Geopolitics Leadership

Is China’s paradigm on ‘mutual success’ real?

Beijing has to come clean on larger issues, shift in outlook welcome. India never lost its ‘eastern wisdom’ while engaging with Western partners. Rohan Giri In an editorial, Chinese Communist Party’s mouthpiece, Global Times on May 30 indicated a possible shift in its India outlook. For a change, it captioned the edit, “We morally, emotionally support India’s de-colonization”. This comment on inauguration of a new Parliament building getting rid of the British colonial re definitely reflects Chinese establishment’s intent to go a wee bit soft on India. It has also garnered the attention of leaders across the globe. This change of heart, if it bears out in reality, cannot be ignored. Pleasing gestures like this editorial as exhibited by China present an intriguing subject for examination. As per reports from Chinese embassy and consulates, over 60,000 visas have been issued to Indians visiting China in first five months of this year. Furthermore, Chinese missions globally have affirmed their readiness to grant more visas for purposes such as business, studies, tourism, work, and family reunions, should the need arise. Global Times editorial last week emphasized India’s commitment to de-colonization and self-reliance. It applauded India’s efforts to remove vestiges of colonial authority, such as renaming iconic buildings and limiting English usage. The article advised India to focus on its national strengths rather than seeking legitimacy through techniques and accolades from outside sources. Rational interpretation to ‘outside sources’ would be India’s multi-nodal foreign policy engagement with western powers. While congratulatory editorial in Global Times is in order, its caution against Western manipulation is old communist line seeking exclusive engagement with India. Global Times asking India to embrace the Eastern Wisdom is possibly a benign attempt to wean India away into its fold. Its emphasis on ‘mutual success’ of China and India is yet another line that many in India’s Left and centrist political discourse also subscribe to. The editorial does not mince words while warning India to stay away from US with the standard communist dogma that US was fueling enemity between India and China. In this context, there are big questions that Chinese communist leadership will have to come up with plausible and convincing answers. President Xi Jingping and his cronies may have to come straight on Galvan border mis-adventurism that led to troop’s deployment on either side of Indo-Chinese borders. China will have to offer an explanation on its collaboration with Pakistan on terrorism in the United Nations (UN) and mutual prosperity pitch with India which may not go hand in hand. Continued expansionist bids in Eastern Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, opposition to G20 conferences in Indian state Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, providing Chinese names to Indian cities and towns is something that China will have to justify. Can this be the template for China’s Paradigm of mutual success? Tsinghua University’s Center for International Security and Strategy in 2022 report on “Chinese Outlook on International Security” has toed a different line on India. The study has bracketed India on par with US vis-à-vis threat posed to Chinese interests. India’s threat to China has also been compared what was perceived in Japan vis-à-vis China even today. China has come up openly on its stand towards India rather than sending out mixed signals that confuse its communist cadres and their counterparts in India. Global Times editorial also said, “In Chinese society, few people believe that India’s economic and social development will become a threat to China. The vast majority of people believe that the two countries can succeed together. We hope India can demonstrate more clarity and confidence in its dealings with China and the West.” In last three years, India’s position on Chinese threat perception has been consistent. It has in no uncertain terms said on more than one occasion that threat from China has risen multifold. Global Times editorial exhorting India to stay away from Western manipulations has come ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington DC for a state visit later this month. China’s expectation that should not protect its defensive and offensive interests is rather unrealistic. India’s right to pursue an independent foreign and economic policy formulation, choice of friends in sync with its view seeking global peace needs to be respected. (author is operations manager at non-partisan think tank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies based in New Delhi)

Geopolitics

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Akhand Bharat is underlying reality in the mural

