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Round the World
POLL, CONGRESS-I & OPPOSITION UNITY, By Inder Jit, 18 April 2024 |
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REWIND
New Delhi, 18 April 2024
POLL,
CONGRESS-I & OPPOSITION UNITY
By Inder
Jit
(Released
on 13 June 1989)
The poll battle is hotting up. Everything is being said
or done with an eye on winning supporters and influencing people. Nothing is
being left to chance. The stakes are once again high, indeed very high. The
battle is not just a quest for continuing in power for the Congress-I leaders.
Even physical survival is involved in a tragic situation in which Punjab still
awaits a solution and continues to bleed and suffer. What the outcome will be
at the time of the poll in October at the earliest or in the first week of
January at the latest --- lies in the lap of the Gods. Much will depend on the
popular mood or the hawa on the eve of the election. Anything could
happen between now and then in a country where the public easily goes euphoric
and its opinion and mood are known to swing from one extreme to another. We
have made heroes of ordinary mortals and raised them to glorious heights one
day and denounced and dumped them the next day.
The Congress-I hopes to "sweep the poll and win an
overwhelming majority", according to an assessment Mr H.K.L. Bhagat gave
me at the Pioneer's 125th year celebration at the Vigyan Bhawan on
Wednesday last. "Don't give me what is fit only for a bhashan,"
I said. He responded: "I am serious. Our people know what is good for them
and the country." The Opposition, for its part, is no less optimistic, no
matter what you and I think and feel in the metropolitan or other urban centres
-- or in our ivory towers. Said Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee: "As things stand
at present, the Opposition parties should get an overwhelming majority. I give
the Congress-I a maximum of 200 seats out of a total of 544 seats." This
assessment, as Mr Vajpayee clarified, "is based on the expectation that
the Opposition parties will ultimately be able to fight the Congress-I on a
one-to-one basis. All of us are keen to avoid splitting of the anti-Congress-I
vote this time."
The Congress-I assessment is based mainly on the
failure of the Opposition thus far to project itself as a credible alternative.
In sharp contrast, the Congress-I sees itself acknowledged once again as
India's best bet for stability and unity. The Janata Government in Karnataka
and its impressive record posed a problem. But this has since been resolved ---
rightly or wrongly. In addition, the party hopes to capitalize in a big way on
Mr Rajiv Gandhi's new deal on Panchayati Raj. Not a little store is also laid
by the Rs 2,500-crore Jawahar Rozgar Yojana, which is expected to swell the
ranks of its supporters. Asserted a Congress-I leader: "Our voters go by
broad impressions. Remember, Indira Gandhi won her battle against the old guard
by declaring: ‘They say Indira hatao. I say garibi hatao’.
Rajivji has now given a new slogan: 'Power to the people’. The masses are
happy, who is bothered at the grassroots about constitutional niceties and the
autonomy of the States?"
The Opposition expects to win mainly on the basis of
what it describes as the Rajiv Government's present image of being
"corrupt and rotten", arguing: "The Opposition is seldom voted
to power. Only the Government is voted out!" Mr V.P. Singh, for instance,
is not unduly worried that the Bofors and the Submarine scandals no longer
dominate the proceedings of Parliament or the front pages of newspapers. He
told me not long ago: "The people are now well aware of the truth. The chowkidar
has turned into a chor." At any rate, the Opposition is not without
more ammunition. This is expected to be used at the right moment. They also
hope to cash in on what they describe as the failure of the Government's
economic policies, as reflected in two things which concern the masses most:
unemployment and prices. The Jawahar Rozgar Yojana, they feel, will only
highlight the Government's basic failure --- and "its attempts to fool the
people through stunts."
All out efforts are, therefore, under way on both sides
to improve the image of their top leaders and to sully those of the opponents. Mr.
Rajiv Gandhi turned up in the Lok Sabha to announce personally the Jawahar
Rozgar Yojana and also to introduce the historic Panchayati Raj Bill, even as
he was greatly conspicuous by his absence time and again when the House was
plunged into disorder. (As the Leader of the House, Mr Gandhi is required to
ensure that Parliament functions smoothly.) Everything possible is being done
to damn the Janata Dal leader, Mr V.P. Singh. In the bargain, all norms and
ethics have been cast to the winds. Even a newspaper article by Mr Madhu
Limaye, who himself never made it to the big league as a controversial
socialist, was quoted at length by Doordarshan to denigrate both Mr V.P. Singh
and the Janata Dal. Obliging newspapers have also been roped in to denounce Mr
Singh and put across the official pro-Rajiv line.
