—has been successfully transformed into a concrete, exclusivist political ideology—Hindutva.</span></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Of course, the Hindutva ideology is not exactly new. It first emerged in the early 20th century, when Hindu nationalism started asserting itself. The main ideological foundations of Hindutva can be traced back to Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who planned the concept of Hindutva in his 1923 pamphlet titled ‘Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?’. He defined a Hindu as someone who considers India as their motherland and the land of their ancestors. Savarkar promoted the idea that India belongs to those who descend from Hindu culture. His ideas helped lay the groundwork for a movement aimed at making India an ethnic Hindu nation state.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In 1925, K.B. Hedgewar, a physician from central India, founded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) or ‘National Volunteer Organisation’, which became the principal organisation behind the propagation of the Hindutva ideology. The RSS began with the stated goal of promoting Hindu unity and culture. Hedgewar and M.S. Golwalkar, his successor, infused the RSS with the zeal to work for spreading the notion of Hindu nationalism and the belief that Indian culture and identity should be defined solely by Hinduism.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In 1951, Syama Prasad Mookerjee founded the political party named Bharatiya Jana Sangh, which translated the RSS’s cultural nationalism objectives into a political program. The Jana Sangh called for the establishment of India as a Hindu state and the preferential treatment of Hindus in India. While the Jana Sangh was not able to garner widespread support in elections initially, it set the stage for a political vehicle to advance Hindutva ideology nationwide.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In 1980, the Bharatiya Janata Party succeeded Bharatiya Jan Sangh as the flag bearer of Hindutva. When the popularity of the Indian National Congress among the people of India started declining, time was ripe for Hindutva to make a concerted bid for taking the centre-stage in the national politics. It began to aggressively promote Hindutva’s one nation, one culture, and one people ideals. Decades of promoting anti-minority, especially anti-Muslim, sentiments triggered Hindu anxieties about their status in their own land. The Ayodhya Ram Temple dispute came in handy for giving a concrete shape and direction to these anxieties, which were further fuelled by the rise of Khalistan violence against Hindus in Punjab. Let us not forget that the Khalistan movement turned virulent during mid 1970s and continued for almost two decades. This has, so far, been an underestimated factor in the shifting of loyalties among Hindus from INC to BJP.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The turning point arrived when BJP’s Atal Bihari Vajpayee led the NDA to power. The coalition’s tenure lasted from 1998 to 2004. It was during this period that the Gujrat bloodbath happened in 2002, which shifted focus from the Vajpayee-Advani duo to Narendra Modi.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The ascent of Narendra Modi represented Hindutva’s full consolidation. Modi came to power by showcasing Hindu nationalist priorities like revoking Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy and building the Ram temple. Since taking office, Modi’s BJP government has implemented major Hindutva ideological policies including stripping Jammu and Kashmir of statehood, building the Ayodhya Ram temple, and discriminating against Indian Muslims through measures like the Citizenship Amendment Act which fast-tracks Indian citizenship for non-Muslim migrants only.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Through the vehicles of organisations like the RSS and an ascendant BJP, Savarkar’s Hindutva ideology has spread widely and deeply to dominate significant sections of society and politics in contemporary India. However, there are still major opponents of Hindutva in India ranging from minority groups to liberals to the Indian National Congress party. The future trajectory of Hindutva faces these countervailing ideological and political forces, which continue to challenge Hindu nationalism. Hindutva has clearly come a long way from its peripheral origins in the early 20th century writings of Savarkar to emerge as one of the most potent sociopolitical forces shaping 21st century India.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Often, people consider Hindutva as Hinduism’s synonym, which is incorrect. Hinduism is an ancient religion that originated several millennia ago on the Indian subcontinent. As a religious tradition lacking any single founder, scripture, or central religious authority, Hinduism encompasses a broad spectrum of philosophies and practices. Traditional Hinduism is pluralistic and tolerant of diverse beliefs, idol worship, and individualistic spiritual pursuits within the faith.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In contrast, Hindutva espouses the view that India should be an ethnic Hindu nation state that privileges Hindu culture and identity. Hindutva is focused on establishing Hindu political power and creating a sense of collective belonging as part of a wider Hindu community, rather than pursuing individual moksha or spiritual liberation emphasised in traditional Hinduism.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Traditional Hinduism recognises India’s religious diversity and believes all religions can co-exist harmoniously together. But Hindutva believes that Islam and Christianity are alien to Indian culture brought by foreign invaders. They promote the idea that India belongs to Hindus, while Muslims & Christians remain outsiders.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For traditional Hindus, their guiding texts include ancient scriptures like the Vedas and Upanishads, which deal extensively with spiritual concepts like dharma, karma and self-realisation. In contrast, Hindutva relies principally on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar’s “Essentials Of Hindutva” and M.S. Golwalkar’s “Bunch Of Thoughts” that outline Hindu supremacy and nationalism. The traditional Hindu texts do not comment on politics and nation states.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Regarding the position and treatment of minorities, especially Muslims and Christians, traditional Hinduism preaches equal respect for all humanity and granting refuge to those persecuted in their homeland irrespective of religion. However, Hindutva looks at Indian minority religious groups with inherent suspicion bordering on hostility regarding their Indianness and national loyalties.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In interpreting history, traditional Hinduism has an open view that recognises and understands complex developments. Hindutva relies predominantly on cherry picked interpretations of historical events to project a narrative of Hindu victimhood at the hands of erstwhile Muslim and British colonisers in order to stoke grievances. For example, medieval Muslim rule and temple destructions are overemphasised, while positive interactions between faiths are underrepresented.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Last, for identity, traditional Hinduism considers a shared humanity as the ultimate unifying identity for all rather than any race, religion, nationality etc. Hindutva fixates on establishing a consolidated Hindu identity defeating internal divisions by caste or language to present a monolithic force against perceived external threats, specially from Islam and the West. The flexibility of identity within Hinduism stands in stark contrast to Hindutva’s narrow reconceptualization.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thus, while traditional Hinduism provides the ancient religious bedrock which Hindutva builds upon, they clearly differ substantially in their core philosophies, objectives, and worldviews. Traditional Hinduism remains oriented towards spiritual goals and an inclusive, harmonious society allowing for diverse approaches. In contrast, Hindutva focuses on modern ethno-religious nationalism and creating a hegemonic Hindu supremacist state dominating minorities. Despite some proponents’ claims, Hindutva cannot be conflated with long standing pluralistic Hindu religious traditions.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">So, why am I using the term Neo-Hindus? Shouldn’t Hindu or Hindutva-vadi be enough?</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Actually, the ascendancy of political Hindutva ideology over the last century has reshaped modern Hindu identity, practices and mobilisation that can be characterised as giving rise to Neo-Hindus. Here are some of the principal arguments supporting this linkage:</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">First, Hindutva introduces religion directly into politics, not traditionally seen in Hinduism’s pluralistic worldviews. The post-1990s wave of Hindu nationalism has led to new assertive forms of Hindu identity where religion becomes tightly intertwined with national loyalty, governance and developmental priorities. This politicised Hinduism contrasts with the apolitical, individual-focused, pre-modern religious identity.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Second, Hindutva reorders inter-religious relationships, especially with minorities like Muslims and Christians in adversarial ways, casting them as threatening outsiders. This ignores Hinduism’s historic tolerance and syncretism, creating groups like Sangh Parivar that encourage distrust and conflict with these communities through methods like forced conversions programs.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Third, new Hindu social & political participation patterns encouraged by Hindutva undermine traditional caste boundaries and religious hierarchies that dominated Hindu society for centuries. This gives urgency to forging a singular Hindu political identity above all other divisions, enabling lower castes to also invoke religious justifications for their aspirations in unprecedented ways.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thus, through its refashioning Hindu identity into a homogenised religious nationalism centred on securing political power and carving a monolithic Hindu majoritarian state, Hindutva enables the emergence of kinds of Hindu beliefs, groups and behaviours properly understood as Neo-Hindu formations.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>The Case Against Hindutva Only Birthing Neo-Hindus</b></span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">However, there are also strong counterarguments disputing that today’s Neo-Hindu groups or religious identity transformations are primarily driven by Hindutva alone. These opposing points include:</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">First, many dynamics shaping Hinduism’s modern evolution, like urbanisation, new economic aspirations and desire for social mobility predate and are independent of Hindutva’s narratives. So, changes often attributed to Hindutva may actually reflect underlying societal transitions.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Second, while repurposing religion for political goals, Hindutva equally draws upon longstanding traditional Hindu symbols, myths and concepts of Hindu Rashtra dating back millennia. So it’s not creating novel religious fabric, only amplifying selective ancient aspects in a rupture from Hinduism’s typical tolerance and gradual evolutionary processes.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Third, groups dubbed as Neo-Hindus today like spiritual gurus or WhatsApp-connected networks are more directly traceable to modern technology and economic shifts enabling access to globalised information and new age ideologies that repackage Hindu tenets. Rather than Hindutva politics, individualised expression and entrepreneurial branding shape these spiritual movements more deeply.