Disinformation Hindus Human Rights Misinformation Politics

Identity in Flux: Understanding Complexities of Self-Perception

Balbir Punj While speaking in Lok Sabha on Monday (July 1), Rahul Gandhi issued a proclamation, “Aap Hindu Ho Hi Nahin” (You are not Hindu). The diatribe was undoubtedly directed against the Bharatiya Janata Party and the RSS, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his cabinet colleagues, fellow members of both houses and millions of voters and supporters of the saffron outfit. Rahul’s profane rant smacked of three things— his sense of entitlement, ignorance of Indian ethos and outright contempt for democratic norms. Can Rahul or anybody else decide who is a Hindu or not? During the just concluded Lok Sabha polls, 23.59 crore Indians had voted for the BJP. There would be millions more who support the BJP but couldn’t vote for their favourite party for various reasons. Without a doubt, overwhelmingly, they identify themselves as Hindus. In a jiffy, Rahul stripped them of their faith and identity! Who can dare make such a condescending statement? Only someone with an acute sense of entitlement. Unlike Abrahamic religions, Hinduism is timeless (hence also Sanatan), catholic and pluralistic. There is no centralised authority in Hinduism, and none has any right to pass such edicts regarding the faith. However, Abrahamic faiths are different. The Ahmadiyya sect in Pakistan has been shunned from Islam, and its followers are routinely persecuted because their belief system, differs a little from the mainline Shia-Sunni doctrine. These two sects are also perpetually locked in internecine wars because of their conflicting theological beliefs. Ironically, Ahmadiyyas were at the forefront, along with the Communists and Muslim League, in striving for an Islamic Pakistan. Doesn’t Rahul somewhat sound like a Pakistani establishment when he decrees in Lok Sabha who is a Hindu and who isn’t? During his one-hour 40-minute speech, Rahul also observed, “Those who call themselves Hindus indulge in hatred, violence and untruths 24×7.” Can anyone, including Rahul, make such an acerbic statement about Islam, or any other faith? Don’t miss the contradiction. After suspects are identified following a terror episode anywhere in the world, the usual comment is: a terrorist has no religion. The perpetrators of terror, however, insist that they caused the mayhem as a part of a divine mandate ordained by their faith. Rahul’s scalding allegations against Hinduism are without any basis whatsoever. He can get away with this charade because of the immunity members of Parliament enjoy. In their entire history, Hindus have resorted to violence only to defend themselves. Hinduism is inclusive and has in its fold numerous traditions, all equally valid – ranging from devout idol worshippers to outright heretic atheists. Anyone who cares to call oneself a Hindu is a Hindu. Rahul spoke about violence and hate. Given his track record in this respect, he sounds sanctimonious? While Rahul argues against the two evils, he happily promotes divisive narratives and conveniently allies with those very forces that seek to divide Indians based on caste, region and faith. Reducing Indians to sheer caste identity was central to his election campaign. Hate and divisiveness, the bane of India, have been introduced into its socio-economic-religio-cultural life by alien creeds. Use of violence and or deceit are a part of their playbook while dealing with non-believers or dissent within their ranks. Uniformity, particularly in matters relating to faith, is central to their existence. In contrast, Indian ethos indifferent to uniformity, focuses only on harmony. Who ceded one-fourth of India (August 1947) to the forces of Islamic fundamentalism, where only hate and intolerance rule? Pakistan is not just a country; it’s a bigoted idea that transcends borders. Recall 1980-90 when Pakistan trained, and funded terrorists, with local help, hounded Kashmiri Pandits, out of their ancestral homeland. In a recent interview, the newly elected National Conference Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi threatened a repetition of the black decade in retaliation to the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A. In the recent past, Kanhaiya Lal (28 June 2022) in Rajasthan and Umesh (21 June 2022) in Maharashtra, were beheaded by Islamic zealots. Last week (June 30, 2024), a young couple was publicly humiliated and battered in Taliban style by a muscleman affiliated with the local ruling party in West Bengal’s Uttar Dinajpur. On 27 June 2024, a Muslim woman was stripped, dragged by her hair and thrashed for over an hour by goons for supporting the BJP in West Bengal’s Cooch Behar. Berating and inhuman torture of victims such as Anees Mian-Parveen Jahan (Uttarakhand, 2022), Samina (Madhya Pradesh, 2023), and Tahira Bano (Rajasthan, 2023) don’t figure in public discourse. Killings of Hafizul Sheikh (West Bengal- 2024), Aijaz Ahmad Sheikh (J&K- 2024), Babar Ali (Uttar Pradesh- 2022), Sheikh Waseem Bari (J&K- 2020) etc. could get hardly any traction at home or abroad. They were all victims of hate and were guilty of a common ‘crime’: supporting the BJP. This list of hate crimes is indicative and not an exhaustive one. This loathsome itinerary of hate and violence, however, doesn’t concern Rahul. His public utterances are shaped by the compulsions of power politics and the requirements of the ideological ecosystem he is aligned with. His narrative, divorced from reality, is solely fashioned by political dividends he is aiming to reap. No wonder, with complete disregard to facts, he conveniently blames only those “who call themselves Hindus…” for these twin evils. There is a method to this madness. For decades, Congress has been on the decline. Rahul is in a hurry to resurrect it. His options are limited. It’s difficult to fault the incumbent Modi with his performance- his achievements are outstanding in most areas. As a shortcut to gather electoral support, Rahul is increasingly leaning on identity politics and aligning, knowingly or unknowingly, with the forces of neo-colonialism, that abhor a resurgent India. Rahul won Wayanad with the Indian Union Muslim League’s (IUML) support— a rabidly communal party, a post-independence reincarnation of the infamous Mohamed Ali Jinnah-led Muslim League. M. Muhammad Ismail fathered IUML after independence. Prior to 1947, he was the President of the Madras unit of the