On the other hand, Mr V.P. Singh has been persuaded by
his close aides and supporters to give greater attention to his popular image
and to be careful about what he says. (Remember, following his triumph in the
Allahabad by-election, Mr Singh openly stated that he would be "a disaster
as Prime Minister." This, as he told me, was intended to stop people from
talking of him as Prime Minister. But the statement is now being quoted against
him!) Mr Singh has, therefore, asserted himself on the choice of the Janata Dal
Chief in Bihar. He was far from happy at having appointed Mr Raghunath Jha at
the pressing instance of Mr Chandra Shekhar and Mr Devi Lal. Now, he has
removed Mr Jha and appointed Mr Ram Sundar Das, who has a much better image. In
the process, he has shown that he can also be tough and decisive. Those who
attended the Janata Dal's recent meet in Bangalore also speak highly of his
conduct of the conclave.
Simultaneously, the Janata Dal is also working
patiently to ensure the position unity at the polls and a one-to-one contest
against the Congress-I, especially in the Hindi heartland which accounts for
221 seats. This is sought to be done through the National Front and through
seat adjustments with the BJP, notwithstanding CPM Opposition. The CPM
maintains that any adjustment with the BJP would drive the Muslims, who
constitute 16 per cent of the voters, into the arms of the Congress-I. But the
Janata Dal disagrees and asserts that adjustments are tactical and wholly
distinct from an alliance. The Janata Dal and the BJP are also clear that
adjustments are a must if the Congress-I is to be humbled. Consequently, Mr
Vajpayee and Mr Devi Lal have not only met to hammer out adjustments, but their
efforts hold out promise of unexpected success, proving the well-known adage:
if there is a will there is a way.
The Congress-I, for its part, is trying its best
overtly and covertly to prevent the Opposition from coming together. Quiet
moves have been on to persuade the CPM to stay out of the National Front. At
the same time, the Left has also been attacked publicly by Mr Rajiv Gandhi for
continuing in a front in which its principal member, the Janata Dal, is
"in alliance" with the "communal BJP". The CPM would, no
doubt, be happier if the Janata Dal agreed not to seek adjustments with the
BJP. But, to quote Mr Harkishan Singh Surjeet, "the CPM is clear that the
Rajiv Gandhi Government today stands isolated from the common man and the
masses and must be given a crushing defeat." Further, the CPM has hardly
any following of its own in the Hindi heartland. It is, therefore, not terribly
keen on making an issue of the Janata Dal-BJP talks and walking out of the
National Front, something which would help only the ruling Congress-I.
One issue remains. What does the proverbial common man
think and feel? Some quiet soundings over the past few weeks have yielded
interesting results. The weaker sections of the community are exercised most of
all over the continuous price rise, which has made their "lives miserable."
(They assert: "What do our Ministers know of the price of atta, daal
and other basic needs.") Corruption scandals relating to Bofors guns and
HDW submarines undoubtedly bother them. But what has angered them most is the
hard fact that corruption now afflicts all levels of administration down to the
panchayat. Nothing moves even at the grass-roots without bribery. "Both
have made the weaker sections anti-Rajiv Government," to quote more than
one person. But they have a problem. They do not yet see a credible alternative
and feel disgusted by the infighting (real or created) in the Janata Dal. Both
the Congress-I and the Opposition would do well to pause --- and take note.---INFA
(Copyright, India
News and Feature Alliance)
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Heat Wave Conditions: FATAL IMPACT ON HUMAN HEALTH, By Dhurjati Mukherjee, 17 April 2024 |
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Open Forum
New Delhi, 17 April 2024
Heat Wave Conditions
FATAL IMPACT ON HUMAN HEALTH
By Dhurjati Mukherjee
The past
year, 2023 was the hottest year on record with mean temperature nearing the
critical 1.50 Celsius threshold over a 12-month period and the trend
continued in the first two months of this year. For India, 2023 was the second
warmest year on record in the country since 1901. Projections reveal the
current year may surpass this record as apart from April, the next two months
may become unbearable in western, northern and eastern parts of India.
Moreover, the coastal cities with high humidity as also the desert regions may
give a feeling of anything around 42 to 45 degrees Celsius.
Given
the forecast,Prime Minister Modi called a meeting last week to take stock of
the preparedness for heatwave conditions and advised that governments at
central, state and district levels must work in synergy.