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thus, in reality, the perceived forms of Neo-Hinduism today draw from diverse factors like urbanisation, technology shifts and access to international mobility or ideas that cannot be simplistically reduced to Hindutva alone without overlooking deeper societal transformations reshaping modern Hinduism’s journey.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">So, we can say that while Hindutva creates a version of politicised Hindu identity and relationships with minority faiths at odds with Hinduism’s traditional pluralism, the phenomenon of Neo-Hinduism stems from more complex interplay of forces in a rapidly evolving India. One must be cautious of mono-casual ideological explanations that cannot capture these nuances accurately. But Hindutva seems to provide enabling political space for these multifaceted factors to spawn newer incarnations of Hindu thought and practice quite different from older static traditions. The actual extent of this contribution relative to other drivers remains hotly debated still today.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-59251279262076110092023-12-15T20:53:00.000+05:302023-12-15T20:53:03.066+05:30 Pakistan’s Curse<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLJFudozn5N4Hzy663KKYxT1O2__mxs_BF_3p6je6VCP-hJvoqk9otTpxf9L4dbBT3RyMBaUmQP4t5vIXaQXPozLKHekqJNWkvIC7VMX3PAGgELY5jBgcd0COXDgasDi0xVQr_Nh8a1V0rqDwwxjoftYPGj1vnmIwUTLQzfAUgoWaftGurnQo0EAuNUqF/s1920/pak%20curse%20thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLJFudozn5N4Hzy663KKYxT1O2__mxs_BF_3p6je6VCP-hJvoqk9otTpxf9L4dbBT3RyMBaUmQP4t5vIXaQXPozLKHekqJNWkvIC7VMX3PAGgELY5jBgcd0COXDgasDi0xVQr_Nh8a1V0rqDwwxjoftYPGj1vnmIwUTLQzfAUgoWaftGurnQo0EAuNUqF/w400-h225/pak%20curse%20thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p align="left" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><a href="https://youtu.be/84JxmDVCJI4" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Will Pakistan cease to exist as a state? Are the threats to its existence real and insurmountable?</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Actually questions about Pakistan’s viability and durability as a state have been raised off and on ever since its birth. These became sharper after the formation of Bangladesh but died down over the years. However, in the post-Zia-ul-Haq phase, more and more people have focused on Pakistan’s viability.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Let us have a brief look at the various challenges facing Pakistan.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Economic Viability:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan’s economy stands at a crucial moment, as longstanding structural weaknesses threaten to derail its positive trajectory in the absence of reforms. Over 240 million citizens’ welfare depends on sustainable expansion. So, it becomes essential to replace the current consumption-dominant model, which is marked by poor investment in productivity and human capital, with an export oriented model of development.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan’s failure to expand its tax revenue base, which contributes a paltry 13% to its GDP, has hit its development aspirations hard. The low industrial base has become a major cause for inadequate investment in health, education and other vital public services. A high 90% debt-to-GDP ratio and import-driven economy have led to abysmally low rate of job creation. Pakistan needs to look beyond textiles to strengthen its industrial base. Similarly, it needs to significantly increase the agricultural yields to absorb its rural labour force.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">While remittances and external partnerships provide temporary relief, over-reliance on overseas patronage is unsustainable amid global downturn risks. The perpetual political turmoil from alternating civilian and military governments unnerves investors seeking stable policy environments and robust regulatory frameworks which are essential for corporate planning.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan must pursue multilayered economic reforms simultaneously to reorient from consumption to investment-focused foundations. Improving tax machinery and widening the formalised enterprise base can expand revenue streams for spending on human development that uplifts productivity. Special export zones, public-infra partnerships, agricultural revamps and leveraging information technology for growth provide immense potential.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">But reform sustainability requires a strong political leadership with a will to do the right thing. Nurturing democracy by empowering civil society and fostering new political talent offers a huge scope for stability. This will enable visionary governments to pursue structural changes and create the space for long-term planning. With its bulging youth population eager for opportunities, Pakistan cannot afford business as usual. Economic revival beckons via far-sighted reforms before demography overwhelms the state’s capacity. Embracing competitiveness and accountable governance holds the key to lasting prosperity.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Political Viability</span></strong></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan’s turbulent democratic transition remains captive to unelected centres of power. This has deprived Pakistan of a civilian supremacy that alone can lead to meaningful consolidation. Let us be clear, Pakistan’s polity is in a dangerous disarray as accountability has been given a short shrift. Short-lived civilian governments beholden to the military establishment have become Pakistan’s curse.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan’s military dominates not only its national security policies but almost every aspect of decision making at all levels. It enjoys outsized budgets, nuclear custodianship and intelligence apparatus control. Add to that civilian incompetence and the misery of Pakistani politics becomes complete. Military top brass have monopolised the nation’s commercial assets, including infrastructure, real estate and manufacturing. There is complete opacity when it comes to the working of military-owned influential conglomerates like the Fauji Foundation.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">This powerful economic clout directly enables political interference. The army is the ultimate arbiter in making and breaking political leadership. Although sporadic attempts at transparency and streamlining asset holdings signal positive if modest shifts, these lack depth to ensure the military’s subservience to representative oversight.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The military is unlikely to ever voluntarily cede its backseat driver policy. Constant political turmoil hampers governance capabilities essential for voter trust and party growth. With divided opposition parties immersed in personality platforms rather than institution building, public faith in democratic progress suffers.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">While Pakistan’s vibrant media and civil society provide checks against excess, true civilian supremacy requires military confinement to strict constitutional bounds. Asset transparency and real democratic oversight would signal meaningful reform, reinforcing independence from personal interests. In the absence of necessary course corrections, the present hybrid rule leaves faith in democratic evolution tenuous among disenchanted citizens.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Societal</span></strong></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Religious minorities face growing intolerance, violence, and unequal justice as extremist elements have hijacked the state and the society. Jinnah’s successors showed little respect for his vision of an egalitarian Muslim homeland. Ideological divisions have only sharpened over decades.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Blasphemy laws disproportionately target minority faiths like Hindus and Christians with mandatory death sentences for vague offences. They are frequently subjected to mob abuse over mere accusations. When a fanatical group is banned under international pressure, it re-emerges under an alternative name, retaining reactionary support. Mainstream assimilation of radical interpretations has only strengthened the anti-minority culture in Pakistan.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Meanwhile, the Talibanisation trends, which have been spreading since the 1980s Afghan jihad, have powerfully reinforced sectarian divides, giving rise to militancy. Moral policing campaigns by clerics in different parts of Pakistan have become a norm. Weak and sporadic fightback by the civil society has only produced nationwide militant networks like the TTP, killing over 70,000 Pakistanis by some accounts, until recent military actions reversed the tide.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Extremism persists through civic, religious indoctrination and online pathways. This has infected the educated youth and diaspora alike. The trend towards identity based consolidation has strengthened. While counter-movements gradually mobilise to reclaim moderate ground, mass-scale societal transformation remains uncertain without muscular state efforts.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In order to redeem the long forgotten vision of a democratic, liberal Pakistan it is essential to enforce constitutional protections for women, minorities, dissenters and cultural freedom. There is a strong need for regulation of madrasas and implementing counter-radicalisation programs.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The unresolved clash between ideological conformity and pluralistic tolerance leaves Pakistan at crossroads. It remains to be seen whether repressive uniformity enforced through militant and majoritarian channels prevails further; or whether societal resilience will stem the radical tides. In the latter case, it would be a tremendous progress towards building an inclusive civic nationalism. Otherwise, minority alienation and extremist mainstreaming is guaranteed. Only powerful reforms, which firmly re-channel the state policy against appeasing radicals, can guarantee a hope for reconciliation.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan needs to take urgent steps for course correction. Otherwise, the damage by decades of misrule and persecution will become irreversible. They need to learn lessons from the Bangladesh experience.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan’s judiciary:</span></strong></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan’s courts have an indispensable duty as guardians of justice and law. However, they remain mired in contradictions, which undermine their institutional independence. This deters them from dispensing genuine justice and protect the rights of common citizens. </span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Despite spearheading democratic pushback against a former dictator’s overreach, Pakistan’s Supreme Court soon condoned fresh infringements, resulting in the weakening of elected governments. The judicial flip-flopping hints at prolonged military influence over judicial processes, which frequently result in the enabling of coups and legitimising swearing-in ceremonies before pliant benches, with dissent brutally silenced over the decades.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Lower courts fare worse with obsolete policing laws and mounting case backlogs, which erode timely justice. Torture and corruption nurture a culture of impunity. Military interference destabilises civilian authority in the name of accountability, sparing establishment figures and fuelling allegations of bias against political class.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Reducing the military’s overbearing influence over judicial mechanisms remains essential to nurture consistency, merit and integrity as nonpartisan arbiters. There is an urgent need for rehabilitating institutional credibility as stewards of justice, and not saboteurs of democracy.