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Jaishankar Shows Inked Finger After US Senator’s ‘Democracy’ Remark

February 15, 2025, 1:35 pm

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar contradicted the Western view at the Munich Security Conference 2025 that democracy is in trouble around the world, highlighting India’s robust democratic system.

Jaishankar expressed his opinion during a panel discussion on ‘Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience’, which included Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, US Senator Elissa Slotkin, and Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski. Asked for his opinion of Western democracy, Jaishankar started by holding up his finger, declaring, “Well, before I do that, I seemed to be an optimist in what is quite a pessimistic panel, if not room. I will start by holding up my finger and don’t mind it, it is the index finger. This, the spot you see on my nail, is a spot of a voter. We recently had an election in my state. We had a national election last year.”

He added that almost two-thirds of voters in India participate in elections, with about 700 million of 900 million voters taking part in the national elections. “We cast the votes within one day,” he added.

India’s Democracy and Its Success

Jaishankar countered the belief that democracy is weakening all over the world by saying, “Nobody disputes the (election) outcome once it’s declared and by the way, ever since we’ve been voting in the contemporary world, 20 per cent of individuals vote more today than decades ago.” He said, “For us democracy is indeed delivered,” highlighting the success with democracy in implementation by India.

Responding to US Senator Elissa Slotkin’s comment that ‘democracy doesn’t put food on the table’, Jaishankar snapped back, “Actually, in my part of the world, it does. Today, because we are a democratic, we give nutrition support, and food to 800 million people and for whom that is a matter of how healthy they are and how full their stomachs are.” He described various regions of the world having different conversations regarding democracy and warned against the presumption of a universal trend, saying, “Please do not assume that this a kind of universal phenomenon, it is not.”

Jaishankar calls for ‘Honest Dialogue’

Jaishankar admitted that if democracy is thriving in some areas, it is under pressure in others. He called for ‘honest dialogue on why it is not’ functioning in some places. He also pointed out that most of the existing issues are due to the model of globalization pursued in recent decades, saying, “I would argue that as to an extent as someone dispassionately viewing it, which was your question, there are some problems, a lot of it is a accumulated problem of the model of globalisation that we have followed for the last 25-30 years.”

In a tweet on X, Jaishankar explained that at MSC 2025, he differed ‘with the prevailing political pessimism’ and spoke on the subject of ‘foreign interference’.

India’s Democratic Model and the Global South

Jaishankar continued to bring to the forefront that upon becoming independent, India took the democratic route because its society is basically consultative and pluralistic in nature. He added that even though the West had earlier looked at democracy as a Western attribute, most of the nations of the Global South are more inclined to identify with India’s journey, which they can apply in their own society. He insisted that India has stuck to its democratic principles notwithstanding many challenges it has encountered.

The External Affairs Minister ended by calling on the West to acknowledge successful democratic examples elsewhere in the world if it is to witness democracy flourish everywhere.

The 61st Munich Security Conference, which took place in Germany from February 14 to February 16, is an important venue for foreign and security policy and global issues discussion.

‘Hegemony’ and its conflict with the development of humanity

February 7, 2025, 4:16 am

In the modern world, where democracy and liberal policies are increasingly recognized as the foundation for progress, hegemony as a political approach stands in direct conflict with the development of humanity. Hegemony, by definition, involves the dominance of one state, ideology, or group over others, often maintained through economic, military, and political coercion. While hegemonic powers may argue that their influence ensures stability, the reality is that hegemony restricts freedom, suppresses diversity, and ultimately hinders the evolution of inclusive and just societies. As humanity advances toward a more interconnected and equitable future, the persistence of hegemonic systems presents a significant obstacle to achieving true global development.

The word “hegemony” refers to dominance or leadership exercised by one entity over others, often in political, economic, cultural, or ideological contexts. It typically implies an imbalance of power where a dominant group, nation, or ideology influences or controls others, sometimes subtly and sometimes overtly. Interestingly, hegemony is not always imposed through force; it can also be maintained through consent, persuasion, or cultural influence.
The term “hegemony” comes from the Greek word “hēgemonía”, which means “leadership” or “command.” In modern political theory, the concept of hegemony was further developed by Antonio Gramsci, an Italian Marxist philosopher, who described “cultural hegemony” as the ability of a ruling class to maintain power by shaping cultural norms and public perceptions rather than relying solely on coercion. This idea explains how dominant ideologies become widely accepted, making people conform even without direct force.

Today, “hegemony” is widely used to describe global superpowers, economic dominance, media influence, and even social trends where one idea, culture, or system becomes the accepted norm, often at the expense of diversity and equity.
Moreover, hegemony impedes economic and social equality by creating structures of dependence that favour the dominant power at the expense of others. Culturally, hegemony stifles diversity and imposes a singular narrative that marginalizes alternative perspectives. The dominance of a particular ideology, language, or way of life often leads to the erosion of indigenous cultures, traditions, and knowledge systems. In addition to its impact on governance, economy, and culture, hegemony poses a significant threat to global peace and security. Hegemonic powers often justify their dominance by claiming to maintain order, but history has repeatedly shown that such dominance leads to conflict rather than stability. The desire to maintain supremacy results in aggressive foreign policies, military interventions, and economic sanctions that fuel tensions rather than resolve them. The world has witnessed the devastating consequences of such policies, from prolonged wars to humanitarian crises. True security and peace can only be achieved through equitable cooperation, mutual respect among nations, and the recognition of shared global responsibilities.

In an era where humanity is striving for inclusivity, sustainability, and democratic participation, hegemony stands as a relic of an outdated world order. The most pressing challenges of our time—climate change, poverty, public health, and human rights—require collaborative solutions rather than unilateral control. A future based on cooperation, where power is distributed rather than concentrated, will lead to greater advancements in science, technology, and social well-being.
Hegemony can sometimes be best understood through everyday life examples that make its impact more relatable. Imagine you are in a group project at school or work, and there’s that one person who insists on making all the decisions—what the topic should be, who should do what, and how the final presentation should look. They take all the credit if things go well but blame the team if something goes wrong. That is hegemony in action! While the project may get completed, the other members do not get a chance to contribute or grow, making it an unfair system.
Even in the world of food, we see hegemony at play! Imagine walking into a food court with multiple options—Indian, Chinese, Italian, and Mexican cuisine. But instead of letting you choose, the restaurant staff insists that you must eat only pizza because it’s the most “popular” option worldwide. No matter how much you love your biryani, sushi, or tacos, you’re forced to settle for pizza every time. This is exactly how cultural hegemony works—one dominant culture pushes its way to the top, sidelining all others.

On social media, you might notice that certain trends completely take over the internet. Suppose one influencer says, “Only minimalistic fashion is cool,” and suddenly, everyone starts wearing beige and black, throwing out their colourful outfits. Even those who love bright and quirky clothes start feeling pressured to follow the trend because that’s what gets the most likes. That is social hegemony in action—it makes people conform to dominant narratives, even when they do not truly align with them.

You join a gym, excited to get fit, but your trainer is on a mission to make you hate food. “Carbs are the enemy!” he announces, confiscating your beloved aloo paratha. “Only boiled chicken and broccoli from now on.” You try to protest, explaining that you just want to be healthy, not enter a bodybuilding competition, but he will not listen. Soon, you find yourself secretly eating rotis in the parking lot. This is dietary hegemony—one fitness trend forcing everyone to follow the same rigid rules, even when different people have different needs.