The annual
‘State of Climate Report’of World Meteorological Organisation(WMO), says
the global mean temperature in 2023 was 1.450C -- 0.2 degree Celsius
above 1850-1900 average, turning it the warmest year in 174-year history of
record keeping. Besides, it broke records in all climate indicators, including greenhouse
gas levels, ocean heat, sea level rise, Antarctica sea ice loss and glacier
retreat.
It’s distressing
touching the critical 1.50Celsius threshold so early has negated projection
of Paris Agreement, hailed globally. “Never have we been so close to the 1.50
C limit of the Paris Agreement on climate change”, observed WMO Secretary General
Celeste Saulo, sounding the red alert to the world. Thus, the question now
would be whether warming would reach 2 or 2.50 C in the next two
decades.
India
observed a significant mean temperature increase of 0.15 degrees C per decade
since 1950, according to a 2020 Ministry of Earth Sciencesassessment. The
observed warming is not occurring evenly across India. Warm days and warm nights
have also increased at about seven and three days per decade, respectively,
during 1951-2015 and even later. Currently, 23 States, mainly of plain and
coastal regions, are considered more vulnerable to widespread heat impact.
However, that doesn’t mean hilly states are safe. Although their maximum
temperatures do not reach heatwave threshold levels of 45 degrees C, the
population is experiencing higher temperatures compared to previous
decades.
The
warming has been in focus for quite some time. A UN report about two years
back, says India would become the worst climate-affected region in the world,
specially applicable to the cities. Even this report could not contemplate that
global warming of 1.5 degrees centigrade would be reached by 2023.
At same
time, the report predicted various trends which include: Rise in weather and
climate extremes led to some irreversible impacts as natural and human systems
are pushed beyond their ability to adapt; Approximately 3.3 to 3.6 billion
people live under climate threat; Beyond 2040, climate change will lead to
numerous risks and multiple climate hazard will occur simultaneously; Coastal
cities are under severe climate risk which includes Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata,
Bhubaneswar etc.
Human
health exposure to severe or continuous heat, leads to heat stress. When
uncompensated, heat stress manifests as heat-related illnesses. Such illnesses
range from superficial/mild and manageable (e.g. prickly heat, heat-related
swelling, heat cramps, heat exhaustion) to a medical emergency (i.e. heat
stroke). Heat stroke is the most severe of heat-related illnesses as it impairs
brain function (i.e. stroke) due to uncontrolled body heating. It may turn into
a critical condition that often turns fatal if there is a delay or failure in
reducing body temperature by rapid, active cooling. Besides neurological
impairment, high core body temperature (at least 40 degrees C), or hot, dry
skin are other heat stroke symptoms.
Heat-related
illnesses are not the only cause of emergency or mortality during hot summer
days. Normal human body temperature stays within a narrow range of 36.3-37.3
degrees C. It maintains thermal balance through radiation (40%), evaporation
(30%), convection (27%), and conduction (3%). Any external or internal
condition that increases body temperature invokes various physiological
responses changing cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic systems, driven by
increased blood flow to the skin and dehydration. Various studies have
indicated that 90% of India is found to be vulnerable to heatwave impact.
Epidemiologically,
it is important to note; in current scenario, whichever threshold is used to
announce heatwaves, the health impacts of heat do not begin to occur only after
those threshold temperature levels are crossed. Health impacts begin much
before, even at moderate temperature levels. In terms of external factors,
humidity plays a crucial role in creating heat stress by limiting our body’s
major cooling mechanism: sweating.
Even at
moderate temperatures, like 35 or 36 degrees C, if the relative humidity is
70%, it will feel like 50 degrees C to us. In terms of internal factors, heat’s
impacts depend on the acclimatisation and build-up of heat stress in the human
body. Acclimatisation is a gradual physiological adaptation (short-term) that
increases heat tolerance as a person incrementally exerts in a hot setting for
a few days. Air conditioning and comorbidities reduce our heat tolerance.
Similarly, long-term adaptation occurs in people living in hotter regions over
the years. Therefore, tourists from colder regions are particularly at risk of
heat stroke.
The Union
Health Ministry cautioned amid weather forecasts of excess days of heat waves
across the country during Lok Sabha elections. The National Programme on
Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) advisory on extreme heat underlined
that physical exertion, direct sun exposure and difficult access to shade and
water may worsen the health of vulnerable people. Infants, and young children
and people with cardiovascular diseases or high blood pressure are among the
vulnerable populations. Not just stroke but heat related illnesses include heat
rash, heat oedema (swelling of hands, feet and ankles) and fainting.