Illicit Foreign Funding and Radical Islamist Agenda in UK Elections

Economy Geopolitics Leadership Policy

612

Illicit Foreign Funding and Radical Islamist Agenda in UK Elections

Rohan Giri Prior to the UK general elections, a media investigation revealed that five of the six major British political parties had taken illicit foreign funds. To minimise excessive foreign influence, British legislation compels parties to refund unlawful donations within 30 days and disclose any failures to the Electoral Commission. Only people on the electoral roll can make donations, with a minimum limit of £500. However, the Bureau of Investigative Journalism discovered that the Conservative Party, Reform UK, Liberal Democrats, Green Party, and Scottish National Party failed to prevent or identify these donations, which were made through an assortment of modest payments totalling more than £500 from a foreign source. As per the report, only the Labour Party successfully blocked such unlawful donations. Election law expert Gavin Millar criticised the self-policing method as ineffective and illogical because it relies on beneficiaries to enforce the law. Concerns had grown in the run-up to the 2024 UK general election about foreign players funding political non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Despite precise laws deliberate to prevent excessive foreign influence, some NGOs with significant influence in UK politics have evidently received large amounts of funding from international sources. These contributions, which are frequently routed through intricate channels to avoid detection, undermine the integrity of the democratic process and threaten to influence election results in favour of foreign interests. The current legal system, which relies mainly on self-policing, is deeply inadequate, allowing foreign funders to have hidden power over British politics. Several controversial groups in the British community receive funding from ambiguous sources, which they utilize to spread their propaganda and operations throughout the country. One prominent example is Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella group that represents over 500 interconnected mosques and Muslim organizations. MCB has a notorious history of sponsoring and supporting extremist actions, prompting consecutive British administrations to adopt a “non-engagement” stance with the organization since 2009. Notably, the MCB backed a declaration in Istanbul calling for jihad in reaction to Israel’s activities in Gaza and backing Hamas attacks on foreign forces, possibly involving British troops. Another outfit of concern is Hizb ut-Tahrir, which is secretively operational in the UK despite being banned in many countries due to its disruptive ideology and links to terrorist acts. Hizb ut-Tahrir has been accused of radicalising young Muslims and pushing for the formation of a global caliphate through non-democratic means. Its financing roots are opaque, leading to suspicions of foreign financial aid intended to destabilise communities. Islamic Relief Worldwide, headquartered in the United Kingdom, has been accused of supporting terrorist entities, especially Hamas. However, the organization denies the accusations. Israel and the United Arab Emirates, have blacklisted for the concerns about the misuse of charitable donations to help terrorists. Furthermore, CAGE, a UK-based advocacy group, has made headlines for its provocative viewpoints and possible ties to terrorists. The entity openly advocated for the prominent figures such as Dr Aafia Siddiqui who is serving an 86-year jail term for the attempted murder of an FBI agent in disputed circumstances. She is an al-Qaeda sympathiser. Also, they advocated for Anwar al-Awlaki, an American-born cleric of Yemeni descent, who was a key figure in al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). While CAGE professes to advocate for human rights, its support of high-profile terrorists and receipt of foreign financing have sparked investigation and criticism from a number of sources, including the British government. The Islamic community in the United Kingdom has considerable influence on the political mandate because of its large population and active involvement in societal and political concerns. British Muslims contribute to the electorate’s diversity of approaches, influencing policy discussions over immigration, foreign policy, and community welfare. The community’s participation in voting and political discourse ensures that the problems and demands of a sizeable portion of the people are addressed. This impact, however, can be destroyed by organizations and people that mislead or manipulate the community to advance their own objectives. Extremist organizations in the UK have not only attacked non-Islamic communities, as evidenced by the attacks on Hindus in Leicester, but are also actively influencing political circumstances ahead of the general elections. These organizations mobilise Muslim voters and lobby for certain political positions, such as supporting Palestinians and calling for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. According to studies, these organizations use societal tensions and global conflicts to acquire influence, which frequently results in heightened division and violence. The ubiquitous influence of these extremist groups emphasises the critical need for tougher measures to resist their activities and preserve the democratic process from being hijacked by radical ideology. In 2017, the Henry Jackson Society emphasised the importance of foreign money in spreading Islamist extremism in Britain. They noted that money, mostly from government-linked foundations in the Gulf and Iran, has supported the spread of extremist notions, particularly Saudi Arabia’s multimillion-dollar initiatives since the 1960s to promote Wahhabism. In the United Kingdom, the funds have taken the form of endowments for mosques and Islamic educational institutions that have hosted extremist preachers and distributed radical material. British Muslim religious leaders who have received training in Saudi Arabia, as well as the use of Saudi textbooks in Islamic schools in the United Kingdom, contribute to this effect. Many of Britain’s most infamous Islamist hate preachers are tied to foreign financing, which has contributed to the radicalisation of many who have joined jihadist groups in Iraq and Syria. Foreign funds pose a serious threat to the UK’s democratic values, as proven by recent exposes of illegal donations to major political parties and the influence of extremist organizations. Despite rules aimed at preventing undue foreign influence, the inability of a structured legal framework to ban illegal donations highlights the shortcomings of the current self-policing system. Furthermore, foreign funding by political NGOs and extremist groups undermines the legitimacy of the democratic process. These organizations use societal tensions and global crises to advance their objectives by propagating extreme beliefs and disrupting communities. (Author is a doctoral fellow at Amity University in Gwalior, content manager

Geopolitics Hindus Human Rights Leadership Policy

861

Indian Independence Act: A legislation that unleashed human tragedy of epic proportions