So, all in all, hegemony is not just about serious politics or economics—it is a pattern of control that seeps into everyday life. Whether in school projects, family dynamics, fashion trends, or sports, the basic idea remains the same: when one person or group dominates decision-making, it prevents growth, fairness, and true progress. Ultimately, the development of humanity demands the dismantling of hegemonic structures and the embrace of a world built on equality, justice, and shared prosperity. It is through the collective efforts of individuals, nations, and institutions committed to democratic ideals and human dignity that the world can truly move beyond the confines of dominance and toward a more just and flourishing civilization.

Dr Benazir Patil is the Chief Executive Officer of a non-profit organization called SCHOOL that works for ensuring good health & well-being.

Rahul Gandhi needs to be understood, democracy values public service: Madan Rathore

November 19, 2024, 4:29 am

BJP State President Madan Rathore reacted to the statement of opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. Rathore stated that Rahul Gandhi needs to be understood and studied now.
Speaking at the BJP state headquarters on Monday, Rathore said, “Rahul Gandhi continues to make unfounded and absurd remarks, such as claiming gold can be extracted from potatoes, sowing red chillies, or even creating a jalebi factory. These statements are meaningless, and there is no answer to them.”
Rathore further criticised the Congress party for promoting division, contrasting it with the BJP’s message of unity.
“While the BJP focuses on keeping the nation united, Congress is always talking about breaking the country apart. The Congress party seeks to divide society and promote policies of appeasement,” he said.
Rathore highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s approach to national unity, stating, “PM Modi considers all 140 crore Indians as one family and speaks about uniting the society. Unlike Congress, which plays divisive politics, Modi talks about building a cohesive society, not dividing people on religious or social lines.”
Rathore added that a united society is essential for the country’s safety and progress, stating, “If society stays united, it will remain strong and safe. But if it disintegrates, it will break. Everyone knows this.”
Addressing Rahul Gandhi’s slogan, “If you divide, you will be cut,” Rathore remarked, “It is Rahul Gandhi who is continuously trying to corner the BJP with this slogan. But in reality, it is Congress that divides, while the BJP works to unite the nation.”
Rathore said that everyone knows who is working to break the society today. Congress has always worked to break and divide the country. Congress is hatching a conspiracy to break and divide the society as well. BJP is emphasising on the slogan ‘Stay united, stay safe’ so that citizens become citizens with national character, and everyone has a sense of dedication towards this country in their hearts. The situation of the country which is divided among itself is in front of everyone today.
Rathore said,” BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat have also clearly said we do not have any objection to anyone’s method of worship, but people should have a sense of national character, patriotism, dedication towards the country and a sense of intimacy. My advice to Rahul Gandhi is that he should sit with our senior leaders and try to understand the matter. There is no need to divert this topic towards industrialists, he needs to understand the concept of politics and the country.”

‘It is unfortunate that people are doing politics with hooliganism and bullying’
Rathore strongly criticised the use of hooliganism and muscle power in politics, calling it an “unfortunate” trend.
Speaking at a press conference, Rathore condemned the growing influence of strongmen and bullies in political spheres, stating, “It is deeply unfortunate that some are using hooliganism and bullying as tools in politics.”
Rathore emphasised that in a democracy, the people are supreme, and political advancement should be based on public service, not muscle power.
“In a democracy, those who serve the public should lead, not strongmen. There is no place for protecting or supporting individuals involved in hooliganism and bullying,” he added.
He asserted that the politics of intimidation and violence will not succeed in a democratic system.
“Politics driven by musclemen and hooligans has no place in democracy. Our voters should decide whether to empower such individuals or give their support to those who follow the law, respect civil values, and serve society,” Rathore said.
Rathore appealed to the public to reject leaders who promote violence and intimidation.
“Politics and governance should be based on law and order, not on the power of musclemen,” he concluded, urging citizens to prioritize leaders who respect democratic values and work for the betterment of society.

PM Modi Brings “Bharat Ki Mitti Ki Mehak” To Nigeria, Strengthens India-Nigeria Ties

November 17, 2024, 11:39 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his first visit to Nigeria, addressed the Indian diaspora in Abuja, emphasizing the shared values of democracy, diversity, and demographic energy between the two nations. He highlighted the strong partnership that continues to grow.

“Mai Apne Sath Bharat Ki Mitti Ki Mehak Laya Hu”

In his heartfelt speech, PM Modi said, “Mai akela nahi aaya hun, mai apne sath Bharat ki mitti ki mehak lekar aaya hu.” He expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received from the Nigerian people, calling it “incredible.”

Strengthening Strategic Ties

PM Modi held discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on strengthening the strategic partnership. He highlighted the immense potential for collaboration in sectors like defence, energy, technology, and health.

India’s Support for Africa

PM Modi recalled India’s pivotal role in making the African Union a permanent member of the G20 during its presidency. “Nigeria witnessed this historic moment as a guest member of G20,” he noted.

Global Leadership and India’s Commitment

PM Modi underlined India’s emergence as a beacon of hope, growth, and democracy on the global stage. He highlighted India’s role as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (global friend) during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing vaccines to countries in need.

Honored with Nigeria’s National Award

Expressing pride in receiving Nigeria’s National Award, PM Modi dedicated it to the citizens of India and the Indian diaspora in Nigeria. “This award is a tribute to our shared progress and partnership,” he said.

A Historic Visit

PM Modi’s visit to Nigeria marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. The trip, part of his three-nation tour, aims to enhance India’s ties with Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana.

BJP workshop highlights organisational elections and commitment to democracy

October 29, 2024, 2:41 am

A state workshop on active membership and organisational elections was held at the Bharatiya Janata Party’s state office on Monday. The workshop was conducted in the presence of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and the State President Madan Rathore.
In his address at the workshop, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma emphasized the need for everyone to bolster the organisation by accelerating its efforts. Bharatiya Janata Party is the only political party working on the policy of nation first. He said that while BJP works to protect democracy in the country, the work of the organisation is also completed democratically by believing in internal democracy.
“In BJP, only active members from booth to national level are made office bearers. In such a situation, all of us should also take active membership along with primary membership. In the organisation festival election, active members play their role from booth president, division president, district president to state president and then national president. Therefore, along with promoting every worker impartially, we must make them active members,” he said.
Sharma, citing the double standards of Congress, said that on one hand there is the BJP government, which worked for all 200 assembly constituencies in the budget. On the other hand, there was the previous Congress government, which used to get development work done by looking at the area as well as the MLA. BJP also worked for the implementation of the budget presented by it. The BJP government fulfilled more than 50% of the promises of the BJP Sankalp Patra in 10 months.
Meanwhile, BJP state president Madan Rathore said that there are more than 2,500 political parties in the country. While many parties have become cantered around a particular individual, that is not the case with the BJP. Whoever becomes president here, it is not hereditary. He said this while talking to the media after the organisation festival workshop of the BJP. He said that we have visited all the assembly by-election seats.
“Our workers are enthusiastic. He said that I am in touch with Congress workers as well. I will not take anyone’s name, but Congress workers are also saying that the candidates you have selected are very good. Rathore said that in politics, everyone must meet. We sit together in programs. There, Congress workers say that you have selected the right candidate and fielded him. You have won half the election. They are talking about winning half the election, so we will win the remaining election with the strength of our workers. There is a lot of enthusiasm in all areas. That is why we will win all the seven seats,” he said.
In the workshop, the coordinators and co-conveners of the top five assembly constituencies of the state were honoured in the membership campaign. The coordinators of Sangod of Kota, Sanganer of Jaipur, Vidyadhar Nagar, Adarsh Nagar, and Udaipur city were honoured by Rathore and officials. Co-election officer Damodar Agrawal conducted the programme and co-election officer Hariram Ranwan gave the vote of thanks. Co-election officer Sushil Katara was also present on the stage. BJP state officials, all district presidents, district in-charges, general secretaries, presidents of fronts, coordinators of departments were present at the event.

