Category: India

While the global economy faces significant headwinds and weakening growth projections, India stands out as a beacon of economic resilience. According to the World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) report published on May 15, 2025, by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, India is expected to be the fastest-growing large economy in the world, with a projected growth rate of 6.3 percent in 2025.

This forecast follows a similar projection made in April 2025 by the International Monetary Fund, which estimated India’s economy would expand by 6.2 percent in the current year and 6.3 percent in the next. These figures position India, the world’s fifth-largest economy, far ahead of the global average, which is expected to grow by just 2.4 percent in 2025. This divergence underlines India’s robust performance at a time when most developed and developing nations face economic challenges.

The WESP report attributes India’s economic momentum to several key drivers. “Resilient private consumption and strong public investment, alongside robust services exports, will support economic growth,” it noted. Moreover, the report projects a favorable outlook for inflation and employment in India. “Inflation is projected to slow from 4.9 per cent in 2024 to 4.3 per cent in 2025, staying within the central bank’s target range,” it stated.

India’s relatively strong economic performance comes in stark contrast to the global economic landscape, where widespread deceleration is forecast across regions. The WESP report highlights a grim projection for overall global growth, which is expected to decline from 2.9 percent in 2024 to 2.4 percent in 2025. According to Shantanu Mukherjee, Director of the Economic Analysis and Policy Division, “It’s been a nervous time for the global economy. In January this year, we were expecting two years of stable, if subpar growth, and since then, prospects have diminished.”

A range of factors are cited in the report for this global slowdown. Chief among them are escalating trade tensions and policy uncertainties, which have undermined investor confidence and dampened trade. The report observes that heightened tariffs—particularly in the United States—are increasing the effective tariff rate significantly. This is expected to strain international supply chains, push up production costs, delay essential investment decisions, and stir financial market instability.

The impact of these tariffs is expected to ripple across global markets. The report states, “While looming US tariffs weigh on merchandise exports, currently exempt sectors—such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, semiconductors, energy, and copper—could limit the economic impact, though these exemptions may not be permanent.”

Developing countries, in particular, are likely to bear the brunt of these trade disruptions. Li Junhua, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, warned, “The tariff shock risks hitting vulnerable developing countries hard, slowing growth, slashing export revenues, and compounding debt challenges, especially as these economies are already struggling to make the investments needed for long-term, sustainable development.”

The WESP report further cautions that the bleak global economic outlook will hinder progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The challenges are rooted in declining global trade, persistent inflationary pressures, and deteriorating growth. In particular, international trade is expected to slow markedly, with projected growth dropping from 3.3 percent in 2024 to just 1.6 percent in 2025. Furthermore, merchandise trade is forecast to shrink in the second half of 2025. These developments could negatively affect industries like transport, tourism, and various services that depend on robust global trade flows.

Adding to the global concerns, inflation remains a critical issue in many developing nations. In 2025, over 20 developing countries have experienced double-digit inflation rates. Food inflation has been especially pronounced, with averages exceeding 6 percent in regions such as Africa, South Asia, and Western Asia.

Despite the economic turbulence, the WESP report suggests that unemployment figures have remained relatively stable globally. “Unemployment remains largely stable amid steady economic conditions,” the report states. However, it also notes that long-standing gender disparities in employment persist, signaling a need for more inclusive labor market policies.

Looking ahead, investment growth globally is projected to be muted in 2025. This outlook is attributed to ongoing trade policy uncertainty, elevated interest rates, and fiscal limitations in many economies. The report underscores that low levels of investment could restrain future growth prospects. Compounding this concern is the role of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence, which the report says could disrupt labor markets even further.

In response to these challenges, the WESP calls for coordinated strategic action from global policymakers. It emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach that incorporates monetary policy, fiscal strategies, supply-side reforms, and medium-term industrial policies. These combined efforts are seen as crucial for managing inflation, ensuring financial stability, and promoting inclusive economic growth.

The United Nations has also placed considerable hope in an upcoming global event to address these pressing economic issues. The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development is scheduled to take place in Sevilla, Spain, from June 30 to July 3, 2025. This event is expected to serve as a pivotal forum to discuss and implement solutions aimed at strengthening multilateral cooperation, promoting debt sustainability, and advancing concrete actions toward financing sustainable development for all.

In summary, while the world grapples with an uncertain and deteriorating economic environment, India’s projected growth sets it apart as a leading light among major economies. Supported by strong domestic demand, steady investment, and controlled inflation, India may not only weather the global downturn but could also become an engine of global economic stability. Meanwhile, global leaders and policymakers are urged to take concerted action to navigate through the economic challenges and reorient growth toward a more inclusive and sustainable path.

India is confronting an escalating health crisis as a recent study published in The Lancet reveals that 70% of the country’s urban population is either overweight or obese. This alarming trend places India among the top nations grappling with obesity, ranking third globally after the United States and China in the number of obese individuals.

The findings, part of a report released by the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration, indicate that nearly eight crore people in India are categorized as obese. Particularly concerning is that one crore of these individuals belong to the 5 to 19-year age group, suggesting that childhood and adolescent obesity is becoming a widespread issue.

Highlighting the growing threat, Dr. Amit Garg, a senior bariatric and metabolic surgeon at a hospital in Mohali, told The Times of India, “India ranks third, just behind the US and China, in the list of top 10 countries with the highest number of obese individuals.”

The report notes that 30 million Indian adults are either overweight or obese. Among the diabetic population in India—estimated at around 62 million—there is a high incidence of obesity-related complications such as excess body fat, abdominal adiposity, and fat accumulation in ectopic areas of the body. These complications are major contributing factors to chronic diseases and organ dysfunction.

Dr. Arunanshu Beheram, another senior surgeon, observed a corresponding rise in bariatric or weight-loss surgeries due to the increasing prevalence of obesity in the country. According to him, more individuals are turning to surgical interventions as a means of tackling extreme weight gain.

“Obesity is just one facet of malnutrition, with underweight or thinness constituting the other end of the spectrum,” the report elaborates. It emphasizes that both extremes—being underweight and being obese—pose significant risks to vital organs such as the heart and liver. These conditions increase the likelihood of various illnesses, including cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

The report also offers insights into the changing trends of malnutrition in India over time. Between 1990 and 2022, the percentage of underweight women in India declined by about 30%. However, the number of obese women saw a sharp rise during the same period, reaching 4.4 crore. Similarly, the number of obese men increased to 2.6 crore, reflecting a 5% growth. The data reveals a notable transition from undernutrition to overnutrition within India’s demographic landscape.

Alarmingly, the obesity trend is not confined to adults. The 5-19 age group is increasingly affected, with 0.7 crore boys and 0.5 crore girls now classified as obese. This change marks a significant shift in India’s public health profile, indicating that unhealthy weight gain is becoming a problem early in life.

The global context adds to the concern. The Lancet study shows that in 2022, the worldwide rate of obesity among children and adolescents was four times higher than in 1990. This exponential rise points to a global epidemic that requires urgent attention and collaborative efforts.

In India, the increase in obesity is mirrored by the surge in medical procedures to combat it. In 2019 alone, about 20,000 weight-loss surgeries were performed across the country. This is a staggering increase compared to just 800 surgeries conducted a decade earlier, reflecting both rising demand and wider acceptance of surgical solutions to weight-related issues.

Adding to the accessibility of such procedures, the Indian government now funds weight-loss surgeries for its three million government employees. This policy move is intended to make such surgeries more accessible to a broader section of the population, potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs by preventing obesity-related diseases.

The Lancet report underscores the severity of India’s obesity problem by reiterating that nearly 80 million Indians, including 10 million individuals aged between 5 and 19 years, are obese. The figures also highlight how childhood obesity is rapidly becoming a dominant feature of India’s public health landscape.

Three in ten school-going children in India are now obese, according to the report. This statistic, experts say, signals a worrying surge in weight-related issues among youth, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw extended lockdowns, reduced physical activity, and unhealthy eating patterns.

Experts unanimously agree that reversing this trend requires immediate and concerted lifestyle changes. They advocate for better dietary habits, increased physical activity, and community-wide awareness programs to instill healthy routines early in life. Without such interventions, India could face a future overwhelmed by preventable chronic diseases.

A recent World Health Organization (WHO) study further highlights the gravity of the situation on a global scale. According to the WHO, more than one billion people worldwide are now classified as obese, surpassing the number of individuals who are underweight. This shift underscores a dual burden of malnutrition: while undernutrition continues to plague low-income populations, overnutrition has emerged as a leading public health threat globally.

This rise in obesity is accompanied by a spike in associated conditions such as early-onset diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney disorders. “This rapid increase in obesity rates poses a dual burden with malnutrition and raises concerns about the early onset of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease,” the report states.

Another challenge in addressing obesity is the limited availability and high cost of obesity-related medications. These drugs, often essential for people who cannot undergo surgery or for whom lifestyle changes are insufficient, remain out of reach for a large portion of the population due to financial constraints.

The mounting obesity crisis demands a multi-pronged response. Policy initiatives, public health campaigns, and grassroots efforts must work in tandem to create an environment that supports healthier choices. Measures like subsidizing nutritious foods, creating public spaces for exercise, and introducing mandatory physical education in schools can contribute significantly to curbing the trend.

In conclusion, the data from the Lancet and WHO reports present a stark picture of a nation—and a world—grappling with a growing epidemic of obesity. With India’s urban population particularly affected, and children increasingly at risk, experts warn that time is running out. Without swift and strategic action, the consequences could be devastating for future generations, both in terms of health and economic burden.

Indian officials have provided a detailed briefing to the monitoring team of the United Nations Security Council’s 1267 Sanctions Committee about the activities of The Resistance Front (TRF), which has been identified as the group responsible for the recent Pahalgam terror attack. According to individuals familiar with the matter, the Indian delegation shared comprehensive intelligence regarding the group’s operations and links to Pakistan-based terror organizations.

A specialized Indian technical team is currently in New York for discussions with the monitoring team of the 1267 Sanctions Committee. This visit also includes engagement with representatives of other partner nations within the United Nations framework. The purpose of this mission, the sources explained on condition of anonymity, is part of India’s broader diplomatic efforts to push for the global designation of the TRF as a terrorist entity.

In addition to the meetings with the Sanctions Committee, the Indian team will also be interacting with officials from the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) and the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED). These interactions are seen as crucial to building international consensus and ensuring a stronger global response to the activities of groups like the TRF.

The TRF has long been regarded by Indian security agencies as a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a Pakistan-based terror organization. The group had initially claimed responsibility for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that led to the death of 26 individuals. However, Indian officials have stated that TRF later withdrew its claim following instructions from its handlers across the border. This reversal has been interpreted as a strategic move by the group’s backers to deflect international attention.

Following the Pahalgam attack, India launched a military operation named Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in areas controlled by Pakistan. The operation led to a series of intense military exchanges between India and Pakistan that spanned four days. These retaliatory actions included the use of drones, missiles, and long-range artillery by both nations. An understanding was eventually reached between the two sides on May 10 to de-escalate and halt further military actions.

As part of its case to the United Nations, India has supplied substantial documentation about TRF’s involvement as a proxy for Pakistan-based terror outfits. Information regarding TRF was submitted to the monitoring team as part of India’s biannual reports to the 1267 Sanctions Committee in both May and November of 2024. These reports detailed TRF’s ties to LeT and its role in executing terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir. Even earlier, in December 2023, India had informed the UN monitoring team about the active presence of LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Jammu and Kashmir, operating under the guise of groups like the TRF.

Foreign secretary Vikram Misri recently highlighted India’s commitment to keeping the international community informed. “We are going to be meeting with the [monitoring] team again very soon and we will be providing an update to the information that we have provided earlier,” Misri told reporters last week. This statement underscores India’s resolve to ensure that global institutions remain aware of the evolving terror threats emanating from the region.

The UN Security Council’s 1267 Sanctions Committee plays a pivotal role in combating international terrorism. It is responsible for managing and updating the sanctions list under resolution 1267 and oversees the implementation of sanctions against individuals and entities involved in terrorism. This includes actions such as freezing financial assets, imposing travel bans, and enforcing arms embargoes against designated terrorists and their support networks.

The monitoring team of the 1267 Sanctions Committee supports the committee’s objectives by collecting and verifying information related to listed individuals and organizations. One of its key tasks is to help ensure that the financial assets of designated terror entities and individuals are frozen. It also assists in preventing such individuals from entering or transiting through the territories of UN member states and helps block the supply of weapons to them.

In addition to its work with the UN sanctions regime, the monitoring team is also a part of the Working Group on Tackling the Financing of Terrorism. This role includes close coordination with global partners and institutions such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The FATF, which plays a major role in combating money laundering and terrorist financing, collaborates with the UN in tracking and dismantling the financial lifelines of terrorist networks.

The push to get TRF designated under the UN sanctions regime reflects India’s growing assertiveness in dealing with cross-border terrorism. Indian officials argue that sanctioning the group would not only hold it accountable for its role in violent attacks but also limit its ability to operate internationally. Designation would allow global law enforcement and financial institutions to freeze assets and disrupt logistical support systems used by TRF and its affiliates.

The backdrop of the military confrontation in May adds urgency to India’s campaign. Operation Sindoor was one of the most significant cross-border military responses by India in recent years and underscores the serious threat that groups like the TRF pose to regional stability. The brief but intense escalation also drew attention from global powers, many of whom have urged both nations to exercise restraint and focus on diplomatic channels.

Indian analysts have noted that the TRF’s emergence and actions are part of a broader strategy by Pakistan-based terror groups to create plausible deniability. By operating under new names or regional fronts, organizations like LeT and JeM attempt to obscure their direct involvement in attacks while continuing to pursue their objectives. Indian officials maintain that these tactics are deceptive and that the international community must look beyond the façade.

India’s diplomatic outreach at the United Nations is aimed not only at ensuring justice for victims of terrorism but also at exposing the network of support that allows such groups to thrive. The country’s efforts have found some resonance among UN member states, especially those that have faced similar threats or share India’s concerns about the misuse of financial and digital systems by terrorist networks.

The visit by the Indian technical team to New York represents a continuation of a strategy that combines military resolve with international diplomacy. By engaging proactively with institutions like the 1267 Sanctions Committee, UNOCT, and CTED, India hopes to secure meaningful global action against terror groups that pose a persistent danger to peace and security in the region.

In the coming weeks, Indian officials are expected to intensify their efforts with more briefings, document submissions, and consultations with key partners. The broader goal remains to ensure that entities like the TRF are not only exposed but also effectively sanctioned to prevent further attacks and destabilization.

The fragile peace that followed a recently declared ceasefire between India and Pakistan was short-lived in Kashmir. While there was initial hope that hostilities would subside, renewed violence quickly shattered those expectations, leading to mass displacement and deepened uncertainty along the disputed border region.

In the Indian-administered section of Kashmir, tens of thousands of residents were forced to evacuate last week following intense shelling and drone assaults attributed to Pakistan. The ceasefire, announced on Saturday, aimed to de-escalate what has been one of the most serious military stand-offs between the two nuclear-armed nations in decades. Yet by Sunday, only a few displaced families had ventured back to their homes.

“We will go back only after complete calm prevails,” said Basharat Ahmed, a resident of Poonch district. “It doesn’t take much time for the two countries to start fighting on the border.” His caution reflects a broader sentiment of mistrust and fear that continues to grip communities near the heavily fortified Line of Control (LoC), the de facto boundary dividing Kashmir between India and Pakistan.