A study
conducted in Kolkata for2021-22 summer found that indoor heat index levels
in urban slum dwellings were 5.29 degrees C higher than outdoors. Dangerously
high heat and humidity (at least 45 degrees C) remained for an average of about
nine hours/day in urban slum dwellings compared to 2 hours a day in rural
houses. These differences were particularly notable at night. During the
coolest time of night, the insides of urban dwellings recorded a 6.4 degrees C
higher heat index than outdoors, while the insides of rural houses recorded 1.3
degrees C above outdoor levels. Cement walls, clay tiles, corrugated tin roofs,
fewer rooms, and crowding made urban slums dangerously hot.
Similarly,
a study from Ahmedabad recorded an average 6.7 degrees C higher heat index
at the locations where patients with acute heat illnesses were picked up by
emergency medical services compared to what was recorded by the nearest weather
station during the summer of 2016. At city level, such differences translate
into an increase in all-cause mortality with daily city temperature. Hence,
city-level temperature-mortality study has become vital for heat-health action
planning.
Adaptation
measures to extreme heat are essential as the situation has the potential to
change the course of irreversible planetary consequences. Due to rise in
greenhouse gases, global warming has reached alarming levels. Even with all the
commitments made by different nations and the very recent aim of targeting net
zero emissions, large numbers of people in tropical countries, including India,
will find it hard to live. Thus, a health-centric adaptation focus should be
seriously followed in every sector to tackle the ongoing heat wave. This will
also help us stay on course for achievement of the SDGs.---INFA
(Copyright, India News & Feature Alliance)
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Tale Of Two Manifestos: MODI’S GAURANTEE VS CONGRESS NYAY, By Poonam I Kaushish, 16 April 2024 |
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Political Diary
New Delhi, 16 April 2024
Tale Of Two Manifestos
MODI’S GAURANTEE VS CONGRESS NYAY
By Poonam I Kaushish
The stage is set, audiences anticipate as the
curtain rises on India’s nautanki of democracy, an ideological spectacle commencing Thursday with citizens either relishing or
abhorring the ongoing tamasha with
bagfuls of ‘revadi’ and promises
galore. A toss between big leaders, small netas
and two-timing jan sevaks. All in
their reckless quest for power, amplified by the silly chair called Bharat’s Raj Gaddi!
Amidst the poll cacophony, BJP makes a pitch with
Modi’s Gaurantee for Viksit Bharat vs Congress Nyay Patra, an ideological
divergence which mirrors India's vibrant political tapestry.
The BJP's ‘Sankalp
Patra’ epitomises continuity by weaving a narrative of progress built upon
the Party's 10-year rule championing Hindutva, infrastructural advancements, national
security and robust economic trajectory heralding stability, growth and steadfast
commitment to a unified national ethos unswayed by populism.
In stark contrast, Congress' ‘Nyay Patra’ heralds a clarion call for change, accentuating social
justice and economic parity as its focal points. It promises inclusivity and
welfare, caste census alongside redressing societal inequities, reservation and
offers a progressive alternative to its rival’s vision. It pledges to fill three
million Government vacancies and proposes a Constitutional amendment to increase
the reservation cap. Harbinger of its own renaissance, it aspires to repaint
the nation's canvas with strokes of inclusivity and reform.
Undeniably, both manifestos underscore a clash of
ideologies showcasing the vast ideological chasm between BJP-Congress. Whereby Bharat
stands poised at a crossroads: a choice between two philosophies: ‘Sankalp’ and ‘Nyay’ which transcends mere manifesto promises; it defines
divergent visions for the nation's future. While BJP charts a vision of developed
India, Congress advocates a narrative of societal equity and justice. Whoever
wins will shape India's developmental trajectory and its socio-political
terrain for times to come.
The BJP's manifesto stands as a bastion of cultural
nationalism, envisioning a resurgent Bharat, self-assured and assertive.
Conversely, the Congress manifesto echoes a clarion call for change, outlining
a blueprint for an India where justice isn't just an aspiration but a tangible
reality for every citizen.
Interestingly, youth take centre stage in both
Parties electoral agendas. BJP focuses on fortifying academic integrity,
tackling paper leaks, filling Government vacancies and envisions India as a global manufacturing and
start-up hub. Congress plans to introduce Yuva
Nyay programme to combat unemployment, offering practical training through
Right to Apprenticeship Act for diploma holders and graduates under 25.