Vote and strengthen democracy: Modi, Shah urge voters on J&K 2nd phase polls

September 26, 2024, 4:10 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called upon voters in Jammu and Kashmir to exercise their right to vote as the second phase of the Union Territory’s assembly elections commenced.
“I appeal to all voters to cast their votes and play an important role in strengthening democracy,” Modi said, extending special greetings to first-time voters participating in the democratic process.
The second phase of polling will determine the fate of 239 candidates vying for 26 assembly seats, including former chief minister Omar Abdullah. Over 2.5 million eligible voters across six districts—three in the Kashmir Valley and three in the Jammu division—are expected to participate.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also made a public appeal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to vote in large numbers, advocating for a future free from terrorism and focused on development.
“I appeal to all voters in the second phase to vote in maximum numbers for the creation of a terror-free and developed Jammu and Kashmir,” Shah wrote on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter). He emphasized the need for a government committed to the future of the region’s youth, ensuring the rights of the underprivileged and women, and driving overall development.“Vote today to strengthen democracy and free Jammu and Kashmir from terrorism, nepotism, and corruption,” Shah added.Voting for the second phase of the assembly elections began at 7 am across the 26 constituencies amid tight security measures. This is the first assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.

Political Parties Push For Timely Elections In J&K, Urge Election Commission To Prioritize Democracy

August 8, 2024, 2:23 pm

Kashmir: Senior leaders from various political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, including the National Conference (NC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), converged on Thursday to press the Election Commission of India (ECI) for holding timely elections in the region, which has been without an elected government for nearly a decade.

During the meeting, NC’s senior leader Nasir Aslam Wani emphasized the widespread demand among the people of J&K for an elected government. Wani expressed his concerns to the ECI, urging them to move beyond mere formalities. “We conveyed to the Commission that the time for superficial gestures is over. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are yearning for governance by their elected representatives. It’s been ten long years without an elected government, and this has led to numerous challenges, from developmental issues to security concerns. The ECI assured us that elections would be conducted in a timely manner,” Wani stated.

On the other hand, BJP leader Surinder Ambardar highlighted his party’s readiness for elections, reiterating their position since the last Lok Sabha polls. “We had made it clear during the Lok Sabha elections that the BJP was ready for polls. Our stance remains unchanged. We spent around half-an-hour with the Commission today, underlining our preparedness for elections whenever the dates are announced,” Ambardar noted.

The Bahujan Samaj Party’s senior leader, Sunil Bajrouta, addressed the ECI with a focus on the security concerns faced by party leaders. Bajrouta revealed that the ECI assured him that these issues would be prioritized. “We discussed critical security concerns, and the Commission provided full assurance that our issues will be addressed on priority. We are also confident that the elections will be held as scheduled,” Bajrouta shared.

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Monga echoed the sentiment of urgency, stressing the frustration among J&K’s populace over the prolonged absence of an elected government. “The people of J&K are growing increasingly frustrated. We urged the ECI to hold elections without further delay. Additionally, we demanded equal treatment for all political parties. Though the Commission did not commit to a specific date, we made it clear that the situation is already overdue,” Monga remarked.

The delegations collectively underscored the need for the ECI to uphold democratic principles in J&K by ensuring that the electoral process is conducted fairly and expeditiously. Despite the ECI’s reassurances, the political climate in J&K remains tense as parties continue to push for the restoration of electoral democracy in the region.

Nepal Urges Calm And Orderly Return To Democracy Amid Bangladesh Unrest

August 8, 2024, 1:55 pm

Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged calm and restraint following the recent political unrest in Bangladesh. The ministry showed support for the violence’s victims and highlighted the importance of a structured return to democratic procedures. “We call for calm and restraint by all and stress the importance of an orderly return to the democratic process. We are confident that the strong and resilient people of Bangladesh will be able to ensure a smooth transition towards peace and stability,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Ministry also offered condolences to the families of those who were killed in the recent violence. “We are deeply concerned about the loss of lives and properties during the protests over the last few weeks in Bangladesh. We convey our sincere condolences and sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives and wish all those injured a speedy and full recovery,” it added.

In view to the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, the North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to take action against illegal immigration into the North Eastern states from Bangladesh. The organisation has also asked that no Bangladeshi nationals be granted asylum or allowed to settle in the North East region.

In a letter to the Union Home Minister, NESO emphasised the need for the government of India to ensure that the border between North East India and Bangladesh is rigorously and effectively monitored to detect any attempts at illegal migration from across the border. “The NESO would like to draw your attention with regard to the tumultuous events in the neighbouring country of Bangladesh where a civil war-like situation is taking place. Such a situation can have serious ramifications in India, especially in the North East Region where four states share a common international boundary with Bangladesh,” the NESO said.

Shaking pillars of democracy in India

July 22, 2024, 3:41 am

‘The Incarcerations: Bhima Koregaon and the Search for Democracy in India’ (2024) is written by Alpa Shah. She is a Professor of Anthropology at London School of Economics. The book starts with the introduction of ‘dramatis personae’, who belonged to different sections of society as representatives of the particular sections which are mainly concerned with Adivasi, Dalits and Muslims, all were victimized by politics and incarcerated in connection with the prime minister’s assassination plan in 2018, as which is commonly known to Bhima Koregaon-16 (BK-16) case. Most of them did not know each other before their incarceration. In this book Alpa Shah decodes the political discourses, meta narratives and the hegemony of a particular religion in contemporary Indian history and tries to establish humanitarian principles and practices in the context of the incarceration of Bima Koregaon.

The media are such a powerful tool which makes our social and political opinion. It is not possible for an individual to access information about the incident or event independently, so his or her dependency is on the media. But when the media starts ignoring marginalized and dissenting voices, how can one get relevant and reliable information? As Alpa claims, in the case of Bima Koregaon, ‘the many television news channels not only accepted the police version of the events without question but also ran TV shows and debates in support of it.’ The Republic TV telecasted Bima Koregaon story and their arrest in connection with the prime minister’s assassination plot and claimed a copy of the letter for this plot too. But when Sudha Bharadwaj, one of the BK-16, filed a legal complaint against the Republic TV for spreading fake news and demanded a copy of the letter, she was refused and said that was the result of their own ‘investigative journalism’.