Arun Anand The Indian Independence Act was passed in 1947 in British Parliament on July 5 and it got the royal assent on July 18 thus paving the way for partition of India into two independent and sovereign nations- India and Pakistan. This division was result of what is known in common parleys as the ‘Mountbatten Plan.’ According to the British Parliamentary archives1, “The act created two new independent dominions; India and Pakistan. Pakistan was split into Pakistan and East Pakistan which is now Bangladesh. The Bengal and Punjab provinces were partitioned between the two new countries. These dominions separated the Muslim, Hindu and Sikh population and caused the biggest forced migration which has ever happened that was not the result of war or famine.” The Act repealed the use of ‘Emperor of India’ as a title for the British Crown. It also ended all existing treaties with the princely states. However, Lord Mountbatten continued as Governor-General of India while Jawaharlal Nehru was appointed India’s first Prime Minister. Meanwhile Muhammad Ali Jinnah became Pakistan’s Governor-General and Liaquat Ali Khan its Prime Minster. The Indian Independence Act was subsequently repealed through Article 395 of the Constitution of India that was implemented on 26 January 1950. Pakistan repealed this Act through Article 221 of its Constitution in 1956, both constitutions being intended to bring about greater independence for the new states. Some of the key takeaways from the India Independence Act, 1947 were2– -It declared India an independent and sovereign state on August 15, 1947, ending British authority in India. -It called for the partition of India and the establishment of two sovereign, Indian and Pakistani dominions, each with the right to withdraw from the British Commonwealth. -It abolished the viceroyalty and established a governor-general for each dominion, who was to be nominated by the British King on the recommendation of the dominion government. His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom was not to be held responsible for the governments of India or Pakistan. -It gave the two dominions’ Constituent Assemblies the right to draft and approve any constitution for their separate countries, as well as annul any British Parliament legislation, including the Independence Act itself. -It gave both dominions’ Constituent Assemblies the right to legislate for their separate regions until new constitutions were created and implemented. After August 15, 1947, no Act of the British Parliament could be extended to either of the two dominions unless it was preceded by a statute of the dominion’s legislature. -The secretary of state for India was disbanded, and his responsibilities were moved to the secretary of state for Commonwealth Affairs. -From August 15, 1947, it declared the end of British supremacy over Indian princely kingdoms and treaty agreements with tribal lands. -It gave Indian princely states the option of joining the Dominion of India or the Dominion of Pakistan, or remaining independent. -The Government of India Act of 1935 was used to rule each of the dominions and provinces until the new Constitutions were drafted. The dominions, on the other hand, were given the authority to amend the Act. -It took away the British Monarch’s ability to reject measures or request that specific bills be reserved for his approval. This power, however, was reserved for the Governor-General. In the name of His Majesty, the Governor-General would have complete authority to consent to any measure. -It named the Governor-General of India and the provincial governors as the states’ constitutional (nominal) leaders. In all things, they were required to follow the advice of their individual councils of ministers. -It removed the title of Emperor of India from the king of England’s regal titles. -It stopped the secretary of state for India from appointing civil servants and reserving jobs. Civil servants who were hired before August 15, 1947, would continue to receive any perks that they were entitled to up to that period. Partition of India Indian Independence ACT, 1947 unleashed one of the biggest human tragedies in the history of mankind caused due to partition. The Partition of India was one of the most defining events in the history of the Indian subcontinent. With no accurate accounts of how many died or lost their homes, estimates suggest that perhaps up to 20 million people were affected by the Partition and somewhere between 200,000 – 1 million lost their lives.3 Organisations like Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh(RSS) played an important role in saving lives of millions of Hindus and Sikhs. The volunteers of the RSS, a socio-cultural organisation also played an important role in relief and rehabilitation efforts in various cities of India where the refugees from Pakistan were trying to settle down to begin their new lives. Though the RSS was a relatively young organisation at the time as it was only set up in 1925, it played a stellar role in bringing millions of Hindus and Sikhs safely to India as there was a communal carnage targeting them in the geographical regions which were supposed to go to Pakistan. Recalling the role of the RSS’ swayamsevaks during Partition, Professor A.N. Bali, in his book Now It Can Be Told, wrote that the RSS was ever-present in Punjab. “Who came to the rescue in those difficult times to protect the people, except those young men known as RSS. They arranged for safe passage of women and children in each and every mohalla, in every city of the state,” he wrote. “They arranged for their food, medical help, and clothing and took care in every possible way. They organised fire-fighting teams in different cities and towns. They arranged for lorries and buses to carry the escaping Hindus and Sikhs and posted defence teams in railway trains.” Bali wrote that even Congress leaders took the help of the RSS. “They patrolled relentlessly in different Hindu and Sikh localities. They trained people in self-defence. They were the first ones to reach these terrified people, first to help them and were the last to come to secure places in east Punjab,” he wrote. “I

Hindus Human Rights Leadership Policy Politics Security

667

Fight for Freedom, Justice

Brave Sikh warrior Banda Singh Bahadur repelled Mughal invaders, and regained and extended Sikh territories that were illegally taken. Vivek Raina On October 26, 1670, a brave boy, Lachman Dev, was born in Hindu farming family who later fought against the Mughal invaders. The brave boy was none other than Baba Banda Singh Bahadur. His journey from a young farmer’s son to a revered military leader and martyr is a testimony of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice in Indian history. He displayed remarkable skills in horsemanship, wrestling, archery, and swordsmanship from a young age. These talents later served him well in his crucial role in challenging the cruelty of Mughal rule in Bharat. Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, a Sikh general, played a pioneering role in the 18th century fight against Mughal invaders’ despotism and bravely defended Bharat from the Jihad imposed by the Mughals. His military initiatives not only expanded Sikh territory but also addressed fundamental injustices wreaked during the Mughal era. Baba Banda Singh Bahadur’s legacy endures as a symbol of bravery and resistance against autocracy. Life Journey: Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Lachman Dev’s life changed drastically when he was 15 years old and saw the heartbreaking demise of a pregnant deer; this event inspired him to give up on the worldly things and become a Bairagi sadhu. Following his departure from his family as a monk, he met Bairagi Sadhu Janaki Das and took up his teachings. Banda Singh’s name was changed from Lachman Dev to Madho Das by Bairagi Sadhu Prasad. Following a few men, Banda Singh Badhur founded his own (ashram) monastery at Nānded, on the banks of the Godāvarī river. He gained magical abilities known as siddhis and riddhis from many spiritual gurus, but he was still unhappy until he met Guru Gobind Singh. Guru Gobind Singh paid a visit to Madho Das, also known as Banda Singh Bahadur, in 1708 at his monastery located on the banks of the Godāvarī river near Nānded. Banda Singh was profoundly affected by an occurrence involving a chair and the spiritual presence of the Guru. He accepted defeat and was moved to ask for pardon, stating in a humble manner, “I am your banda (slave)”. and after that, he followed Guru Gobind Singh’s advice. Banda Singh, guided by the Guru, accepted his Khalsa status and committed himself to studying Sikhism, including Gurubani, Sikh history, and the core beliefs of the religion. Inspired by Guru Gobind Singh’s teachings on righteousness and bravery, Banda Singh was tasked with a mission to challenge the oppressive Mughal rulers. Endowed with a hukam-nama from the Guru, he rallied Sikhs across Punjab, swiftly gaining support and initiating a campaign against tyranny. Under his leadership, Sikhs liberated several towns and regions in Punjab from Mughal control, establishing Khalsa rule and abolishing the exploitative zamindari system. Military Campaign for Sikh Sovereignty From 1709 onwards, Banda Singh led daring military campaigns, capturing key territories like Samaana, Sonepat, Thaska, and others. A significant event in Sikh history occurred during the siege of Sirhind in 1710, when Sikh troops led by Banda Singh Bahadur besieged, assaulted, and took the city. They vanquished and decapitated Wazir Khan after winning the Battle of Chappar Chiri, which was a major success in their war against the Mughal Empire. This victory marked a significant turning point in Sikh history, asserting their military prowess and determination against the Mughal Empire’s dominance. With each conquest, Banda Singh strengthened Sikh sovereignty by abolishing the Zamindari system and granted property rights to the tillers of the land in Punjab, fostering a sense of unity and self-governance among Sikhs. He also introduces the Nanak Shahi coins. His administration focused on justice and equality, promoting Sikh principles and traditions while ensuring protection for the common people against oppression. Beacon of Hope for Justice Baba Banda Singh Bahadur exemplified hope and justice, especially when he learned about the heroic sacrifice of Bibi Anoop Kaur. After the siege of Anandpur Sahib, instead of being forced to convert, she defiantly chose imprisonment and died, symbolizing her deep respect and love for the Sikhs. Muhammad Khan of Malerkotla buried her body quietly. But upon hearing her story, Banda Singh was deeply moved. He arrived unopposed at Malerkotla, carried out Anoop Kaur’s body and performed a ceremonial ardanas before cremating her with utmost respect. This act not only honored Anoop Kaur’s bravery but also strengthened Banda Singh’s reputation as a beacon of justice and mercy. His actions resonated deeply with the people, cementing his role as a symbol of Sikh resilience and steadfast respect for principles. Through such deeds, Banda Singh Bahadur continues to inspire generations and embodies the Sikh spirit of bravery and justice in the face of adversity. Martyrdom and Legacy The Mughal Emperor Farrukh Siyar ordered all governors of north India to either execute or capture Baba Badhur Singh. Following six years of warfare, Mughal forces led by Abd al-Samad Khan, the then-governor of Lahore, surrounded Banda Bahadur and the Sikh army in Punjabi hamlet of Gurdas Nangal in March 1715. Following eight-month siege, Mughals eventually stormed into the famished camp in December 1715, taking Banda Singh and seven hundred Sikh warriors’ prisoner after they put up a fierce fight. The remaining Sikhs were chained, taken to Delhi in a procession, and placed in the Delhi fort, also known as the Red Fort. Banda Singh was placed within an iron cage. Sikh soldiers were under pressure to convert to Islam and give up their beliefs, but they refused to back down. These soldiers were taken out of the fort and executed in public every day for several days after they refused to convert to Islam. Baba Banda Singh Bahadur was then brutally slain. Banda was decapitated after having his skin taken, limbs severed, and eyes gouged out. Cultural Impact & Historical Reverence Beyond Sikhism, Banda Singh’s legacy resonates in Indian history and culture. His life has been commemorated in literature, art, and poetry across various regions of India,