Both trading insults: BJP trashes Congress Nyay Patra as “having Muslim League
imprint and is a bundle of lies,” Congress rubbishes BJP’s Sankalp
Patra as a “warranty of jumlas and maafinama,” accusing it of dishonouring
past promises. “In 2014 Modi promised to bring black money back, but what he brought
is electoral bond.”
With BJP fulfilling two of its earlier
three ‘core issues’: construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya and removing Article
370, implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) as a tool for “gender
equality” --- and the idea of “One Nation, One Election” have jumped to prominence today.
“Article 44 lists UCC as one of
the Directive Principles of State Policy. BJP believes there cannot be gender
equality till Bharat adopts UCC, which protects rights of women drawing upon
the best traditions and harmonising them with modern time.”
The thematic
connecting of gender parity and customary laws that came in the way of this was
drawn when Parliament passed the triple talaq
ban law 2017. Primarily,
UCC aims at uniformity in personal laws, like marriage registration, child
custody, divorce, adoption, property rights and inter-State property rights
regardless of religious beliefs. Tribals, though have been kept out of its
purview. A thought echoed by
Supreme Court in various judgments.
BJP is clear: It believes no country
should have any religion-based law other than a single law for citizens. It provides
protection to vulnerable sections and religious minorities, while encouraging
nationalistic fervour through unity.
Naturally, Opposition opposes this as it
would interfere in religious groups personal laws and right of religious
freedom unless religious groups are prepared for change (sic). It’s a ‘minority
vs majority’ issue and Hindutva Brigade’s
policy for Muslims living in India. It would disintegrate the country and hurt
its diverse culture, they warn.
Moreover, it violates Constitutional
freedom to practice religion of choice which allows communities to follow their
respective personal laws. For example, Article 25 gives every religious group
the right to manage its own affairs and Article 29 the right to conserve their
distinct culture. Also, the Constituent Assembly’s Fundamental Rights
sub-committee deliberately did not include UCC as a Fundamental Right.
As the dissonance for and against UCC
grows louder the correct answer lies somewhere in between. However, what cannot
be denied is UCC will benefit BJP electorally alongside consecration of the Ram
mandir as it will be used as a ploy to corner the Opposition about being
pro-Muslim. A majority of Hindus would view it as the Party implementing its
agenda.
Certainly the path to UCC is sensitive
and difficult but it must be taken. A beginning has to be made if the
Constitution is to have any meaning. Discrimination cannot be justified on the
grounds of traditions and customs. One cannot progress riding on past’s wheels.
India needs uniform laws and should figure what is satisfactory to all groups.
On Modi’s favourite “One Nation, One Election”, the manifesto says
“it will work towards implementing ex-President Kovind committee’s
recommendations to holding simultaneous elections along-with making provisions
for a common electoral roll for all levels of elections.”
Specially as the country has witnessed
400 polls to Lok Sabha and State Assemblies till date. And given Law Commission
had thrice — 1999, 2015 and 2018 — argued for simultaneous elections to “free
citizens, Parties and Government from encumbrance of asynchronous elections as
it would be economically viable and a big saving for exchequer”.
It would help avoid disruptions in
governance and policy paralysis due to frequent polls as once a Party is
elected and Government formed it can get down to work and concentrate on
delivering good governance without worrying
about its impact on vote banks.
Alas, Opposition perceives it as
imposition of BJP’s political agenda, extension of its ideological preference
for homogeneity and uniformity vis-à-vis
faith, customs, language, dress and diet given federal relations are fraught in
rival-ruled States. Also, it hinders political accountability and performance
scrutiny alongside disregarding citizens’ right to removing non-performing Governments.
The Congress, perhaps for survival and votes, has unleashed
the caste genie after three decades to ensure social equality. It would be
useful in formulating appropriate policies to target Government welfare schemes
and policies ensuring they reach intended beneficiaries. BJP opposes this as distinction
based on caste would inflame caste-based social and political sentiments and
harm Hindutva nationalist project. Besides, widening the caste divide.
Woefully, our leaders need to see the Frankenstein they
are planning to unleash. The past tells us that all clashes have been based on
caste. From Bihar’s Thakur-Dalit violence in Belchi 1976, Punjab’s Jat-Sikh
insurgency 1980-1990’s and Kashmir’s two-decades of continuing Hindus-Pandits
ethnic cleansing by pro-Pak militants.