The same provocative narrative was used by the police for further investigation. So the media trials play an imperative and important role in making fictional elements against the activists and intellectuals in India who are fighting for the betterment of the Adivasis and Dalits for their legal and legitimate rights. Some of them constantly register their dissents on environmental issues and implementation of the saffron agenda and ideological domination. Alpa challenges this type of journalism, which is committed to divulging ‘ridiculous, scurrilous and unsubstantiated’ stories and allegations. She proves that the media is being used as a weapon to blur social problems and deflect public attention to consumerism and other political motives in the postmodern world. Alpa says that today Indian democracy, in other words the ‘mother of democracy’, is facing the greatest challenges, especially the Indian constitution and its spirt of equality, secularity, unity in diversity are all under threat by the domination of a single cast or creed where the liberty of thought, expression, belief and equality of opportunity has been marginalized systemically. In a different context, Alpa questioned these confidential letters about the assassination plot because she had firsthand experience during her anthropological research between 2008-2010 on the Maoist guerrilla armies where they use code words for communication or any action, and then how it is possible to discuss the assassination plot in so casually a manner in the letters.

It is ironic that, on the one hand, national and international governing bodies at different levels are raising awareness of climate change and global warming issues, but on the other hand, corporates and MNCs in developed and underdeveloped countries persistently accruing from marginalized people, especially in developing countries like in India where some Adivasi-communities are being forced to leave their native lands. Alpa tries to unveil this harsh reality that, in many cases, the displacement of indigenous people from their land is being normalized in the name of ‘national development’ projects. Where some industrialists/corporates earn huge money from projects sanctioned by the government. If someone raises his or her voice against these malpractices, he or she may be arrested. Like an eighty-year-old priest, Stan Swami from Jharkhand was arrested in connection with the BK-16, because he was not a ‘silent spectator’. He had been fighting for the rights of Adivasis for three decades. He articulated his resistance to the displacement of indigenous people from their land by the state and corporations. He tried to make them understand that the police are not the real enemy but the administration, government and capitalist class are the real enemy, he emphasized. Though his health did not allow him to do so, he was committed to fighting every injustice and raised questions about the ruling powers of India. He proved his solidarity with the Adivasis community in many cases. The state apparatus did not pay any attention to his health issues and did not grant bail on health grounds. He passed away in the jail. Prof. Ramachandra Guha and Mihir Deasi said his death was a ‘case of judicial murder’ and ‘custodial death’ respectively.

Apla portraits some biographical sketches so vividly that detail and description have its own touching and interesting impact on the mind of the reader. Like in the case of Sudha Bharadwaj who surrendered her US citizenship and came back to devote her life to the struggle of the poor in her own country. After arriving in India she had to go through the process of ‘de-accente’ and ‘declass’ herself first and learning something practically beyond formal education. Only then she could understand the inequalities of the real world where Adivasi became merely a puppet in the hands of capitalists and industrialists. So she started living with the Adivasi community members in Chhattisgarh to understand them as well as enlighten them about their legal rights and environmental issues. Bharadwaj jumped in the battle against the mining corporations and state nexuses and crony capitalism. The issues of environmental litigation, forest rights, land acquisitions, habeas corpus cases, mass rapes, encounter killings were addressed by Sudha and her team.

The term ‘Urban Naxal’ is totally politically motivated. Even the ideological differences at administrative level between the centre and state are being defined with the help of this term. Even the Prime Minister Narendera Modi said during the election campaign of 2024 that ‘the ruling Punjab leadership (AAP) is a mirror of the ideology of urban Naxal…They may take the state down the wrong path.’ So those who believe in different ideological approaches other than the ideology of the BJP they all ‘Urban Naxals’, ‘anti-nationalists’, ‘Naxal sympathizers›. Alpa addressed such uncomfortable questions in her book with a critical and realistic approach. She frequently compares and contrasts incidents that happened in the past with their reflections on the present and the future. This technique of comparison assists her to have a balanced critique of reality and a ‘fact-finding mission›, while simultaneously expounding the political sociology behind each and every incident, which makes her discourse valid and vivid for making authentic arguments.

This book discoursed how the judiciary and UAPA have been weaponized by the state to vanquish any critical voices and dissents. Alpa writes, when revolutionary poet Varavara Rao’s name was brought up in the BK case, his family was worried that this time the prison experience would be significantly different because Rao had been incarcerated as a ‘convicted criminal not as a political prisoner whose trial had not even begun.’ Professor Anand Tellumbde and artists of the Kabir Kala Manch had been working for the progress and prosperity of the marginalized, stigmatized and oppressed groups, i.e. the Dalits and raised their voices against the ‘systematic planned casteist valance’. They were arrested in connection with BK-16. Rona Jacob had a communal harmony and pro-democratic message for society and was arrested. Gautam Navlakha passionately worked for the defense of civil liberties, particularly for the people of Kashmir. He was also arrested. All the incarcerations were done with deep planning and plotting. In most cases, victims’ computers/laptops were hacked to fabricate some objectionable and offensive materials. So these are sad stories about revolutionaries who were/are fighting against the cruelty of the government in the so-called world›s largest and oldest democracy. Authenticity is maintained in this work with the appropriate quotations and citations, which makes it a reliable document on the theme of the incarceration of Bima Koregaon. All the major and most important historical and political events have been discussed with authentic quotes and notes. This book elaborates the most conflicts and contradictions of our recent past, especially in the two terms (2014, 2019) of the Modi government and its episodic attack on democratic institutions and trying to suppress independent voices.

When Alpa was talking about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tesla, she compared the two situations. On the one hand, the people affectionately welcomed the Prime Minister of India, and on the other hand, some protesters had gathered outside the hall and criticized the Modi government for ill-treating minorities and the poor in India. She quoted some messages from social websites to prove her strong dissatisfaction with the current situation in India. But here, the level of disparagement was very low. The ordinary people may call the PM whatever they want, but in such scholarly writing, Alpa should not have quoted this type of derogatory remark (Alpa Shah, 2024:35) about the popular Prime Minister because she was trying to write a valuable argument in favour of democratic values. So the level of criticism should have been maintained. But overall, the book meticulously discourses the democratic issues and a ‘search’ for democracy and gives a chance to understand the real meaning and implementation of Louis Althousser’s concept of ideological state apparatus and repressive state apparatus.

Dr. Satinderpal Singh Bawa is Lecturer in Punjabi, GSSS Bhagal Kaithal Haryana (India) and he has got published two books in Punjabi Criticism. He frequently writes in Punjabi and English.

Democracy is being murdered in broad daylight in Tripura, Jairam Ramesh slams BJP over violence

July 15, 2024, 4:37 pm

Congress criticized the BJP on Monday for the violence in Tripura, asserting that democracy is being blatantly undermined in the northeastern state. They alleged that the orchestration of these events is clear under the “double engine” government.

In a series of tweets, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh condemned the situation, stating, “This is a BJP-style assault on the Constitution of India—its principles, values, provisions, and institutions. This is the real ‘Samvidhan Hatya’.”

Ramesh, also the communications in-charge, emphasized, “Democracy is being murdered in broad daylight in Tripura. The orchestration by the self-styled double engine sarkar is beyond any doubt.”