Indo-Nepalese linkages have depth to handle contentious border issues, illicit drug deals, jihadist madrasas springing up big time! Vinod Kumar Shukla Traces of Indian culture and civilization go beyond Afghanistan in the west and Indonesia in South East Asia. More facts and revelations have been collated over time due to concerted research about length, breadth and its longevity. But myopic Indian media has the tendency of making an issue out of nothing and question anything and everything that glorifies Indian civilization. It’s all done not to scrutinize facts but put Indian government in the dock. Interestingly enough, self-proclaimed holier than thou Indian media failed to see Sengol as being integral to India’s millennium old cultural voyage and its handing over to Jawahar Lal Nehru in 1947 was termed fake history. Select Indian and global media outlets get divine and display false intellect in interpreting 2300-year-old depiction in a mural that’s part of the newly opened Parliament. This has given enough cannon fodder to China and Pakistan. India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi was straight when he described the mural as an artwork that depicted the spread of Ashokan Empire. Bagchi took the position, “The mural in question depicts the spread of Ashokan Empire and the idea of responsible and people-oriented governance that he [Ashoka] adopted and propagated.” Bagchi rejected conjectures that the issue figured in bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal popularly known as ‘Prachanda’ who was on a bilateral visit to New Delhi last week. But, India’s western and northern neighbours seized upon the opportunity to make mountain out of a molehill. Nepal’s opposition parties, some of them aligned with Chinese think tanks and Chinese Communist Party made every effort to cause mayhem on phone screens, social media handles and hijack the conversation away from Indo-Nepal issues. Apparent objections were on depiction of Lumbini, Uttarapath, Purushpur and Taxila on the mural in question as part of India’s Akhand Bharat plan. Social media was flooded with messages that opposition leaders asked the visiting Prime Minister ‘Prachanda’ to take up the issue with India to get the mural removed from Parliament. But, India insisted that the issue did not figure in bilateral discussion. Big question however remains. Is it not true that India and Pakistan were part of Indus (Sindhu) Water Treaty depicted in the mural reflecting India’s civilizational identity as Bharat? Can Indian forget Takshshila where Vishnugupta (Chanakya) was a teacher and assisted Chandragupta, Ashoka’s grandfather in uniting India? Lumbini where Gautam Buddha was born is Sakya Muni for many in India emphasising his Sakya lineage. And, this region formed one of the ten republics of [Akhand] Bharat during sixth century BC. No political boundary whatsoever was strong enough to restrict Akhand Bharat that had unique lifestyle and behaviour of every civilizational Indian. Reference to Uttarapath is as old as Panini’s Ashtadhyayi where he listed the kingdoms along ‘Uttarapathenahritam’. Pakistan can ignore these facts and consider its history to have begun with 1947 and remain in denial mode for cultural links with India. Pakistan’s tilt towards Arabic nations may not help as the latter view Islamabad with deep disdain. On the parallel, handful of Nepalese leaders denying this cultural unity is not only strange but unfortunate as its cultural connects with India is inseparable and alienated. When Indian Prime Minister Modi visited Lumbini on May 16 last year on birth anniversary of Mahatma Buddha, he inaugurated Kushinagar International Airport. It was meant to bring to focus cultural integration. Kushinagar airport would help tourists and pilgrims to get easy access to Lumbini contrary to misinformation campaign that India is on some imaginary expansionist mission. Lumbini and Kushinagar are the places where Mahatma Budhdha took birth and died respectively. Further, four-lane Ram Janaki path is being built from Ayodhya to Janakpur. A Buddhist circuit is drawn connecting Gaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar and Lumbini. Modi’s Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi has been an important seat of pilgrimage for Lord Shiva’s devotees. Also, Kashi has been the seat of learning and place of worship for successive Prime Ministers and Nepal’s royals. They were also associated with Guru Gorakhnath in Gorakhpur bordering Nepal. Ram Van Gaman Path Marg too has Nepal and Sri Lankan linkages while Krishna corridor would connect many cities. Cultural connect transcends political boundaries as former Maoist Guerrilla Prachanda appears to have overcome the dichotomy of his faith and political ideology when he performed Rudrabhishek at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain. He gifted loads of Rudraksha beads to the temple. What binds India and Nepal is their Hindu identity, so each other’s security concerns are of paramount importance. Therefore, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s meeting with the Nepalese Prime Minister was certainly not a courtesy call. Issues like mushrooming Madarsas along Indo-Nepalese border, contraband trade, outlaws committing crime and escaping into Nepal apart from ISI operatives making a foothold on Nepalese soil have reportedly figured in the discussions. There is no denying that border issues continue to be in contention especially Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura areas that Nepal claims to be part of its territory. Both sides seem to agree that there’s enough depth in their relationships to handle these issues. But, one cannot ignore the Chinese Communist Party’s continued needling in Indo-Nepalese affairs. After mishandling1989 blockade aggravated minor differences between the two countries into distrust, China played an iniquitous role. Further, comprehensive Peace Accord in 2006 leading to end of monarchy and general elections, the Constituent Assembly declared Nepal a Federal Democratic Republic that had Chinese footprint all over. On the other hand, what went wrong for India was the erstwhile Manmohan Singh government outsourcing its Nepal policy to Communist Party of India – Marxist that had its allegiance to China. Whenever India and Nepal attempted at ironing out differences, China worked at torpedoing plans to expand its influence in South Asia. Fanning Pahadi versus Madheshi divide in Nepal was its favourite game plan. China supplied oil and arms during 1988-89 to disturb the delicate

Geopolitics Leadership World

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Maoist guerrilla turned Hindu protagonist?