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Geopolitical</span></strong></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan’s strategic location at the crossroads of major regions leaves its viability hostage to intense great power competition. This has resulted in serious difficulties for Pakistan’s act of balancing between major powers. Presently, strong Chinese ties have expanded with massive Belt & Road infrastructure investments topping $28 billion. China has also become an important partner in security cooperation against India. The deeper partnership aligns mutual interests but also risks over-dependence. Although the USA has resumed aid, differences persist over Taliban policy in Afghanistan and nuclear weapons. </span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Gulf partners like Qatar provide economic lifelines enabling temporary relief. However, perpetual conflict with neighbouring India remains the biggest long-term drain on Pakistan’s resources and stability. Four wars and border clashes have defined ties since independence. Water disputes over Kashmiri glaciers risk escalation as climate impacts accelerate. Terrorism threats invite retaliation like the 2019 Balakot strikes. Although both have nuclear weapons that deter a full-scale war, miscalculation dangers exist.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Ultimately, despite its useful global partners, Pakistan cannot fulfil its economic potential without resolving outstanding crises. Constitutional settlement of Kashmir is indispensable to enable democratic consolidation domestically and unlock regional development through South Asian integration. In the absence of fundamental rapprochement that will allow relaxation of sanctions and connectivity, the unfinished business of Partition will haunt future generations indefinitely. Resolving the Kashmir impasse holds the key towards lasting viability through fostering reconciliation over retribution.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In conclusion, we can say that Pakistan faces intense economic, political, and social pressures undermining its viability. It requires comprehensive reform before instability overwhelms its fragile foundations. Despite its vital geopolitical location and partnerships, dysfunctional power dynamics stunt its democratic evolution and social cohesion.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Military dominance over nominal civilian rule manifests through weak political parties, which cannot foster grassroots legitimacy while radical elements subvert inclusive nationalism. Perpetual external conflicts drain resources. Economic takeoff remains hampered by instability.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Pakistan’s leaders must urgently overhaul dysfunctional governance and social contracts through constitutional reforms that will power-sharing, and end internal colonisation. Imaginative visions summoning unified reconstruction can re-channel youth towards sustainable democracy. Reviving Pakistan’s promise as a secular state is indispensable for realising its remarkable potential through urgent structural reboot.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Do they have the political will for taking up this task? Only time will tell.</span></p><p align="justify" class="western" style="background: none; direction: ltr; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.25cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><br /><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-79827531148170075882023-12-06T08:09:00.004+05:302023-12-06T08:09:56.169+05:30 Create a credible alternative to rightist politics<p><br /></p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia04ioc7Z85NHI5VfbRYm4fNh8QHUwUbEEhyvwKRe0RdfssZWwWo1DjFVevdWkb16jsIA9zeiCjuXfjBbPjO2rp7JXSyiHqLyJ_hBSjWRxcRD9hNfjTBFJsDhlBBcIFIdrei6boTPPFx_3q-TsX79CagNxXmeDm_EVUS33vO6eEs2hsVxtxX86IOAHRkl5/s1920/inc%202024%20thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia04ioc7Z85NHI5VfbRYm4fNh8QHUwUbEEhyvwKRe0RdfssZWwWo1DjFVevdWkb16jsIA9zeiCjuXfjBbPjO2rp7JXSyiHqLyJ_hBSjWRxcRD9hNfjTBFJsDhlBBcIFIdrei6boTPPFx_3q-TsX79CagNxXmeDm_EVUS33vO6eEs2hsVxtxX86IOAHRkl5/w400-h225/inc%202024%20thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b><i><a href="https://youtu.be/eiUcUAo6aBg" target="_blank">YouTube</a></i></b></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Many analysts are telling us how and why the Indian National Congress lost in the recent state elections, barring Telangana, of course. They did not get the caste combination right in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. There was infighting. Finally, superior strategy and organisational skills won the day for BJP. All these are correct. But a fundamental flaw has crept into the way Indian National Congress functions.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Just ask yourself one question, “Why is it that despite the fact no corruption charges could be proved against UPA ministers, people are prepared to believe the worst about the Congress. Despite the growing number of criminals and corrupt in the BJP fold, why have people shown faith in the Modi regime repeatedly?”</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">There are no simple answers. But some readily come to mind.</p>
<ol>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Image Problem: </b>What does the Indian National Congress stand for? A simple answer should have been Secularism, Liberalism and Socialism. But, its leaders go out of their way to prove their Hindu credentials. They flaunt their castes publicly and indulge in caste identity politics. Almost all of them lead a feudal lifestyle. They are rich, propertied and arrogant. All these go against the very fundamentals of the Congress.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Outreach</b>: The Congress cadre is defunct. There are very few young people in Congress who would dedicate themselves to promoting the party at the grassroots level. And the few that exist are not clear about what they have to convey to the masses except singing songs in praise of the Dynasty. Rahul has tried to break this habit, but it is apparently ineffective.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Structural Flaws</b>: State Congress Committees are a mess. There is hardly any worthwhile interaction among the members regularly.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Poor Organisation and Communication skills</b>: The Party becomes active only when elections are around. After the elections, a perfunctory atmchintan is done and then everybody goes into hibernation. Poor messaging on social media is another problem. Nobody knows what the party actually stands for.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Lack of new talent in the party: </b>Either the party doesn’t have talented leaders in its ranks or none exists. They constantly fall back on the old guard or their descendants.</span></li>
</ol>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>What needs to be done?</b></p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The following steps need to be taken first. These are preliminary but essential for the Party’s rejuvenation.</p>
<ul>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Develop a clear and comprehensive vision:</b> The INC needs to articulate a clear and compelling vision for the future of India that resonates with the aspirations of the people. This vision should address key issues like economic development, job creation, social justice, environmental sustainability, and national security. The party leaders should be genuinely dedicated to the party’s core values of secularism, socialism, and liberalism.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Focus on core values:</b> The party should re-emphasise its commitment to its core values of secularism, inclusivity, and social justice. This will help attract voters who are concerned about rising religious polarisation and social inequality. The party should reassert its commitment to the development of scientific temper among its members and the public.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Present practical solutions:</b> The INC needs to move beyond mere criticism and offer concrete solutions to the problems facing the country. This requires developing well-researched policy proposals and demonstrating a commitment to implementation. They need to have specialist professionals to evaluate and formulate policies on different issues like economic, defence and strategic matters, international affairs, environment, education and social justice, etc.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Focus on development and welfare:</b> The party should prioritise issues related to economic development, poverty reduction, healthcare, education, and rural development. This will appeal to a broader spectrum of voters and counter the BJP’s focus on nationalism and Hindutva.</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>Communication and Outreach:</b></p>
<ul>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Effective communication strategy:</b> The INC needs to develop a more effective communication strategy to reach out to voters and communicate its message clearly. This includes utilising traditional media, and social media platforms, and engaging in direct dialogue with the public. It will be a good idea to promote new TV news channels that will be thoroughly professional and capable of countering the divisive narratives propagated by the current Godi Media. A framework is needed for regular discussions and debates on various issues facing the party and the nation. The members should be encouraged to air their views on an issue, even if these contradict those of the senior leadership. Fresh ideas should be welcomed and brainstormed regularly. This will require a system of two-way communication system.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Build a stronger connect with the youth:</b> The party needs to invest in engaging with young people and addressing their concerns. This includes creating platforms for youth dialogue, promoting youth leadership, and incorporating their perspectives into policy development. It is quite clear that the INC has not yet tapped into the vast majority of youth for fresh talent and ideas. The party makes do with what is immediately available to them in the form of existing leaders’ progeny. There is a need to set up a structured machinery for recruiting young men and women at the grassroots level. They need to be educated about the party’s healthy traditions and ideals. It is time to get rid of the Old Guard. They have not only outlived their utility to the party but also represent all that is wrong with the party. Frankly, they have no place in the politics of 21st-century India. There is a need for grooming and inducting younger leaders who are free of the feudal mindset and have a clear vision for 21st-century India. The party needs to promote and empower younger leaders to bring fresh perspectives and energy into the organisation. This will help connect with younger generations of voters and project a more dynamic image. With the Gandhi family’s waning popularity, the INC lacks a credible face to take on Prime Minister Modi and the BJP’s formidable election machinery nationally. Internal power struggles and the lack of new national figures coming through make this an enduring weakness.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Focus on regional issues:</b> The INC needs to tailor its campaign messages and strategies to address the specific issues and concerns of each region and community. This will demonstrate a commitment to understanding the diverse needs of the Indian people.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Build alliances:</b> The INC should form alliances with other regional and national parties to broaden its appeal and increase its chances of electoral success. However, such alliances should be based on shared values and a common vision for the future.</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>Building a Strong Ground Game:</b></p>