His comments were in response to a post by his party colleague Gitish Chodankar on X, highlighting the violence in Tripura and stating, “Now BJP-sponsored violence in Tripura ahead of Panchayat elections to prevent opposition from filing nominations: Since the announcement of the upcoming Panchayat Elections-2024, BJP-backed miscreants have been conducting house-to-house attacks and threatening loyal Congress workers in various parts of the state to unfairly influence election results in their favor.”

“Those intending to contest for Tripura Congress are being threatened against participating. Just a day after the announcement of Panchayat Election 2024 on July 11, 2024, in Kalyanpur RD Block, Mohanpur RD Block, Satchand RD Block, Tepania RD Block, Dukli RD Block, Salema Block, Bishalgarh Block, Congress workers were attacked, and houses were burnt by BJP miscreants.”

“Dear Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji – Kindly direct your party to Tripura to stop violence and respect democracy, or else Tripura people will punish you like in Manipur,” the Tripura Congress in-charge warned.

PM Modi: End Of Stone Pelting In J&K After Article 370 Removal

July 2, 2024, 5:25 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a pointed critique of those who previously championed Article 370, accusing them of exploiting the provision for vote bank politics and deteriorating the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. He asserted that this exploitation deprived the region’s people of their rights and prevented the full implementation of the Indian Constitution.

“Those who idolised Article 370 and exploited it for vote bank politics had deteriorated the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, depriving its people of their rights,” Modi stated. He emphasized that while the Indian Constitution couldn’t fully reach J&K during the Article 370 era, those who flaunted the Constitution elsewhere lacked the resolve to enforce it in the region.

Modi highlighted the negative impacts of Article 370, noting that it led to incidents of stone pelting at the Army and a pervasive sense of hopelessness. He contrasted this with the current situation, stating that the abrogation of Article 370 has brought significant positive changes.

“Today, with Article 370 gone, stone pelting has ceased, democracy thrives, and people confidently participate in elections, trusting in India’s Constitution, flag, and democracy,” the Prime Minister said. He added that this newfound confidence is evident among the 1.4 billion citizens of India.

Modi’s remarks underscored the government’s stance that the abrogation of Article has paved the way for greater democratic participation and trust in the Indian Constitution in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rahul Gandhi: ‘People Of India Have Saved Constitution And Democracy’

June 5, 2024, 8:47 am

In the wake of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Wayanad and Raebareli for their overwhelming support, which led to his victory by significant margins. Addressing a press conference in the national capital on Tuesday, Gandhi thanked his constituents, stating, “Thank you very much to the people of Wayanad and Raebareli for giving me immense support and making me win with a huge majority. If it were in my control, I would have liked to remain an MP from both places.”

The final tally for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) winning 240 seats, significantly fewer than expected, while Congress secured 99 seats, reflecting a notable increase from its previous count.

Rahul Gandhi emphasized the importance of the election results, stating, “The people of India have saved the Constitution and democracy. The deprived and poor population of the country stood with India to protect their rights. Congratulations to all the alliance partners and the lion-like workers of the Congress party.”

Despite securing a third term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP fell 32 seats short of the 272 majority mark, necessitating reliance on coalition partners like JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar and TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu. This outcome is a setback for Modi, who had aimed for a landslide victory with a target of ‘400 paar’.

For the first time since the BJP’s ascent to power in 2014, the party did not secure a majority on its own, falling far short of the 303 seats won in the 2019 elections. The surprising drop in support led the Opposition INDIA bloc to claim a moral and political victory, with Congress describing the election as a “moral and political loss” for PM Modi.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge commented on the results, saying, “This election result is ‘janta ka result’. This is the victory of people and democracy. We were saying that the fight is Modi vs. the people. In the 18th Lok Sabha election, we humbly accept the result. People have not given a full majority to any party. BJP asked to vote for one person, the mandate has gone against Modi. It is his political and moral loss. The person who sought votes on his name, it’s a huge loss for him.”

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also took to social media platform X, stating, “This election was a fight to save India’s democracy and constitution. It was a fight against unemployment, inflation, and the economic crisis. The great people of the country recognized their issues and supported the INDIA alliance. Many congratulations and thanks to all the alliance partners, all the Congress workers, and the great people of the country.”

Rahul Gandhi’s victory in Raebareli was marked by a significant margin, defeating BJP’s Dinesh Pratap Singh by 390,030 votes. Gandhi aimed to save the lone bastion of the party in Uttar Pradesh after losing Amethi in 2019. Additionally, Gandhi retained his seat in Wayanad, defeating Communist Party of India-Marxist candidate Annie Raja by 364,422 votes.

The election results have reshaped the political landscape, highlighting a shift in voter sentiment and setting the stage for new alliances and political strategies in the coming term.

The Grim “Nari Shakti” Reality: Why does half India’s population comprise less than 10% of the State assembly Contenders?

June 4, 2024, 4:02 am

For me a better democracy is a democracy where women do not only have the right to vote and to elect but to be elected.”—Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile. Amidst the 2024 India General Elections, the world’s biggest democracy is witnessing many disruptions, from leaders hopping from one party to another to parties and political parties making extravagant promises to woo their voters. However, one question remains unanswered with every election: When will women be adequately represented in Indian politics? The continuous underrepresentation of elected women representatives in legislative bodies and decision-making processes has not only hindered the country’s progress toward true equality and inclusive governance but has raised the question of whether we are truly democratic regarding electoral representation.

A recent study by Prajatantra, a non-profit, non-partisan organization that seeks to democratize electoral politics by helping more people participate in electoral politics, has found out in their latest report on Political Entry in India that dynasts, criminals, and crorepatis have enveloped 91.7% of politics. The study further points out the pervasive gender-based gatekeeping issue in state assemblies: only 12% of the elected representatives are women. More alarming is the revelation that out of the total women who get elected, 50% of them have entered the arena through dynastic politics. This indicates issue in Indian society, where traditional roles, educational and financial barriers, and exposure deficit have created a political ecosystem that is operating without adequate representation from women’s cohorts.

The data from study has further illuminated the intricate nature of Indian politics. Though fewer women enter politics, they start their political careers 2 years earlier than their male counterparts, i.e., while women enter at 42 years, males enter politics at the age of 44 years. This is likely due to most women representatives entering politics through dynast backgrounds where the competition is less, or women become proxies for their husbands or any other family member for an easy win. This prevalence of dynasties in women’s representation raises concerns, as it perpetuates the culture of pradhan pati/proxy politics in Indian democracy. This proxy culture is very prominent in local politics, where often, a woman who gets elected is a mere dummy, and the real representative is her husband or Pradhanpati.

With the prevailing political environment, the patriarchal society, coupled with a lack of capacity building and training for women, as well as insufficient political education in India, may see an escalation in these issues with the proposed implementation of a 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

Consider Harsimrat Kaur Badal, who was born into an influential family. She is a two-term MP and former Union Minister whose entire political career has been facilitated by the powerful Badal clan that virtually controlled Punjab for decades. Despite her education and responsibilities, critics argue she remained a proxy for the male patriarchs calling the shots. Similarly, Dimple Yadav’s electoral journey has been inextricably linked to the Samajwadi Party’s ‘first family’ of Uttar Pradesh, headed by her father-in-law Mulayam Singh and husband Akhilesh Yadav.