As our netas slug it out in the political quick-sands of electioneering
the pendulum will swing from one end to the other, evaluating the fluctuating
stock of Parties and candidates depending on their stock preferences. Clearly,
an unpredictable poll turf lies ahead. Wait and watch --- abhi khel baki hai dostoin! ---- INFA
(Copyright
India News & Feature Alliance)
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CourtExposes Kinks: PRICES, GRAFT ROIL ECONOMY, By Shivaji Sarkar, 15 April 2024 |
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Economic
Highlights
New
Delhi, 15 April 2024
CourtExposes Kinks
PRICES, GRAFT ROIL ECONOMY
By Shivaji Sarkar
Innocuous
developments are unfolding amidst the growing fervour of the impending
elections. Despite concerns of the Reserve Bank of India regarding inflation,
escalating toll rates, and transportation costs, the nation finds itself amidst
a politically charged atmosphere. Nonetheless, certain court rulings are adding
intrigue to the evolving scenario.
In
addition to the impact of electoral bonds, which have added colour to the
political landscape and influenced prices, three other judgments are exerting
significant influence. These include the Supreme Court’s hearings on the Voters
Verifiable Print Audit Trail (VVPAT), commonly known as the voting slip; a
judgment regarding the denial of payment to Reliance Infra for the Delhi
Airport Metro EPL; and the severe criticism of Patanjali’s owners, who are
contemnors of court orders regarding their advertising. These developments are
intensifying the dynamics of the electoral contest.
Not less
interesting is the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) mounting fresh money
laundering probe into Chhattisgarh liquor scam and linking Kerala CPM leaders
to bank fraud. Could there be more arrests even after Delhi Chief Minister
Arvind Kejriwal and Kavita of BRS in Telangana?
Will
prices take a backseat to politics and court rulings, or will they remain
pressing concerns alongside these factors? Voters, though reticent, are far
from oblivious. Whether attending rallies of prominent leaders or not, they are
keenly aware of every development that influences their lifestyle.
Conversations
range from questioning why individuals with questionable backgrounds align
themselves with BJP to analysing defections from BJP to Congress factions. Both
voters and party members evaluate the potential implications of each unfolding
event, particularly returning officer of Chandigarh municipal polls and Himachal
Pradesh defections.
Corruption
is not a non-issue. Arrests of select Opposition state leaders on corruption
charges by central investigative agencies such as CBI, ED, and income-tax
department are unlikely to change the general public perception that corruption
pervades all political parties. Many view the pre-election arrest of Arvind
Kejriwal as a strategic move aimed at thwarting the popular politician’s
participation in the election campaign, rather than a genuine effort to address
corruption.
It gores
them to think that possibly price surges of many medicines and commodities or
galloping rise in tolls have the electoral bond connections. Former Vice
President Venkaiah Naidu’srecent remark on corruption involving all parties has
given it a new dimension for the voters to rethink the extent of the impact of
the malady. The rising cost of education is troubling all, be it in cities or
villages.
Amidst
the dropping of corruption charges against former Union Civil Aviation Minister
Praful Patel, allegedly implicated in a Rs. 25,000-crore aircraft purchase
scandal, questions arise as to why Delhi Chief Minister faces arrest for his
alleged involvement in a Rs. 100 crore state liquor policy issue. People ponder
whether the Air India sell-off was conducted transparently or mired in
controversy. The action against Kejriwal has spurred Opposition unity, evident
from the overflowing rally at Delhi’s Ramlila Ground.
The
recent Supreme Court decision concerning Reliance Infra’s Delhi Airport Metro's
EPL has prompted questions about corporate exploitation of public sector Delhi
Metro. The Court overturned its own 2021 order directing Delhi Metro to pay
Reliance Infra Rs. 2782 crore, which had ballooned to Rs. 7686 crore with
accrued interest.
Chief
Justice DY Chandrachud, along with Justices R Gavai and Surya Kant, justified
this drastic action, citing a ‘miscarriage of justice’ resulting in an ‘undeserved
windfall’ for Reliance Infra. This ruling, following closely after the
electoral bond controversy, has heightened voter scepticism. Had Delhi Metro
been forced to pay, it could have burdened commuters with significantly higher
fares.
Likewise,
the court's rejection of Patanjali’s apology in a contempt case, stemming from
misleading advertisements contravening its order, serves as a stark example of
how the rule of law can rectify corrupt practices, unveil false brand images,
and maintain price stability. The court’s warning to be prepared for
consequences, along with its criticism of the Uttarakhand government,
underscores the power of legal intervention. It can impact Uttarakhand polls.