<ul>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Strengthen grassroots organisation:</b> The INC needs to strengthen its grassroots organisation by mobilising party workers, building local networks, and engaging in community outreach programs. This will help connect with voters at the individual level and build a sound foundation for electoral success. The INC’s organisational structure needs to be revamped to make it more efficient and responsive to the needs of the electorate. This includes strengthening the party’s local units and improving its communication channels. It is high time to hold elections from the grassroots level to the top. For this, it is necessary to weed out undesirable elements from the party, including the Youth Congress. New membership drive should factor in background checks to avoid entry of malcontents. The elections should be free and fair and nobody should be allowed to have a perpetual lien on the party’s decision-making bodies.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Effective election campaigning:</b> The party needs to conduct well-organised and strategically planned election campaigns. This includes utilising data analytics, targeting specific demographics, and effectively utilising resources. The INC must address internal conflicts and factionalism that have hampered its unity and decision-making. The manner in which Gehlot and Sachin Pilot remained at loggerheads in Rajasthan until the conclusion of the elections was nothing short of fatal for the party’s prospects. Similarly, the two feudal lords of Madhya Pradesh - Kamal Nath and Digvijay Singh - worked for cross purposes. The former even defied the Central Command, which resulted in a similar disaster. This requires leadership that can foster consensus and bridge the gaps between different factions within the party. Only then can election campaigning become cohesive and effective.</span></li>
<li style="color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b></b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Counter misinformation and disinformation:</b> The INC must develop effective strategies to counter misinformation and disinformation campaigns spread by the BJP and other political opponents. This requires investing in fact-checking initiatives and promoting media literacy among the public. The party needs to demonstrate transparency and accountability to regain public trust. This includes conducting internal audits, addressing corruption allegations effectively, and holding its leaders accountable for their actions.</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Despite the claims of being the largest opposition party, the INC cannot afford to ignore the necessity of forming alliances on a long-term basis. It must realise that the regional parties do not need the INC for their survival but the other way round. Parties like TMC, DMK, RJD and JD (U) have a powerful presence in their respective states and can fight electoral battles on their own. But the Congress needs their support to check the BJP’s growing dominance at the national level.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">So, as a first step, the INC must focus on unity and coalition building. The INC must take initiatives to overcome inter-party differences and forge a united front against the BJP. This may involve compromises and power-sharing agreements, but it is crucial to present a single, credible alternative to the voters. The focus needs to be on issues that can unify the alliance partners’ base, such as economic development, unemployment, inflation, social justice, and environmental protection.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">It is the responsibility of the INC leadership to ensure that the opposition coalition presents a credible alternative to the BJP. They need to present a clear and detailed policy agenda that addresses the concerns of the electorate. This agenda should focus on issues like job creation, poverty reduction, affordable healthcare, education, and rural development.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The opposition should effectively hold the BJP government accountable for its failures and shortcomings. This includes highlighting issues like corruption, mismanagement, and human rights violations. They should be able and willing to utilise legal and constitutional tools to challenge the government’s actions, including policies that are perceived as discriminatory or against the Constitution.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>Election Campaigns</b></p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">During elections, the opposition needs to tailor their campaign messages to address the specific issues and concerns of each region and community. Local leaders and grassroots activists are crucial for mobilising voters and ensuring strong campaign organisation. The opposition should empower them and utilise their knowledge and connections.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Social media platforms can be powerful tools for reaching out to voters, especially young people. The opposition should invest in building a strong social media presence and utilise it to spread their message and mobilise support. The opposition needs to effectively counter the BJP’s Hindutva agenda and its attempts to polarise the electorate. They should promote a vision of India that is inclusive, secular, and respectful of all religions and communities.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">They should avoid going on the defensive, or resort to reactive politics. Instead, they should create a distinct narrative that focuses on inclusiveness. The opposition should campaign on a message of hope and optimism for the future. They should offer a vision of a better India that is inclusive, prosperous, and just. They should also highlight the positive achievements of past non-BJP governments and contrast them with the current government’s performance.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">However, the most important thing is to promote the values of democracy and secularism. And this is going to be a challenge given the casteist, parochial character of most of the opposition parties barring AAP and TMC. All the more reason for the opposition to emphasise their commitment to upholding the values of democracy, secularism, and the rule of law, which are fundamental to India’s identity.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">By implementing these measures and building a strong, united front, the opposition can significantly increase their chances of defeating the BJP in the 2024 General Elections. However, it is crucial to note that the path to victory will require sustained effort, strategic planning, and a consistent commitment to addressing the needs and aspirations of the Indian people.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Finally, they need to understand that the coalition should not have a limited objective of beating the BJP in elections but create <span style="text-align: left;">a distinct and enduring alternative to rightist politics.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-30338566446750655462023-12-01T15:19:00.007+05:302023-12-02T15:59:01.201+05:30A Viewpoint on the Conflict in Palestine<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3N9mb2RP42e1lpVULOy-vI6t8dl8R26st4QIvWE-1-5gbjopqXv8t_-wTBPyjdn0Su6v04Q82QIpW80ohYROU2gzXgYtrH0K9hpZM-qM79cVNV2yZkTSly8FudTsfSLsN0iLg2cqS_GksEua7Erg-7aBoOI9Vn8kBzmx87xG5zFYJH7rHGDie1Mf8kfAq/s1920/THE%20PALESTINIAN%20PROBLEM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3N9mb2RP42e1lpVULOy-vI6t8dl8R26st4QIvWE-1-5gbjopqXv8t_-wTBPyjdn0Su6v04Q82QIpW80ohYROU2gzXgYtrH0K9hpZM-qM79cVNV2yZkTSly8FudTsfSLsN0iLg2cqS_GksEua7Erg-7aBoOI9Vn8kBzmx87xG5zFYJH7rHGDie1Mf8kfAq/w400-h225/THE%20PALESTINIAN%20PROBLEM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b><i><a href="https://youtu.be/oKD1paOI4XA" target="_blank">YouTube</a></i></b></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">There has never been a time in history when there was complete peace on Earth. Since humans learned to write history, there have been numerous major and minor conflicts taking place throughout the world. While it is impossible to include them all here, we will mention a few of the enduring ones before delving deeply into the Palestine-Israel dispute that has the entire world on edge.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Territorial disputes have been raging in the South China Sea for decades now. China, Japan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan have competing claims over islands and waters. In fact, some claims date back centuries.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The civil war in Syria has been going on since 2011 between the government forces of President Assad and various rebel groups. It has been one of the 21st century’s deadliest conflicts so far.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The war in Afghanistan started in 2001 and lasted for 20 years between US-led forces and Taliban insurgents and warlords. US forces withdrew in 2021, but the conflict remains unresolved. This is because the Afghans are not prepared to accept Pakistan’s hegemony.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">In the Somali civil conflict, various factions have vied for power since the collapse of central authority in 1991. Many foreign powers have been interfering on behalf of one competing group or another.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Colombia’s civil conflict has been going on for over 50 years between government forces and rebel groups. These conflicts have resulted in over 200,000 deaths and millions of people being displaced.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">In Mexico, there are regular clashes among various drug cartels as well as between the drug lords and government security forces, resulting in high homicide rates.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Gang violence is widespread in such Latin American countries as El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. These have taken a high toll on human life.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The Northern Ireland conflict, also known as “The Troubles”, lasted for 30 years over the status of Northern Ireland. Although it ended with the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, some tensions remain.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Since 2014, Eastern Ukraine has endured violent conflict in the disputed Donbas region between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists who formed self-declared republics in Donetsk and Luhansk. Over 14,000 lives have been lost in these clashes. Despite periodic ceasefires, the enduring conflict stemming from political and ethnic tensions after Russia’s annexation of Crimea remains unresolved and exacts severe human costs.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The roots of Kosovo-Serbia tensions can be traced to the long-running disputes between Kosovo’s ethnic Albanian majority and Serbian minority. This has caused instability in the Balkans since Kosovo declared independence from Serbia.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The Mediterranean island of Cyprus has been divided since 1974 between a Greek Cypriot south and a Turkish Cypriot north following disputes between the ethnic groups.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The Basque conflict in Spain is decades old. It started in 1959 between the Spanish government and Basque separatist groups.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">However, today we shall have a look at the Palestine-Israel situation, which has become an immediate cause for global alarm. The conflict is one of the most enduring and contentious in the Middle East. At its heart is the dispute over land and rights to the area between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. This area includes the territories known as the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The roots of the conflict date back to the late 19th century, when Zionism emerged, seeking to establish a Jewish homeland. Zionist Jews immigrated in waves to Palestine, a land that had been under the control of the Ottoman Empire for centuries. Rising Jewish immigration and land purchases stirred tensions with Arab Palestinians living in the same area.