Geopolitics Leadership Policy Security

579

Refusal to Reform

Self-defeating journey that Pakistan embarked upon with Jihadist mindset has rendered Shimla agreement ineffective & unworkable. Rohan Giri Fifty two years back, Shimla accord inked on July 2, 1972 by then Bharat’s Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistan’s President Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, bears testimony to Islamabad’s refusal to learn its lessons. It’s also a missed timeframe for Pakistan for evolving as a well-meaning, affable and socio-economic development partner on western borders that Bharat was looking for. Partition of Bharat in 1947 by imperialist British forces on withdrawal mode inflicted a huge injury that cannot be easily forgotten. Instead of metamorphosing as a well-meaning society based on true Islamic values, it resorted to genocide of Bengali Hindus in East Pakistan in most inhuman way in 1971. Pakistan had to eat a humble pie after getting defeated at the hands of Indian army and consequent liberation of Bangladesh. Shimla agreement concluded in Barnes Court christened as Raj Bhavan today was intended at bringing about lasting peace in South Asia, especially Bharat and Pakistan. But, that did not happen as predicted even before ink on the Shimla agreement dried. Things did not work out as Sunni extreme leadership refused to acknowledge magnanimity of Bharat in returning their 93,000 war prisoners without a word. Questions were raised on intent of Smt Indira Gandhi who returned all major territories of Pakistan that came under Bharat fold in aftermath of the war. Intentions and goals articulated in Shimla Agreement were magnificent on paper but hollow in reality. Commitment to a direct, bilateral approach to problem solving, emphasis on face-to-face interactions, were laudable. Pakistan that had long history of deception and flopped promises saw the accord as a strategic pause rather than genuine peace initiative. Among Shimla Agreement’s six important clauses, pledge to observe Jammu and Kashmir’s Line of Control (LoC) was most significant. This was one commitment that Pakistan gravely breached very frequently. Disagreements were to be settled amicably and that no government would unilaterally change the status. This again was violated. The rogue state that it evolved to be, Pakistan, continued to fuel fires of turmoil, culminating in Kargil War in 1999. This blatant crossing of Line of Control served as vivid reminder that Pakistan had never genuinely embraced principles of the Shimla Agreement. The accord had highlighted mutual respect for one another’s geographical integrity and political independence. Pakistan, with its malicious intent and plan on Kashmir made attempts on several occasions to intervene in India’s domestic affairs, breaking the very foundation of the accord. The pledge to desist from hostile propaganda was a scam, as Pakistan’s official machinery continued to spew anti-India rhetoric, stoking hatred and division. Despite the Shimla Agreement, Pakistan’s conduct over the decades demonstrated its deceit. The Kargil conflict, in which Pakistani soldiers penetrated Indian territory along the LoC, was a clear act of aggression that shattered the already fragile agreement. This fight, which lasted for more than 60 days, exposed Pakistan’s true character, reinforcing its reputation as an untrustworthy neighbor. Indira Gandhi, acclaimed as a competent leader, was heavily criticized for signing the Shimla Agreement without achieving a resolution to the Kashmir conflict. The pact was viewed as a strategic failure, a concession that failed to capitalize on India’s resounding victory in the 1971 war. Pakistan’s claim to Kashmir, combined with its repeated efforts to internationalize the issue, have rendered the Shimla Agreement ineffective and meaningless. The Shimla Agreement’s history is one of unfulfilled promises and broken expectations. It underscored the futility of trusting a country that has repeatedly proven its propensity to destabilize peace for geographical advantage. Pakistan’s repeated betrayal, from the Kargil conflict to its current backing for cross-border terrorism, demonstrates that it never intended to comply with the Shimla Agreement. The agreement, while ostensibly a plan for peace, was a strategic failure that failed to address the two countries’ core challenges. It allowed Pakistan to recover and rearm, which eventually led to other instances of conflict. India’s generous gesture of returning POWs and territory was met with Pakistan’s unwavering enmity, demonstrating once more that Pakistan’s word could not be trusted. Finally, the Shimla Agreement, which was offered as a historic step toward peace and stability. Pakistan’s reluctance to respect its pledges, as well as its ongoing efforts to destabilize the region, have demonstrated that any agreement with such a nation is worthless. The Shimla Agreement serves as a clear reminder of the drawbacks of naive diplomacy as well as the importance of taking a hard stance when dealing with a fraudulent neighbor like Pakistan. (Author is a doctoral fellow at Amity University in Gwalior, content manager at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