Prachanda’s puja at Mahakaleshwar is more tactical transformation to mollify India; political success and survival back home Yubaraj Ghimire On May 31 evening, Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal (“Prachanda”) raised his hands in welcome and signalled Manjeev Singh Puri, asking the former Indian Ambassador to Nepal to approach him at a reception held in his honour at the country’s embassy in New Delhi. “I have not forgotten… you asked me several times when will I wear Daura-Suruwal. Look, I have done it.” Prime Minister Dahal donned Nepal’s official and traditional dress for the first time during a trip abroad. Dahal and his party – the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist-Centre) – have consciously avoided wearing traditional attire to maintain the radical and revolutionary image. That image was sacrificed on his trip to India. On third day of his trip, Dahal not only visited Indore but performed an elaborate puja at Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain. He offered the deity 108-rudraksha bead thread, clad in distinctly religious attire. Dahal was a “revolutionary” whose insurgency saw many incidents of temples being vandalised and those observing rituals (even death rituals) being killed. He has avoided visiting any temple including Pashupatinath temple in Nepal till now. His religiosity in India, then, may well be taken as a tactical transformation to address the Modi factor – a factor which may be crucial to his political success and survival. Many, then, believe that he has not “transformed” – he has simply been tamed by hostile circumstances and politics. His visit to India five months after he assumed office as PM for the third time was for political management. Just an hour before his departure, he managed to get President Ram Chandra Poudel to approve the Citizenship Bill that erstwhile President Bidhya Devi Bhandari had declined. Dahal bypassed parliament by getting the cabinet to go for a shortcut. This was done to mollify New Delhi. India has still not welcomed Nepal’s constitution, promulgated in 2015. Dahal and K P Oli (who was then waiting to take over as PM) turned down India’s suggestion to delay the promulgation till demands of some Tarai-based parties which included the citizenship issue were sorted out. The result was a 134-day-long economic blockade, which led to a sweeping anti-India sentiment in Nepal. Modi also lost a lot of his considerable popularity in the country. The Citizenship Bill, among other things, provides instant citizenship with all the political and property rights to foreign women married to Nepali men. While the Bill does not address many of the more radical demands, like citizenship to men married to Nepali women, Dahal’s pushing it through likely earns him some trustworthiness in the eyes of Indian establishment. It can be interpreted as a realisation on his part that not listening to India earlier was a mistake. Dahal had his own reasons to stoop, hoping he will ultimately conquer. Sixteen years ago, the decade-long insurgency – which led to 17,000 deaths – ended in a peace accord following a deal that India brokered between the Maoists and Nepal’s pro-democracy parties. Modi, who came to power in Delhi eight years after the deal, hailed the accord in his first address from the ramparts of Red Fort as a “triumph of the ballot over bullet”. But now, at 71, Dahal faces the prospect of that triumph being bungled. Not only his detractors, but ex-guerrillas and political allies want the gross human rights violations probed and the guilty punished, as pledged in the peace accord signed in November 2006. Dahal has been trying hard to grant general amnesty to the guilty but as the accord was witnessed by the international community, including the UN, his best option was to reach out to India to bail him out and, if necessary, intercede with Western countries. Indian authorities appear convinced that the Maoist leader’s offer to side with India in containing China in Nepal and even to put Chinese investments at bay, is genuine. Delhi seems to believe that Dahal continuing as PM would be in India’s interest. Amazingly, he also reportedly assured the BJP that he was no less Hindu than the former King Gyanendra Shah, whose efforts at making a political comeback are getting a huge public response in Nepal. His visit to Mahakaleshwar was evidence of that. For now, Dahal got what he wanted from Delhi. The two sides signed deals to have Indian Public Sector Undertakings — National Hydro-Power Corporation and Satluj Jal Nigam — to develop the 679 MW Lower Arun and 480 MW Phukot (Karnali) — with India promising to enhance multi-fold the current purchase level (400 MW) of Nepal-generated power. Delhi asserted that no power generated by Nepal companies with Chinese investment will be purchased. This is a clear message that Chinese investment in all major sectors will be discouraged. Dahal did not quite raise the border dispute – this would have spoilt the positive atmosphere he was trying to create. But this is likely to be seen as a “surrender”, and create a backlash at home. His Delhi visit will be debated, polarising people and parties in Nepal. And that will cost Prachanda the image his “revolutionary past” bestowed on him. In that avatar, the problems with an “expansionist India” used to be a political and diplomatic mantra. (author is a senior journalist based in Kathmandu. This write up was first published in Indian Express)