The ceasefire, meant to halt escalating violence, quickly appeared to unravel. Within hours of the agreement, both sides accused each other of breaching the deal. Indian authorities reported that since Wednesday, shelling from the Pakistani side had resulted in the deaths of at least 23 individuals and left many others injured. Hundreds of homes were either severely damaged or entirely destroyed during the attacks.

In Baramulla, a family that had taken refuge in a government-run college tried to return to their home in the Uri sector, which lies close to the LoC. However, Indian soldiers at a checkpoint stopped them without providing a reason, forcing them to return to the college for shelter.

“Our joy around the ceasefire just vanished,” said Bashir Ahmed, head of the family. His experience highlights the unpredictability of life near the conflict zone, where ceasefires often provide only temporary respite from the cycle of violence.

Along the LoC, both Indian and Pakistani soldiers stand guard, with watchtowers positioned just hundreds of meters apart. In certain areas, the opposing troops are close enough to acknowledge each other with a wave, underlining how thin and delicate the buffer between peace and war remains.

Tensions between the two countries surged last month following a brutal attack on tourists in Kashmir. India blamed Pakistan for supporting the assault, which left 26 men—mostly Indian Hindus—dead. Pakistan, however, denied any involvement in the massacre.

The incident further inflamed hostilities, prompting both nations to expel each other’s diplomats and nationals. Borders and airspace were shut down, while both sides engaged in missile strikes, drone warfare, and relentless artillery shelling.

On Sunday, India claimed that missile strikes it conducted inside Pakistani territory the previous week had resulted in the deaths of at least 100 militants, including several high-ranking figures. Such claims have only heightened the state of alert on both sides of the LoC.

Meanwhile, civilians caught in the crossfire continue to suffer immensely. In Pakistani-administered Kashmir, fear of Indian retaliation prompted residents to flee en masse. Although some began returning after the ceasefire was announced, many discovered that their homes and businesses had been reduced to ruins, rendering them unsafe or uninhabitable. The loss of personal belongings added to their despair, and most are now left wondering whether the truce will last—and who will help them rebuild their shattered lives.

One such resident, Abdul Shakoor from the town of Chinari, recalled fleeing with his family on Wednesday. “Many people in other cities who support war don’t realize who suffers the most when conflict breaks out or when two armies exchange fire,” said Shakoor. “It’s the people living near the border who pay the highest price.” He and his family escaped by crossing open fields and walking nearly 10 kilometers to seek refuge at a relative’s house.

Despite his skepticism, Shakoor expressed hope that both countries would eventually prioritize diplomacy over violence. “In the end, even after war, it all comes back to dialogue,” he said. His words echo the long-standing belief among many Kashmiris that meaningful and lasting peace can only be achieved through negotiation, not conflict.

The Neelum Valley, known for its scenic beauty and proximity to the LoC, bears visible scars from the recent hostilities. Nestled amidst verdant landscapes and flowing rivers, the valley is also among the first places to suffer when tensions rise between India and Pakistan. In some locations, military posts of both nations are clearly visible across the river, underscoring the valley’s vulnerability during cross-border exchanges.

On the night before the ceasefire was announced, residents of Neelum Valley were jolted awake by the wail of warning sirens. Among them was Fatima Bibi, who immediately rushed with her family into a bunker as the area came under heavy fire.

“It was a terrifying night,” Bibi recalled. “Both sides were firing at each other’s posts. We heard nonstop explosions, and there was a deafening blast as shells started landing in our village.” A shell struck the courtyard of her home, shattering windows and damaging walls.

Now, like many others, Bibi is thankful for the ceasefire. “Given how tense things had become, many people could have died if a war had broken out,” she said. But her gratitude is tempered by the knowledge that ceasefires in the region often falter, and the danger could return at any time.

For the residents of Kashmir—on both sides of the LoC—the ceasefire is not a solution, but a pause. The shadow of renewed violence looms large, and the fear of losing lives, homes, and livelihoods remains ever-present. While governments exchange accusations and carry out retaliatory strikes, the human cost continues to mount, borne primarily by those who live closest to the border.

Until there is a sustained commitment to peace and open dialogue, the people of Kashmir will likely remain trapped in this tragic cycle, hoping each ceasefire might finally be the one that holds.

India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is on the verge of being downgraded by the United Nations’ accreditation agency due to concerns about its lack of independence and effectiveness in upholding international human rights standards. The Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), a key body responsible for evaluating and accrediting national human rights institutions around the world, has recommended that India’s NHRC be downgraded from its current A-grade status to a B-grade. This recommendation stems from the body’s alleged failure to comply with the Paris Principles, which are international guidelines adopted by the United Nations that define the minimum standards for the independence, pluralism, and functionality of national human rights bodies.

According to GANHRI, India’s NHRC does not meet the full requirements set out in the Paris Principles, raising doubts about its capacity to operate independently and effectively. Despite the seriousness of the recommendation, the report clarified that the downgrade “does not take effect for a period of one year,” giving the Indian commission time to demonstrate its alignment with the Paris Principles. The UN body has asked India’s NHRC to submit evidence showing that it complies with these international benchmarks, which serve as a foundational guide for the functioning of credible national human rights organizations.

Sister Vanaja Jasphine, a prominent human rights activist, expressed deep concern about the implications of this proposed downgrade. “The downgrading is a major setback for us as a nation. It will undermine India’s image as a democratic nation committed to upholding human rights, particularly at global forums like the United Nations Human Rights Council,” she said. Speaking to UCA News on April 28, Jasphine warned that the consequences go beyond just symbolic embarrassment. According to her, the downgrade would mean that “India will be deprived of its right to speak at the Human Rights Council and its voting power in crucial global human rights discussions.”

She emphasized that such a development would be a blow to India’s reputation as a global defender of human rights. “It will also damage the reputation of India as a human rights defender,” she stated, adding that “a weak national rights body may no longer have the strength to hold state actors, police, or security forces accountable for human rights violations.”

Jasphine, who belongs to the religious order of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (ICM), also pointed out that the downgrade could result in marginal voices being silenced. “The voice of minorities — such as socially poor dalit people, indigenous people, and sexual minorities — may be left unheard,” she warned. According to her, the weakening of the NHRC’s credibility and authority could make it difficult for vulnerable populations to find institutional support or justice when their rights are violated.

She further cautioned that the downgrade might “increase the vulnerability of human rights defenders with little institutional support and they may be exposed to unsafe situations.” Based in Madurai in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Jasphine also practices law and expressed hope that the Indian government would take corrective measures. She urged the NHRC to “rectify its shortcomings to regain its lost status,” noting the importance of such institutions in maintaining democratic values and accountability.

Adding to the chorus of concern, A. C. Michael, a Catholic community leader based in New Delhi, echoed Jasphine’s sentiments. He highlighted the long-standing and worsening issues of rights violations in the country. “Rights violations have always been a concern in India as the state and non-state actors continue to target the vulnerable sections in society,” Michael said. He added, “And of late, it has become worse.”

According to Michael, freedom of expression and the right to dissent have been increasingly stifled. “Currently, the situation is such that even holding a public protest against the government or speaking against those in power is restricted so much so that even the mainstream media too speaks the voice of those in power,” he remarked. This observation suggests that the NHRC’s failure to act independently is occurring against a broader backdrop of democratic erosion and shrinking civil liberties in the country.

Michael also criticized the NHRC’s perceived alignment with the government, stating that the body is supposed to function as a guardian of rights for all citizens. “The federal rights commission is meant to protect the human rights of everyone in the country, but unfortunately, instead of speaking for the citizens, it speaks for the government,” he said. He underlined the historic nature of GANHRI’s decision by noting, “It is the first time India is downgraded.”

The recommendation by GANHRI is not just a routine evaluation; it signals a loss of international credibility for India’s human rights architecture. Accreditation by GANHRI is important because it determines a country’s NHRC’s ability to engage fully with international human rights mechanisms, including participating in and influencing discussions at the UN Human Rights Council. An A-grade status signifies that a commission is fully compliant with the Paris Principles, while a B-grade indicates partial compliance. A downgrade to B-status would prevent India’s NHRC from voting or holding office in international human rights forums and would be viewed as a clear indictment of its operational independence and performance.

Although the downgrading will not take effect immediately, the clock is ticking for India’s NHRC to submit sufficient documentation and reforms to retain its A-grade. The pressure is now on the Indian authorities to address the structural weaknesses and credibility issues that prompted the global body to recommend the downgrade in the first place.

The NHRC’s fate will likely have wider ramifications beyond its standing in international forums. If it fails to act, the most vulnerable in Indian society—such as the dalits, tribals, sexual minorities, and marginalized groups—will find themselves with even fewer avenues for redress. Furthermore, human rights defenders and civil society activists may find themselves increasingly isolated and at risk in the absence of a strong national institution that is supposed to safeguard their rights and freedoms.

As the one-year grace period unfolds, the international community and domestic rights advocates will be closely watching whether India’s NHRC can reform itself to meet the high standards expected of such a crucial democratic institution. The future of human rights accountability in the country could well depend on the outcome.

A 23-year-old Indian man was taken into custody on Wednesday at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi after customs officials discovered that he was carrying cocaine hidden inside his luggage. The total quantity of the illicit drug found was 3.32 kilograms, and its estimated value on the international market stands at Rs 46.44 crore.

The man had arrived in India from Entebbe, a city in Uganda, after transiting through Sharjah. His suspicious behavior and travel route drew the attention of customs officials who had received a tip-off through a specific intelligence input. This piece of intelligence prompted authorities to monitor and eventually intercept him for a thorough check upon his arrival.

Following the man’s landing in Delhi, customs officials conducted a comprehensive screening of his baggage. During the routine X-ray examination, they noticed irregularities that indicated potential concealment of suspicious material. It was this anomaly that led the officials to investigate further.

Upon physically inspecting his trolley bag, officials discovered that something had been concealed within the edges and lining of the suitcase. One of the customs officers, while explaining the situation, said, “Six packets containing a white powder were discovered hidden in the periphery of his trolley bag.” The discovery of these packets raised immediate red flags.

To ascertain the nature of the white powder, authorities employed an NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) field testing kit, which is routinely used to identify narcotics in such situations. Upon conducting the test, it was confirmed that the substance was cocaine. With this confirmation, the material was classified as a narcotic drug under Indian law.

Following the positive identification, the customs department officially seized the cocaine. The total weight of the drug was measured at 3.32 kilograms. Due to the severity of the offense and the value of the narcotics, the passenger was taken into custody immediately. The valuation of the confiscated cocaine was determined based on prevailing international rates, which placed the worth of the seizure at approximately Rs 46.44 crore.

With the drug confirmed and the passenger detained, legal proceedings were set in motion. Authorities stated that action has been initiated under both the NDPS Act and the Customs Act, which govern narcotic-related offenses and violations related to smuggling or illegal import of goods in India. These laws carry strict penalties, including long-term imprisonment and heavy fines for individuals found guilty of drug trafficking.

This incident underscores the ongoing efforts by Indian customs and law enforcement agencies to clamp down on international drug trafficking operations. Delhi’s IGI Airport, being one of the busiest international airports in the country, has frequently been used as a transit point by smugglers attempting to bring narcotics into India or route them through the country to other destinations. The vigilance and swift action by customs officials in this case prevented a significant amount of drugs from making its way into potential circulation.

The use of field test kits has proven effective in identifying such contraband swiftly, enabling officers to take immediate action. The successful interception in this instance highlights the importance of continued intelligence sharing and surveillance at key international transit points.

An official familiar with the case reiterated the details, saying, “Six packets containing a white powder were discovered hidden in the periphery of his trolley bag.” The white powder, once tested, confirmed suspicions of drug smuggling. The arrest and the seizure point to a highly organized method of concealment, often used by international drug syndicates, where illegal substances are embedded in unsuspecting parts of luggage or even clothing to avoid detection by airport scanners.

This latest arrest brings renewed attention to the routes being exploited by drug traffickers to move illegal substances into India. Entebbe, the city from which the man boarded his flight, has increasingly been observed as a departure point in recent drug-related arrests. This route, through Sharjah and into India, is now likely to face intensified scrutiny from customs and narcotics control authorities.

Officials have not yet revealed whether the man was acting alone or as part of a larger international drug trafficking network. Investigations are currently underway to determine the source of the cocaine, the intended recipients, and whether others may have been involved in facilitating the smuggling attempt. The interrogation of the arrested individual may yield more information about how the drugs were obtained, who they were meant for, and whether this incident is connected to a broader smuggling operation.

Given the seriousness of the crime, legal action under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act is expected to proceed swiftly. The NDPS Act includes stringent provisions for offenses involving commercial quantities of narcotic drugs. In cases involving large-scale smuggling, the punishment can extend to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine that can go up to Rs 2 lakh or more. Additionally, action under the Customs Act may include prosecution for attempting to smuggle prohibited goods, which also attracts severe penalties.

This case serves as a cautionary tale for individuals who might be lured into smuggling operations by drug trafficking rings, often with promises of easy money. The consequences, as demonstrated by this arrest, are grave and carry long-term implications for the accused. Authorities continue to warn travelers to avoid getting involved in any illegal activities and to remain aware of the serious legal ramifications of transporting narcotics.

Officials praised the vigilance and efficiency of the customs staff in intercepting the contraband before it could leave the airport premises. This seizure, valued at Rs 46.44 crore, adds to the growing list of narcotic drug recoveries at Indian airports and reaffirms the necessity of tight airport security and thorough baggage screening procedures.

In the ongoing crackdown against drug trafficking, such arrests highlight both the risks that smugglers take and the diligence required by law enforcement agencies to counter these threats. The proactive work of the customs team at IGI Airport has helped prevent a significant drug consignment from potentially entering illegal distribution networks.

As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to gather more details and possibly identify more suspects or networks linked to this case. In the meantime, the 23-year-old Indian man remains in custody, and legal proceedings will continue as per the relevant provisions of Indian law.

The swift identification of the drugs and the immediate detention of the suspect represent a coordinated and effective response to a serious threat. The operation once again highlights the vital role of intelligence inputs and rapid action by customs officials in curbing the smuggling of narcotic substances through international airports.

A recent report by the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has expressed serious concerns regarding the state of judicial independence in India, pointing to increasing executive interference, a lack of transparency in judicial appointments, and weak accountability mechanisms.

Titled Judicial Independence in India: Tipping the Scale, the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the constitutional basis, legal framework, and jurisprudence governing the judiciary’s independence. According to the report, in the past decade (2014–2024), India’s judiciary has faced “retrogressive developments in respect of judicial independence.” While the judiciary remains constitutionally independent, the report states that its autonomy is increasingly being compromised by “significant scope for external, including executive influence.”

The ICJ, a global non-profit organization comprising eminent judges and lawyers, is committed to promoting and safeguarding human rights through the rule of law. According to its website, the Geneva-based organization operates across five continents.

One of the report’s main findings highlights the lack of objective and transparent criteria for judicial appointments in India. The Collegium system, which consists of the Chief Justice of India and four senior Supreme Court judges, was intended to preserve judicial independence. However, the report criticizes it for lacking “a clear and transparent procedure of selection and of objective and predetermined criteria based on competence, merit, ability, experience, and integrity.” The report further states that the absence of such safeguards leaves room for appointments made through “improper means and motive.”

Despite being constitutionally insulated from political influence, the judiciary has been subjected to increasing executive interference in judicial appointments, according to the report. It states that the government “exercises an effective veto power on recommendations made by the Collegium, allowing the executive a determinative role in the composition of the higher judiciary.” This dynamic has resulted in a growing standoff between the government and the Supreme Court, with key judicial recommendations facing delays or outright rejection.