The situation is not entirely doomed as some notable strides have been made, as highlighted by the study, that beyond dynastic politics, women from non-dynastic backgrounds/grassroots politicians. However, half the percentage have entered politics through local politics (19%) and Party organizational politics (19%). However, compared to their male counterparts, women engage in other avenues much less. For example, males enter politics through student politics, civil services, and mass movements, but women have yet to enter state-level politics through these pathways. Further, women’s entry age through local politics and Party politics is 39 and 43 years, respectively. Although local governance has experienced an increase in the number of women representatives due to constitutionally mandated reservations, advancing to state or national politics without familial connections or personal wealth remains a daunting challenge for female politicians. Fewer than 10% of candidates contesting elections in state assemblies are women. This is because most Indian parties remain an old-boys network, which systematically denies capable women a level playing field, perpetuating gender disparities in political representation.

However, many women Politicians have overcome these hurdles through sheer grit and unconventional paths. Politicians like Jeevan Jot Kaur, MLA from Amritsar East, without any influential background, defeated prominent leaders like Bikram Singh Majithia and Navjot Singh Sidhu to emerge victorious. Late politician Sushma Swaraj established herself as a great orator and marked herself in history as one of the greatest women leaders. However, such examples of self-made women leaders remain rare exceptions in Indian politics’ old-boy club traditions.

The exception of women politicians should now transition towards mainstream gender representation in politics. Before moving towards 33% reservation for women, we must promote civic education focusing on gender equality in politics and its benefits. A supportive ecosystem should provide aspiring female politicians with training, mentorship, and financial assistance to pursue election campaigns. Organizations like Prajatantra, through innovative efforts like their Political Immersion Programme, are pioneering this vision of facilitating more independent, grassroots women leaders into India’s political arena.

For too long, Indian democracy has functioned as a ‘gentlemen’s club,’ with women relegated to being voiceless participants or proxies. India has worn its democratic credentials with the asterisk of stifling women’s participation in political decision-making. Having women occupy half of the seats in Parliament is not just symbolic of Progressive Awareness and equality; it’s an existential necessity for leveraging India’s full governance potential by representing 50% of its population. Our democracy’s true ‘Naari Shakti’ will be unleashed only when Indian politics becomes a level playing field for women of all backgrounds.

Ritwick Shrivastav is founder & CEO, Prajatantra.

Shashi Tharoor Warns: Democracy at Risk if BJP Returns to Power

May 26, 2024, 10:39 am

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor criticized the BJP, warning of a threat to democracy if the party returns to power at the Centre. Tharoor expressed his concerns while campaigning for former Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi, who is contesting from the Jalandhar Lok Sabha constituency as a Congress candidate.

Shashi Tharoor accused the BJP of attempting to polarize voters along religious lines and claimed that the party had divided people on the basis of religion and caste. He further alleged that the BJP had undermined various democratic institutions in the country, exerting pressure on them to align with its agenda.

Charanjit Singh Channi is contesting against AAP candidate Pawan Kumar Tinu and SAD candidate Mohinder Singh Kaypee in the Jalandhar constituency for the 2024 elections.

In Punjab, voting for its 13 seats will occur in a single phase, with the final phase scheduled for June 1. The voting process will encompass constituencies including Ludhiana, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Khadoor Sahib, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Nandpur Sahib, Fatehgarh Sahib, Faridkot, Firozpur, Bathinda, Sangrur, and Patiala.

Voter Turnout Saga: Beyond Numbers And Statistics

April 16, 2024, 12:01 pm

As the world’s largest democracy, India’s electoral saga stands as a resounding testament to the indomitable spirit of its people. From the fledgling days of Independence, when an overwhelming 85% of the eligible populace grappled with illiteracy, the nation has embarked on a transformative odyssey, witnessing a profound shift in the psyche of its electors and a steadily rising tide of voter participation.

In the early years following the nation’s birth in 1947, the daunting task of identifying, naming, and registering voters was akin to scaling an insurmountable peak. Yet, the seeds of democracy had been sown, and with each passing election, those seeds took root, gradually blossoming into a vibrant and engaged electorate.

The 1951 general elections marked the beginning of this odyssey, with a modest 44.87% voter turnout from an electorate of over 17.32 crore. While the numbers may seem unimpressive by today’s standards, they represented the first steps of a nascent nation, still finding its footing on the path of self-governance.

women voter

As the decades unfolded, a remarkable transformation began to take shape. The 1962 elections witnessed a significant surge, with the voter turnout climbing to 55.42%, a clear indication that the democratic flame was igniting within the hearts and minds of the Indian populace.

The 1967 polls further fueled this upward trajectory, with a resounding 61.04% of the electorate, numbering over 25.02 crore, exercising their franchise, a figure that would have been unimaginable just a few years prior. It was as if the nation had collectively awakened to the power and responsibility that democracy entailed.

However, the true turning point came in 1984, when a staggering 63.56% of the electorate, numbering nearly 37.95 crore, cast their ballots, shattering previous records and setting a new benchmark for voter engagement.

From that pivotal moment onwards, India’s electoral journey has been one of consistent growth and unwavering determination. The 1989 elections witnessed a turnout of 61.95%, with over 49.89 crore electors making their voices heard, while the subsequent polls in 1991 and 1996 hovered around the 57% mark, with electorates of 49.84 crore and 59.26 crore respectively, a testament to the nation’s steadfast commitment to the democratic process.

Yet, the true crowning moment came in the 2014 general elections, when a remarkable 66.44% of the electorate, comprising over 83.41 crore individuals, made their voices heard at the ballot box. This was a watershed moment, a resounding affirmation that the Indian electorate had truly come of age, embracing their democratic rights and responsibilities with fervor and conviction.

The 2019 elections further solidified this trend, with a record-breaking 67.4% voter turnout, surpassing even the lofty heights of 2014. Of the staggering 91.05 crore electors, over 61.37 crore cast their ballots, a moment of national pride, a resounding declaration that India’s democracy had truly taken root, transcending boundaries of caste, creed, and religion, united by the shared belief in the power of the ballot.

This remarkable journey, however, is not merely a story of statistics and numbers. It is a narrative woven from the threads of hope, determination, and the indomitable spirit of a nation that has risen from the ashes of colonialism to become a shining beacon of democracy on the global stage.

Behind each percentage point lies a tapestry of stories, of individuals who have braved insurmountable odds to exercise their right to choose their leaders. From the remote villages of the Himalayas, where voters traverse treacherous terrain to reach the polling booths, to the teeming metropolises where the cacophony of democracy resonates through every alleyway, the Indian electorate has proven time and again that their voices cannot be silenced.

This unwavering commitment to the democratic process is not merely a matter of civic duty; it is a profound expression of the nation’s collective aspirations, a resounding rejection of the shackles of oppression that once bound its people.

As India continues to stride forward, its electoral journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of democracy. It is a story that transcends boundaries, resonating with nations across the globe that are grappling with the complexities of self-governance and the delicate balance between individual freedoms and collective responsibility.