Leadership Technology

583

Much ado about something

Digital India bill should democratize information highways, digital ecosystem, address stakeholders concerns & not limit benefits to a big few Prachi Mishra In a few days from now, Narendra Modi government is likely to come up with first draft of the much-awaited Digital India Bill. If one were to go by officials, the bill is intended at strengthening information technology, security and information infrastructure in India. The Bill, when finally adopted by Parliament and enacted, will complement the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022 and Indian Telecommunication Bill, 2022. In last two decades, after IT Act, 2000 became operative there have been astronomical developments in technological innovation. To keep pace with these innovations, the act’s regulatory framework was amended. The IT Act Amendment of 2008 and IT Rules 2011 were rolled out to define cyberspace and provided ground for handling of digital activities in India. But, the Act was inadequate to address present-day concerns of cyber security, crime and do justice to privacy concerns of Indian people. Emergence of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Quantum technologies, Metaverse, Big Data, Block chain, etc has thrown up new challenges in the regulatory framework. Given the limitations within the existing IT Act, a separate act has been in the work for a few months to address the growing digital and cyber demands of Indian people. In this backdrop, India’s economic interests can be furthered when the technological development and innovation apart from related regulatory framework is aligned. With growing penetration of digital technologies and increasing vulnerabilities of cyberspace, there is a need to ensure India’s national security was primacy. Reportedly, Digital India Bill, 2023 is intended at catering to India’s rising aspirations and become a catalyst in her growth and development while upholding people’s fundamental rights and country’s security concerns. Given the delicate balance that needs to be achieved through the new framework, the expectations from various stakeholders may have to be enlisted. Firstly, the Bill may have to address ethical concerns that are emerging as a consequence of disruptive technologies. Technological development will have to be seen as being morally correct, legitimate, and ethical. For instance, India should be able to address and counter adverse impact of artificial intelligence like deep fakes and misinformation. The new framework may evolve a robust and holistic mechanism to address issues related to cyber security. In 2022, as per CERT-in data, there were over 1.39 million cyber-attacks on India. This roughly over 253 per cent more than suck attacks reported for 2018. Hence, the Bill should put in mechanisms to resolve high volume and velocity of these cyber-attacks seen across sector, be it finance, banking, security establishment to political theatre. Also, with highly disruptive Quantum technologies round the corner, the Bill must suggest ways to ensure cyber security in the new environment. The proposed bill may have to find solution to tackle the manifold rise in misinformation, hateful content and fake news that’s become the new normal in India. In last couple of years, big technology firms like Facebook and Twitter have been at loggerheads with the government on dealing with mis-formation on their respective platforms. The Bill will have to reflect a possible consensus of all stakeholders on dealing with misinformation, disinformation and fake news that’s rampant. The bill’s provisions should be aligned with innovation. At present, India’s patent tally is dismal and most technology is imported from the Western countries. Be it hardware or software, India’s patents fall behind big time. The Bill should give impetus and incentivize innovation in digital technologies. Additionally, it should augur well for all the stakeholders of digital ecosystem and not restrict the benefits disproportionately to a handful tech firms. The new dispensation may have to address issues like liability, accountability, and ownership of data and its usage. Of late, there have been cases where social unrest resulted in violence and arson because content guidelines for these platforms were amiss. Or, even the existing norms were violated. The Digital India Bill, 2023 will be discussed at a time when India has moved many notches above in many different fields of technological and digital innovation. Being home to 113 unicorns and third largest start-up economy, India’s innovation ecosystem is booming like never before. Also, with the Semiconductor Mission, the strong impetus on adopting digital technologies, and the National Quantum Mission in place, India is bound to grow steadily in the coming years. Stakeholders expect the bill to empower them, democratize the information high way and digital ecosystem, aid other relevant economic policies. India should ensure that all voices of the entire stakeholder ecosystem are heard and it is enacted in time. (Author is Research Consultant at Centre for Integrated & Holistic Studies, New Delhi based non-partisan think tank)

Business Leadership Policy Technology

580

Basking under the Sun!