Another critical issue identified in the report is the transfer of judges between High Courts, which does not require the consent of the affected judge. Transfers are often justified under broad terms such as “public interest” or “better administration of justice.” However, the ICJ report criticizes this process for its lack of transparency. It states that “transfers proceed on vague and overbroad criteria…often making it impossible to distinguish between transfers being used as disguised sanction, transfers intended to be punitive or retaliatory, and transfers for the better administration of justice.”

The report also addresses the removal or impeachment process for judges, where the legislature plays a key role. According to the ICJ, this process does not conform to international legal standards, which recommend that “the power of removal should be vested with an independent body composed of a majority of judges and not with either the legislature or executive.”

In addition to impeachment, the only other form of judicial accountability in India is the ‘In-House Procedure.’ However, the report criticizes this system, stating that it “is not provided for in statutory law” and “is not based on any articulated rules or norms of judicial conduct that serve as a substantive basis to determine misconduct.” The lack of transparency in this mechanism, the ICJ argues, makes “real accountability near impossible.”

Another major concern outlined in the report is the post-retirement employment of judges. The report states that the absence of regulations governing post-retirement jobs has led to “a shadow of perception of bias on the concerned judge while at the same time allowing for indirect executive influence over the judge while in office.” This issue has long been debated in India, as several retired judges have been appointed to government positions soon after leaving office. This has raised concerns that some judicial decisions may be influenced by the possibility of post-retirement rewards.

The report also examines the listing and allocation of cases within the Supreme Court. While these processes are governed by formal rules, they largely remain at the discretion of the Chief Justice of India. The report highlights that “instances of irregular listing and allocation, presumably at the discretion of the Chief Justice, have given rise to seemingly arbitrary exercise of power… at times in a manner that suits the government.”

In response to these concerns, the ICJ has put forth several recommendations. One of the key proposals is the establishment of a Judicial Council to oversee judicial appointments, ensuring that selections are made based on objective and predetermined criteria while also promoting transparency and diversity. The report further recommends the implementation of a binding code of judicial conduct to enhance accountability, along with the creation of a statutory mechanism for addressing misconduct that operates independently of both the executive and legislature.

The ICJ also calls for clear regulations on post-retirement employment, including the introduction of a mandatory cooling-off period to prevent conflicts of interest. Additionally, it suggests reforms in the judicial transfer process to enhance transparency and prevent its misuse as a disciplinary tool.

Another recommendation involves improving transparency in case allocation, ensuring that listing decisions are made in a fair and impartial manner. The report emphasizes the need for reforms to protect the judiciary’s independence and maintain public confidence in India’s legal system.

The findings of the ICJ report highlight significant challenges to the independence of India’s judiciary. The growing executive influence over judicial appointments, lack of transparent accountability mechanisms, and concerns surrounding post-retirement employment underscore the urgent need for reforms. The proposed recommendations aim to strengthen judicial independence and ensure that India’s judiciary remains free from undue external influence.

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont returned from a trade mission to India nursing a broken arm.

Speaking at a news conference at the state Capitol on Monday, the Democratic governor appeared with his left arm secured in a black sling. Lamont, who is right-handed, explained that he suffered the injury after slipping on wet marble during his weeklong visit to the country.

“It’s broken,” he informed reporters, emphasizing how inexpensive his medical treatment in India turned out to be.

Detailing his experience, Lamont said, “I’ll tell you that it broke, I get a nurse, I go and get an X-ray, they give me this sling. I come back, I go talk to this business group and I said, ‘You guys are amazing, it only cost $10.’ They said, ‘You got ripped off.’”

Reflecting on the incident, he added, “That’s India.”

Despite the injury, Lamont successfully led a delegation of state officials and business representatives, engaging with around 30 companies during the trip. He returned to Connecticut with a signed memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening economic ties between the state and Tamil Nadu, India’s southernmost state.

Connecticut has a significant Indian-origin population, with approximately 38,000 residents born in India, accounting for 14% of the state’s foreign-born population. Additionally, India is the leading country of origin for international students in Connecticut, with 7,200 of the 19,990 international students in the state hailing from India.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on Wednesday that Islamabad seeks to settle all outstanding issues with India, including Kashmir, through dialogue.

Speaking at a special session of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) legislative assembly in Muzaffarabad on “Kashmir Solidarity Day,” Sharif urged India to honor its commitments to the United Nations and engage in discussions.

Kashmir Solidarity Day is an annual observance in Pakistan meant to express support for the Kashmiri people. “We want all issues, including Kashmir, to be resolved through talks,” Sharif said.

The Pakistani leader further remarked, “India should come out of the thinking of August 5, 2019, and fulfil promises made to the UN and launch a dialogue.” His statement referred to India’s revocation of Article 370, which had granted Jammu and Kashmir special status before the region was reorganized into two Union Territories.

‘Peace is the Way to Progress’

Sharif cited the Lahore Declaration of 1999, an agreement signed by then-Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee during his visit to Pakistan, as evidence that dialogue was the only viable path forward for the two nations.

India has consistently maintained that it seeks normal neighborly relations with Pakistan but insists that such relations must be built in an environment free of terrorism, hostility, and violence.

New Delhi has also made it clear to Pakistan that Jammu and Kashmir, along with Ladakh, “was, is and shall forever” remain an integral part of India. Relations between the two countries worsened following the revocation of Article 370.

Sharif also criticized India for accumulating weapons, arguing that stockpiling arms would not bring peace or alter the lives of Kashmiris. He urged New Delhi to adopt a wiser approach, stating that peace was essential for progress.

“Pakistan will continue to offer its unwavering moral, diplomatic, and political support to the Kashmiri people till the realization of their right to self-determination,” he said. He further asserted, “The only solution to the Kashmir issue is the right of self-determination under the UNSC resolution.”

Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Sharif also called on the international community to pressure India into allowing Kashmiris “to freely determine their future for lasting peace in the region.”

Additionally, PoK’s “prime minister” Anwarul Haq reaffirmed that Pakistan was the ultimate destination for Kashmiris, adding that true peace could not be achieved without resolving the Kashmir issue.

At the event, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff committee, the service chiefs, and the Pakistan armed forces reiterated their support for the Kashmiri people.

Exit polls for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections indicate that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is on the brink of a major comeback, potentially reclaiming power in the capital after nearly three decades. At the same time, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which has ruled Delhi since 2015, appears to be falling short of a decisive majority. The Delhi Assembly consists of 70 seats, with a majority requiring at least 36. The latest exit poll results hint at a possible shift in the city’s political landscape.

Exit Poll Projections

Several agencies have released exit poll results, each predicting varying seat tallies for the three major political parties contesting the election. Below is a summary of their forecasts:

The exit polls collectively suggest that the BJP could secure between 39 and 60 seats, indicating a clear advantage for the party in most projections. The AAP is predicted to win between 18 and 37 seats, a significant decline from its 2020 performance. Meanwhile, the Congress is expected to continue its marginal presence, with most estimates giving it no more than three seats.

BJP’s Potential Comeback and AAP’s Confidence

The projections mark a potential turning point in Delhi’s political landscape, with the BJP seemingly poised for a return to power. However, AAP leaders remain hopeful that the final results will paint a different picture. Sushil Gupta, a senior AAP leader, has reaffirmed the party’s belief in a favorable outcome. “Arvind Kejriwal has worked tirelessly for the people of Delhi, and we will see the results in our favor,” Gupta told ANI. An AAP spokesperson echoed this optimism, insisting that the party would secure a decisive majority.

Despite the BJP’s projected lead, exit polls have not always been entirely accurate in Delhi’s past elections.

Historical Accuracy of Exit Polls in Delhi

Exit polls in previous Delhi Assembly elections have had mixed accuracy. In 2013, they correctly predicted a hung assembly, though they underestimated AAP’s breakthrough performance. By 2015, while the exit polls forecasted an AAP victory, they fell short in capturing the extent of the party’s dominance. Most surveys in 2015 estimated AAP would win around 45 seats, but the party ultimately secured an overwhelming 67-seat victory.

In 2020, exit polls improved in precision, correctly predicting AAP’s landslide win, though some projections still underestimated the margin. That year, the AAP won 62 seats, a number that was largely in line with exit poll estimates.

Given this history, while the 2025 exit polls suggest a strong performance for the BJP, past trends indicate that the final results could still hold surprises.

Congress’s Continued Struggles

The Congress, which once held a dominant position in Delhi’s politics, continues to struggle for relevance in the capital. Exit polls suggest that the party may win between zero and three seats, reinforcing its ongoing decline in the city. Once a formidable force, Congress has been unable to regain ground since its defeat in 2013, when AAP emerged as a major political challenger.

Voter Turnout and Changing Sentiments

Voter participation in Delhi has seen fluctuations in recent elections, possibly reflecting evolving political sentiments. The 2020 Delhi Assembly elections recorded a turnout of 62.82%, marking a decline from the 67.47% turnout in 2015. This change in voter engagement could signal shifting priorities among Delhi’s electorate.

The Road Ahead

As Delhi awaits the final election results, the battle for control of the capital remains intense. If the exit polls hold true, the BJP may finally break AAP’s decade-long hold on power, reshaping the political scenario in the city. However, AAP remains confident in its governance record and believes the final outcome will favor them.

The results, expected in the coming days, will determine whether Delhi’s voters have opted for change or chosen continuity.

A leaked report from the UK Home Office has highlighted Hindu nationalism and pro-Khalistan extremism (PKE) as new forms of extremism that need to be addressed in Britain. However, this document does not yet represent official British government policy.

The report, which was leaked to the think tank Policy Exchange, outlines nine emerging extremist threats that UK counter-extremist policy should target. These threats are listed in the following order: Islamist extremism, extreme right-wing extremism, extreme misogyny, pro-Khalistan extremism, Hindu nationalist extremism, environmental extremism, left-wing, anarchist, and single-issue extremism, as well as violence fascination and conspiracy theories.

The report is a product of a “rapid analytical sprint” commissioned by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to shape the UK government’s stance on extremism in response to riots that took place last summer. The sprint was authored by multiple agencies within the Home Office, including Prevent, the Research, Information and Communications Unit (RICU), and Homeland Security, Analysis and Insight (HSAI).

Andrew Gilligan and Dr. Paul Stott from Policy Exchange, who analyzed the leaked sprint, revealed that the document dedicates two pages to extremism linked to the Indian subcontinent—specifically PKE and Hindu nationalist extremism, also referred to as “Hindutva.”

“Given the violence which occurred in Leicester in September 2022 between Hindus and Muslims, the government is correct to place Hindu nationalist extremism under the spotlight — not least as knowledge of it is generally low,” Gilligan and Stott wrote in their report. They further stated that it was a “mistake” to exclude Hindu nationalism from the 2023 independent review of Prevent.

According to the sprint, “in Leicester, key voices within both Muslim and Hindu communities played a significant role in opportunistically exploiting tensions and inciting hate among local communities.”

Regarding pro-Khalistan extremism, the sprint acknowledges that advocating for an independent Sikh state of Khalistan is not inherently extremist. However, it raises concerns when such advocacy involves supporting violence. The report points to a “growing portfolio of actors of concern within the Khalistan movement” and notes instances of activism that contribute to “the demonisation of Muslim communities, particularly in relation to child sexual exploitation allegations” and conspiracy theories alleging collusion between the British and Indian governments.

The sprint also acknowledges concerns regarding India’s role abroad, specifically referring to accusations that the Indian government has been involved in deadly violence against Sikhs in Canada and the United States. “The sprint de-centres and downplays Islamism, by far the greatest threat to national security,” Gilligan and Stott stated, noting that it receives just one page in the report.

In the UK, Islamist terrorism remains the predominant domestic terrorist threat. It has accounted for 67% of attacks since 2018, represents around three-quarters of the MI5 caseload, and comprises 64% of individuals currently in custody for terrorism-related offences.

A Home Office spokesperson addressed the report, stating: “The counter-extremism sprint sought to comprehensively assess the challenge facing our country and lay the foundations for a new approach to tackling extremism—so we can stop people being drawn towards hateful ideologies. This includes tackling Islamism and extreme right-wing ideologies, which are the most prominent today. The findings from the sprint have not been formally agreed by ministers, and we are considering a wide range of potential next steps arising from that work.”

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has unveiled a “Cashless Treatment” scheme designed to provide financial support for road accident victims. Under this initiative, the government will cover medical expenses of up to ₹1.5 lakh for seven days of treatment, provided the accident is reported to the police within 24 hours.

Speaking about the scheme, Gadkari stated, “We have started a new scheme – Cashless Treatment. Immediately after an accident occurs, within 24 hours, when the information goes to the Police, we will provide expenses for seven-day treatment of the patient who gets admitted or a maximum of up to ₹1.5 Lakhs for treatment. We will also provide ₹2 lakh for the deceased in hit-and-run cases.”

The initiative also includes an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh to families of victims who lose their lives in hit-and-run incidents.

Alarming Road Safety Statistics

The Union Minister emphasized that road safety is the government’s highest priority, citing grim statistics to underscore the urgency of the issue. In 2024 alone, approximately 1.80 lakh people lost their lives in road accidents. A significant portion of these fatalities—30,000—occurred due to individuals not wearing helmets.

“In the meeting, the first priority is for road safety, and in the year 2024, 1.80 lakh deaths have occurred in road safety. 30,000 people have died because of not wearing helmets. The second serious thing is that 66% of accidents have occurred in people between the ages of 18 to 34,” Gadkari elaborated.

Gadkari also shed light on another distressing statistic: 10,000 children died in accidents caused by poor infrastructure at entry and exit points near schools and colleges. “10,000 children have died due to a lack of proper arrangement at the exit-entry point in front of our schools and colleges. Rules have also been made for the autorickshaws and minibuses for schools as there have been significant number of deaths due to this. After identifying all the black spots, everyone decided together that we would try to reduce it,” he stated.

Focus on Collaborative Efforts

These announcements came after a high-level meeting chaired by Gadkari at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. The meeting brought together transport ministers from various states and union territories to discuss road safety and transportation-related policies.

The event aimed to foster collaboration between the union and state governments, ensuring more effective implementation of measures to improve road safety. The minister stressed the importance of collective efforts in reducing fatalities and enhancing transportation systems across the country.

By prioritizing initiatives such as the “Cashless Treatment” scheme and addressing critical issues like black spots and inadequate infrastructure near schools, the government seeks to make tangible progress in its mission to save lives on India’s roads.

A recent statement by Mohan Bhagwat, the head of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), urging Hindus to have more children, has reignited discussions around India’s religious demography. His remarks have highlighted significant population trends and their potential implications for the country’s social and political landscape.

India’s religious demography has been changing over the years, with the most recent census conducted in 2011 revealing noteworthy shifts. According to the data, the Muslim population’s share in India increased from 13.43 percent in 2001 to 14.23 percent in 2011, marking a rise of 0.8 percentage points. This marks the third consecutive decade where the Muslim population’s share has grown by 0.8 percentage points or more, signaling a long-term demographic trend. Since India’s independence and partition, the proportion of Muslims in the population has consistently risen every decade.

JK Bajaj, associated with the Centre for Policy Studies (CPS), has examined this trend in depth. He notes that a clearer way to understand the increase in the Muslim population’s share is by analyzing the normalized gap in the decadal growth rates between Muslims and Indian Religionists (IRs). IRs encompass Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and those categorized as “Other Religions and Persuasions” (ORPs) in the census.

Bajaj points out that the gap between Muslim and IR growth rates, normalized to the absolute growth rate of IRs, widened to 49 percent during 1981–1991. Although this gap slightly narrowed during 1991–2001, it expanded again in the following decade. Bajaj critiques commentators who highlight the decline in the Muslim growth rate from 29.69 percent to 24.65 percent as evidence of a halt in religious demographic imbalance. “The normalized gap between the growth rates of Muslims and IRs has only widened,” he explains.