Yet, this odyssey is far from over. With each passing election, the nation’s electorate grows larger, more diverse, and more cognizant of the pivotal role they play in shaping the nation’s destiny. The challenges that lie ahead are manifold, from combating misinformation and ensuring transparent and fair electoral processes, to addressing the persistent socio-economic disparities that threaten to undermine the democratic values on which this great nation was built.

However, if the past is any indication, India’s unwavering spirit and its people’s resilience will undoubtedly prevail. For in the heart of every Indian, there beats a rhythm of hope, a belief in the power of the ballot to create a better tomorrow, a future where the dreams of a billion souls can find their voice and their aspirations can take flight.

As the world watches with bated breath, India’s electoral journey continues to unfold, a compelling saga that captivates the imagination and inspires nations across the globe. It is a story that reminds us that democracy is not merely a system of governance, but a living, breathing embodiment of the human spirit, a testament to the indomitable resilience of a people who have chosen to shape their destiny with the power of their collective will.

In the end, India’s voter turnout saga is not just a chronicle of numbers and statistics; it is a poetic tapestry woven from the threads of hope, determination, and the unwavering belief that in the heart of every citizen lies the power to change the course of history.

“Murder of democracy, insult to Constitution”: Supriya Sule on suspension of 143 Opposition MPs

December 21, 2023, 3:52 pm

Nationalist Congress Party leader Supriya Sule, who actively rallied outside the BJP-led Centre, said on Thursday that the expulsion of opposition MPs from both Houses of Parliament was a ‘murder of democracy.’ 143 opposition members of both houses were arrested for demanding Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s statement on December 13 breach of security in Parliament for creating ruckus and disrupting proceedings.

The suspended MP compared the prevailing situation to the state of emergency that was imposed in the country during Indira Gandhi’s prime ministership in 1975 and said it seemed like an undeclared emergency. She stated, “This is the murder of democracy, a violation of the constitution. The country is governed according to the constitution and I condemn the fact that (more than) 140 members of parliament have been suspended. It seems that a state of emergency has been established in the country.” Sule said that three bills dealing with penal laws of the colonial past – Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita Bill, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita Bill and Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill – were passed without 97 opposition members in the Lok Sabha.

On December 13, a total of 143 MPs – 97 from the Lok Sabha and 46 from the Rajya Sabha were suspended for creating ruckus and disrupting proceedings in both houses to demand a statement from a Union minister on the security breach. John Brittas of the CPI(M), another member of parliament who took part in the protest march, said the Center should now amend the Constitution to say “India is a monarchy”. He added, “We protest against the brutal killing of democracy. Our democracy was murdered. One could see the Union home minister on one side (by pushing through the draft penal law). This is the opposition Mukti Parliament. They (the Centre) should now amend the constitution to say that India is a monarchy!”

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge posted on his X-handle that passing important laws by blocking opposition MPs is not democracy but authoritarianism and citizens of India must save democracy. Passing major legislation by firing opposition MPs is not democracy she published a post on X commenting, “We, the people of India need to Save Democracy. Passing important legislation by suspending Opposition MPs is not Democracy. It is the worst kind of authoritarianism. Our future generations will not forgive us, if we do not raise our voices against this dictatorship, NOW !”

Democracy hits rock bottom in Pakistan, says Imran Khan

May 14, 2023, 2:19 pm

Former Pakistan Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan has said that democracy in the country is at an “all-time low”, ARY News reported.
“Democracy is at an all-time low. The only hope we have is the judiciary,” said PTI Chief Imran Khan while speaking with Sky News on Sunday. He also said that the coalition government was “petrified of elections” and feared being “wiped out” by his party at the polls.

He said, “So they have decided that the only way they will allow elections is if I am inside the jail or killed. There have been two attempts on me.” Khan added that his house was also raided while he was away.The former prime minister condemned “all violence” when asked about violence by protesters following his arrest from the premises of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on May 9.

The former prime minister while addressing party workers and supporters on Friday urged the Supreme Court (SC) of Pakistan to launch an investigation into May 9 violence that emerged following his arrest in the Al-Qadir Trust case.The PTI chief urged them to come out of their homes and gather at a spot in their neighbourhood from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm on Sunday with a placard inscribed with “Save Constitution, save the country”, according to Pakistan-based ARY News.

He said that the police stopped him from leaving the Islamabad High Court (IHC) premises despite the court granting bail in multiple cases.He added, “The police wanted to arrest me under MPO [Maintenance of Public Order] outside the courtroom.”

‘Democracy won…’ CM Kejriwal after SC verdict in Centre vs Delhi govt case

May 11, 2023, 2:06 pm

Soon after the Supreme Court delivered its verdict in a drawn-out tussle for power between the Delhi government and the Centre, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday expressed gratitude to the top court and said that “democracy won” following the judgment.

In a huge win for the Delhi government, the Supreme Court today said that in a democratic form of government, the real power of administration must rest on the elected arm of the government. Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said that the pace of development in Delhi will increase manifold with this decision.

“Heartfelt thanks to the Hon’ble Supreme Court for doing justice to the people of Delhi. With this decision, the pace of development of Delhi will increase manifold. Democracy won,” Kejriwal tweeted.

A Constitution bench of the Supreme Court, in a unanimous verdict, said that the Delhi government must have control over services, and the Lieutenant Governor is bound by its decision.The court said that the Delhi government similar to other States represents the representative form of government and any further expansion of the Union’s power will be contrary to the Constitutional scheme.Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also reacted to the verdict and said in a Punjabi tweet, “A warm welcome to the decision of the Hon’ble Supreme Court today in favor of the people of Delhi… I sincerely salute the sincere struggle of @ArvindKejriwal Ji to save democracy in the country. A big victory has been sealed. Long live revolution.”

Brazilian Congress stormed by Bolsonaro supporters, President Lula vows to punish them

January 9, 2023, 2:12 pm

Highlights if the Incident:
- Hundreds of right-wing protestors in Brazil went rogue and stormed multiple government buildings.
- Large crowds in Brasilia ascended a stairway to the parliament building, where they had arrived at the Green Room outside the lower House of Congress’ chamber.
- Brazilian President Lula Di Silva said, “all the people who did this will be found and punished.”
- Attorney General’s Office in the Federal District to immediately open a criminal investigation procedure aimed at holding those involved accountable.

The Brazilian Congress was stormed by the right-wing protesters. It was not just the congress but also the supreme court that was breached. This breach comes after a week of Lula Da Silva’s inauguration as the leader of Brazil. His return to power comes after 12 years after he defeated Bolsonaro in a run-off election on October 30. Bolsonaro supporters however claim the elections were rigged and are demanding to nullify ballots cast on most electronic voting machines.

Protestors entering The Brazilian Congress.

Brazilian President Lula Di Silva on Sunday vowed to punish hundreds of protestors who went rogue and stormed multiple government buildings. Lula da Silva called the events in the Brazilian capital of Brasilia “barbaric” and said that “a lack of security” had allowed Bolsonaro’s “fascist” followers to get past the military-erected barriers outside the parliament building, the Supreme Court, and the Planalto Presidential Palace.“These people are everything that is abominable in politics,” he said, adding that “all the people who did this will be found and punished.”