India to hit a hat-trick as fastest growing economy, unparalleled transformation in nine years, per capita incomes to be $ 5200 by 2032. K.A.Badarinath For second year in continuum, India is the fastest growing economy globally with impressive 9.1 per cent and 7.2 per cent clocked in 2021-22 and 2022-23 respectively. Even with projected 6.5 per cent GDP growth for this fiscal ending March 31, 2024, India will top the global sweepstakes and hit a hat-trick. This means the moon for an economy that’s home to world’s largest population at 1.4 billion, an expanding aspirational class and the middle-income families that continue to move upward in the consumption and investment chain. From investors’ point of view, both domestic and foreign players would make merry given the healthy uptick in demand for goods and services within the country. This is significant as Germany has slipped into recession, top economies in Europe are on a downslide and the US continues to struggle out of a whopping $ 31.4 trillion debt crisis. The tentative deal between democratic White House and Republicans do not mean much given that President Joe Biden is in a tight corner. Prolonged war in Eastern Europe getting worse and Kiev’s drones hitting Moscow’s metropolis send out two firm signals. One, the shadow-boxing by big boys with Russia and Ukraine playing front foot continues to adversely impact geo-political and economic matrix. Secondly, there seems to be no abrupt end to this long drawn conflict notwithstanding peace overtures made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Its impact is bound to be significantly felt as the global growth figures are expected to trim to 2.8 per cent in 2023 as against 3.4 per cent a year before. In the melee, Indian stock markets being valued fifth largest globally at $ 3.3 trillion after US, China, Japan and Hong Kong is something that one can rejoice about. It only indicates the investment appetite of both foreign players and domestic retailers that yearn to dip into the famed India growth story that’s only getting meatier by the day. Also, the confidence that investors repose in our regulator, Securities Exchange Board of India to run the show with zero payment defaults apart from strong and stable central government that commands huge credibility politically and with economic stakeholders. Three prime numbers that stand out are services, exports and agriculture sectors contribution to healthy GDP growth beating doomsayers’ diatribe on economic mismanagement. Secondly, front loading capital expenses and big private consumption has fuelled the Indian economy. Gross fixed capital formation at 11.4 per cent was highest in over a decade and its share in GDP accounting for 34 per cent. Private consumption rose by 7.5 per cent and its share was highest at 58.5 per cent. Most important signal in the macro-economic numbers was the confidence within the economic managers of Modi government that inflation can be contained to four per cent going forward. Unexpectedly healthy GDP numbers have special significance for Indian government led by Prime Minister Modi who has led from the front in last nine years. This bears out in the American financial services Morgan Stanley’s report released on Wednesday on nine years ‘transformation’ heralded by team Modi. Reforms undertaken across sectors in last nine years including governance laid the foundation for enhancing the per capita income to $ 5200 by 2031-32 from $ 2200 reported in 2021. And, over 46 per cent households would earn anything between $ 10,000 – 35,000, nearly double the proportion in 2021. Most important is that capital expenditure and fixed capital formation is expected to grow exponentially as percentage of GDP and share of Indian exports double to 4.5 per cent by 2031. As pointed out by government’s economy managers, scams and corrupt deals that marked 2004-14 decade are a thing of the past. From lost decade to performing and transformative ten years is what even Morgan Stanley seems to have surmised in its detailed report. Fourteen quarters of runaway inflation and 12 quarters of decline in economic growth and industrial production during 2004-14, pre-Modi era stands out as it culminated to virtual financial collapse that was triggered by the housing bubble burst in US that burnt the world with its contagion effect. Change is order of the day and India has arrived leaving behind the dark days! (author is Director & Chief Executive of Centre for Integrated & Holistic Studies, a Delhi based non-partisan think tank)

Disinformation Fact Sheet Hindus Human Rights Misinformation

599

Manipur’s unrelenting violence

Stakeholders’ consultation, inclusive development strategies, building cohesive communities under rule of law is the only way out. Recent unrelenting violence, loss of lives and property in India’s north eastern state of Manipur has brought to fore the fragile fabric, non-state actors that are at work with divisive agendas. Over the last few decades, ethnic clashes among many tribes and differences between Hindus, Christians and Muslims have created instability in the state.