Erratic
power bills and arbitrary demands in Uttar Pradesh and many states are also
potential issues.Each of these cases, people realise, are instances of political
linkages affecting price rise and profiteering.
The
glaring lapses on the part of the executive and administration add to the woes
of the people and breakdown of the law-and-order machinery.The judiciary is
uncovering corrupt practices that impact economic and administrative systems,
consequently contributing to the rising cost of living.
Media
HouseDainikBhaskar has done a study on prices in Rajasthan. It finds
that compared to 2019, prices of petrol, diesel and cooking gas increased by 42
percent; food items cost 34 percent more; medicine prices for diabetes and
heart diseases rose by 54 percent and people’s dining outside has beenreduced
by 40 percent. Pulses have become costlier by 20 percent, vegetables by 233
percent; taxi fares by 67 percent, edible oil 100 percent, FMCG rose by 60
percent. Salaries during the period for different classes have risen by 11
percent to 26 percent.
RBI
Governor Shaktikanta Das has expressed concerns about the imminent return of
inflation in his inaugural monetary policy commentary. The Monetary Policy
Committee’s statement highlights food prices as a major worry, despite a record
kharif harvest, citing tight demand-supply conditions in pulses and vegetables
that warrant close monitoring, compounded by climate shocks.
The RBI
projects growth to hover around 7 percent, potentially dipping to 6.5 percent
next year, aligning closely with the IMF-World Bank forecast of 6.5 percent
growth for India. A final picture is to emerge following the release of GDP
data for 2023-24 in May. The declining rupee, decreasing foreign direct
investment, and imbalance in trade are further indications of prevailing
uncertainties.
Price
concerns persist, with numerous unnecessary infra, roadairport and metro projects
shocking even political workers. However, this doesn't diminish the
significance of religious fervour surrounding the Ram temple and Modi’s
assurances, which remain potent issues in certain regions, albeit overshadowed
by economic factors and caste considerations. Amethi and Raebareli, however,
remain in focus, more than Varanasi.
The Opposition,
INDIA parties, are amplifying core issues, drawing attention to the populace’s
unease with unstable living conditions. While this may have tempered their beliefs,
faith remains resilient. Local dynamics, candidate profiles, specific issues,
and party cohesion (or lack thereof) will likely shape outcomes in many
constituencies more than any single central figure. The nation stands at a
critical juncture.----INFA
(Copyright, India News & Feature Alliance)
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INDIA Bloc Unity: MVA PACT FOR BETTER OR WORSE?, By Insaf, 13 April 2024 |
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Round
The States
New
Delhi, 13 April 2024
INDIA Bloc Unity
MVA PACT FOR BETTER OR WORSE?
By Insaf
Is it ‘one
step forward, two steps back’ for Maharashtra’s MVA? After months of
negotiations, the three partners finally made progress and sealed a
seat-sharing pact on Tuesday. The INDIA bloc should be relieved with at least
this united step forward, in the crucial state. But will it help achieve the
cause -- of defeating the common enemy, BJP, or will it put the partnership
further behind in the numbers game they thought they had made progress? Notably,
Congress ‘strategically stepped back’ and dropped its claims on few ‘winning’
seats and went along with Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray reasoning of the
need to be ‘magnanimous.’ Of the 48 Lok Sabha constituencies, SS-UBT managed the
biggest slice with 21 seats, Congress 17 seats, and NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar 10
seats. While Congress has assured supporting MVA candidates, it must be keeping
fingers crossed no rebellion takes shape in Mumbai, Sangli and Bhiwandi as
discontent is said to be brewing among local leaders. Besides, five years back,
Congress had got 26 seats in its seat-sharing with NCP, but today has had to
give up bigger space to the allies.
The grand
old party decided it was time to stop the back and forth and get down to
campaigning as elections, in five phases, begin next week, April 19 till May
20. How it pans out is worth a watch as ‘entertainment’ is assured, not between
breakaway SS and NCP groups (such as Ajit Pawar seeking support for his wife,
against senior Pawar’s MP daughter in Baramati), but with MNS chief Raj
Thackeray announcing his unconditional support for BJP-led ‘Mahayuti’ alliance,
will address rallies in Modi’s support! While the alliance is happy as it lessens
‘possibility’ of vote cutting, MNS cadres are seeing red. Many have resigned in
protest questioning Raj saheb’s U-turn after 2019 (a bitter critic of Modi
since). Though the party hasn’t made a mark, Uddhav group takes an interesting dig
saying an outfit ‘formed to safeguard Maharashtra pride backs its enemies.’ Applicable
to it too, perhaps, but in the end it’s the voter who shall give the verdict
whose their enemy.