Over the past three decades, Muslims in India have grown at a rate nearly 50 percent higher than that of other communities, a disparity that Bajaj deems unsustainable in any society.

India Poised to Have the Largest Muslim Population

The CPS study further illustrates the rapid growth of the Muslim population in India. From 3.77 crore in 1951 to 17.22 crore in 2011, the Muslim population increased by a factor of 4.6, while the population of Indian Religionists grew only 3.2 times during the same period. In 2011, India had the second-largest Muslim population globally, trailing only Indonesia, which had 19.1 crore Muslims in a population of 24 crore. By comparison, Pakistan had 16.7 crore Muslims in a total population of 17.4 crore in 2010.

Given current trends, many demographers predict that within two or three decades, India will overtake Indonesia to become home to the world’s largest Muslim population.

Implications of Demographic Shifts

Globally, significant changes in religious demographics, particularly an increase in the Muslim population, have often coincided with social upheaval and conflict. In several countries, rising Muslim populations have led to demands for implementing Sharia law, often in defiance of national constitutions. Europe has witnessed religious riots and public confrontations involving Muslim radicals, while many African and Middle Eastern nations have experienced civil wars fueled by Islamic militias.

Lebanon offers a cautionary example. In the 1970s, Lebanon had a Christian majority and was a prosperous nation. However, as Muslims became the majority, the country descended into a 15-year-long civil war, resulting in widespread destruction. The conflict has since reignited, leaving Lebanon in a state of turmoil.

Once a Christian-majority democracy in the Middle East, Lebanon was often compared to Switzerland for its scenic beauty, with its capital, Beirut, rivaling Paris in allure. Today, the country is mired in instability and serves as a stronghold for terrorist organizations like Hezbollah.

The changing religious demography is also evident in Europe. A study by Pierre Rostan and Alexandra Rostan in 2019 projected that 13 European countries could see Muslims become the majority within two centuries. These include Cyprus, Sweden, France, Greece, Belgium, Bulgaria, Italy, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, Slovenia, Switzerland, Ireland, and Lithuania.

However, the rapid influx of Muslim immigrants and their higher fertility rates could accelerate this timeline. “The greater the proportion of Muslims in a country, the faster the change will be in the society,” the study notes. Examples of such changes include the construction of mosques, prayer calls broadcast through loudspeakers, public worship, the availability of halal products in supermarkets, and work schedules adapted to Ramadan.

The RSS and Religious Demography

The RSS has long engaged in discussions about religious demography. Initially, these discussions focused on the conversion of Hindus to Islam and Christianity. However, in 2005, the Chennai-based Centre for Policy Studies published a report titled Religious Demography of India, which brought new attention to the issue. The report highlighted the rapid growth of the Muslim population and its potential implications for India’s future.

According to the CPS, the current demographic trends, combined with the declining Hindu populations in Pakistan and Bangladesh, could result in Indian Religionists becoming a minority in the Indian subcontinent within five to six decades. This prospect has deeply concerned the RSS.

Bhagwat’s recent call for Hindus to have more children reflects these concerns. As demographic trends continue to evolve, the debate over religious demography in India is likely to intensify, raising questions about the country’s social harmony and long-term stability.

The Kerala government, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, has come under fire following its decision to wind up the Kochi Smart City project. The move has sparked accusations of corruption from the opposition, particularly the Congress party, which claims the closure is part of a larger scam.

Congress veteran Ramesh Chennithala voiced his concerns on Thursday, stating, “This winding up is a big scam. What is now heard is that the Kerala government will have to pay compensation to Smart City Dubai.” Chennithala’s allegations have added fuel to the controversy surrounding the ambitious project, which has faced hurdles since its inception.

On Wednesday, the Kerala cabinet decided to terminate the Kochi Smart City project and formed a committee to finalize the separation agreement with Smart City Dubai, its collaborative partner. The decision was defended by State Industries Minister P. Rajeeve, who assured that it would not hinder Kerala’s development goals.

Rajeeve explained, “The Infopark campus is now filled up, and there are hundreds of IT companies now waiting for space. Hence, once the separation agreement is done, we will come out with a fresh programme to bring IT firms into the project.”

Despite this justification, Chennithala remained critical, accusing the government of rewarding failure. “This is a big scam. Have you ever heard about compensation being given to a company which failed to do its job, despite being in office for the past nearly nine years?” he asked.

He further criticized the inclusion of Baju George, a former Smart City Dubai official, in the committee tasked with negotiating the compensation. “Vijayan, who is also the IT minister, has to give an explanation. What’s even more strange is that Baju George, who was part of Smart City Dubai when the agreement was inked then, is also now on the committee to work out the compensation. This is a major scam, and very soon, we will come out with more details,” Chennithala said.

The closure marks the end of what was once considered a flagship IT initiative for Kerala. The Kochi Smart City project, a joint venture between Smart City Dubai and the Kerala government, was envisioned to transform the state’s IT landscape. The project aimed to create 8.8 million square feet of built-up space on 246 acres in Kochi, with 70 percent dedicated to IT and IT-enabled services, and employment opportunities for 90,000 professionals.

However, the project’s journey was fraught with challenges from the outset. Initially conceptualized in 2004 during the tenure of the Oommen Chandy-led Congress government, the proposal faced strong opposition from the Communist Party of India (Marxist). The then Leader of Opposition, V.S. Achuthanandan, vehemently opposed the project.

In 2006, just before the Assembly elections, the Kerala High Court granted approval to proceed with the project. Despite this legal backing, Chandy opted not to move forward, wary of potential political fallout. When the CPI(M) came to power later that year, Achuthanandan signed the agreement with Smart City Dubai, signaling a renewed push for the project.

However, the global recession in 2008 dealt a severe blow to the initiative, leading to delays and a lack of progress. When Chandy returned as Chief Minister in 2011, efforts were revived, culminating in the inauguration of one building in the project’s first phase in 2016.

Despite these developments, the project stagnated under the Vijayan administration, which took charge in 2016. Critics argue that the lack of progress during Vijayan’s tenure reflects poorly on his leadership, particularly as he also serves as the state’s IT minister.

While the government maintains that the decision to wind up the project is in the state’s best interest, the controversy shows no signs of abating. The opposition’s allegations, combined with the project’s checkered history, have cast a shadow over what was once heralded as a transformative endeavor for Kerala’s IT sector.

With the focus now shifting to the newly planned initiatives to replace the Kochi Smart City project, the government faces the dual challenge of addressing the allegations and ensuring that its future plans are executed effectively. As the separation agreement with Smart City Dubai takes shape, the coming weeks will likely bring further scrutiny and debates over the project’s legacy and its impact on Kerala’s development trajectory.

An analysis of voter data from the recently concluded Maharashtra assembly elections of 2024 has revealed a mismatch between the number of votes polled and those counted in 95 out of the state’s 288 constituencies. These discrepancies have reignited concerns over electoral transparency and data accuracy in India’s democratic process.

According to data from the Election Commission of India (ECI), the final voter turnout for the election was recorded at 66.05%, translating to 64,088,195 votes cast—split among 33,437,057 male voters, 30,649,318 female voters, and 1,820 others. When postal votes amounting to 538,225 are included, the total number of votes polled stands at 64,626,420. However, the ECI’s official tally of votes counted on the day of results was 64,592,508—a shortfall of 33,912 votes.

The inconsistencies manifest in two ways: in 19 constituencies, the number of votes counted exceeded the total of votes polled and postal ballots, while in 76 constituencies, the counted votes fell short. For example, in the Loha constituency, 154 more votes were counted than the total number polled. Conversely, in the Nipad constituency, there was a shortfall of 2,587 votes in the counted total.

These mismatches echo concerns raised during the May 2024 Lok Sabha elections, when discrepancies were observed between voter turnout data and Form 17C, which records the number of votes polled at individual polling stations. At the time, the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) filed a petition with the Supreme Court seeking the release of polling station-level voter turnout data within 48 hours of each phase of voting. The ADR argued that delays and inconsistencies could erode trust in the electoral process. However, the Supreme Court declined the plea, citing logistical challenges and concerns raised by the ECI about potential misuse of such data.

The ECI defended its stance, arguing that Form 17C data, while available to candidates’ agents, is not intended for public dissemination. The Court agreed, stating that there was no statutory obligation to make this data public and that doing so could lead to unnecessary administrative burdens.

Amid the ongoing election controversy, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has raised questions about the discrepancies, calling on the ECI to provide a clear explanation. In response, The Wire has reached out to the ECI for clarification, promising updates once a response is received.

The data discrepancies in the Maharashtra elections have once again spotlighted the need for transparency in electoral processes. While the ECI attributes these mismatches to the reconciliation process, critics argue that the persistent issues suggest a need for more robust data collection and verification mechanisms. The lack of publicly available polling station-level data, as highlighted in the ADR’s previous petition, makes it difficult for independent entities to verify vote counts and address public concerns.

The inconsistencies do not appear to be linked to any specific political party or the outcomes of the elections. For example, in the Maval constituency, a discrepancy of 2,012 votes was noted. The total votes polled on November 20 were 280,319, and the postal votes added up to 774, making a total of 281,093. However, the ECI reported the total votes counted as 279,081, leaving a shortfall of 2,012 votes.

In contrast, the Loha constituency presented a surplus. Here, the votes polled on the same date amounted to 226,837, with 2,900 postal votes, bringing the total to 229,737. Yet, the final tally reported by the ECI was 229,891, showing an excess of 154 votes.

These irregularities could result from various factors, such as human errors in data entry, technical glitches in handling Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips, or clerical mistakes during reconciliation. Regardless of the cause, such issues highlight the importance of transparency and rigorous auditing procedures in maintaining public trust in electoral systems.

To address public skepticism, the ECI could consider releasing more granular data wherever possible and conducting thorough investigations into reported discrepancies. Proactive communication and increased transparency are vital to bolstering confidence in India’s democratic framework.

The ECI has previously acknowledged the challenges in ensuring perfect accuracy in vote counting. For instance, it stated that discrepancies could arise if mock poll data is not cleared from an EVM’s control unit before polling begins or if results fail to display correctly due to technical malfunctions. Moreover, mismatches between Form 17C data and EVM records could lead to confusion, compounded by human error in clerical or typing tasks.

In its official clarification regarding these issues, the Maharashtra Chief Electoral Office emphasized that the total votes polled, including postal ballots, amounted to 64,626,420, while the total votes counted were 64,592,508. The office further explained that discrepancies in certain constituencies occurred due to established protocols. For example, in cases where EVM data was compromised or mismatched, VVPAT slips from affected polling stations were not counted if the winning margin was higher than the total votes polled in those stations.

The Chief Electoral Office also addressed reports alleging significant vote differences in two constituencies—Ashti and Osmanabad. It clarified that in Ashti, a total of 5,013 postal votes were polled, of which 475 were rejected, leaving 4,538 valid postal votes. Similarly, in Osmanabad, 4,330 postal votes were cast, with 175 rejected, resulting in 4,155 valid votes.

Despite these explanations, the persistence of discrepancies highlights the need for reforms in India’s electoral system. Increased data transparency, rigorous auditing, and improved communication channels are necessary to prevent such issues in future elections. As public trust forms the bedrock of democracy, addressing these concerns is not just desirable but essential.

The 2024 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) reveals stark realities about poverty, with 1.1 billion people across 112 countries experiencing acute deprivation. India tops the list globally, with 234 million people living in poverty, as reported by the United Nations Development Programme and Oxford’s Poverty and Human Development Initiative. The MPI measures poverty through ten indicators covering health, education, and living standards, mapping deprivation profiles for households across the globe.

Another concerning report, the 2024 Global Hunger Index, ranks India 105th out of 127 countries, labeling the nation’s hunger level as “serious” with a score of 27.3. This raises significant questions about the root causes of poverty and hunger in India, necessitating a shift in perspective to address these pressing issues.

A long-standing issue in Indian governance is black money—illegally acquired income that remains untaxed. Politicians, with a few exceptions, frequently discuss black money yet fail to address its root causes. “As long as there is a criminal-political-bureaucratic-rich nexus in the country, none can solve the problem of Black Money,” underscores the report. This systemic corruption sustains the cycle of wealth inequality and stifles economic progress.

Indian funds in Swiss banks reached a 14-year high in 2021, with 3.83 billion Swiss francs (about 305 billion rupees) deposited by Indian individuals and companies. These deposits have continued to grow, with Russia’s deposits trailing far behind. It’s a “bitter reality” that highlights the volume of Indian black money held securely in Swiss accounts. This situation prompts a stark assertion: “India is a very rich country with economically deprived people.” This contrast raises critical questions: if India is wealthy, where is the wealth concentrated? Why are currency notes worth crores uncovered during election seasons? Recently, unaccounted cash was seized in Maharashtra, further spotlighting the ongoing problem of black money.

A Kotak Wealth Management study estimates that India has approximately 65,000 super-rich households, with a combined wealth of around 45 trillion rupees (US$1 trillion), anticipated to rise to 235 trillion rupees (US$5.3 trillion) in the coming years. Wealthy industrialists, corrupt politicians, and dishonest bureaucrats have stashed away significant funds in foreign accounts. An alarming trend of Indian tourists in Switzerland also points to this illicit flow; in 2023, Indians recorded over 600,000 overnight stays in Swiss hotels, a number expected to reach 900,000 in five years. “Demand from India is growing exponentially,” notes Switzerland Tourism CEO Martin Nydegger. An official monitoring these transactions suspects this surge correlates with the movement of black money.

The persistence of black money abroad erodes the Indian economy, depriving it of wealth essential for growth. Some experts argue that the existence of tax havens facilitates this capital outflow from developing nations to richer nations, framing it as a conspiracy. By supporting tax havens, they assert, developed nations exacerbate capital flight from economically vulnerable countries, weakening their domestic economies.

Wealth disparity is not confined to corporate sectors in India. Religious institutions, too, boast substantial assets. Temples adorned with gold and diamonds, luxurious mosques, marble-built Sikh and Jain temples, and multi-crore ashrams are becoming more common. This competition among religious groups mirrors corporate infrastructure, indicating another dimension of wealth disparity. “Unequal distribution of wealth and unaccounted money are the real causes for poverty and the presence of the economically backward and marginalized people in India,” the article suggests, with blame placed on self-serving corporate interests, unprincipled politicians, corrupt bureaucrats, and influential religious leaders.

In India, the links between politicians, bureaucrats, and corporations facilitate an extensive network of illegal wealth preservation. Regardless of political affiliation, the media regularly reports on multi-crore rupee transactions involving public officials. The rapid financial growth of certain members of the Legislative Assembly or Parliament often raises questions: “How does a simple MLA or MP or a government official earn crores of rupees within a short period?” This accumulation of wealth among public officials highlights systemic corruption, especially when well-connected individuals enjoy privileges even while imprisoned. Money power sustains their influence, which leaves the common citizens sidelined.

The Indian government has enacted several laws to counter black money and corruption, yet these laws rarely deliver tangible results. Notable laws include The Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (2018), The Central Goods and Services Tax Act (2017), The Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act (2016), The Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act (2015), and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (2002). These laws aim to curb illicit wealth; however, their impact remains largely confined to paper. The irony lies in the existence of these laws amidst ongoing illegal transactions and unaccounted wealth held domestically and abroad.