Geopolitics Human Rights Security World

593

Jinnah’s Islamic Republic on verge of collapse

Lack of strong institutions in Pakistan, competing factional agendas, rampant corruption, Islamist terror, anti-India proclivity poses serious threat Rahul Pawa It’s a moment that will forever be etched in annals of history for chaos and audacity colliding in grim display. Imran Khan, chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the country’s former Prime Minister was held by the collar. Defying established norms, Pakistan Army rangers forcefully dragged him out of Islamabad High Court in the midst of hearing in Al-Qadir Trust case. Public humiliation of Imran Khan is culmination of over 100 cases filed against him across the country. In this particular case, Imran faced charges of swindling a staggering 190 million British pounds. The ugly incident in court premises unfolded after Pakistan Army’s inter-services public relations issued a stern warning to Khan. The army’s Inter-services wing held him responsible for “highly irresponsible” and “baseless” allegations against a senior Pakistan intelligence and military officer. Imran had relentlessly accused Major General Faisal Naseer, whom he derogatorily labeled as “Dirty Harry,” for having orchestrated a plot to assassinate him. Imran had shaped the narrative fostering perception that this ISI officer was involved in foiled assassination attempt against him by a suspected “lone wolf” in November, a year before. The day he was arrested and handed over to Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau (NAB), Khan made the controversial remarks just before heading to an Islamabad court. He had likened the country’s army to a “holy cow” suggesting that the institution considers itself “above the law,” accusing Pakistan Army and ISI of conspiring to assassinate him. His arrest triggered a series of events leading to widespread violent protests in major cities and townships across Pakistan. Supporters and workers of PTI took to streets venting out their anger against the arrest of Imran Khan. Visuals of tear gas, bloodshed, and violence continuously poured in via social media before the Pakistani establishment initiated Internet blackouts to curb violent protests and military brutality that claimed 40 lives. This marked a significant moment in Pakistan’s 75-years history after the British rulers partitioned India. In unabated violence, Pakistani civilians had dared to attack the Pakistan Army General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi which housed the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Pakistan’s foreign intelligence agency. The GHQ, being the stronghold of Pakistan’s military elite, had never imagined such a bold act from within the country. The protests took a violent turn, leading to destruction of Jinnah’s house in Lahore that now serves as the Corps Commander House. Additionally, cantonments throughout the country were targeted, looted, and vandalized. Pakistanis who welcomed Army coups to ‘save the country’ from corrupt politicians came under intense attack. In this long chain of events, Imran’s ability to deftly shape public opinion demolished the long-established perception about Pakistan Army and its deep state in shaping the political landscape, particularly the country’s conventional power dynamics. Imran’s success was possible after presenting himself as a symbol of honesty, religiosity, and righteousness thereby undermining the Pakistani Army and its deep state. Khan, a former cricket star who transitioned to an Islamist politician faced a no-confidence vote in Parliament last year leading to his removal from office. He strongly argued that his removal was both illegal and part of a larger Western conspiracy. Once regarded as a favourite of the Pakistan Army, Khan has now become a bone of contention for them. There is a widely held belief propagated by Imran and the PTI that the army backed a corrupt and ineffective government led by Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) unjustly sidelining Imran. PDM has been accused of electoral fraud and failing to address significant inflation which actually took roots during PTM rule in Pakistan. Additionally, Imran propagated the idea that the government deliberately avoided holding elections as per usual procedures, out of fear of a potential victory for his party, the PTM. These circumstances, along with Imran’s cultivated image as a staunch patriot of Pakistan, have bolstered his popularity and caused a dramatic shift in public sentiment in his favour. This challenges the traditional influence and absolute control of Pakistan Army over public sentiment and key narratives, resulting in a significant setback for them. This also shatters the long-held belief that the army holds “absolute power” in Pakistan. Traditionally, nation-states have played a crucial role in promoting the well-being of their citizens and advancing national goals and values through people’s participation and institutional reforms. Recent protests led by Imran Khan defied these principles of national progress and reconstruction. Instead of being rooted in meaningful reforms, these protests relied heavily on Imran’s personal popularity, political maneuvering, inflammatory rhetoric, and divisive tactics that pushed a nation already grappling with extreme inflation closer to the brink of civil war. Notably, despite facing serious corruption charges for reported deals clinched during his tenure as Prime Minister, Imran was able to amass excessive power, reminiscent of the rise of dictators such as Adolf Hitler in 1940s Germany. The entire country appeared to be held hostage by Imran and his supporters leading to street battles and chaos that not only posed a threat to civil order but pressured the country’s judiciary and public institutions. These protests, violence and death undermined the independence of these institutions and eroded their salient fabric and credibility. As a consequence, both Imran and his wife got unprecedented blanket bails from a judiciary that seemed unfair and compromised. Meanwhile, the elected government in Senate assumed a passive role, media faced censorship, military engaged in rights violations and the country’s executive seeking refuge from the turmoil. These developments exposed Pakistani state fragility, highlighted vulnerability to individual influence and the lack of a foundation in the country’s institutions essential for a strong nation. This is also hallmark of a nation destined to fail. On the other hand, betrayed by Imran, Pakistan Army showcased its true nature as an unprofessional security establishment, violated norms, rules, and regulations of a civilized society. The Army detained, arrested, and attacked its own people resulting in loss of 40 lives

Leadership Media

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Sceptre symbolizes cultural & civilizational unity