Hindus

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Social Harmony, RSS Transformative Blueprint

Educational initiatives, cultural engagement, community service and conflict resolution to be vehicles to achieve harmony Dr Shailendra Kumar Pathak In contemporary Bharat, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has emerged as pivot for Bharat’s socio-cultural fabric, advocating principles deeply rooted in fostering social harmony. At its core, RSS promotes a vision of unity transcending religious, linguistic and regional boundaries thereby emphasizing cohesive national identity. Central to its philosophy is the belief in innate unity of all Bharatiyas, irrespective of diversity, aiming to forge a collective strength through cultural rejuvenation and societal uplift. RSS endeavours to cultivate a society where mutual respect, understanding and cooperation prevail among different communities. Through its extensive network of Shakhas (basic units or branches) and socio-cultural initiatives, RSS promotes values of discipline, patriotism and social responsibility aimed at building a harmonious environment conducive to national progress. This commitment to social harmony is underpinned by its efforts in disaster relief, education and healthcare reflecting a holistic approach to building a strong and disciplined nation. Social harmony refers to peaceful and cooperative coexistence of diverse groups within a society. It encompasses mutual respect, understanding and integration of various cultural, religious, and social backgrounds. In a country as diverse as Bharat, achieving social harmony is both a challenge and a necessity. RSS, through its numerous initiatives, strives to bridge gaps between different communities, fostering a sense of national unity and collective identity. Social harmony refers to peaceful coexistence of various groups, characterized by mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. It is essential for several reasons: Its importance notwithstanding, achieving social harmony is fraught with challenges: RSS, founded in 1925 by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar has always advocated for a united and strong Bharat. Historically, the organization has worked towards mitigating social divisions whether they are based on caste, region, religion, or ethnicity. Sangh’s emphasis on “Hindutva” is often misunderstood; it is not about religious dominance but rather about cultural inclusivity and national pride. Hindutva, in the RSS lexicon, seeks to bring together various cultural strands that make up Bharatiya identity. Since 1983, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has emphasized on concept of “Samarasata” (harmony). Veteran RSS member and thinker Dattopant Thengadi introduced the term in a social context, coining the phrase, “Samajik Samarasata” (social harmony). This led to formation of the Samajik Samarasata Manch in Maharashtra that promoted the idea of equality which was not possible without harmony. The term sparked debates with critics arguing that it perpetuated inequality and Manuvad. However, understanding RSS’s interpretation of Samarasata is crucial. Equality, freedom and fraternity, principles enshrined in Bharat’s Constitution are interconnected. The preamble originally lacked fraternity. But, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar added it, recognizing its importance for national unity. European and American revolutions focused on political freedom and equality, but their societal contexts differed from Bharat’s, where caste-based inequality prevailed. Ambedkar emphasized that mere legal provisions for equality and freedom are insufficient without fraternity—a sense of brotherhood fostering social equality. Fraternity, a state of mind, cannot be legislated but must be cultivated emotionally and metaphysical level, similar to family bonds. RSS aims to foster this sense of fraternity within Hindu society, historically divided by caste and language. Dr. Hedgewar, RSS founder, exemplified this through personal actions, promoting unity without preaching against untouchability. He demonstrated that genuine affinity could bridge social divides. Sri Guruji, second Sarsanghchalak and subsequent RSS leaders continued this mission emphasizing service to marginalized communities. They promoted the idea that Samarasata is not just a principle but a lived practice, embodying freedom, equality and fraternity. RSS focuses on practical experiences of equality and fraternity, rather than mere rhetoric, fostering a deep sense of unity and shared humanity. This lived sense of affinity, cornerstone of RSS’s work, is viewed as essential for true social harmony. RSS, through its various programmes and initiatives, aims to address these challenges and foster social harmony: Educational Initiatives Community Service Cultural Programmes Conflict Resolution RSS’s efforts have yielded positive results in various regions: At National Executive Council of RSS held during March 14-17, 2024, a pledge for fostering social harmony was taken along with four other transformational ideas. Social harmony is bedrock upon which other pillars of the RSS five-fold transformation stand: Centennial & Beyond As RSS heads for its centennial in 2025, it redoubles its commitment to these transformative ideals. Focus is not only on quantitative expansion reflected in increasing Shakhas or basic units but on qualitative growth. Dissemination of national thoughts, mobilization of righteous societal power and active engagement in democracy are central to this mission. Social harmony is not merely an idealistic goal for RSS; it is a necessity for sustainable development of Bharat. In the context of RSS five-fold transformative ideas, social harmony acts as foundation upon which other pillars—environmental conservation, self-reliance, family awakening and civic duty—can be built. While challenges remain, RSS multifaceted approach to fostering unity, respect, and cooperation among Bharat’s diverse communities offers hope to a more harmonious and integrated society. As Bharat continues to evolve, principles of social harmony advocated by RSS will play a crucial role in shaping a nation that is not only economically prosperous but socially cohesive and culturally inclusive. Through education, community engagement, social service and a commitment to shared values, RSS aims to build a society where every individual, irrespective of their background, can contribute to and benefit from collective progress of nation. (Author is a Delhi based researcher, Political Analyst & formerly an Assistant Professor of Political Science)