Renowned Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore’s words reflect the collective hope for change: “This is my prayer to thee, my Lord… give me the strength never to disown the poor… and help me to build a country where the mind is without fear and the head is held high and where the people are not broken up into fragments of narrow domestic walls of disparities and discriminations.” Beyond this sentiment, the article emphasizes the responsibility of every citizen to pursue personal transformation and actively participate in enforcing existing laws to combat black money and corruption.

On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra officially entered the political arena by filing her nomination for the Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll. Accompanied by prominent leaders including her mother, Sonia Gandhi, her brother, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, her husband Robert Vadra, and other national and state Congress leaders, Priyanka made her move in what could be a significant political event for the Congress party.

Before filing her nomination papers, Priyanka led a massive roadshow through Kalpetta in Wayanad. The roadshow began around 11:45 a.m. and gathered considerable public attention as it proceeded through the town. It was a key part of her electoral campaign for the bypoll. Alongside her were her brother Rahul, her husband Robert Vadra, one of their children, as well as senior leaders from the All India Congress Committee (AICC) and United Democratic Front (UDF).

The enthusiasm among supporters was palpable as thousands gathered to witness the spectacle, with party workers and UDF leaders joining in the march. This show of strength aimed to garner support for Priyanka’s candidacy in Wayanad, a constituency that had become vacant after her brother, Rahul Gandhi, decided to step down after also winning from Rae Bareli. The bypoll has thus opened the door for Priyanka’s entry into active electoral politics.

Addressing the crowd after the roadshow, Priyanka shared memories of her early involvement in politics. She recalled how she began campaigning in 1989, at the young age of 17, to support her father, the late Rajiv Gandhi. She expressed her gratitude and sense of privilege in being chosen to represent the people of Wayanad. “It is an honour for me to represent the people of Wayanad. I have been touched by the courage and resilience displayed by the people, especially during the devastating landslides that hit the district,” she said in her speech, striking a chord with her audience.

Following Priyanka’s speech, her brother Rahul Gandhi also took to the stage to speak to the public. Rahul, who had represented the Wayanad constituency in the 2019 elections and retained his seat until 2024, expressed his belief in Priyanka’s ability to serve the people of Wayanad well. “Once my sister wins, the people of Wayanad will have two MPs,” he said, referring to the continued support he would provide to the region, even though he is no longer the official representative.

“I will be the unofficial MP of the people of Wayanad,” Rahul Gandhi added, emphasizing his connection to the constituency and his commitment to its people. He appealed to the crowd to take care of his sister and vote for her in the bypoll, making it clear that the family and the Congress party were fully behind her candidacy.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also offered his support to Priyanka during the event. Kharge praised Priyanka’s dedication to the people of Wayanad, noting that she was not there just to file her nomination, but to stand up as a “relentless champion” for the people of the district. “Bless her, and she will deliver the results,” Kharge urged the crowd, reinforcing the message of confidence in Priyanka’s potential as a representative.

After the public address and roadshow, Priyanka proceeded to the Wayanad Collectorate to submit her official nomination papers to District Collector D.R. Meghashree. This marked the formal beginning of her electoral contest in the constituency, which is expected to be a closely watched race.

The roadshow in Kalpetta was a significant political event in its own right, as it showcased the strength of the Congress party in Wayanad and the support Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has within the party. Thousands of supporters lined the streets, and it was clear that the Congress had pulled out all the stops to make this event a success. Leaders from the UDF and Congress were seen alongside her, boosting the morale of the party’s workers and supporters.

Priyanka’s arrival in Wayanad took place the night before, on Tuesday, October 22. She and her mother, Sonia Gandhi, reached Sulthan Bathery in Wayanad around 9 p.m., in preparation for the nomination filing. They were joined by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and chief ministers from a few Congress-ruled states, who were all in Wayanad to support Priyanka in her roadshow and nomination process.

The Wayanad bypoll is seen as a crucial moment for the Congress party, particularly with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra being the latest member of the influential Gandhi family to make her electoral debut. She joins a long line of Gandhis who have contested elections, and this bypoll is viewed as a significant step in her political career.

However, the bypoll will not be an uncontested race. Priyanka will face stiff competition from candidates of other major political parties. The main contenders are Sathyan Mokeri from the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and Navya Haridas from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Both candidates are expected to present a challenge to Priyanka, making this an intense battle for the seat.

Rahul Gandhi, who has been a strong advocate for Priyanka’s candidacy, took to social media to express his confidence in his sister. On Tuesday, he posted on X, stating, “The people of Wayanad hold a special place in my heart, and I can’t imagine a better representative for them than my sister, @priyankagandhi. I’m confident she will be a passionate champion of Wayanad’s needs and a powerful voice in Parliament.” His message further highlighted the significance of Priyanka’s candidacy, not just for the Gandhi family but for the Congress party as a whole.

As the Wayanad bypoll campaign moves forward, all eyes will be on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and her ability to mobilize support in the constituency. With the backing of top Congress leaders and her family, her entry into electoral politics could mark the beginning of a new chapter for both her and the Congress party in Kerala.

India is one of the five countries globally with the highest number of people living in acute poverty, according to a new report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI). The report revealed that 1.1 billion people around the world live in severe poverty, with more than half of them being children.

The recently updated Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) was published on Thursday by UNDP in collaboration with OPHI, based at the University of Oxford. It highlighted that a staggering 1.1 billion people are experiencing acute poverty across the globe. Around 40 percent of these individuals live in countries that are plagued by war, conflict, or low levels of peace, based on at least one of three commonly used conflict-related datasets.

India, which ranks in the medium category on the Human Development Index (HDI), has 234 million people living in poverty, making it one of the five countries with the largest populations of impoverished individuals. The other countries on this list include Pakistan, where 93 million people live in poverty; Ethiopia, with 86 million; Nigeria, with 74 million; and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with 66 million. All of these nations, except India, are classified as having low HDI rankings.

Together, these five nations account for nearly half, or 48.1 percent, of the 1.1 billion people who are considered poor worldwide, the report stated.

Additionally, the report emphasized the devastating impact of conflict on poverty levels, stating, “A staggering 455 million of the world’s poor live in countries exposed to violent conflict, which is hindering and even reversing hard-won progress to reduce poverty.”

Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator, noted that the consequences of conflict have grown worse in recent years. “Conflicts have intensified and multiplied in recent years, reaching new highs in casualties, displacing record millions of people, and causing widespread disruption to lives and livelihoods,” Steiner said. He added, “Our new research shows that of the 1.1 billion people living in multidimensional poverty, almost half a billion live in countries exposed to violent conflict. We must accelerate action to support them.”

Steiner also called for more resources to address the crisis, urging, “We need resources and access for specialized development and early recovery interventions to help break the cycle of poverty and crisis.”

One of the most alarming aspects of the report is that over half of those living in poverty are children. Of the 1.1 billion poor individuals, 584 million are minors, meaning that 27.9 percent of children globally are in poverty, compared to 13.5 percent of adults.

The MPI report provided further insights into the daily struggles of those living in poverty. A significant number of impoverished people lack access to basic necessities such as sanitation, housing, and clean cooking fuel. According to the report, 828 million poor people live without adequate sanitation, 886 million live in inadequate housing, and 998 million lack clean cooking fuel. Additionally, 637 million poor individuals live in households where at least one member is undernourished.

The situation is particularly dire in certain regions. In South Asia, 272 million poor people live in households where at least one person is undernourished. Similarly, in Sub-Saharan Africa, 256 million individuals face this same hardship.

The report also revealed a stark urban-rural divide when it comes to poverty. A vast majority—83.7 percent—of poor individuals live in rural areas, which means that across all regions, people in rural areas are far more likely to live in poverty compared to their urban counterparts. Globally, 28 percent of the rural population is poor, compared to just 6.6 percent of those living in urban areas.

The MPI data also showed that 218 million people, or 19 percent of those in poverty, live in countries that have been affected by war. Nearly 40 percent of poor people worldwide—approximately 455 million—reside in countries experiencing war, fragility, or low levels of peacefulness. The report cited at least one of three widely accepted definitions of conflict to reach these conclusions.

In war-affected countries, poverty rates are much higher compared to those in nations that have not experienced significant conflict. For example, the report noted that the poverty rate in countries affected by conflict is 34.8 percent, which is significantly higher than the 10.9 percent rate found in nations not affected by war or only experiencing minor conflicts. Moreover, in fragile or low-peacefulness nations, the incidence of poverty is more than double that of more stable countries.

The 2024 MPI report stands out for its focus on the relationship between conflict and poverty. It presents original statistical research on poverty in 112 countries, covering 6.3 billion people globally. The report also includes a detailed analysis of how conflict affects poverty and well-being.

It is important to note that due to data limitations, the global MPI was measured over a ten-year period from 2012 to 2023. This extended period was used to ensure the creation of a comparable index for global poverty levels and trends. Despite these limitations, the report provides valuable insights into the ongoing challenge of eradicating poverty worldwide.

The findings of this report come at a critical time, as international efforts to alleviate poverty are facing setbacks due to increasing conflicts, displacement, and economic hardships in many regions. The report’s call for immediate action highlights the urgency of addressing the cycle of poverty, especially in countries most affected by war and conflict.

As the world continues to grapple with multiple crises, including economic instability, the global community will need to focus its efforts on supporting vulnerable populations and providing the resources necessary for sustainable development. Only by addressing the root causes of poverty—such as conflict, inequality, and lack of access to essential services—can progress be made toward reducing poverty and improving the lives of millions of people worldwide.

The 2024 Global Hunger Index (GHI) highlights a shocking reality about hunger in India: the country’s undernourished population, which is approximately 200 million people, would be comparable to the population of Brazil, ranking as the seventh largest country in the world. This means that around 14% of India’s total population is undernourished, an alarming statistic that casts doubt on the country’s ability to ensure basic food and nutrition for its people. The GHI, in its 19th edition, uses comprehensive data to determine global hunger levels, and in India’s case, it specifically relies on data from the Sample Registration System (SRS) statistical reports. These reports are published annually by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation and include essential information on births, deaths, and both infant and maternal mortality rates. Other contributing data sources are the Ministry of Women and Child Development and NITI Aayog.

The 2024 GHI analyzed 127 countries, with rankings ranging from “low” to “extremely alarming.” India was classified as “serious,” ranking 105th with a score of 27.3. However, some argue that the situation in India could be seen as “extremely alarming” when considering other relevant factors, including the systemic failure to provide adequate food and nutrition. The GHI underscores how critical food security is for realizing the so-called “demographic dividend,” a term frequently used to describe India’s young and rapidly growing population as an economic asset. However, the inability to meet basic nutritional needs severely undermines this potential.

India, which was the fastest-growing economy in 2024, achieved a growth rate of 6.8% with an estimated GDP close to $4 trillion, making it the fifth largest economy globally. Despite this, the country’s per capita income of $2,485 was less than a quarter of the global average of $13,920 as of 2022. This vast income inequality plays a significant role in the varied disposable incomes across the country, which affects access to basic necessities like food. Food inflation, in particular, has surged dramatically between 2022 and 2024, rising from 3.8% to 7.5%. This inflation disproportionately impacts the poor, making it even harder for vulnerable populations to afford nutritious food.

The 2023-24 Economic Survey attributes the rise in food prices to several factors, including extreme weather events, low water reservoir levels, and damaged crops, all of which have negatively affected farm output. However, these challenges have coincided with one of India’s highest levels of food production, reaching 332 million tonnes in the 2023-24 period. The rise in food production was mainly driven by bumper harvests of rice and wheat, though pulses and vegetables were significantly affected by extreme weather conditions.

Despite high food production, India’s alarming infant mortality rate and child malnutrition statistics indicate severe shortcomings in its healthcare and social safety systems. In 2022, India’s infant mortality rate was 26 per 1,000 live births, which is close to the global average of 28 per 1,000. More troubling are the rates of child stunting and wasting, which stand at 35.5% and 18.7%, respectively. These figures reveal the extent to which India’s young children are affected by malnutrition, as stunting refers to children who are too short for their age, while wasting describes children who are too thin for their height.

These health indicators paint a dire picture of India’s food security and public health system, particularly when compared with global benchmarks. India’s struggle with child malnutrition has long been recognized, yet significant progress remains elusive. Experts point to various causes, including inadequate healthcare infrastructure, insufficient access to nutritious food, and systemic poverty, which continues to leave millions of children at risk of malnutrition-related complications.

Adding to the complexity of this crisis is the growing impact of climate change, which has already started to affect India’s food security. Extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves have become more frequent, disrupting crop cycles and threatening future food production. India’s ability to feed its population is becoming increasingly precarious as climate change continues to challenge its agricultural output and disrupt food supply chains.

Though India has seen impressive economic growth, the benefits of this growth have not been distributed equally across its population. Income inequality remains a significant issue, contributing to disparities in access to food and basic services. While the country’s overall wealth has increased, many Indians still struggle to meet their daily nutritional needs. This is especially true for those living in rural areas, where poverty rates are higher, and access to healthcare and nutritious food is more limited.

The rising costs of essential food items, driven by inflation, exacerbate the hunger crisis. With food inflation more than doubling between 2022 and 2024, many families find it increasingly difficult to afford nutritious meals. The Economic Survey’s acknowledgment of food inflation being driven by extreme weather and crop damage highlights the intersection of economic and environmental challenges that India faces in its quest for food security.

Despite the grim statistics, the Indian government has implemented various initiatives to combat hunger and malnutrition. Programs such as the Public Distribution System (PDS), which provides subsidized food to millions of low-income households, and the Midday Meal Scheme, aimed at providing nutritious meals to schoolchildren, are essential components of India’s food security strategy. However, the effectiveness of these programs has been questioned, particularly in reaching the most vulnerable populations and addressing the underlying causes of hunger.

India’s food security is further complicated by its rapid population growth. With a population exceeding 1.4 billion, the country must continuously increase its food production to meet rising demand. Yet, even with record-high food production levels, access to nutritious food remains a challenge for many, particularly those living in poverty. This paradox underscores the complexity of India’s hunger crisis, where the availability of food does not necessarily translate into equitable access.

The 2024 Global Hunger Index serves as a stark reminder of the challenges India faces in ensuring food security for its population. With roughly 200 million undernourished people, the country’s hunger crisis is not only a humanitarian concern but also a threat to its economic future. As income inequality persists, inflation rises, and climate change continues to affect agricultural output, India must address these systemic issues to protect its most vulnerable citizens from hunger and malnutrition. The failure to do so will have far-reaching consequences, not only for the health and well-being of its population but also for its long-term economic growth and stability.

The striking blue houses of Brahmapuri in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, have drawn travelers from around the globe for years, symbolizing the city’s unique heritage. However, these iconic homes are slowly losing their distinct blue hue and charm, raising concerns among locals and historians alike.

Brahmapuri is nestled at the base of the famous Mehrangarh Fort, constructed in 1459 by Rajput ruler Rao Jodha. This ancient fortified area, sheltered by the fort’s imposing shadow, is recognized as the old city of Jodhpur. The distinguishing feature of Brahmapuri has always been its azure-colored houses, although, according to Esther Christine Schmidt, assistant professor at Jindal School of Art and Architecture, the blue color likely wasn’t introduced before the 17th Century.

These blue houses have long been a marker of Jodhpur’s identity. Despite modern developments over the past 70 years, the area continues to be the heart of the ‘Blue City,’ says Sunayana Rathore, the curator of Mehrangarh Museum. The term ‘Brahmapuri’ itself translates to “the town of Brahmins” in Sanskrit, as it was established as a colony for upper-caste Brahmin families. The color blue was adopted as a symbol of purity and piety within the Hindu caste system, setting them apart from other social groups.