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Initially, the Palestinian Arabs did not strongly resist growing Jewish immigration and land purchases. However, by the 1920s, alarm spread amongst Palestinian Arabs as more Arabs were being displaced. This turned to outrage after the UN partition plan of 1947, which proposed dividing Mandatory Palestine into Jewish and Arab states. In 1948, tensions boiled over into war following Israel’s declaration of independence, resulting in the mass displacement of Palestinians. Nearly 750,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled. Israel barred their return. They became refugees across the West Bank, Gaza, and neighbouring countries. For Palestinians, this event is remembered as the Nakba—the “Catastrophe”.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">At the end of this war, Israel controlled more land than was allotted to it under the UN plan, including the western half of Jerusalem and territory that was meant to be part of an independent Arab state. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were displaced and became refugees in neighbouring countries.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">After the 1948 war ended, Egypt controlled Gaza while Jordan annexed the West Bank of the Jordan River. Because of the boundary modifications that Israel insisted on after the war, the 1972 borders of these territories were not the same as those defined by the UN partition plan. The situation remained stable until the 1967 Six-Day War, during which Israel captured the Gaza Strip and West Bank. Israel established settlements in these occupied territories. This fuelled Palestinian anger and the emergence of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), promoting Palestinian nationalism and self-determination.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Tensions erupted into the First Intifada from 1987 to 1993, a mass Palestinian uprising against Israeli rule. Years of diplomatic stalemate followed until the Oslo Accords were signed secretly in 1993. Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat agreed to mutual recognition and a phased process leading to a permanent settlement. But Rabin was assassinated two years later, hindering peace efforts. A succession of Israeli governments continued settlement growth, and resistance from Palestinians continued as well.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Major outbreaks of violence occurred with the Second Intifada from 2000 to 2005. In 2005, Israel withdrew settlements from the Gaza Strip but maintained control of Gaza’s coastline, airspace, and border crossings. Gaza remains isolated by an Israeli blockade. Hamas later seized control there, resulting in an Israeli blockade restricting the flow of goods and people.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Since then, issues remain unresolved, and violence has periodically flared. Repeated attempts at final status negotiations have failed to produce a two-state solution—Israel and Palestine existing peacefully side-by-side.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Key obstacles blocking a settlement have persisted for decades:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>Borders/Settlements:</b> There is no consensus on borders for the two states, complicated by Israeli settlements and security infrastructure in the occupied West Bank.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>Jerusalem</b>: Both sides claim Jerusalem as their capital. There are arguments around borders in the city and control of holy sites.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>Palestinian Right of Return:</b> A major Palestinian demand is the right of return for original Palestinian refugees and their descendants displaced in 1948–1949, numbering around 5 million today. Israel rejects this as undermining Israel’s Jewish character.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>Security</b>: Israel gives utmost importance to its security and points to continued hostile acts and violence from militant Palestinian groups.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;"><b>Recognition</b>: Some Palestinian factions still do not recognise Israel’s fundamental right to exist.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Today, the Palestinian territories remain fragmented geographically and politically between the Fatah-controlled Palestinian National Authority administering pockets of the West Bank and the militant Hamas controlling Gaza. This compounds difficulties on the Palestinian side in negotiating or implementing peace agreements.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">The West Bank remains occupied by Israel. Today, there are over 600,000 Jewish settlers across 250 settlements, connected by roads largely prohibiting Palestinian movement. Palestinians face home demolitions, land confiscation, restricted freedom of movement, military raids, and arrests. Calls for formal annexation of large parts of the West Bank have increased. Palestinians are divided between supporters of Fatah in the West Bank and supporters of Hamas in Gaza, hindering reconciliation.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">Palestinian hopes are vesting in a “two-state solution” involving complete Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank and Gaza. However, because of expanding settlements and disagreement on the status of East Jerusalem, many now fear prospects are fading for a viable independent Palestinian state. The ongoing conflict continues to negatively impact the human rights, self-determination, and economic development of the Palestinian population. The ongoing bloodbath further highlights the volatility of the situation and tensions that persist. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; text-align: justify;">As the conflict continues past the 70-year mark, a just solution that resolves these complex issues and establishes permanent peace remains elusive. Generations of mistrust continue to stifle diplomatic efforts as facts on the ground shift for both Israelis and Palestinians. With political will lacking on both sides, the cycle of claim and counterclaim endures around historical wrongs. Progress seems unlikely in the present situation, which reflects what the UN warned of in 1947—that partitioning Palestine without economic union or the transfer of minority populations would neither achieve stability nor justice.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #232626; font-family: Verdana; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 19px; min-height: 17px; text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-68051008488064083182023-11-10T16:19:00.000+05:302023-11-10T16:19:07.441+05:30 The History of Abrahamic Faultlines: Judaism, Christianity and Islam<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC19W1tEWcHQNn9annR9cLFfR4rU3SLG0X7an2y3T4TQSNdKiiKVhXMWaoM6BoDEVIkNIdzusTqRX65J-naJAYWySynSqFXcQo2g3m9n6dY-FuH9hZe-4F-pP17jwoyIQJSjSCBniDtH95cMdHgeVPzsVIqeY7E4C3qqgnbIKPM4bmK4stZ2B3r0cMixD8/s1920/Thumbnail.%20Abrahamic%20Faiths.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC19W1tEWcHQNn9annR9cLFfR4rU3SLG0X7an2y3T4TQSNdKiiKVhXMWaoM6BoDEVIkNIdzusTqRX65J-naJAYWySynSqFXcQo2g3m9n6dY-FuH9hZe-4F-pP17jwoyIQJSjSCBniDtH95cMdHgeVPzsVIqeY7E4C3qqgnbIKPM4bmK4stZ2B3r0cMixD8/w400-h225/Thumbnail.%20Abrahamic%20Faiths.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><b><a href="https://youtu.be/3_2FuSu89N8" target="_blank">YouTube</a></b></p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Is the festering Arab-Israel hostility a result of power politics in the Middle East or a legacy of history or both? How have anti-Semitism and Islamophobia endured for so long? In this vlog an attempt has been made to understand the equations between the three Abrahamic communities: Jews, Christians and Muslims. We will learn that over the centuries tolerance and intolerance among these major religious denominations have either coexisted or alternated. Persecutors and victims have frequently changed places. There have been no permanent villains. Yet, the mutual antagonism and suspicion remain to this day. Although the three faiths share common origins and beliefs, their theological differences have led to centuries of recurring conflict spanning the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">The origins of tension can be traced back to the 7th century CE, when the new religion of Islam emerged in the Arabian Peninsula and spread rapidly through conquests across the Middle East and North Africa. At this time, these regions were largely inhabited by long-established Jewish and Christian communities with roots dating back centuries. As Muslims gained political and military control, Jews and Christians became marginalised under Muslim rule. One prominent early conflict arose surrounding the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, the holiest site in Judaism and the third holiest in Islam. In the late 7th century, the Umayyad Caliph Abd al-Malik constructed the Dome of the Rock shrine on the site, furthering Muslim dominance of the area. This aggravated Jewish people, who were prohibited from worshipping at their most sacred location. Overall, the Dome’s construction demonstrated the shifting religious power dynamics as the nascent Islamic empire expanded.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">During the Middle Ages, discriminatory laws were enforced against Jews and Christians living under various Muslim rulers. As “dhimmis” or non-Muslim subjects, Jews and Christians faced extra taxation and restrictions on worship, dress codes, and public roles. Violent anti-Jewish massacres also occurred, such as under the Almohad dynasty in North Africa and Andalusia from around 1140 CE. While dhimmi status was not uniformly oppressive, and some tolerance was extended, many Jewish and Christian subjects felt reduced to second-class citizens. The Crusades mark a major flashpoint of violence between the three faiths from the 11th to 13th centuries. These military campaigns were launched by European Christians hoping to wrest control of the Holy Land from Muslim rule. Besides the explicitly religious motivations, the Crusades also stemmed from a desire for military conquest and economic gains. As Christian armies made their way to the Middle East, they conducted massacres of Jews in Europe and Muslims in the Holy Land. In the Iberian Peninsula, Jews suffered persecutions at the hands of both Muslims and Christians during the medieval Reconquista period. As Roman Catholic kingdoms like Castile, Aragon and Portugal waged war against Muslim states like the Almohad and Nasrid dynasties, Jews were associated with the enemy by both sides. Thousands were killed, forcibly converted, or banished from regions as cities changed hands.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">In the late 15th century, momentous events caused turbulent change for Jews and Muslims in Spain and Portugal. First, in 1478, the Spanish Inquisition was established by Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella to root out heresy, often targeting Jews and Muslims who had converted to Christianity. Then in 1492, the same monarchs issued the Alhambra decree expelling all unconverted Jews from Spain. Finally, in 1502, King Manuel I declared Islam illegal in Portugal and forced almost all Muslims to convert or leave. These actions ended centuries of significant Jewish and Muslim presence on the Iberian Peninsula.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">The Spanish Inquisition’s persecution of religious minorities helped inspire large-scale migration into the Ottoman Empire. Ottoman Sultans welcomed displaced Jews and Muslims, although Christians still faced restrictions in the predominantly Muslim state. The Ottoman millet system granted limited autonomy to different religious communities. While not free from discrimination, the Ottoman Empire became a haven relative to the intolerance in contemporary Europe.