* * * *
Delhi’s
‘Agnipariksha’
The
Delhi high political drama continues to hit front pages. Other than High Court upholding
AAP Chief Minister Kejriwal’s arrest in liquor excise scam saying ED was left
with “little option” after he skipped repeated summons, 24 hours later, his
minister Raaj Kumar Anand resigned from both Cabinet and party. He alleged: ‘party
is mired in graft and has no moral right to continue in government, and Dalits
have no place in party and feel cheated.’ Instead of rubbishing it, AAP reacted:
his action has ‘vindicated’ our stand that Kejriwal’s arrest was aimed at ‘finishing
the party’ and BJP was using ED and CBI to “break our ministers and MLAs”
(though Anand denies any ED pressure). Indeed, it’s ‘agnipariksha’ for
AAP flock. Kejriwal has approached Supreme Court pleading for urgent hearing
for his release by declaring the case against him ‘illegal,’ claiming his
arrest is “an unprecedented assault on tenets of democracy, free and fair
elections and federalism, both of which form significant constituents of basic
structure of Constitution.” Convincing or not?
* * * *
Manipur Mood In Camps
A big
question mark hangs over elections in conflict-ridden Manipur, particularly
among the 50,000 internally displaced people in relief camps, of which 24,500
are voters. The N-E state which has boasted of 82% plus polling in 2019
elections, has several civil society groups asking the relevance of these
elections and some even advocating a boycott. A common refrain being if the
government can conduct polls during such times, surely it can find ways to
bring peace and address people’s concerns, as the state continues to simmer
after 11 months of the ethnic crisis. Reports originating say there’s
‘conspicuous absence of posters of political parties, mega rallies, and visible
movement of leaders’ with elections next week (April 19) and 26. So far, only
hoardings put up by local election authorities, urging citizens to exercise
their franchise are visible. Will the State election office’s security
arrangements with 200 companies of paramilitary forces, setting up of 94
special polling stations in relief camps and engaging in confidence building
measures, change the mood and help heal wounds.
* * * *
TDP
No To Telangana
The
Telugu Desam Party has decided to give Telangana a miss and concentrate on wresting
back its turf in Andhra Pradesh. As a member of NDA, while TDP chief and former
AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu finalised seat-sharing formula for both Lok
Sabha and Assembly polls in AP, not only is it not going to put up candidates
in Telangana but is yet to decide whom to support there. Apparently, the going
has not been easy for TDP after Naidu was arrested by AP police last September
in a skill development corporation corruption case and though he got regular bail
in November to carry out political activities, there wasn’t time to prepare for
Telangana Assembly polls. However, he promptly sounded the poll bugle for AP
with slogan “Quit Jagan, Save AP” and with his alliance now with BJP and JSP,
urged the people to shower their blessings. His rival, YSR Congress Party President
and Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy, has been equally aggressive in his
campaign and claimed ‘2024 would be last elections that TDP chief will fight’! Time
will tell.
* * * *
Qualms
On Christian Prayer Meet!
BJP-ruled
Madhya Pradesh failed to play spoilsport for a prayer meeting of Christian
community, thanks to the Supreme Court. The event in Indore under ‘National
Prayer and Ministry Alliance’, had got initial permission but the
administration revoked it after some Hindu outfits sought its cancellation.
They complained it was being organised with ‘intent to mislead people of Hindu
community and encourage them for conversion’ and there was ‘strong possibility it
might disturb peace.’ The concerned police station submitted a report on law
and order situation and the High Court when petitioned against the cancellation,
rejected it saying the concern raised by respondents can’t be said to be “unfounded,
looking to various objections they have received from other religious
organisations.” But, on Wednesday the top court stayed the cancellation saying
it was “unjustified”, the petitioner ‘will be entitled to hold the prayer
meeting at 5:00 p.m. today’ (April 10) and directed its registry to convey the
order “forthwith to registrar (Judl.), HC of MP, Bench at Indore, who shall
communicate the same to collector, Indore”. It’s about time the state
government limits itself. ----INFA
(Copyright, India News & Feature Alliance)
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