Dharmic rule is what Sengol signifies in New Parliament, its many notches above petty political bickering to score brownie points C.R.Kesavan On January 18, 1927, when the current Parliament building was inaugurated by Viceroy Lord Irwin, the ceremony was bereft of any vestige of Indian culture or “parampara”. In a stark but welcome contrast, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi inauguration of the new Parliament building it was a festive occasion where our timeless traditions and civilisational heritage will be honoured and celebrated. During this historic occasion of the inauguration of the new building, the sceptre, or “sengol” as it is termed in Tamil, will be installed in the sacred edifice of our democracy by PM Modi. The sceptre has a history. As the dawn of Independence neared, then Viceroy Louis Mountbatten asked Jawaharlal Nehru how he wished to signify Britain’s transfer of power to India. When Nehru turned to C Rajagopalachari for advice, the latter advised that the historic Indic civilisational tradition in southern kingdoms, where the high priest of the state hands over the ceremonial sengol to the new king signifying transfer of power, could be followed. Rajaji’s suggestion that the power transfer could be denoted by the British viceroy handing over the sceptre to the incoming Prime Minister was welcomed and agreed upon. Rajaji then requested Sri Ambalavana Desika Swamigal, the then pontiff of Thiruvaduthurai Adheenam (a Shaivite monastery in Tamil Nadu) to take up the responsibility of designing the sceptre. The seer commissioned a lapidary in Madras to make the sceptre. It was made of silver with gold coating adorned by the Nandi on top, symbolising strength and truth. On August 14, 1947, a delegation comprising Sri Kumaraswamy Thambiran (representative of the seer), Manickam Odhuvaar (the priest who would recite the prayer) and the nadaswaram vidwan, T N Rajarathinam Pillai, went to Delhi. A few minutes before midnight on the eve of Independence, alongside the dulcet sound of the nadaswaram, the priest chanted “Kolaru pathigam” from “Thevaram”, devotional hymns composed in praise of Lord Shiva about 1,300 years ago by Shaivite saint Thirugnana Sambandar. When the final verses, “Adiyargal vaanil arasalvar aanai namathe” (“We command that His Humbleness shall rule the heavens”) were recited, Sri Kumaraswamy Thambiran received the sceptre from Lord Mountbatten and sprinkled it with ganga jal (holy water) and handed over the sceptre to Nehru, symbolising transfer of power. While most Indians are familiar with the Tryst with Destiny speech, the momentous occurrence of handing over the sengol has largely gone unnoticed in the annals of our glorious history. After the transfer of power in 1947, this sacred sengol was relegated to sheer oblivion in a museum in Allahabad labelled as “Golden Walking Stick Gifted to Pt Jawaharlal Nehru”. The “Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav”, ushered in by the government to mark 75 years of Independence, has ensured that unsung heroes and heroines and untold milestones get the respect that they deserve. The Kashi Tamil Sangamam clearly invoked the unity between the north and the south while the Madhavpur Mela demonstrated the concord between Gujarat in the west to the Mishmi tribes of Arunachal Pradesh in the east. Similarly, this tale of the sengol lucidly illustrates the innate civilisational connect and commonality of our great country from time immemorial. The Prime Minister has always been an ebullient votary of harnessing technology and modernity while being firmly rooted in drawing inspiration from our rich spiritual and cultural heritage. The new Parliament, equipped with cutting-edge technology along with this sacred sceptre, will bear testimony to the Prime Minister’s inclusive vision of India. The word sengol in Tamil is derived from the word semmai denoting righteousness. The recipient of the sengol is supposed to have the command to rule fairly and justly. The timeless treasure trove of wisdom, the Thirukkural has an entire chapter — The Right Sceptre — comprising 10 couplets. Couplet 546 says, “Not lance gives kings the victory/ But sceptre swayed with equity”. It is indeed fitting that our Prime Minister will be installing this sacred sceptre in its rightful place behind the Speaker’s chair in the Lok Sabha. From this position, in the temple of our democracy, this sengol will eternally symbolise the rule of dharma, the civilisational core by which our great nation is governed. (Author was a former member of Prasar Bharati Board. This article was first published in Indian Express)

Disinformation Hindus Misinformation Security

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Bad actors, bad for the world

Websites like Hindu Profiles that peddle hate, target individuals and organizations Hitler style should be regulated, taken down Prachi Mishra A dubious website christened as ‘Hindutva Profiles’ has targeted India’s 148 key social and political leaders for attacks by hatemongers and Hinduphobes. Yoga guru Ramadev, retired major general G.D. Bakshi to Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur figure prominently on the website’s ‘hit list’. These socio-political leaders have been targeted by anti-India, anti-RSS, and anti-Hindu agencies with global linkages that are running the website. Apart from issuing a ‘hit list’, Hindutva Profiles has taken recourse to spread of false propaganda against these leaders. The website claimed that RSS founders and key leaders of Hindutva forces sought inspiration from Nazi Germany and Mussolini’s fascist regime. But, the list in itself resembles a hit list as was common in Hitler’s regime. During Nazi Germany, the term ‘hit list’ typically referred to lists compiled by Nazi regime to target individuals or groups considered enemies or threats to their ideology. Nazi German lists were primarily used to identify and track political opponents, dissidents, Jews, and persecuted groups. The Nazi regime employed a systematic approach to identifying, locating, and persecuting those individuals and groups they deemed undesirable. Additionally, the Nazis created lists to target political opponents, such as members of resistance groups, communists, socialists, trade unionists, and other dissidents. These individuals were often arrested, imprisoned, and subjected to torture or execution. Use of hit lists was part of Nazis broader system of persecution, which included propaganda, surveillance, imprisonment, forced labour and genocide. And, by targeting RSS and BJP leaders, the website precisely serves the same purpose. Fig.1. Logo of website, Hindutva Profiles and its malignant tagline. Source: Hindutva Profiles Fig.2. Misinformation spread about Hindutva and its origins. Nazi-RSS-Mussolini connect has been falsely interpreted here. Source: Hindutva Profiles. The advent of technology has revolutionised our communication and information-sharing processes. While technology has brought significant advancements, it has also presented challenges in addressing rise of anti-Hindu sentiments and online hate speech. One disturbing manifestation of this issue is the existence of such websites that gained notoriety for promoting anti-Hindu sentiments and even managing and circulating this D-Day list. The website also has a page dedicated to the genesis of RSS and its affiliates. The information presented on the page is not only factually manipulated but laden with misinformation. If corrective measures were not rolled out in time, these individuals could be at threat from terrorist organisations and anti-India, anti-Hindu forces. To combat online hate speech, it is imperative for internet users, communities, and online platforms to come together. Reporting mechanisms, both within the websites and through external channels, are essential in flagging and addressing offensive content. Hindutva profiles just one among several such hate mongers. Hence, governments and legal entities should play a key role in implementing and enforcing laws that regulate hate speech on internet, ensuring that those who propagate hate are held accountable for their actions. To ensure security and safety of individuals, governments all over the world and their relevant agencies should filter content and impose a blanket ban on such websites. Fight against anti-Hindu sentiment and online hate speech requires a multifaceted approach. Online platforms must take responsibility for monitoring and removing hate speech, take measures to prevent their platforms from becoming breeding grounds for discrimination and persecution. (author is contributing research consultant, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, New Delhi based non-partisan think tank)