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">In the 19th and early 20th centuries, European colonialism and imperialism contributed to rising tensions between Jews and Muslims in the Middle East. As European powers exerted influence across West Asia and North Africa, the Zionist movement emerged calling for establishment of a Jewish homeland in Ottoman Palestine. While small numbers of Jews had persisted in the region for centuries, larger waves of immigrants arrived from Europe. This influx of Jewish settlers escalated conflicts with local Arab populations. The British government issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917 expressing support for a Jewish national home, further alarming Palestinians. Violence broke out in 1920, 1921, and 1929 over Jewish immigration and access to the Western Wall. Mounting divisions erupted into all-out war surrounding Israel’s establishment in 1948, generating an ongoing legacy of violence. Across the Muslim world, animosity toward Jews increased in tandem with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even where Jewish communities unrelated to Israel had existed for generations, they faced backlash. For example, the 1945 Anti-Jewish Riots in Tripolitania killed over 100 Libyan Jews. After Israel’s independence, Jews faced persecution and were pressured to flee Muslim-majority countries like Egypt, Syria, Iraq, and Iran.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Since the foundation of Israel, tensions between Jews and Muslims beyond the Palestinian situation have remained pronounced. The Arab League enforced an economic boycott of Israel for decades, later eased after Egypt and Jordan forged peace accords. Israel has engaged in or supported wars and military operations against Muslim nations like Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and Iran. Extremist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah have launched attacks on Israeli and Jewish targets.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Moreover, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has continually incited wider anti-Semitism in the Muslim world. Negative stereotyping of Jews is common in Arab media and school curriculums. Conspiracy theories about supposed Jewish world domination proliferate widely. Holocaust denial has become increasingly mainstream. Even Muslim communities with little direct interaction with Israel have been influenced by rampant anti-Semitism. At the same anti-Muslim sentiment has been encouraged through powerful media houses in the West and elsewhere. Islamophobia has become the buzzword of 21st century.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">While historical conflicts amplified divisions between two faiths, Muslims have also come into conflict with Christians in modern times. As European imperial powers weakened in the mid-20th century, violence erupted against Christian minorities perceived as foreign agents in newly independent Muslim-majority countries. For example, hundreds of thousands of Christians fled Turkey during World War I-era genocides against Armenians and Assyrians.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Later conflicts surrounding decolonisation inflamed Muslim-Christian divisions. During Lebanon’s 15-year civil war starting in 1975, militias targeted Christian communities seen as European implants. In Egypt, after Gamal Abdel Nasser’s nationalist coup in 1952, Christians faced discrimination and even violence despite their ancient Coptic Church’s local roots. Under nationalist and Islamist governments alike, Egyptian Christians faced restrictions and attacks on churches down to the present day.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Since the late 20th century, persecution of Christian minorities has worsened amid rising religious extremism and sectarianism in the Muslim world. In countries like Pakistan, Iraq, and Syria, radical Islamist groups have carried out terrorist attacks and atrocities against Christian communities viewed as infidels. Conflicts in Sudan and Nigeria included genocidal violence against Christians by extremist militias and groups like Boko Haram.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Such contemporary cases demonstrate Christianity’s tenuous status in some Muslim societies, where secular dictatorships previously kept radicalism in check. While many Muslims espouse tolerant beliefs, extremist ideologies like militant Salafism threaten the stability and safety of Christian minorities, intensifying interfaith conflicts.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Beyond nations with Christian minorities, tensions revolving around Islam have also grown in traditionally Christian-majority Western countries in recent decades. High rates of Muslim immigration to Europe and America have been accompanied by difficulties assimilating and accommodating new diversity. Right-wing nationalist movements hostile to multiculturalism and Islam have gained traction in America and European nations like France, Germany, Poland and Hungary. Demagogues have exploited economic anxieties and fear of terrorism to demonise Muslim immigrants as national security threats or alien outsiders threatening Western culture.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Consequently, Islamophobia and anti-Muslim bigotry have become more mainstream in Western public discourse and politics. Hate crimes and mosque vandalism have risen, from hundreds of attacks annually in the U.S. to frequent incidents across Europe. You will be surprised though that Jews still face more religious hate crimes than Muslims in Europe and USA. However, anti-Muslim attacks have surged in recent years, showing how Western Islamophobia nourishes religious conflicts.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Looking back over history, the relationships between Jews, Christians, and Muslims have passed through periods of relative tolerance and cooperation as well as major phases of outright violence and persecution. Throughout the centuries, political struggles for power lie at the root of inter-communal bloodshed more so than theology alone. Yet religious identity has been deployed time and again to justify conflict.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; color: #151312; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">And in recent decades, the Israeli-Palestinian impasse, catastrophic regional wars, and resurgence of religious extremism have deepened divisions between the three Abrahamic faiths. With globalisation bringing diverse religious communities into closer contact and conflict, hopefully humanistic principles and inclusive pluralism will overcome the darker cycles of history. More than ever, fostering genuine interfaith understanding is vital to transcending ingrained prejudices and finally writing new chapters of cooperation rather than animosity.</p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-69982537096414357882023-10-28T21:21:00.002+05:302023-10-28T21:21:59.254+05:30The Samudrayaan Mission & the Marine Ecosystem<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg9TtF9QRyEq9ez1n73jsoXAMBP3PJhRuHqggOgZGQgXNQ1M7AfZ4HYkonTbRhNIVRa9vn7lHjLmcYwY22-4lRc8382Yjx-20YUnY6EQjC4NsMK4euWO5VTTK1g96dJ-LN-LVVPr_VsnCz1usxwjLwTFQ8dVQo4617nuAuF2gTAY1twiV7b4uxSS_WiTlc/s1280/samudrayaan%20thumbnail.final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg9TtF9QRyEq9ez1n73jsoXAMBP3PJhRuHqggOgZGQgXNQ1M7AfZ4HYkonTbRhNIVRa9vn7lHjLmcYwY22-4lRc8382Yjx-20YUnY6EQjC4NsMK4euWO5VTTK1g96dJ-LN-LVVPr_VsnCz1usxwjLwTFQ8dVQo4617nuAuF2gTAY1twiV7b4uxSS_WiTlc/w400-h225/samudrayaan%20thumbnail.final.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><i><a href="https://youtu.be/i4_RV_doRyQ">YouTube</a></i></b></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">The Samudrayaan Mission heralds India joining the race for mining the seabed for minerals, metals and ores. The submersible vehicle ‘MATSYA 6000’ is being fabricated at the National Institute of Ocean Technology in Chennai. While it is certainly a technological step-up from the Chandrayaan Mission, we need to understand the positives and negatives of seabed mining.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Let us first understand what are these submersible vehicles, also known as submersibles and their role in deep-sea mining. As we all know, there are five oceans on this planet: Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, Arctic, and Antarctic. The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest ocean. The average depth of the ocean is about 12,100 feet. The deepest part of the ocean is about 35876 feet. The Indian Ocean's average depth is 12,274 feet, and its deepest point is 24,442 feet. Obviously, all oceans are so deep and their submerged topography is so varied that special instruments, vessels and vehicles will be needed to explore and mine their mineral wealth. Thus, underwater robots have been designed to visualise, sample, and survey deep-sea environments, and collect information from the oceanic depths, which is then analysed for various purposes. These submersibles are capable of withstanding immense pressures while working in extreme cold and darkness. There are three types of submersibles: HOVs or Human Occupied Vehicles, ROVs or Remotely Operated Vehicles, and AUVs or Autonomous Underwater Vehicles. </p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">HOVs accommodate four or five persons. They take these persons - mostly scientists - to the oceanic depths for collecting data and samples with the help of cameras, sensors, manipulator arms etc. </p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">ROVs are tethered to a ship. The personnel manning the ship control the ROV’s functions for collecting specific data and related information. A manipulator arm is used to collect samples from the ocean’s floor. All data and samples are then analysed in laboratories to learn about the ocean’s ecosystem and the nature of minerals etc found there.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">AUVs are independent underwater robots which are deployed for exploring the oceans. These are not tethered from a ship, nor controlled by onboard operators. These are used for completing pre-planned missions without direct control from operators. AUVs have made deep-sea mapping very easy and accurate. These vehicles also collect high-resolution data, which are collected by researchers once the AUVs have surfaced. These are also extremely useful for military surveillance.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">In the Indian context, the Matsya 6000 vehicle for the Samudrayaan mission is an HOV. Its success will place India at par with the countries like the US, Russia, Japan, France, and China.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">So, why has it become necessary to explore the oceans? Well, the demand for metals and minerals for meeting the requirements of the ever-growing technology and electronics industries is experiencing an exponential boom. Cell phones, wind turbines, and electric cars require large quantities of rare and expensive metals.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">As the exploitation of onshore sources of important minerals, ores and metals is nearing saturation limits, exploring the offshore sources has become imperative. Various international explorations have discovered the existence of rich deposits of manganese, nickel, copper, and cobalt in deep ocean basins. It has been revealed that the crusts that are rich in iron and manganese also possess significant concentrations of cobalt, rare earth elements, nickel, tellurium, and platinum. The rare earth elements are widely used in smart phones, wind turbines and hybrid and electric cars. Phosphorites, which occur in the ocean as crusts or nodules, are a critical source of phosphate for fertilisers and are also being evaluated as a potential source for rare earth elements.