Geopolitics Human Rights Policy Security World

560

Chinese Pangs Continue to Stifle Buddhists

US, India should devise a plan to stop President Xi from hijacking selection of next Dalai Lama and preserve Tibetan culture & resources Brahma Chellaney As Dalai Lama, spiritual leader visits US, to receive medical treatment for his knees, concerns over who will succeed him have become acute. While Tibetans around the world pray that 88-year-old Tenzin Gyatso, 14th Dalai Lama still has plenty of life ahead of him, China is eagerly awaiting his demise so that it can install a puppet successor. Tibetans regard Dalai Lama as living incarnation of Buddha with a total of 13 reincarnations since 1391. When one Dalai Lama dies, the search for next one begins, with a council of senior disciples taking responsibility for identifying the figure based on signs and visions. But in recent years, Chinese government has insisted that only it has the right to identify next Dalai Lama. This would not be first time China selected a leader of Tibetan Buddhism. In 1995, it anointed its own Panchen Lama, whose spiritual authority is second only to that of Dalai Lama, after abducting actual Panchen Lama — six-year-old boy who had already been confirmed by Dalai Lama. Almost three decades later, real Panchen Lama is among the world’s longest-serving political prisoners. China also appointed Karmapa, Tibetan Buddhism’s third most important spiritual leader and head of the Karma Kagyu sect. But in 1999, its appointee Ogyen Trinley Dorje fled to India. The ease with which 14-year-old Karmapa escaped China raised suspicions among Indians about his loyalties. After imposing travel restrictions on him, India decided in 2018 to no longer recognize China-anointed Karmapa as legitimate head of his sect. Now, he and his rival Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje have issued a joint statement pledging to cooperatively resolve leadership split in Karma Kagyu sect. But, Dalai Lama is China’s white whale. The incumbent — who was identified as Dalai Lama in 1937, at age two — has been a thorn in the side of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) since Beijing’s 1951 annexation of Tibet. With his relentless espousal of nonviolence, Dalai Lama who won Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 embodies Tibetan resistance to Chinese occupation. (Had Tibet remained self-governing like Taiwan, it would be the world’s tenth-largest country by area.) In his past incarnations, Dalai Lama was not only Tibet’s spiritual leader, but also its political leader, making him a kind of cross between a pope and a president. But the Dalai Lama ceded his political role in 2011 to a Tibetan government-in-exile which is democratically elected every five years by Tibetan refugees living in India and elsewhere. Dalai Lama has declared that he might choose not to be reborn — a decision that would undermine legitimacy of any Chinese-anointed successor. He knows that for China, a Dalai Lama devoted to CCP is much more useful than no Dalai Lama at all. He knows that while he has retained his mental acuity, his body is weakening. In 2016, he underwent radiation therapy for prostate cancer. He says he was “completely cured,” but continues to struggle with his knees. Given his advanced age, more health problems are to be expected. Dalai Lama’s frailty is one reason why his travel schedule has slowed considerably. But it is not the only one: Bowing to Chinese pressure, most countries — including European democracies and Asia’s Buddhist states (except Japan) — are unwilling to grant him entry. Fortunately, some countries have retained their backbones. US is hosting Dalai Lama for knee treatment and India has been his home for more than 65 years. India has officially designated Dalai Lama it’s “most esteemed and honoured guest,” while the Tibetan leader describes himself as a “son of India.” India is home to vast majority of Tibetan exiles and has played a central role in helping to preserve Tibetan culture including by supporting Tibetan-language schools. By contrast, China has been working actively to destroy Tibetan culture and identity, especially since Chinese leader Xi Jinping has been in charge. China’s appropriation of Tibetan natural resources has gone into overdrive with consequences that extend far beyond the Tibetan Plateau. Resource-rich Tibet is a source of fresh water for more than one-fifth of the world’s population and a global biodiversity hotspot. The plateau influences Asia’s weather and monsoonal patterns, as well as Northern Hemisphere’s “atmospheric general circulation” — the system of winds that helps transport warm air from the equator toward higher latitudes, creating different climate zones. US and India should work together to foil China’s plan to handpick next Dalai Lama. Already, America’s Tibetan Policy and Support Act which took effect in 2020, says that “the wishes of the 14th Dalai Lama, including any written instructions, should play a determinative role in the selection, education, and veneration of a future 15th Dalai Lama.” And it calls for sanctions on Chinese officials who interfere with Tibetan Buddhist succession practices. But more must be done. For starters, US President Joe Biden should take the opportunity presented by Dalai Lama’s knee treatment to fulfil a 2020 campaign promise to meet with the spiritual leader. More broadly, Washington should work together with India to devise a multilateral strategy to counter Xi’s plan to capture the more than 600-year-old institution of Dalai Lama. This must include efforts to persuade Dalai Lama to spell out, once and for all, rules that must be followed to identify his successor. (Author is professor emeritus of strategic studies at New Delhi-based Center for Policy Research; fellow at Robert Bosch Academy in Berlin. He is author of “Water, Peace, and War: Confronting the Global Water Crisis” (Rowman & Littlefield, 2013). © Project Syndicate, 2024. This write up was first published in Japan Times)

Geopolitics Pakistan Policy Security

542

Games that China Plays

Psychological warfare, media propaganda, narratives coupled with operations beyond diplomatic relations is what China is known for. Is the world listening? Dr Amritpal Kaur Prima Facie, diplomacy is a well-rehearsed hard bargain negotiation among countries to achieve the best possible outcomes for a nation without resorting to crude force. What does not however meet the eye is that it is an incessant process to resolve outstanding issues lurking around the corners, brewing for years before the final settlement, if ever, is achieved. With core interests at the heart of diplomatic deliberations, the high stakes make this complicated dance on eggshells all more crucial. It is assumed that deliberations conducted by diplomats are a standard process with similar training in negotiation processes and the parlance used in discussions. In reality, diplomatic negotiation is a high-voltage tussle with deep and far-reaching consequences. Even more astounding is that it does not end on the negotiation table but runs like an undercurrent. In the era of Globalization or ‘Complex interdependence’ as much as the international community is reality of domestic national life, diplomacy and diplomatic signals become more significant for nations. If diplomatic engagement is mired in psychological games with the intention of one-upmanship, bilateral engagements become complex and if one of the parties is contemporary China, it raises its own share of issues. Conspicuous silence President Xi Jingping maintained when Prime Minister Modi assumed office for historic third consecutive term was marked by world leaders. This silence seems to have sent out an eloquent underlying message. Though Chinese Premier Li Qiang joined top world leaders in congratulating Prime Minister Modi ahead of swearing in on June 9, 2024, President Xi’s silence was ostensibly aimed at mounting psychological pressure on India. Post-second world war, China and its international relations give us glimpse into the country’s thinking on its relations with others including India. Beginning with Zhau Enlai, average Chinese have relentlessly pursued overt and covert ways to achieve its desired bilateral outcomes with an astonishing disregard for international treaties and modus operandi. Indo-Chinese agreement of 1993, intermittent border skirmishes and war (1962) since 1948 reiterates the point that it’s not over, until the last bell rang. Border dispute with India and People’s Liberation Army operations on Indo-Chinese border comes at crucial junctures. Former National Security Advisor Shiv Shankar Menon recounted in his book Choices (2016) that in 2014 when the first Modi government took office and President Xi came to India, PLA engaged in border skirmishes with India. Similarly, during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to China, a similar tactic unfolded. Probable explanation to such acts, according to Menon is to create psychological pressure on the newly elected Indian prime Minister as to who is the sheriff in town. Richard Solomon, former diplomat in US and former Foreign Secretary of India Vijay Gokhale have written respectively about the Chinese style of diplomacy which is remarkably different from diplomacy of democratic countries. Chinese engage in psychological warfare even in diplomacy at various levels. From setting agenda to building narratives, Chinese are adept at controlling the whole process and go beyond closed doors of diplomatic negotiations. One pattern is to engage in crude coercion and use of force while the other is to leverage media to create narratives. Two examples can be cited here, one is that of 1950s when Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru was called the ‘Bourgeoise Imperialist’ by Chinese media. Earlier this month, the state-sponsored Chinese media and related ecosystem described Prime Minister Modi as ‘weakened’ leader. These reports also suggested possible use of counter measures by China if India maintains policy status quo. Why is it that Chinese takes recourse to multi-pronged games in strategic and diplomatic relations with other countries eventually leading to disturbing regional peace and tranquility? Nature of Chinese state perhaps necessitates such behaviour. To begin with, Henry Kissinger in On China argued that since antiquity China has believed in ‘Middle Kingdom’ phenomenon which places the Chinese state over rest of the world and only beneath the heaven. This perceived middle Kingdom phenomenon has percolated to Communist China as well and hence they believe that other countries can only be vassals to the dragon power. There have been suggestions to the effect that Chinese communist expansionists harbor the idea that bilateral relations cannot be between equal sovereigns. These relations should centre on ‘superior’ China and ‘inferior’ other nations. With regards to Bharat, Chinese terminology includes ‘legalized hegemony’ and perceives India as an inferior state given that it does not have a permanent seat in United Nations Security Council. Chinese may have effortlessly used this aspect to tip balance of power in their favour, as former NSA Shiv Shankar Menon calls it. Former foreign secretary Gokhale argued that Chinese engage in such tactics to keep power equation in their favour. Communist Party of China is the state itself and officials are appointed by the Party and not the state. Hence, their allegiance is with the Party and not the state per se. Menon sums the Chinese position succinctly when he argues that China is a lonely state rising in a crowded neighbourhood with an acute need for regime survival and internal harmony. Hence, its no wonder that being adventurous in foreign relations was to offset domestic attention from key issues. Since China is viewed as a formidable power, there is critical need to find a mutually beneficial bilateral mechanism. But, there’s no letup in tricky Chinese games loaded with psychological operations that have implications for outstanding bilateral issues. China experts, time and again, underscore that if we had to deal with China, understanding its game is more important. Only then can we find favourable outcomes in diplomatic negotiations. Jiang Zemin was famous for saying in English that it takes two to tango and it is true in this case well. For bilateral relations to succeed, it takes two to clap and a possible egalitarian approach in Chinese diplomacy. (Author is Assistant Professor in Political Sciences, Dayal Singh College, Delhi University, New Delhi)