Rathore draws a comparison to the blue city of Chefchaouen in Morocco, where Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition in the 15th Century settled. Much like Brahmapuri, the Jewish settlers in Chefchaouen painted their homes, mosques, and public offices blue, a color believed to represent divine skies in Judaism. The blue tint of both cities became more than just a religious or cultural statement; it also served practical purposes. In Jodhpur, for instance, the mixture of blue paint with limestone plaster cooled the interiors and helped keep the homes pleasant in the hot climate. Furthermore, the striking color began to draw tourists eager to experience Brahmapuri’s unique architectural beauty.

However, in contrast to Chefchaouen, Brahmapuri’s blue houses are now fading. Various factors have contributed to this shift. Historically, blue paint was made from natural indigo, a crop that was once abundant in Rajasthan, with Bayana town being one of India’s major centers for indigo production. Over time, though, indigo farming declined due to its detrimental impact on the soil. Additionally, increasing temperatures have made it difficult for the blue paint to regulate indoor temperatures effectively, leading many residents to switch to modern cooling appliances like air conditioners.

“Temperatures have risen gradually over the years,” notes Udit Bhatia, assistant professor of civil engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar. Bhatia, who studies resilience infrastructure and climate change, mentions that a trend analysis conducted by his institute shows that Jodhpur’s average temperature has climbed from 37.5°C in the 1950s to 38.5°C by 2016. The blue paint, once a solution to the intense heat, is no longer as effective. Furthermore, Bhatia highlights that blue paint traditionally contained copper sulfate, which acted as a pest repellent. This antifouling agent was a popular component in paints during the 20th Century, but newer materials have replaced such elements in modern homes.

Urbanization is another contributor to the fading blue hue. As Jodhpur expands, newer building techniques, which prioritize materials like cement and concrete over lime plaster, have replaced traditional methods. These modern materials do not absorb blue pigment as well as lime, further contributing to the diminishing use of blue in Brahmapuri. Bhatia remarks that while urbanization isn’t inherently bad, it often leads to the abandonment of older, well-designed systems that complemented the environment. He adds, “Yesterday, if someone was walking down an alley in Jodhpur with blue homes on either side, and today they are walking down the same alley where the homes are now painted in a darker colour, even the lightest breeze will make them feel hotter than what they felt earlier.”

This phenomenon, known as the heat island effect, amplifies the impact of rising temperatures. Darker-colored buildings made from cement, glass, and concrete reflect heat back into the environment, worsening the heat’s effects. This is in stark contrast to traditional lime plaster homes, which would have kept the interiors cooler.

For some residents, the shift away from blue is driven by practical considerations. Aditya Dave, a 29-year-old civil engineer from Brahmapuri, mentions that his 300-year-old family home remains mostly blue. However, the cost of maintaining the blue color has increased dramatically. “Repainting houses blue would cost around 5,000 rupees ($60; £45) up until a decade ago, while today, it would be more than 30,000 rupees,” he explains. With rising expenses and scarce indigo, many residents opt for more affordable alternatives, such as tiled facades that don’t require frequent repainting. Dave himself chose tiles when he built his new house in Brahmapuri five years ago, emphasizing cost-effectiveness over tradition.

The gradual disappearance of Brahmapuri’s blue homes is a disappointment to tourists and heritage enthusiasts alike. Deepak Soni, a local garments seller who has collaborated with authorities to preserve Brahmapuri’s blue identity, feels that the city is losing an essential part of its heritage. “We should feel embarrassed that when someone comes looking for the homes that formed the identity of our city, they don’t find them. So many foreigners compare Jodhpur to Chefchaouen. If Chefchaouen has managed to keep their homes blue for centuries, why can’t we?” he asks.

Soni has been actively working to reverse this trend. In 2018, he negotiated with local authorities and communities to save the blue heritage of Brahmapuri. His efforts include raising funds from Brahmapuri residents to repaint the outer walls of 500 homes blue every year. Since 2019, he has convinced nearly 3,000 homeowners to return to the traditional blue for their homes’ outer walls and roofs. “So that at least when someone takes a picture in Brahmapuri, the background appears blue,” he explains.

Currently, Soni estimates that roughly half of the 33,000 homes in Brahmapuri remain blue. He is working with local officials and lawmakers on a plan to apply lime plaster to more houses, enabling them to be painted blue once again.

Soni believes that preserving Brahmapuri’s blue heritage is not just about aesthetics but about pride in the city’s history. “Why will people from outside Jodhpur care about our city if we don’t care about its heritage, and do something to save it?” he asks.

For Jodhpur’s residents and tourists alike, the fading blue walls of Brahmapuri signal a deeper challenge: how to maintain cultural heritage in the face of modernization, rising costs, and environmental changes. Whether the blue city will regain its signature hue remains uncertain, but efforts to preserve its charm continue.

India has recalled its envoy to Canada, along with other diplomatic staff, following allegations from the Canadian government linking Indian agents to a series of criminal activities. These accusations include claims of involvement in homicides, extortion, and violent acts on Canadian soil. The Canadian police suggested that the crimes particularly targeted supporters of the Khalistan movement, which advocates for a separate Sikh homeland in India.

The police did not directly confirm whether these agents were involved in the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023. However, the Canadian government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, alleged that they have credible evidence of Indian agents’ involvement in Nijjar’s killing, a claim that has fueled a significant diplomatic rift between the two nations.

India has staunchly denied the allegations, dismissing them as “preposterous” and a part of Trudeau’s political agenda. In response, Delhi recalled its diplomatic staff from Canada, a move that further deepened the tensions between the two countries. A statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed strong discontent with Canada’s accusations and alluded to potential further retaliatory measures.

“India now reserves the right to take further steps in response to these latest efforts of the Canadian government to concoct allegations against Indian diplomats,” the ministry stated. It also defended Sanjay Kumar Verma, the Indian High Commissioner to Canada, referring to his “distinguished career spanning 36 years” and calling Canada’s accusations against him “ludicrous” and deserving “contempt.”

The tensions between Canada and India have been escalating since September 2023, when Prime Minister Trudeau first announced in Canada’s parliament that the country’s intelligence had linked Indian agents to Nijjar’s killing. Trudeau declared the assassination a violation of Canada’s sovereignty and demanded India’s accountability. Since then, relations between the two nations have significantly deteriorated, with India responding by demanding that Canada withdraw several of its diplomatic personnel.

On Monday, India’s foreign ministry responded sharply to the continuing allegations from Canada. The ministry described Trudeau’s remarks as politically motivated and part of his broader agenda, further straining the relationship between the two countries. Although no specific details about further actions were provided, the statement hinted at India’s intent to pursue additional measures if the allegations persisted.

“We have no faith in the current Canadian government’s commitment to ensure their security. Therefore, the government of India has decided to withdraw the High Commissioner and other targeted diplomats and officials,” India’s Ministry of External Affairs said.

Meanwhile, the Canadian government did not immediately issue a formal response to India’s latest actions. However, Stuart Wheeler, Canada’s deputy head of mission in Delhi, was summoned by India’s External Affairs Ministry to address Canada’s accusations. During the meeting, the ministry made it clear that the “baseless targeting” of Indian diplomats was unacceptable.

The accusations center on Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was a prominent supporter of the Khalistan movement. Nijjar, a Sikh leader in British Columbia, was shot and killed outside the Sikh temple where he served as president. His assassination, which was carried out by two masked gunmen, was labeled by Canadian police as a “targeted attack.” The investigation has continued to dominate headlines in both Canada and India.

Nijjar had long advocated for the creation of a separate Sikh homeland in India, which is at the core of the Khalistan movement. While his supporters viewed him as a key figure in this movement, India labeled him a terrorist, accusing him of leading a militant separatist group. However, Nijjar’s backers have denied these accusations, describing them as unfounded.

Trudeau’s September announcement regarding Indian agents’ alleged involvement in Nijjar’s killing caused a rapid escalation of tensions. India rejected all accusations outright, asserting that no evidence had been presented to substantiate Canada’s claims. The diplomatic spat led to a series of retaliatory measures, including India suspending visa services for Canadians and requesting the reduction of Canadian diplomatic staff in the country.

The situation appeared to improve briefly when India resumed visa services for Canadian citizens in October 2023, suggesting that the icy relations between the two nations might be warming. However, last week, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly characterized the relationship between the two countries as “tense” and “very difficult.” She also warned of the continued risk of further killings similar to Nijjar’s, underscoring the ongoing security concerns.

Joly’s remarks have added fuel to the fire in an already volatile diplomatic situation. Although India had expressed hope for a resolution, the recent developments indicate that both sides remain entrenched in their positions. For India, the accusations are seen as an affront to the country’s integrity and diplomatic standing, while Canada continues to press for a thorough investigation into Nijjar’s assassination.

In the wake of these ongoing tensions, the future of India-Canada relations remains uncertain. Both nations have much at stake, given their longstanding ties and mutual interests in trade, immigration, and security. While Canada has not publicly detailed the evidence it claims to have against India, the allegations have prompted global scrutiny and put a spotlight on the growing friction between the two nations.

In the meantime, the withdrawal of India’s High Commissioner, Sanjay Kumar Verma, and other diplomatic staff signals a significant escalation in the dispute. This move suggests that India is preparing for a prolonged diplomatic conflict unless a resolution is reached.

As the situation develops, both countries will need to navigate the sensitive geopolitical implications of this dispute. With Canada reiterating concerns over future targeted attacks and India defending its diplomats, the prospect of reconciliation appears distant. Yet, the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations, especially given the vast Indian diaspora in Canada, remains a crucial factor in any potential resolution.

For now, India has taken a firm stance, recalling its diplomats and signaling that it is willing to take further measures if necessary. As global attention continues to focus on this escalating feud, the next steps from both sides will be closely watched by the international community.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended an invitation to Chief Minister-designate Omar Abdullah to form the next government in the Union Territory on October 16, 2024, in Srinagar. Abdullah, representing the National Conference (NC), will take office at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) during a formal ceremony.

In an official letter addressed to Abdullah, L-G Sinha wrote, “I am pleased to invite you to form and lead the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. As separately settled, I shall administer Oath of Office and Secrecy to you, and to those recommended by you for induction as members of your Council of Ministers, at SKICC, Srinagar on 16 October, 2024, at 11:30 a.m.” Sinha further extended his best wishes to Abdullah, expressing hope for “a highly productive tenure and success in your endeavours in the best interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”

Sinha also confirmed that he received an official communication from National Conference (NC) president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on October 11. The letter stated that Omar Abdullah had been unanimously chosen as the leader of the party’s legislature. Omar Abdullah’s ascension to this role was supported not only by his party members but also by a broad coalition of political entities within the region. L-G Sinha received letters of support from prominent figures such as J&K Pradesh Congress Committee President Tariq Hameed Karra, CPI(M) Secretary G. N. Malik, Aam Aadmi Party National Secretary Pankaj Kumar Gupta, as well as five Independent Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). The independent legislators who pledged their support include Payare Lal Sharma, Satish Sharma, Ch. Mohd. Akram, Dr. Rameshwar Singh, and Muzafar Iqbal Khan.

The NC secured 42 out of the 51 seats it contested in the J&K Assembly elections, providing the party with a robust foundation. With the additional support of Congress, CPI(M), the Aam Aadmi Party, and the Independent MLAs, the party now commands a total of 55 MLAs in the 90-member assembly. In contrast, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 29 seats, primarily from the Jammu region.

Omar Abdullah, upon receiving the communication from the Principal Secretary to the L-G, confirmed that he had been formally invited to form the next government. His confirmation marks a significant moment for the region as it will be the first government formed since Jammu and Kashmir was downgraded from statehood, bifurcated into two Union Territories, and stripped of its special constitutional status under Article 370 in August 2019.

The L-G’s invitation followed an important legal step taken by the President of India. The President issued an order to end the central rule that had been in place in Jammu and Kashmir since the state’s reorganization. The order, issued under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, effectively revoked the President’s Rule just before the Chief Minister’s appointment. The formal document read, “In exercise of the powers conferred by section 73 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 (34 of 2019) read with articles 239 and 239A of the Constitution of India, the Order dated the 31st October, 2019, in relation to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir shall stand revoked immediately before the appointment of the Chief Minister under section 54 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.”

President’s Rule had been in place in J&K since August 5, 2019, when the central government abrogated Article 370, which provided special autonomy to the former state. With the revocation of the central rule, the path has been cleared for the re-establishment of an elected government in the Union Territory.

Meanwhile, prominent regional leaders expressed their support for the new government and highlighted the significance of this moment for the democratic process in Jammu and Kashmir. CPI(M) leader and legislator M.Y. Tarigami welcomed the upcoming formation of the government, stating that it would be a true representation of the will of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “The President’s Rule is finally over. After years of political uncertainty and a suspended assembly since 2018, the time has come to revive the democratic process in J&K. There are challenges ahead but we are confident it will advocate for the rights of the people,” Tarigami said.

The end of President’s Rule and the establishment of a new government signals the resumption of political normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir after several years of governance directly from the central government. The region has been marked by significant political changes since 2019 when its special status was revoked and it was reorganized into two Union Territories – Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The return to a democratically elected government represents a major step toward restoring political stability in the region.

The political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, however, remains complex and divided. The NC, under Omar Abdullah’s leadership, will face various challenges, including the need to address concerns about the restoration of statehood, political rights, and economic development in the region. While the NC has a strong electoral mandate, it must navigate a fragmented political environment, with the BJP maintaining a solid presence, particularly in the Jammu region. The BJP’s focus on promoting a unified India without special constitutional privileges for any region stands in contrast to the NC’s long-standing advocacy for the autonomy of Jammu and Kashmir.

Omar Abdullah’s leadership and the new government’s approach to governance will be closely watched, both within the region and across the country. The revival of an elected government in Jammu and Kashmir provides hope to many that a more inclusive and democratic political process can return to the troubled region, but it also brings expectations of addressing longstanding issues that have affected its people.

In the immediate future, the key challenges for the incoming government will include addressing economic recovery, ensuring security, fostering communal harmony, and restoring faith in the democratic process. These challenges have only grown since the political upheaval in 2019, and many in the region are looking to the new government for tangible progress. Additionally, regional leaders are likely to push for the restoration of statehood, a significant issue that has remained unresolved since the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir.

The new government will likely also focus on reviving economic growth, which has been impacted by years of political instability and security concerns. Ensuring that people in the region feel safe, fostering development, and addressing issues related to unemployment and infrastructure will be critical tasks for the new administration.

As the first elected government since the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir, the new administration has the potential to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region. However, it will face intense scrutiny as it embarks on this challenging journey.

The atmosphere in Haryana is filled with optimism as exit polls suggest a significant shift in political power, with the Congress expected to claim victory in the state, known for its sporting heroes. Among the jubilant voices is Vinesh Phogat, the renowned wrestler making her political debut, who shared her excitement following the exit poll results. “It is the very change that the people of Haryana were looking for,” she declared. Phogat, who is contesting the elections on a Congress ticket, expressed confidence in the outcome after exit polls forecast a comfortable win for her party.

According to the combined predictions of eight exit polls, the Congress is projected to win 55 out of Haryana’s 90 assembly seats, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to secure only 26. While exit polls have been known to be inaccurate in the past—most notably in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections where the predictions were far from the actual results—the mood within the Congress camp remains upbeat, with many hopeful that this time the exit polls will be a reflection of the final outcome.

“It is a very happy day for the people of Haryana. Everyone has taken part in making this happen by voting in large numbers. The change that Haryana was looking for has been brought about by its people. It is the result of what people suffered over the last 10 years,” said Phogat, the Olympic athlete whose disqualification in the games had once left the nation heartbroken. Her entrance into the political arena has generated considerable attention, and her words echoed the broader sentiment of dissatisfaction with the incumbent BJP government.