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">India depends heavily on imports of rare earths and other strategically important minerals and metals. For example, around 90% of its rare earth metal requirements are imported from China. Since these metals are of great strategic value - as these are vital inputs for hi-tech defence related equipment and systems - such heavy dependence on a hostile country is fraught with high risk to the national security. Although these rare earths have become available within India as also in Australia and the United States, their demand is increasing phenomenally. So, Samudrayaan’s success becomes all the more imperative. This mission is going to explore the possibilities related to mining precious metals and minerals, notably cobalt, nickel, and manganese. </p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Initiated more than two years ago, Samudrayaan is estimated to cost around Rs. 4000 crores by the time it is completed in 2026. However, there are certain wrinkles in the project that need to be addressed. For instance, the vehicle, Matsya 6000, resembles the Titan submersible, which met with a tragic end on June 18 2023. The Titan submersible was owned by OceanGate Expeditions, an American Company, which took tourists to the underwater site of the Titanic luxury liner’s wreckage. As is well known, on April 15, 1912, the British ocean luxury liner Titanic sank into the North Atlantic Ocean about 400 miles south of Newfoundland, Canada. The massive ship had 2,200 passengers and crew onboard, when it struck an iceberg and sank.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Coming back to the 2023 tragedy, on that fateful day, there were five passengers aboard, including the OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush and the British billionaire Hamish Harding. The submersible Titan lost contact with its surface vessel Polar Prince after it dived into the ocean. It had about 96 hours of oxygen, but it was not enough to sustain the victims until the rescuers arrived. Clearly the submersible could not withstand the pressures of the deep sea and imploded.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Samudrayaan Mission’s scientists must have factored in the above information and also other possible risks. The Matsya-6000 submersible vehicle can withstand the deep-sea pressures for 12 hours, and is equipped to survive for 96 hours in case of an unforeseen mishap.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Even as the hunger for ores and minerals pushes countries towards exploiting the marine wealth there are deep concerns regarding the impact on environment. Let us examine these concerns:</p>
<ol>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">P<span style="background-color: white;">olymetallic nodules support complex ecosystems in the oceans. If the nodules are removed, several species will be wiped out forever. One single mining project can destroy around 9000 square kilometres of seabed in three decades. And we all know that mining operations can last for several decades.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;">Deep sea sponge and coral ecosystems - some of which have formed over thousands of years - will be destroyed. </span></li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"> Since mining will inevitably stir up the ocean floor, sediments will spread over vast areas, adversely affecting the existence of corals and sea sponges that are filter feeders. As you know, i</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #18191b;">n order obtain food, </span>sponges pass water through their bodies in a process known as filter-feeding<span style="background-color: white; color: #18191b;">. Water is drawn into the sponge through tiny holes called incurrent pores. The sediments will block these pores and smother them to death.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;">Finally, the mining operations will create different forms of pollution, There will be spills from the fuel and other chemicals. Noise, vibration and light will add to the misery of the surviving species.</span></li>
</ol>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">No matter what assurances are given, deep sea mining will have the same adverse effects on the marine ecosystems as on-land mining operations have had on our environment. </p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">The march of civilisation demands a heavy price indeed.</p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-90001380234212268012023-10-28T21:17:00.000+05:302023-10-28T21:17:13.050+05:30Resurrecting the extinct species: Is it viable and ethical?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipe56PmzhfsnbhGb0_7Czh7rpBBqnQuSG6ZHU8o6bDI8JD8nxW336_1MMGNufiDJmuvERnbB6RYThMx3eC0R4iy8y-sL81lRk52OSYB6jR0G2BuFPERRccEK5nR9oIqsvUfvmfhRPjNsHkgqz3iHwJdrBQVql-lNl4m4qAAWAc1ZPC48BgIB58KV-pcgUH/s1920/01.thumbnail%20species.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipe56PmzhfsnbhGb0_7Czh7rpBBqnQuSG6ZHU8o6bDI8JD8nxW336_1MMGNufiDJmuvERnbB6RYThMx3eC0R4iy8y-sL81lRk52OSYB6jR0G2BuFPERRccEK5nR9oIqsvUfvmfhRPjNsHkgqz3iHwJdrBQVql-lNl4m4qAAWAc1ZPC48BgIB58KV-pcgUH/w400-h225/01.thumbnail%20species.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><i><a href="https://youtu.be/dHDn_JH0CeI">YouTube</a></i></b></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Ever since the world has realised the urgent need for preserving the planet’s biodiversity, serious efforts are being made not only to preserve what we still have but also to revive the extinct species. But, why is biodiversity so important? How does it matter if an animal or plant specie vanishes forever?</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Well, biodiversity facilitates the processes that support all life on Earth. Without a wide range of animals, plants and micro-organisms, it is impossible to have healthy ecosystems which provide us with the air we breathe and the food we eat. About a third of the world’s total crop production depends on pollinators like birds, bees and other insects. Without pollinators we would not have apples, almonds, cherries and many more foods. Invertebrates help maintain the soil for agriculture. Life from the oceans provides the main source of animal protein. Trees, bushes, wetlands and grasslands slow down the flow of rainwater which enables the soil to absorb it. This helps prevent floods. With fast and unplanned urbanisation, floods have become quite common today because green cover has been destroyed over vast areas of land. We all know that trees and plants clean the air we breathe and, by absorbing carbon dioxide, help us in fighting the challenge of global climate change.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Spending time in nature is a time-tested way of improving mental and physical health.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Unfortunately, ever since the March of Civilisation picked up pace during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, countless species on land and sea have become extinct. Since 1900, at least 500 animal species and 571 plant species have become extinct. Among these are the Asiatic cheetah, Great Indian bustard, Sumatran rhinoceros, Passenger pigeon, Golden toad, Tasmanian tiger, Pink-headed duck, woolly mammoth, and the Himalayan quail etc. Among plants and trees, countless medicinal herbs and ferns have been wiped off, thanks to deforestation and mining in different parts of India, especially the Himalayas.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">There are countless more on the verge of extinction because of our insatiable hunger for mineral and forest resources. However, governments and private organisations are waking up to the looming crises. Several attempts are being made to not only preserve the surviving species but also try and revive the extinct ones using different methods, such as cloning, genetic engineering, and selective breeding. However, none of these attempts have fully succeeded in producing viable and fertile offspring that can survive in the wild. Here are some examples of the attempts and their outcomes:</p>
<ul>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e0e0e; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span>The Pyrenean ibex became extinct in 2000. In 2003, scientists developed its clone from frozen tissue. But it could not survive. </li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e0e0e; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">Australia’s</span> gastric-brooding frog swallowed its eggs and gave birth through its mouth. It became extinct in the 1980s due to habitat loss, pollution, and disease. In 2013, scientists tried to create its embryos, but failed. </li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e0e0e; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span>The woolly mammoth was a giant hairy elephant that roamed the northern regions of Eurasia and North America during the Ice Age. It became extinct about 10,000 years ago because of climate change, hunting, and habitat fragmentation. In 2015, scientists used the gene editing technique by inserting mammoth genes into elephant cells, but only succeeded in creating a hybrid.</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e0e0e; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span>The passenger pigeon was a migratory bird that once numbered in the billions in North America. It became extinct in 1914 due to overhunting and deforestation. In 2017, all attempts to revive the specie through gene editing failed. </li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e0e0e; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span>The aurochs was a wild ancestor of domestic cattle that lived throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. It became extinct in 1627 due to hunting and habitat loss. The revival attempts through selective breeding succeeded only partially, because the hybrids were genetically different from the original.</li>
</ul>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">In 2013 the National Geographic Society held an event on de-extinction to popularise the idea. Conservationists describe de-extinction as ‘deep ecological enrichment’ or restoring ecosystem functions lost through extinction. It is visualised that resurrected animals would be released into suitable habitats to increase biodiversity and revive ecosystem resilience. In other words, habitats like grasslands, forests or wetlands would be recreated for these animals, which would greatly improve carbon absorption and reverse the damage done to our environment.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">How will this de-extinction come about? Now that’s a priceless question. So far, all attempts to resurrect the extinct species have failed. But the scientist community has not given up. They are working on new bioengineering techniques to manipulate genetic material in an organism. This traditional technique, coupled with the latest gene-editing technology, has ignited hope and excitement among conservationists. In other words, genetic engineering is being looked upon as the best bet for resurrecting the extinct species. This involves cloning, gene-editing with the help of synthetic genomics, and back-breeding. These approaches are explained here.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;"><b>Cloning</b>: This technique helps produce genetically identical species. On July 5, 1996, a lamb named Dolly was born from a female sheep—the first mammal cloned from adult animal cells. The scientists generated a nuclear gene sequence identical to the donor of the non-reproductive cell. However, cloning is effective only if intact living cells are available. It has not yet proved useful in the cases of long extinct species.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;"><b>Gene Editing and Synthetic Genomics:</b> Developed in the 1990s, gene-editing manipulates a living organism’s genetic material by deleting, replacing, or inserting a DNA sequence. This technique helps in changing physical traits, like eye colour and vulnerability to infections and disease. Synthetic genomics is similar to genome editing. Synthesised DNA pieces can be novel genes or genes found in other organisms, which could help improve a specie’s survival chance or even develop a new specie altogether. However, it is not confirmed whether this technology can resurrect an extinct specie in its original form. </p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;"><b>Back-breeding: </b>Back-breeding or selective breeding can increase the presence of specific traits within a population. Back-breeding has limitations as a de-extinction approach. This method works well when the extinct species are closely related to a still-living specie. There is no guarantee that the selected characteristics will occur since the current environment is likely far different from when the extinct species walked the earth.