Disinformation Geopolitics Hindus Human Rights Misinformation Security World

666

Testing Times in Canada

Trudeau regime will have to address core issue of terrorism to keep its relations with Bharat intact or face consequences. Pummy Pandita Eyebrows were raised when Canadian Parliament paid homage to Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a hardcore Pakistan-backed Khalistan terrorist and named in several anti-Bharat campaigns globally. One minute’s silence by Canadian Parliament members to Nijjar, a wanted criminal in Bharat, does not augur well either for bilateral relations or global campaign against terrorism of all shades and hues. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seems to be playing with ‘Khalistani fire’ to stay in office and even sacrifice the strong and sound footed relations with India at the altar of preserving his political fiefdom with support from the extremist group. It’s not just one minute’s silence that matters! Trudeau hailing Nijjar ‘for his persistent efforts in advancing the diversity and inclusion ideals that Canada cherishes’ is something that’s gross and unpalatable. By buying peace with Khalistanis that campaign for a separate sovereign state which most Sikhs do not support, Trudeau exposed his political opportunism. He seems to have conveniently banked on anti-Bharat forces to portray himself as someone who genuinely cares about his country. In the process, Trudeau has succeeded in appeasing his political crutch group in Khalistanis and diverted attention from Canada’s burning issues. In fact, Indian-descent Member of Parliament Chandan Arya exposed the extremist role of Canadian Khalistani elements when Air India flight 182 was bombed midday 39-years back on June 23. Incidentally, this very day is remembered in Canada as National Day of Remembrance for victims of terrorism. In the mid-air bombing of Kanishka aircraft carrier 329 innocent lives including crew members was lost to terrorists that made Canada their home. Rightly so, Arya pointed to the ideology responsible for Kanishka attack that’s alive and kicking with a small chunk of Canadians. Recent celebration of Indian Prime Minister Smt Indira Gandhi is yet another incident where terrorism is glorified, violence mainstreamed, hate and violence eulogized. It also indicates that dark forces responsible for these terror events are getting regrouped and portends terrible events to come. Khalistan movement’s past is rife with murder and bloodshed. Tens of thousands of Hindus and Sikhs have been slaughtered by terrorists not just in India but in US, Australia, the UK, and Germany among others. People in Canada seem to have forgotten that tend to forget that 39 years ago when terrorists [Talwinder Singh Parmar (Canadian citizen), Inderjit Singh Reyat (held both British & Canadian citizenship), Ajaib Singh Bagri (US citizen), Ripudaman Singh Malik, Surjan Singh Gill, Hardial Singh Johal, Daljit Sandhu and Lakhbir Singh Rode (all Canadian citizens) bombed Air India flight. Regretfully, there are still locations in Canada where people who pray to these very terrorists as ‘demi-gods’. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun of Sikhs for Justice open threat to Hindu Canadians life is nothing but “glorification of terrorism” and acceptance of hate crimes under the pretext of “freedom of expression”. Canada has fallen under Trudeau’s gross mismanagement making it an extreme version of Pakistan. Canadian economy that was in shambles has not yet fully recovered. Meagre income that ordinary Canadians are able to earn is negated by inflation overhang that continues to roil the economy. Cost of living in Canada has about tripled in three years. Steep spike in housing rents left many individuals without a place to live. Over 40,000 people died in eight years due to drug overdose and the country is fast emerging as narco-terrorism hub. As Pakistan is falling Islamic terrorism, Canada has gone the Khalistani way.[1] Since his minority government depends on the backing of New Democratic Party led by Khalistani Jagmeet Singh, Justin Trudeau has gone his way. Trudeau, much like his alliance partner Jagmeet finds nothing wrong with pro-Khalistan operations being carried out on Canadian soil. Justin Trudeau’s open support to a terrorist such as Nijjar has given legitimacy to violence committed by the Khalistani groups in Canada. In addition to endangering security of Hindus residing in Canada, Trudeau has snatched rights of common Canadian citizens to profit from shifting geopolitical conditions. Trudeau, who claims Indian involvement in Nijjar’s murder, remained silent on Karima Baloch, an activist who fled persecution by Pakistani government and settled in Canada. Trudeau twiddled his thumb when opposition leader Michael Chong charged that he was being targeted by a Chinese diplomat. Canada’s evolution as a safe sanctuary for Pakistan-backed Khalistani terrorism is the result of Trudeau’s silence on legitimate interests of Canadian residents that he breaks only when one terrorist is killed as part of his vote-bank politics. Canada as a nation will now pay the price for appeasement of Khalistanis by its Prime Minister who is responsible from harbouring organised crime, help terrorists and criminals. Trudeau has isolated Canada from Western world. What a catastrophe! Indian is upset with Canadian theatrics. “India stands at the forefront of countering menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. 23 June 2024 marks 39th Anniversary of cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka) in which 329 innocent victims including 86 children lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in history of civil aviation,” it said in a statement.[2] Canada’s unflinching support to anti-India forces may disturb the delicate applecart. Bracing up to fight terrorists of Khalistani or Islamist shades is in global interest. (Author is head of operations at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, a non-partisan think tank based in New Delhi) References: [1] https://www.news18.com/opinion/opinion-canada-has-become-new-pakistan-thanks-to-trudeaus-soft-spot-for-khalistan-8585898.html [2] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/india-marks-kanishka-flight-anniversary-as-canadian-parliament-honors-khalistan-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjar/articleshow/111110391.cms?from=mdr