The Congress appears to be continuing the momentum from its success in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, with exit polls suggesting that the party is now set to overthrow the BJP in Haryana. The BJP, which has held power in the state for the past decade, has dismissed accusations of anti-incumbency and insists that it will retain control. Despite these assurances, the exit polls paint a different picture.

Throughout its campaign, the Congress has described the BJP’s decade-long rule in Haryana as a “decade of pain,” pointing to what they see as years of mismanagement and neglect. Phogat emphasized this point in her remarks, attributing the predicted electoral success to the collective grievances of the state’s people. “The people through their vote have avenged the oppression that they have suffered in the last 10 years. They had pledged that they will avenge the BJP, and today they managed to do that. I thank the Congress party. Haryana is thanking the Congress,” said the 30-year-old Phogat, who is contesting the election from the Julana constituency.

As the exit poll results spark discussions about the future leadership of the state, attention has turned to who will be named as the Congress’s chief ministerial candidate. While speculation abounds, former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, who has been a prominent figure in Haryana politics, was cautious when asked about the matter. Hooda, 77, emphasized that the decision would be made by the party’s national leadership, stating, “Deciding the next Chief Minister is a call that the high command will take.”

Despite the optimistic outlook for the Congress, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini of the BJP remains defiant, rejecting the predictions of the exit polls. Appearing confident in the face of what many interpret as a sign of his party’s decline, Saini is adamant that the BJP will secure a third term in office. “Haryana has seen the work we have done in the last ten years. We have rid Haryana of regionalism and dynastic politics. We are confident that the BJP will form the government in Haryana for the third time,” said Saini.

The BJP’s message throughout the campaign has been focused on the achievements of its government over the past decade. The party points to its efforts to unify the state and to break free from what it describes as the political dynasties that have long dominated Haryana’s political landscape. Saini’s confidence in the face of the exit polls is rooted in his belief that the BJP’s track record will ultimately sway voters in their favor.

However, the exit poll data suggests that many voters in Haryana are ready for a change. The projected outcome reflects a desire to move away from the BJP’s governance, with the Congress seen as the party most capable of addressing the state’s needs. Phogat’s candidacy has further boosted the Congress’s appeal, with her status as a beloved sports figure adding a new dimension to the party’s campaign.

Should the exit poll predictions hold true, the Congress’s victory in Haryana would mark a significant political shift in the state, ending a decade of BJP rule. For Vinesh Phogat, this moment represents more than just a political victory—it symbolizes a new chapter for the people of Haryana, a chapter driven by their own desire for change.

As Haryana waits for the official election results, the sense of anticipation is palpable. While exit polls have been wrong in the past, the people of Haryana seem ready to embrace the possibility of a Congress-led government. Whether this will come to fruition remains to be seen, but for now, the Congress and its supporters have every reason to be hopeful.

The BJP, on the other hand, will be looking to defy the odds and prove the exit polls wrong once again. As the election results draw near, both parties are preparing for the next stage of what has been a fiercely contested battle for control of Haryana’s political future.

The Congress party and its allies appear to be on the brink of a significant victory in the Haryana Assembly elections, according to a CVoter exit poll. The data indicates a full majority for the Congress in Haryana, while in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress-National Conference alliance is projected to lead in a tight contest against the BJP.

The exit poll data for Jammu and Kashmir is based on 20,013 interviews conducted across all 90 Assembly constituencies. Similarly, in Haryana, the exit poll was carried out based on 13,817 interviews, covering all constituencies in the state. It is important to note that exit polls, though insightful, are not always accurate and can sometimes deliver unexpected results.

In Haryana, the Congress is projected to secure a comfortable majority, potentially winning between 50 and 58 seats in the 90-member Assembly. This is a significant improvement from its performance in the 2019 election, where the party managed to secure only 31 seats. On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which had won 40 seats in the previous election and is aiming for a third consecutive victory in the state, is expected to see its numbers drop to 20-28 seats.

One of the main contributors to Congress’s rise in Haryana is the decline of the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), which had won 10 seats in the last election. The exit poll suggests that the JJP may only secure 0-2 seats this time, reflecting a steep decline in its support base.

The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is shaping up to be a much closer contest. The Congress-National Conference alliance is expected to lead with 40-48 seats out of the total 90 in the Assembly. Meanwhile, the BJP is projected to secure 27-32 seats. Mehbooba Mufti’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP) could see a sharp decline in support, with exit polls predicting only 6-12 seats for the party, compared to the 28 seats it won in the previous election. Other political parties and independent candidates are projected to win between 6-11 seats.

It is worth noting that while the Congress, National Conference, and PDP are all part of the opposition INDIA bloc at the national level, the PDP chose to contest the Jammu and Kashmir elections independently. This decision, however, may not work in its favor as the exit poll indicates a substantial reduction in the party’s seats. The PDP is expected to drop from 28 seats in the last election to just 6-12 seats this time, highlighting the challenges it faces in this election cycle.

The Jammu region, which consists of 43 seats, remains a stronghold for the BJP, according to the exit poll. The saffron party is expected to retain a commanding presence in this region, with a projection of 27-31 seats. The Congress-National Conference alliance is predicted to win 11-15 seats in Jammu, while the PDP may secure only 0-2 seats in this part of the state.

The Kashmir Valley, which has 47 seats, is likely to see a strong performance from the Congress-National Conference alliance. The exit poll suggests that this alliance could win between 29 and 33 seats, showing a notable improvement from its 16-seat tally in the 2014 election. On the other hand, the PDP, which had a significant presence in the Valley with 25 seats in the last election, may see its numbers shrink to 6-10 seats this time.

For the BJP, the Kashmir Valley has traditionally been a challenging region. In the 2014 election, the party did not win any seats in the Valley. However, the exit poll predicts that the BJP may finally make some inroads and could potentially secure a seat or two in this election.

As the results approach, these exit polls provide a glimpse into how the political landscape might shift in both Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir. However, the final results could still hold surprises, as exit polls are not always an accurate reflection of the final outcome. Nevertheless, the Congress appears poised for a significant victory in Haryana, while in Jammu and Kashmir, a competitive race between the Congress-National Conference alliance and the BJP is anticipated.

India firmly condemned a report released by the U.S. government, which claimed that religious freedom in the country has continued to deteriorate. The report, issued by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) on Wednesday, urged the U.S. State Department to designate India as a “country of particular concern.”

In response, the Indian Foreign Ministry rejected the findings, describing the USCIRF as a “biased organization with a political agenda.” The ministry further accused the organization of misrepresenting facts and pushing a narrative that unfairly portrays India. “We reject this malicious report, which only serves to discredit USCIRF further,” the Foreign Ministry stated. The ministry also advised the commission to focus on issues within the U.S. rather than targeting India, saying it should “utilise its time more productively” by addressing human rights concerns in America.

The report claimed that the Indian government, under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been working to implement policies that negatively affect religious minorities. It highlighted the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), the construction of a Ram Temple in Ayodhya, and the proposal for a unified civil code as examples of actions that have disproportionately impacted minority communities.

The USCIRF also criticized Indian political leaders for using hate speech and discriminatory rhetoric against Muslims and other religious minorities, especially in the run-up to the 2024 national elections. “The Indian government continues to repress and restrict religious communities through the enforcement of discriminatory legislation like anti-conversion laws, cow slaughter laws, and antiterrorism laws,” the report claimed.

This is not the first time the USCIRF has called for India to be labeled a “country of particular concern.” Since 2020, the commission has made the same recommendation annually, but New Delhi has consistently rejected it. The Indian government has long dismissed these allegations as baseless and motivated by an external agenda.

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, speaking in Washington just hours before the release of the report, defended India’s right to respond to such criticism. Addressing an event at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Jaishankar said, “You have every right to comment. But I have every right to comment on your comment. So don’t feel bad when I do.” He further questioned why only certain democracies are allowed to critique others, stating, “It cannot be that one democracy has a right to comment on another, and that’s part of promoting democracy globally, but when others do that, then it becomes foreign interference.”

This latest USCIRF report follows other instances of U.S. criticism toward India’s handling of religious freedom and human rights. In April, the U.S. State Department’s Human Rights report for 2023 raised concerns about abuses in the northeastern state of Manipur and documented attacks on minorities, journalists, and dissenters in other parts of the country. India swiftly condemned the State Department’s report, labeling it as “very biased” and accusing it of demonstrating a “very poor understanding” of the situation in India.

The report’s release comes at a time of heightened international scrutiny over India’s religious policies. The CAA, passed in 2019, offers a path to citizenship for non-Muslim refugees from neighboring countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Critics argue that the act discriminates against Muslims by excluding them from the list of eligible refugees. The government has defended the act, saying it aims to provide refuge to persecuted religious minorities in the region, and has dismissed claims of bias.

The construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has also been a point of contention. The temple is being built on the site of the Babri Masjid, a mosque that was demolished by Hindu extremists in 1992, leading to widespread riots. The demolition remains a deeply divisive issue in India’s religious and political landscape, with many Muslims seeing it as an affront to their faith. However, the temple’s supporters argue that it represents a fulfillment of a long-standing promise to the Hindu community.

Another major issue highlighted by the USCIRF report is the government’s push for a unified civil code, which would replace the personal laws of various religious communities with a single, national legal framework. Supporters of the unified code argue that it would promote equality and social cohesion, while critics say it would infringe on the religious rights of minorities, particularly Muslims, who have their own personal laws governing matters like marriage, inheritance, and divorce.

India’s anti-conversion laws, cow slaughter laws, and antiterrorism laws were also criticized in the report for being used disproportionately against religious minorities. Several Indian states have enacted anti-conversion laws, which prohibit forced or fraudulent religious conversions. While these laws are ostensibly meant to protect vulnerable individuals, they have often been used to target Christian and Muslim communities, especially those involved in missionary work or interfaith marriages.

Cow slaughter laws, which are rooted in Hindu religious beliefs, have similarly come under fire. In many Indian states, the slaughter of cows is prohibited, as cows are considered sacred in Hinduism. Critics argue that these laws disproportionately affect Muslims, who are more likely to consume beef, and have led to incidents of mob violence, known as “cow vigilantism,” against those suspected of killing or transporting cows.

India’s antiterrorism laws, particularly the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), have been used to detain individuals accused of terrorism-related activities without trial for extended periods. Human rights groups have raised concerns that these laws are being misused to silence dissent, particularly in the context of religious and political protests.

Despite the growing international criticism, the Indian government remains steadfast in defending its policies. Officials argue that the country’s laws and regulations are necessary for maintaining law and order and promoting national unity. The government has also pointed out that India is a secular democracy, where all religions are respected and given equal treatment under the law.

As India approaches the 2024 elections, religious freedom is likely to remain a hotly debated issue, both domestically and internationally. The BJP has long been accused of promoting Hindu nationalism at the expense of minority rights, and the USCIRF’s report is likely to fuel further debate on the subject.

While the USCIRF continues to push for India’s designation as a “country of particular concern,” it remains to be seen whether the U.S. State Department will act on the recommendation. For now, New Delhi’s response is clear: the Indian government rejects the report and stands by its record on religious freedom, dismissing the USCIRF’s findings as politically motivated and lacking in credibility.

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has forecasted that by 2050, India, the United States, and China will emerge as the leading superpowers, resulting in a “complex world order” that global leaders must adeptly navigate.

In an interview with *The Straits Times*, Blair, now 71, emphasized the need for nations to adjust to a multipolar world influenced by these three nations. “You have got to decide where your country fits in the world, because it is going to be a world that is going to be multipolar,” he remarked. He highlighted that by mid-century, the global landscape will be dominated by “three superpowers effectively: America, China, and probably India.”

Reflecting on his tenure as Prime Minister from 1997 to 2007, Blair pointed out that the current international scenario is far more intricate than during his time in office when the United States held a clear superpower status. The rise of China and India, according to Blair, is altering the geopolitical dynamics and necessitating a reevaluation of existing alliances and diplomatic approaches. “You are going to have to build strong alliances that enable you to talk to these three superpowers with some level of equality,” he emphasized.

Blair also addressed the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, along with the increasing risk of a broader conflict. He noted, “It is a very dangerous situation with every potential of escalation, because of what is now happening to the north of Israel.”

Moreover, the former Prime Minister reiterated his support for a two-state solution as the only feasible pathway to peace between Israel and Palestine. He asserted, “The core to any solution, in my view, is to construct a day-after plan for Gaza that neither has the Israel Defence Forces nor Hamas running Gaza.”

Blair further expressed his belief that China could play a constructive role in peace negotiations but urged the Chinese government to restrain its ally, Iran. He suggested that Iran had a hand in orchestrating Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, characterizing the assault as something that had been “a long time in the making.”

As the world stands on the brink of a potential shift in power dynamics, Blair’s insights serve as a warning to global leaders to adapt to a rapidly changing international landscape. The emergence of a multipolar world order driven by these three superpowers presents both opportunities and challenges that nations must navigate with strategic foresight.

Tony Blair’s predictions about the future geopolitical landscape emphasize the need for countries to forge strong alliances while recognizing the complexities introduced by the rise of India, the US, and China. The challenges in the Middle East also underscore the importance of diplomacy in achieving lasting peace.

The Indian diaspora represents a thriving and influential community spread across the globe, contributing significantly to the cultural, economic, and social landscapes of various countries. From the island nation of Mauritius to the bustling streets of New York and Silicon Valley in the United States, the Indian community has left an indelible mark, enriching the societies they are part of while maintaining a strong connection to their heritage.

The widespread Indian diaspora encompasses non-resident Indians (NRIs), persons of Indian origin (PIOs), and overseas Indians, collectively forming one of the most diverse and influential expatriate communities globally. According to the Get Global Immigration Services (GIS), a significant number of Indian expatriates are scattered across several countries, including the United States, the UAE, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom. This vibrant community has managed to influence both their host nations and India through various contributions.

Mauritius: A Strong Cultural Connection

Mauritius stands as one of the most prominent examples of a nation deeply influenced by its Indian population. With approximately 70% of its residents tracing their ancestry back to India, the island reflects a profound connection to Indian culture. Indian traditions thrive in cities such as Port Louis, Quatre Bornes, and Curepipe, where the diaspora enjoys a mix of cultural richness and the beauty of nature, surrounded by picturesque white-sand beaches. The Indian influence in Mauritius is undeniable, with festivals, music, dance, and cuisine blending seamlessly into the island’s daily life.

United States: A Hub of Indian-American Success

The United States is home to over 4 million Indian Americans, making it one of the largest Indian populations outside of India. This community has established itself in major urban areas such as Silicon Valley, New York, Chicago, and Houston. These cities serve as hubs for Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and families, where they foster cultural exchange and celebrate traditional festivals like Diwali and Holi. The Indian community has made significant contributions to the U.S. economy, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors.

Reflecting on the vibrant cultural presence, cities like New York and Silicon Valley witness large-scale celebrations of Indian festivals, showcasing the community’s commitment to preserving their heritage. The economic contributions of Indian Americans, especially in fields such as technology, medicine, and education, have earned them a reputation for excellence and influence.

UAE: Driving Economic Growth

The Indian expatriate community in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has grown rapidly over the years, with over 3 million Indians now residing in the country. Indians play a crucial role in the UAE’s development, particularly in industries like construction, healthcare, and finance. The cultural presence of Indians in the UAE is also significant, with festivals such as Diwali being celebrated on a grand scale. “Indians have become an integral part of the UAE’s economic landscape, contributing across various sectors,” reports GIS.