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">De-extinction efforts are facing several challenges and controversies, including ecological and ethical. On the ethical front, it is being argued that such technologies, especially back-breeding, have the potential to change the course of natural history. Many species had become extinct because these were deprived of their habitats. Reintroducing the resurrected species into the wild may have unforeseen consequences. Many point out that de-extinction does not have positive ecological value in principle or otherwise.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 14.2px;">Perhaps, it would be more rewarding to preserve what we are left with rather than resurrect what is lost. We also need to revisit the postulation that de-extinction is not a morally permissible activity.</p><div><br /></div>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246422129804371745.post-30873154968505307102023-10-28T21:11:00.004+05:302023-10-28T21:11:53.967+05:30 The History of Our Conflicted Planet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdqCDxfbrA6oPmQBkDvl5Po73eNKjO-6pwlczpFY5xM1tnOmgUg7xXL3IprNWJ4VRnnKTavd7nAXoQ6gu4ZepJ_z0q1qDWefBS8j7FmfsaYkI6eVsv-fqF-1wbjQfRFv-4ruLmYCWvRMC6ch6im_SfKEqu5RveSn-rT3q8GC8rBmevlRPcKleUDwSHqMm/s1920/02.final%20thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdqCDxfbrA6oPmQBkDvl5Po73eNKjO-6pwlczpFY5xM1tnOmgUg7xXL3IprNWJ4VRnnKTavd7nAXoQ6gu4ZepJ_z0q1qDWefBS8j7FmfsaYkI6eVsv-fqF-1wbjQfRFv-4ruLmYCWvRMC6ch6im_SfKEqu5RveSn-rT3q8GC8rBmevlRPcKleUDwSHqMm/w400-h225/02.final%20thumbnail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><b><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://youtu.be/1jFN-Rnj-RI">YouTube</a></span></i></b></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Wars and conflicts are as ancient as the human race. Periods of peace have generally been illusionary. The recorded history is less of peaceful transformations and coexistence and more of battles and wars, turmoils and bloodshed, and riots and pogroms. Even during the prehistoric times, invasions and battles were commonplace. Apart from hand to hand fights, sticks and stones must have been the weapons of aggression both by individuals and organised groups. Later on, swords and maces, javelins, huge slings and spear-throwers became standard weapons. The stone walls of Jericho, built around 8000 BC, confirm the humanity’s warlike nature. These walls, at least 13 feet in height, and backed by a 28 feet tall watchtower, were intended to protect the settlement from human intruders. These are located in modern Palestine.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The circa 1274 BCE Battle of Kadesh, involving Egypt’s Ramses II and the Hittite Emperor Muwatalli II, is the earliest conflict recorded in history. Fought on the shores of Orantes River near the modern day borders of Syria and Lebanon, the battle ended in a stalemate and a peace treaty.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The problem with peace treaties is that they ensure anything but permanent peace. Phases of peace are temporary, often uneasy, intervals before the next phase of bloodshed begins. Stalemates and even outright victories in war do not ensure peace for any stretch of time. Otherwise the two World Wars either would not have happened, or at lease ensured permanent satiation of blood-thirst, which has not been the case.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Today, thanks to the lopsided priorities of global media, Ukraine and Palestine dominate the news headlines. But there are many other conflicts which have been tearing apart our world for decades. These conflicts are either internal to a country or international in character. Different agencies like the Global Conflict Tracker, Revise-Sociology, Rule of Law in Armed Conflict Online Portal (RULAC), and others, regularly enumerate conflicts in different parts of the world. These data tell us that:</p>
<ol>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Prominent arenas of conflict involve Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Libya, Morocco, Palestine, Syria, Turkey, Yemen and Western Sahara.</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Wars and conflicts have been going on for months and years in Ethiopia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Mali, Mozambique, Somalia, Kenya, Nigeria and the Central African Republic.</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Most of the conflicts in Asia relate to territorial disputes involving India, Pakistan, China, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Taiwan, Japan, Philippines, and several others.</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Colombia has been suffering from a series of internal armed conflicts for decades now. Drug cartels and criminal gangs have been destabilising Mexico for years. Other Latin American countries like Costa Rica, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, El Salvador, and Brazil have been facing either international disputes and conflicts or internal disruptions. </li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">In the western world, Canada’s Quebec remains a potential hotspot. In Europe, Ukraine, Cyprus, Greece, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Denmark, Finland and Russia are facing international or internal conflicts.</li>
</ol>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>What could the reasons for these conflicts be? Traditionally, we have ascribed these to colonial legacies, and rightly so. But there have been other factors at play, too. </p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Apart from turf battles among major powers like China, Russia, and the NATO, there is a scramble for natural resources on land and sea. This rivalry can turn into a full-blown international war at any time. Of late, China has been flexing its muscles in the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions, provoking the NATO powers to deploy their strategic assets there. This provides justification for the phenomenal increase in expenditure on armaments. India, Japan, Australia, USA, UK, France, China, and Russia are ratcheting up their defence expenses to unprecedented levels.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The USA has been the main culprit, when it comes to asserting hegemonic ambitions buttressed with the need for feeding its gargantuan military-industrial complex.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>According to Noam Chomsky Americans have used military force or funded the use of military force in over 50 countries since the end of World War 2. USA has over 1000 military bases worldwide, and is by far the biggest aggressor since the last century. It used its military power to overthrow democratically elected governments that do not support American Interests. Chomsky points out that if America really wanted to support freedom and democracy around the globe, then it would, by now, have tackled the oppressive communist regime in North Korea, and it wouldn’t do business with countries such as Saudi Arabia and China which have dubious records where human rights are concerned.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In his documentary, ‘The War Against Democracy’, John Piger backs Noam Chomsky’s view. The documentary points out that the use of military force against foreign governments that do not support American interests has formed the backbone of America’s foreign policy since the end of World War 2. Afghanistan and Iraq are just two in a very long list of countries that the United States has used organised state violence against. </p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>David Harvey argues that the Iraq War was really ‘all about oil’. He points out that the continued global economic and military superiority of the USA is dependent on securing for the future a reliable supply of oil, most of which lies in the Middle East.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Naomi Klein avers that the American government uses war to destroy infrastructure in developing nations so that American companies can make a profit out of rebuilding that infrastructure. Klein points out that Dick Cheney, vice president of the United States when the US went to war with Iraq, was also CEO of a corporation called Halliburton, a company which won $2 billion in contracts to rebuild Iraq after the war.</p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Be it hegemonic ambitions or simply greed, the USA has been the most aggressive power since the end of World War 2. Let us take a look at the countries bombarded by the Americans so far. As the list shows, the USA had attacked many of these countries on more than one occasion.</p>
<ol>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">China 1945-46</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Korea 1950-53</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">China 1950-53</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Guatemala 1954</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Indonesia 1958</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Cuba 1959-60</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Guatemala 1960</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Belgian Congo 1964</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Guatemala 1964</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>10.Dominican Republic 1965</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>11.Peru 1965</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>12.Laos 1964-73</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>13.Vietnam 1961-73</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>14.Cambodia 1969-70</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>15.Guatemala 1967-69</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>16.Lebanon 1982-84</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>17.Grenada 1983-84</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>18.Libya 1986</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>19.El Salvador 1981-92</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>20.Nicaragua 1981-90</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>21.Iran 1987-88</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>22.Libya 1989</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>23.Panama 1989-90</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>24.Iraq 1991</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>25.Kuwait 1991</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>26.Somalia 1992-94</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>27.Bosnia 1995</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>28.Iran 1998</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>29.Sudan 1998</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>30.Afghanistan 1998</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>31.Yugoslavia – Serbia 1999</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>32.Afghanistan 2001</li>
<li style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>33.Libya 2011</li>
</ol>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The list is by no means exhaustive. And it will take a series of documentaries to explain the reasons behind such ruthless aggression. What we have been witnessing in different parts of the world are manifestation of the Americans and its NATO allies’ tendencies towards intervening in the affairs of different countries and regions on the pretext of restoring democracy or bringing about global order and peace. </p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>We know this is simply not true.</p>
<p style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px; text-align: justify;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px; text-align: justify;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px; text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Randeep Wadehrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07249820170916706869noreply@blogger.com0