Disinformation Hindus Misinformation Policy Rebuttal Security World

576

Spice, Imagination & Conspiracy

ABC peddles ‘Spies, secrets and threats’ that grossly misrepresents Hindus, RSS & Indian government through agenda-based peddling of lies. Rohan Giri Forty six minutes video report “Spies, secrets and threats: How the Modi regime targets people overseas, Four Corners” broadcast by Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) which features infamous reporter Avani Dias declares its extreme antagonism towards Hindu centric Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Through this report, state-run ABC also targets the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) whose senior leader Narendra Modi has been elected Prime Minister for third consecutive term. This ABC report and Dias reek of bias and misrepresentation, constantly presenting RSS as a paramilitary group despite its long-standing efforts as a cultural and service-oriented movement. Easily recognized as the world’s largest voluntary organization, RSS is dedicated to community service particularly for the deprived sections of Indian communities. Overlooking this, Dias intentionally distorts its image, dismissing its substantial contributions to a larger society. Selfless service work carried out by RSS volunteers inspired by its founder Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar’s pre-independence movement experiences has been largely ignored or intentionally set aside to paint a shady picture of an open flexible organization. Avani Dias seems to have blinded herself and the ABC viewers on RSS service activities through over 120,000 projects in areas ranging from education, healthcare to socio-economic empowerment. These projects have positively contributed to millions of families in India. A whopping 2.145 million individuals and families in Bharat have benefitted and continue to be supported by projects across half a dozen sectors that contributed to improving living standards. Beneficiaries in the healthcare sector separately have crossed 8.716 million and food support programmes touched 2.735 million. Community well-being and development is the under-lying objective of RSS volunteers’ drive that’s comprehensive and unique in their organization. Avni Dias who left Bharat after being under cloud argued that minorities do not have sufficient opportunities under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. This is factually incorrect and a false claim made by Avni Dias and concurred by ABC editorial board. Facts on contradict her politically charged propaganda. Since 2014, the Indian government has executed welfare initiatives for minorities. The Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) gives five years of financial help while the Padho Pardesh scheme provides interest subsidies for study abroad at the Masters, M.Phil., and Ph.D. levels. The Seekho aur Kamao initiative improves minority youngsters’ abilities in a variety of occupations, ensuring employability or self-employment. The Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram seeks to enhance socio economic infrastructure for minority populations. Despite these substantial initiatives, Avani seems to have peddled anti-India agendas and divisive ideas. The report’s most glaring flaw is its blatant endorsement of Pakistan-backed Khalistani terrorism. The script seems to have been written by Khalistani supporters themselves, with Dias serving just as their representative. This is an attack on journalistic integrity and an insult to sufferers of Khalistani terrorism. In 1980s, Khalistani terrorists in India carried out an upsurge of cruel violence, killing thousands of innocent people. However, Dias selectively disregards this grave and historical fact overlooking to acknowledge the terrible adversity and bloodshed caused by these separatists. Dias’s narrative represents Khalistani terrorists when she says Sikhs were victims and under pressure in Australia which is a flagrant white lie. The fact is otherwise. A handful aggressive Khalistani terrorists has continued their campaign of violence and terrorization not just in India but also in other nations including Australia. In less than a month, pro-Khalistani outfits in Australia have launched three distinct attacks on Hindu temples. On January 23, 2023 Hare Krishna Temple in Albert Park, Melbourne of Australia came under attack. On January 17, 2023, Melbourne’s historic Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple at Carrum Downs was targeted. On January 12, 2023, Khalistan activists vandalized and destroyed BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, a Hindu temple in Melbourne, by spray-painting anti-India graffiti. The walls of Melbourne’s landmark Swaminarayan temple in the northern suburbs of Mill Park have been spray-painted with ‘Hindustan Murdabad’ slogans. Hundreds of innocent Indians in Australia have been threatened or abused by these terrorists, a reality that Dias completely ignores. Instead, she promotes Khalistani propaganda while ignoring their current terrorist acts and the true threat to peace and security. It’s not that the entire sikh community in India, Australia or elsewhere endorses this divisive agenda. Despite the report’s contentious storylines, it is crucial to highlight India and Australia’s developing strategic, economic and bilateral relations. Both countries have worked together extensively on a range of issues, including trade, defense, education, and cultural exchange. The relationship is based on mutual respect and democratic values with the goal of enhancing regional stability and economic progress. The report’s description of chronic animosity and conflict is refuted by the upward trend in Indo-Australian relations. Collaborative initiatives in education, technology, and counter-terrorism demonstrate both countries’ commitment to fostering a robust and long-term alliance. Avani Dias’s report exemplifies biased and irresponsible journalism. It misrepresents the RSS, glorifies Khalistani crimes and dismisses recent improvements in Indo-Australian ties. This reporting fosters division and promotes radical agendas. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation should be held accountable for broadcasting such an evidently biased and factually wrong story. True media should seek and provide an honest presentation rather than serve as a propaganda weapon for violent extremists. Dias’ report is a disservice to the profession and to innumerable people who have suffered at the hands of the terrorists she explicitly supports. (Author is a doctoral fellow at Amity University in Gwalior, content head at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

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