Indian expatriates in the UAE have become pillars of the workforce, particularly in labor-intensive sectors, and their contributions have helped shape the nation’s modern infrastructure and economy. In return, they enjoy a vibrant expatriate life that balances work and cultural celebration.

Malaysia: A Diverse Indian Community

Malaysia is home to a diverse Indian community comprising Tamils, Malayalees, Punjabis, and Bengalis, who have played a significant role in the country’s socio-economic development. Indians in Malaysia have contributed to sectors ranging from trade to politics, with their cultural impact seen in religious celebrations, such as Thaipusam, and traditional arts like Bharatanatyam.

In cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, the Indian community continues to flourish, contributing to Malaysia’s diverse cultural mosaic. Their influence extends to education, commerce, and politics, making them a vital part of the nation’s progress.

Saudi Arabia: Building the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia hosts a large Indian workforce, particularly in fields like construction, healthcare, and information technology. Indian expatriates have played a key role in the development of Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure, contributing to the kingdom’s growth over the decades. The celebration of Indian festivals such as Diwali and Holi in Saudi Arabia brings a sense of home to the expatriates, allowing them to maintain their cultural identity.

Despite the challenges of living in a different cultural environment, the Indian community in Saudi Arabia has created a significant presence, making substantial contributions to the kingdom’s economy and labor market.

Myanmar: A Legacy of Indian Presence

The Indian community in Myanmar dates back centuries, with roots in ancient trade routes. Over the years, Indians have become integral to the country’s economic framework, particularly in sectors like trade, manufacturing, and finance. This long-standing presence has left a cultural mark on Myanmar, with Indian traditions continuing to influence the country’s social and economic fabric.

The contributions of Indian expatriates to Myanmar’s economic landscape have helped shape the country’s progress, creating a legacy of cooperation and development.

### Canada: A Multicultural Tapestry

Canada has become a favored destination for Indian immigrants, offering opportunities for a better quality of life. With over 1.6 million Indians now residing in the country, they have seamlessly integrated into Canadian society while retaining their cultural identity. Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver are home to vibrant Indian communities that celebrate their heritage through festivals, food, and religious observances. “The Indian community has enriched Canada’s multicultural landscape through its traditions and values,” GIS notes.

The contributions of Indian Canadians extend beyond cultural celebrations; they are actively involved in shaping Canada’s economy, politics, and education system, making them a vital part of the nation’s diversity.

United Kingdom: A Historical Bond

The United Kingdom’s Indian community is deeply rooted in the country’s colonial history. Today, Indians are a prominent part of British society, with over 1.7 million residents of Indian origin. London, in particular, is home to a thriving Indian population that has made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, business, and academia.

The Indian community in the UK continues to preserve its cultural heritage while contributing to the nation’s development, making them a respected and influential group.

South Africa: A Community with a Purpose

South Africa’s Indian community dates back to the colonial era when Indian laborers were brought to work in the sugar plantations. Today, Indians in South Africa have become a vital part of the country’s cultural and political landscape. The legacy of Indian leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who began his activism in South Africa, continues to inspire the community’s contributions to the nation.

Indian traditions and values have been woven into South African society, with the community playing an active role in the nation’s progress.

Singapore: A Dynamic Presence

Singapore is home to a vibrant Indian diaspora that plays a significant role in the island’s multicultural society. Little India, one of the most iconic cultural districts in Singapore, is a testament to the strong ties between the Indian community and the country. Singapore’s institutions have also attracted many Indian students, further strengthening the relationship between the two nations.

The Indian community in Singapore contributes to the country’s economic and cultural life, making it an essential part of the island’s identity.

Across the world, the Indian diaspora continues to influence their host countries while staying connected to their roots. Whether in technology, culture, or politics, Indians abroad have made a lasting impact on global society.

The Bombay High Court on Friday dealt a significant blow to the Centre by striking down the amended Information Technology (IT) rules that allowed the government to identify “fake news” on social media through a Fact Check Unit (FCU). The court ruled that the amended rules were unconstitutional.

In a decisive opinion, Justice Atul S Chandurkar declared the amended rule “ultra vires” (beyond the powers) of the IT Act. His judgment follows a split verdict delivered on January 31 by a two-judge division bench, which was tasked with hearing pleas that challenged the amended rules. Justice Chandurkar’s ruling sided with Justice Gautam S Patel, who had also declared the rule unconstitutional in the earlier judgment. Justice Patel, who is now retired, was part of the original division bench that delivered the split verdict.

Justice Chandurkar ruled that the amendment to the IT Rules, 2023, through Rule 3(1)(b)(v), violated Articles 14 and 19 (1)(a) and 19 (1)(g) of the Constitution. Article 14 ensures equality before the law, while Articles 19 (1)(a) and 19 (1)(g) safeguard the right to freedom of speech and expression and the right to practice a profession, respectively.

Justice Chandurkar criticized the terms “fake, false or misleading” as vague and overly broad, arguing that the amended rule did not pass the “test of proportionality.” “Impugned Rule as amended be struck down. All the petitions will be placed before the division bench to be decided,” Justice Chandurkar ruled.

Justice Chandurkar’s opinion will now be presented to a division bench of two judges, who will formally announce the 2:1 majority ruling against the impugned rules. This ruling represents a clear challenge to the government’s efforts to regulate social media content through the Fact Check Unit.

The IT rules, amended in April 2023, required online platforms to take down content flagged as “fake or misleading” by the FCU if they wished to retain their “safe harbour” status, which provides them legal immunity against third-party content. However, the court found this amendment to infringe on the constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression.

Justice Chandurkar also endorsed the view that citizens do not have a “right to the truth” under the right to freedom of speech. He noted that it was not the state’s responsibility to ensure that citizens are provided only with “information” that the FCU deems not fake or misleading.

“The impugned rule sought to restrict the fundamental right under Article 19 (1) (a) (Freedom of speech and expression) by placing restrictions that were not in line with reasonable limitations provided under Article 19 (2),” Justice Chandurkar explained in his opinion. He also stressed that such a restriction could not be imposed through delegated legislation.

In his ruling, Justice Chandurkar further pointed out that there was no clear basis to determine if information about the Central Government’s business, when presented digitally, was fake or false. This determination was absent in cases where the same information appeared in print.

Additionally, he emphasized that the amendment had not been enacted in accordance with the IT Act, 2000. The Centre had also failed to demonstrate that the proposed amendment had been laid before both houses of Parliament as required under Section 87 of the 2000 Act.

Justice Chandurkar also dismissed the Centre’s claim that decisions made by the FCU could be challenged before a constitutional court, stating that such a provision “cannot be treated as adequate safeguard.” He added that the impugned rule could not be salvaged by “reading it down” or limiting its application.

In agreement with Justice Patel, Justice Chandurkar noted that the rule had a “chilling effect” on online platforms due to the threat of losing their “safe harbour” status. This concern, according to the judge, made the rule “invalid” and “liable to be struck down.”

The journey to this ruling began on January 31, when Justice Patel, in a split verdict, sided with the petitioners and struck down the rule, while Justice Neela K Gokhale upheld the government’s stance. Given the split decision, Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya appointed Justice Chandurkar as the third judge to offer a deciding opinion.

The petitioners in this case included stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, the Editors Guild of India, the News Broadcasters and Digital Association, and the Association of Indian Magazines. They had previously filed an interim application seeking to stay the implementation of the FCU and requested that it not be formed until the third judge had given his final opinion on the merits of the case.

On March 11, Justice Chandurkar refused to grant a stay on the notification setting up the FCU, stating that it was “only a prima facie consideration of the issue” at that stage. He clarified that he would issue his final opinion on the merits of the case later.

Following Justice Chandurkar’s opinion, the High Court dismissed the interim applications, clearing the path for the Centre to notify the FCU under the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on March 20. However, the Supreme Court intervened just a day later, staying the notification pending the final ruling from the Bombay High Court.

With this ruling, the Bombay High Court has now struck down the controversial amendment, leaving the government’s future actions on regulating online content through fact-checking under serious scrutiny. The case will continue to be a significant point of interest as it progresses through the courts, especially in the context of the ever-evolving conversation on regulating social media platforms and safeguarding freedom of speech.

The Bharatiya Janata Party’s push for One Nation, One Election (ONOE) has again sparked doubts about the future of democracy in India. Despite recent setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is determined to implement this sweeping reform. The Union Cabinet recently approved the high-level committee report on this issue, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind.

At the heart of this proposal is the synchronisation of Lok Sabha, state assembly, and local body elections, which are currently held at different times. The Kovind committee claims that simultaneous polls will create more stability in governance and reduce the burden on public finances.

However, the BJP’s motivation for pushing this agenda might run deeper than just administrative efficiency. The Party stands to gain from the simultaneous elections by leveraging its strong national presence. By consolidating elections, the BJP can streamline its campaign machinery and dominate both national and regional arenas.

India’s political system is built on a federal foundation, where both the Union and the states enjoy considerable autonomy. State elections are dominated by local issues. Regional parties deeply rooted in their states address local concerns that national parties might overlook. Their relevance lies in connecting with voters on issues specific to their regions.

When voters are asked to choose their representatives for both the Lok Sabha and their state assembly simultaneously, they are more likely to be influenced by national rather than regional issues. This could lead to the dominance of national parties with resources to contest elections nationwide, and smaller regional parties could find their voices drowned out by the national cacophony.

The BJP’s push for ONOE seems less about governance and more about consolidating its power. By aligning national and state elections, the BJP can capitalise on its minion network to win both national and state elections simultaneously. The Party would no longer need to worry about regional setbacks or coalition politics.

If the ONOE proposal is implemented, situations like the current opposition coalition, which managed to check the BJP’s dominance in several state elections, might never arise again. The BJP would be able to conquer votes nationwide, using its vast resources and national appeal to drown out the voices of local parties. This could spell disaster for parties like the TDP, which has supported ONOE. While the TDP may see short-term benefits in aligning with the BJP on this issue, it should beware. The proposal it supports could eventually lead to its own marginalisation as the BJP tightens its grip on national and state-level politics.

The proposal for ONOE is not without merit, particularly in terms of cost savings and reducing election fatigue. However, the potential long-term consequences for India’s democracy are far too significant to ignore. If regional parties are sidelined and local issues are drowned out by ‘national’ narratives, India’s political system will become dangerously centralised. One Nation, One Election could ultimately become One Nation, One Party.

In a significant departure from its volatile past, the districts of Pulwama, Anantnag, Kulgam, and Shopian in South Kashmir witnessed a remarkable shift towards participatory democracy during the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections on September 18, 2024. These areas, once known for militancy and separatist-driven street protests, saw both new and long-absent voters heading to the polls in what many described as a turning point for the region.

For the first time in decades, residents who had long boycotted elections—following calls from the separatist Hurriyat Conference—and young voters who had just turned 18, arrived at polling booths to cast their ballots. Significantly, this year’s elections were conducted without the looming fear of militant violence or pressure from separatist groups. Instead, voters expressed a renewed sense of agency and a desire to influence the future of Jammu and Kashmir through peaceful participation.

A Peaceful Election Day and Higher Turnout

In a sign of growing engagement with the democratic process, the voter turnout for the first phase of the Assembly elections across Jammu and Kashmir was 61.13%, a clear indicator of increased political participation. In Tral, a region known for low voter turnout, the numbers had already surpassed those of the previous election by late afternoon. During the 2014 Assembly elections, Tral recorded a voter turnout of 37.68%. By 5 p.m. on Wednesday, the turnout had reached 40.58%, reflecting an upward trend.

The sentiment behind this shift was captured by many voters who viewed the elections as a crucial moment in the history of the region. Fayyaz Ahmad Magray, a 46-year-old voter from Tral’s Batgund area, described his decision to vote as a stand against the erosion of local autonomy and the imposition of laws without the consent of the people. “The past four years have been tough. Security forces have cracked down, and the humiliation inflicted by officials from outside instilled a sense of helplessness. Anti-people laws were framed without locals being consulted,” Magray explained. “I am voting to end our helplessness. We are at a critical juncture of history. Vote is my means to make a statement against the forces hellbent on destroying Jammu and Kashmir with each passing day.”

First-Time Voters Seek Change

For many of the younger voters in the region, the elections represented an opportunity to address pressing governance issues, particularly those affecting their future prospects. Qasim Sheikh, a first-time voter from Shopian, expressed frustration with the current system, particularly the shrinking opportunities for open merit students. “Open merit reservation has gone down significantly during the past six years. More and more communities are added to the reservation list and the open merit students’ quota has been reduced to around 30%. Our future is bleak if it’s not rationalised,” he said, pointing to the need for reforms that would ensure a more equitable system for all.

Shopian, a district with a history of militancy, also saw a marked increase in voter turnout. Despite its reputation as a volatile area, the Shopian Assembly segment’s voter turnout rose from 52.06% in the 2014 elections to 54.72% by 5 p.m. on Wednesday. This increase suggested a growing willingness among residents to engage with the political process in the hopes of securing a better future for their communities.

Pulwama: A Vote Against Fear

Pulwama, which has long been associated with violence and militancy, also saw a notable increase in voter turnout. The district’s Gundibagh-Kakpora and Beighpora areas, known for being the home of both Adil Ahmad Dar—the suicide bomber responsible for the 2019 Pulwama attack that killed 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel—and Riyaz Naikoo, the former commander of the militant group Hizbul Mujahideen, were among those where voting was seen as a form of resistance. “The vote is the new weapon,” declared a young voter from Pulwama, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

He highlighted the routine harassment faced by local youth, particularly during national holidays or VIP visits, as a major factor motivating him and others to vote. “Come August 15, we are rounded up. On every VVIP’s visit, youth are summoned to police stations. We hope this vote will bring an end to the cycle of summons and raids,” he explained.

Pulwama’s voter turnout reflected this determination to break the cycle of fear and violence. By 5 p.m. on election day, the turnout had reached 46.22%, a significant increase from the 38.31% recorded in the 2014 elections.

Anantnag Joins the Shift

Anantnag, a district historically prone to calls for separatist boycotts, also showed a shift in voter behavior. Despite being one of the regions most influenced by separatist movements, Anantnag’s voter turnout rose from 38.67% in the 2014 elections to 41.58% by 5 p.m. this year. The increase in turnout was seen as a reflection of the changing political dynamics in the region, where residents are increasingly looking to the ballot box as a means of shaping their future.

For many voters in South Kashmir, the act of voting in these Assembly elections was not just about choosing representatives but about sending a message. After years of political turmoil, violence, and alienation, these elections offered a chance for the people to reclaim their voice and influence the direction of governance in Jammu and Kashmir.

Challenges Ahead for South Kashmir

Despite the promising turnout, challenges remain for South Kashmir as it seeks to stabilize its political landscape. The region has been deeply affected by both internal and external pressures, with militancy, political unrest, and economic struggles all contributing to its volatility. However, the increased voter turnout in districts like Pulwama, Shopian, Tral, and Anantnag suggests that more people are willing to engage in the democratic process, even in areas that have long been resistant to electoral participation.

The hope among many voters is that this increased engagement will lead to more responsive governance and policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of the local population. As Fayyaz Ahmad Magray noted, “We are at a critical juncture of history.” For the people of South Kashmir, this election may indeed represent a new beginning, one in which the power of the vote is used to build a more stable and prosperous future for the region.

As the election process continues, the high voter turnout in South Kashmir offers a glimmer of hope for the future. It signals a shift away from violence and boycotts towards a more participatory and peaceful form of political expression. Whether this trend will continue remains to be seen, but for now, the people of South Kashmir have made their voices heard in a powerful way.