Geopolitics Leadership

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Naya Kashmir shines bright on global stage

Tourism, infrastructure development, rich cultural heritage, progress, inclusive growth, transformation & positive change defines ‘nature’s bowl’ Rahul Pawa The third G20 tourism working group meeting is currently underway in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), capturing global attention as it showcases India’s rich cultural identity and vast tourism potential. This three-day event focuses on promoting sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, with the aim of driving economic growth, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering sustainable development in the region. Amidst the captivating sights of unprecedented development and delightful interaction between the people of Jammu and Kashmir and G20 delegates, certain entities and individuals persist in propagating an unfounded belief that J&K is engulfed in perpetual suffering. However, the reality on the ground reveals a different story. J&K is currently hosting its first grand international event since 2019 after it was designated a Union Territory (UT) following amendment to Article 370 of the Indian constitution. This amendment empowered residents of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Ladakh, with the same rights enshrined in the Constitution of India and the benefits of central laws enjoyed by citizens across the country. Hosting of this historic international event by Jammu and Kashmir stands as testimony to region’s progress and newfound stability. It showcases the region’s intrinsic, inclusive, and vibrant nature, highlighting its rich cultural heritage, tourism potential, and commitment to sustainable development. As international delegates participate in this event, they witness firsthand the positive impact of the constitutional amendment, dispelling lingering misconceptions and emphasizing the region’s journey towards a more prosperous and harmonious future. Furthermore, this event goes beyond mere tourism promotion. It also places emphasis on creating employment opportunities, developing infrastructure, fostering interdepartmental coordination, and ensuring government’s accountability to the people of Kashmir. Through targeted initiatives and collaborations, the event aims to spur growth, thereby contributing to overall socio-economic progress of the region. The event places strong emphasis on infrastructure development, recognising its significance in facilitating seamless travel experiences, enhancing connectivity, and providing essential amenities for both tourists and residents. The focus is on building robust and sustainable infrastructure that supports the growth of the tourism industry while also benefiting the local communities. Additionally, the event seeks to foster interdepartmental coordination, recognising that effective collaboration among various government departments is essential for the successful implementation of policies and initiatives. By promoting synergy and communication between different entities, the event aims to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and ensure the optimal utilisation of resources for the development of the tourism sector and related industries. Furthermore, the event underscores the importance of government accountability to the people of Kashmir. It aims to create a transparent and responsive governance framework, where the needs and aspirations of the local population are prioritised. Through open dialogue and consultations, the event seeks to ensure that the government remains accountable to its citizens, fostering trust and strengthening the bond between the authorities and the people they serve. Most importantly, this event goes above and beyond conventional tourism promotion by encompassing a multifaceted approach that reflects a holistic vision for the sustainable and inclusive development of Jammu and Kashmir. It aims to ensure that its people and communities thrive in a conducive environment, where their well-being and aspirations are at the forefront of the region’s growth and progress. Regrettably, there are individuals who persist in their unwillingness to acknowledge the positive transformations taking place in Jammu and Kashmir. However, their efforts are likely to falter when confronted with the prevailing reality on the ground. The G20 event in Kashmir, aptly named ‘Naya Kashmir’ (New Kashmir), stands as a powerful symbol that uplifts the spirits of the local population and sheds light on the remarkable progress achieved in the region. It serves as a testament to the unwavering resilience and determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have embraced progress and growth as a means to overcome the challenges posed by terrorism and pave the way for a more prosperous and harmonious future. The success of the G20 event in Kashmir extends beyond its ability to showcase the true essence of Jammu and Kashmir; it also lies in its capacity to dispel the unfounded beliefs and narratives perpetuated by a few. This event uplifts the spirits of the local population, instilling within them a profound sense of pride and optimism. Despite the persistence of challenges and the dissemination of misinformation by certain individuals, the G20 event in Kashmir stands as a shining example of the transformative power inherent in positive change. Ultimately, the G20 event in Kashmir serves not only as a celebration of India’s rich cultural identity and the immense tourism potential of the region, but also as a platform to showcase the indomitable spirit, resilience, and unwavering determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It sends a resounding message that J&K is not a region condemned to perpetual suffering, but rather a land brimming with opportunities and possibilities waiting to be realised. (author is an international criminal lawyer and director of research at New Delhi based think tank Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

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