Footage Sunday showed large crowds in Brasilia ascending a stairway to the parliament building, where they had arrived at the Green Room outside the lower House of Congress’ chamber. While CNN Brasil showed the entrance of the Brazilian Armed Forces and anti-riot police, other media channels showed Bolsonaro supporters entering the Supreme Court and the presidential palace. CNN Brasil reports that as demonstrators attempted to set fire to the carpet, the sprinkler system was activated, flooding the floor of the Congress building. Additional footage saw demonstrators looting the building’s art gallery and stealing presents from visiting delegations.

Brasilia Governor Ibaneis Rocha said 400 had been detained.

Bolsonaro also criticised the activities of his followers, claiming that although authorised, legitimate protests are a component of democracy “depredations and invasions of public buildings as occurred today, as well as those practiced by the left in 2013 and 2017, escape the rule.” The government buildings are now evacuated and vandalism has been halted by security forces. Anyone found to be part of these violent protests will be prosecuted under Brazilian law. Brazil’s Attorney General’s office (MPF) said in a statement it is investigating all involved in the breaches. The attorney general of the republic Augusto Aras has also “requested the Attorney General’s Office in the Federal District (PRDF) to immediately open a criminal investigation procedure aimed at holding those involved accountable.”

‘Participate with full enthusiasm in this festival of democracy’, says PM Modi

November 12, 2022, 11:17 am

Voting in Himachal Pradesh began on Saturday morning and Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the voters to vote in the election and create a new record of voting.

“Today is the polling day for all the assembly seats in Himachal Pradesh. I request all the voters of Devbhoomi to participate with full enthusiasm in this festival of democracy and create a new record of voting,” PM Modi tweeted.

In another tweet PM Modi greeted the young voters who are going to vote for the first time.

“My special wishes to all the youth of the state who will vote for the first time on this occasion,” PM Modi said.

Amid tight security arrangements on Saturday at 8 am polling for 68 Assembly seats has begun in the hill state.

Meanwhile, the fate of 412 candidates, including 24 women will be decided by 55.92 lakh voters in the Himachal Pradesh assembly elections.

Earlier on Thursday Congress general secretary Priyanka addressed the people of Himachal and lashed out BJP.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday addressed a rally in Sirmaur district and slammed the state government and said the debt of Rs 70,000 crores is saddled.

“There are 30 lakh young people in Himachal Pradesh and of them, 15 lakh are unemployed. This is at a time when government posts lie vacant in the state. This government (BJP) has snatched jobs and increased inflation,” Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said.

Moreover, Priyanka said, if Congress voted to power in the state then at its very first cabinet meeting the party will make a provision for 1 lakh government jobs.

However, before Priyanka Gandhi PM Modi also addressed the people of Hill state and lashed out at the Congress party.

“We always witness fights within the Congress party. We saw it in Rajasthan and other areas. Congress is the guarantee of instability, corruption, and scams. Congress can never give a stable government to HP and neither do they want,” PM Modi said.

Notably, the elections in Himachal Pradesh are going on and the counting of votes will take place on 8 December.

Biden : Elon Musk’s relationships with other countries is worthy of being looked at

November 10, 2022, 12:13 pm

Biden, US President addressed the press conference after the mid- term polls on Wednesday and said , Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s technical relationships with other countries is worthy of being looked at.

Biden was asked whether he thinks Elon Musk is a “threat to U.S. national security” and should his “joint acquisition of Twitter be investigated”. On which Biden said, “ I think that Elon Musk’s cooperation and technical relationships with other countries is worthy of being looked at. Whether or not he is doing anything inappropriate.” Earlier on Wednesday, Joe Biden mocked the Republicans for blocking the Giant “Red Wave” and hailed the midterm elections as a “Good Day” for democracy.

He said, “Our Democracy has been tested in recent years, but with the votes of the American people we have proved once again that it’s Democracy who we are.”

Earlier, Musk tweeted, “Our Democracy has been tested in recent years, but with the votes of the American people we have proved once again that it’s Democracy who we are.”

Notably, his comments came shortly after he publicly declared his support for the Republican-controlled Congress and advised people to do the same.

Musk declared on Twitter that it is preferable for there to be two political parties in power, citing Joe Biden as the Democratic party’s representative in the White House.

“To independent-minded voters: Shared power curbs the worst excesses of both parties, therefore I recommend voting for a Republican Congress, given that the Presidency is Democratic,” Musk tweeted on Monday.”

Hardcore Democrats or Republicans never vote for the other side, so independent voters are the ones who actually decide who’s in charge!” he added.

At convocation ceremony, Mamata urges CJI :‘Please save democracy ‘

October 30, 2022, 5:34 pm

Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal and the leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), made a request to Chief Justice of India (CJI) UU Lalit on Sunday while they were both in presence at the convocation of the West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS) in Kolkata. Regarding the nation’s current judicial climate, Banerjee criticised the practise of “media trials” and claimed that a “segment of people” are grabbing hold of all the “democratic powers.”

At the convocation, the chief minister served as the special guest and delivered an address in which she encouraged the court to maintain the integrity of India’s federal system.

“Common people are unnecessarily being harassed…Where is democracy? Please save democracy,” Banerjee urged CJI Lalit, who is the chancellor of the university.

She said if democratic powers continue to be seized by certain “section of people”, then the day is not far when a presidential form of regime will be brought in the country.

Justice is always “for the people, by the people, and of the people,” according to the TMC supremo. She also expressed her gratitude to CJI Lalit, stating that he has demonstrated in just “two months” what “judiciary meant.”

But the chief minister reiterated her stance, adding that it wasn’t that people no longer trusted the judiciary. “But the circumstance today is such… It has gotten worse and worse. The judiciary must pay attention to public cries. But right now, many are sobbing in private. These kinds of situations are occurring right now”, continued Banerjee.

PM Modi addressed the 90th Interpol meet: ” Safe, secure world is shared responsibility”

October 18, 2022, 4:58 pm

Prime Minister Modi addressed the 90th Inteprol meeting in New Delhi. A safe and secure world is a shared responsibility, he said, calling India a case study for the world in upholding diversity and democracy.

“In upholding diversity and democracy, India is a case study for the world. Over the last 99 years, Interpol has connected police organizations globally in 195 countries. This is despite differences in the legal framework,” the Prime Minister said. The Interpol will celebrate its 100 years in 2023. PM Modi congratulated the organisation as it is approaching a historic milestone.

“The Interpol is approaching a historic milestone. In 2023, Interpol will celebrate its 100 years,” he said. “This is a call for universal cooperation to make the world a better place. India is one of the top contributors to the UN Peacekeeping Operations. From climate targets to COVID vaccines, India has shown the willingness to take the lead in any crisis,” PM Modi added further. He also stressed the need for more international cooperation, saying that this is what India is advocating for.

At the 90th Interpol meeting, the Prime Minister also spoke about the Police Forces and how they contribute to societal welfare.
I pay my respect to the police officers who have given their lives in the line of duty, he said, adding that police forces all over the world work to advance social welfare and are the first to respond in times of emergency.

The Interpol General Assembly meeting is taking place in India after a break of about 25 years – it was last held in 1997. The General Assembly overwhelmingly approved India’s proposal to host the Interpol General Assembly in 2022 at New Delhi in conjunction with celebrations for the 75th anniversary of India’s independence.

The occasion offers a chance to introduce the entire globe to India’s top law and order practises.