Tag: DeshKaVikaas

As the EU-India human rights dialogue approaches, five leading human rights organizations are calling on the European Union to pressure the Indian government to address severe human rights abuses in the country. The dialogue, scheduled for August 20, 2024, presents a critical opportunity for the EU to demand that India take immediate action to reverse discriminatory policies and laws that have increasingly targeted Muslims, Christians, and other minority groups.

The organizations—Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, Front Line Defenders, World Organisation against Torture (OMCT), and Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW)—emphasize the need for India to uphold basic human rights, such as freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. They also call for the release of human rights defenders, journalists, and others who have been unjustly detained. “The EU should urge the Indian government to immediately release all arbitrarily detained human rights defenders, journalists, and other critics,” the groups stated.

The annual human rights dialogue between the EU and India is a platform where both sides can express their concerns regarding human rights issues. The human rights organizations, however, argue that this dialogue is insufficient in itself and needs to be part of a broader strategy to hold India accountable. The EU is urged to insist that India protect the rights to freedom of speech, assembly, and religion. Concurrently, India is encouraged to address the growing problem of racist and xenophobic attacks in Europe, particularly against migrants and minorities.

The dialogue takes place in the context of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent re-election. Modi’s third consecutive term in office was marked by a campaign filled with rhetoric that incited hostility and violence against marginalized communities, particularly Muslims. The Modi administration’s decade-long tenure has seen a rise in violence and discrimination against minorities, leading to the normalization of such abuses. “Modi and several other BJP leaders repeatedly made statements inciting hostility and violence against marginalized groups,” the report highlighted.

The Indian government has implemented several policies that systematically discriminate against religious minorities. One of the most notable is the Citizenship Amendment Act, which effectively excludes Muslim asylum seekers. Furthermore, BJP-led state governments have demolished Muslim-owned properties without due process as collective punishment for communal unrest or dissent, actions that some BJP officials have termed “bulldozer justice.” The situation has deteriorated since Modi’s re-election, with 28 reported attacks on religious minorities, resulting in the deaths of 12 Muslim men and one Christian woman.

The Modi government has also intensified its crackdown on the media, political opponents, and civil society groups. Allegations of financial misconduct and anti-terrorism laws have been used to harass and prosecute human rights activists, journalists, students, government critics, peaceful protesters, and members of minority communities. The Financial Action Task Force, an intergovernmental organization that includes the European Commission, has urged India to prevent the misuse of anti-terror policies against non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Despite these recommendations, the Indian government continues to wield its Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) to arbitrarily cancel licenses and shut down foreign funding for NGOs. Over the past decade, more than 20,600 NGOs, many of which promote human rights and democracy, have lost their licenses.

In July 2024, the Indian government enacted three new criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhinayam (BSA)—replacing the Indian Penal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act. These new laws have expanded police powers, raising concerns about potential infringements on the rights to freedom of expression, association, peaceful assembly, and fair trial. One of the most contentious aspects of the new BNSS is the provision allowing police to seek 15-day custody of an accused at any time before the completion of the remand period, increasing the risk of torture and ill-treatment. Critics also argue that while the new penal code ostensibly abolishes the colonial-era sedition clause, it introduces a similarly repressive provision against acts “endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.”

The Modi administration has also introduced regulations that expand governmental control over online content, notably through the Information Technology Rules. These rules could weaken encryption and undermine media freedoms, the right to privacy, and freedom of expression online. The Indian government has a history of applying these laws to block online content critical of its actions, a trend that has only grown more concerning as India continues to lead the world in internet shutdowns. These shutdowns not only restrict fundamental freedoms but also disproportionately affect impoverished communities who rely on the internet for access to government services, thereby denying them access to essential resources like food and livelihoods.

One of the most troubling examples of human rights violations under the Modi government is the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur state. Since May 2023, clashes between the predominantly Hindu Meitei community and the mostly Christian Kuki tribal groups have led to over 200 deaths, the displacement of more than 60,000 people, and the destruction of hundreds of homes and churches. The state government has failed to curb the violence and has even been accused of protecting violent groups allied with the Meitei community. “The Manipur state government continues to protect violent groups that support the dominant Meitei community,” the report asserts.

In Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian government has maintained severe restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly since revoking the region’s special autonomous status in August 2019. The media faces increasing pressure, with several journalists and human rights defenders arrested on dubious terrorism charges. Despite these oppressive measures, the government has failed to protect minority Hindus from militant attacks, exacerbating the region’s tensions.

The Modi administration has also faced criticism for its use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), a stringent anti-terrorism law, to arrest activists advocating for the rights of marginalized Dalit and Adivasi communities. Although courts have granted bail to six of the 16 prominent activists detained under this law, nine remain imprisoned without trial. The case of Jesuit priest Stan Swamy, who died in custody after advocating for Adivasi rights, has drawn particular outrage. Forensic reports have suggested that malware was used to plant evidence on the computers of at least three accused individuals.

There are also growing concerns about India’s involvement in transnational repression, with accusations that Indian intelligence agencies have targeted terrorism suspects and separatist leaders for assassination in countries like Canada, the United States, and Pakistan. Additionally, India has reportedly canceled the visas of overseas critics and barred them from entering the country.

In response to these escalating abuses, the European Parliament adopted a resolution in January 2024 that raised urgent human rights concerns regarding India. The resolution highlighted “violence, increasing nationalistic rhetoric and divisive policies” against minorities and recommended that the EU-India Human Rights Dialogue be upgraded to a biannual, headquarters-level discussion, preceded by a civil society dialogue that sets concrete commitments and benchmarks for progress.

As the EU-India human rights dialogue approaches, the EU is urged to ensure that the outcomes are followed up in public communications and diplomatic efforts. The EU should integrate these findings into its broader strategy on human rights within the framework of the planned Strategic EU-India Agenda.

The EU should prioritize urging the Indian government to release all arbitrarily detained human rights defenders, journalists, and other critics, repeal or amend repressive laws, implement the Financial Action Task Force’s recommendations, and publicly condemn and prosecute those responsible for attacks on religious minorities. It is also crucial for the Indian government to allow UN experts and international human rights monitors access to regions like Jammu and Kashmir and Manipur to ensure accountability and transparency.

Doctors across India participated in a national strike, escalating their protest against the rape and murder of a female colleague in Kolkata, West Bengal. The strike saw the participation of over a million people, leading hospitals and clinics nationwide to refuse non-emergency patients.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) condemned the killing, labeling it a “crime of barbaric scale due to the lack of safe spaces for women,” and urged the nation to support their “struggle for justice.” The intensity of protests has surged following a recent attack where a mob vandalized the hospital where the incident occurred.

The IMA confirmed that emergency and casualty services would remain operational during the strike, which concluded at 06:00 local time on Sunday (00:30 GMT). The association’s president, R. V. Asokan, expressed to the BBC that while doctors have long protested violence, this incident was “qualitatively different.” He emphasized that if such a crime could occur in a medical college in a major city, it indicates “everywhere doctors are unsafe.”

Earlier this week, doctors at several government hospitals announced a halt to elective procedures indefinitely. The IMA also made several demands, including strengthening laws to protect medical staff from violence, enhancing security at hospitals, and creating safe spaces for rest. They called for a “meticulous and professional investigation” into the murder and the prosecution of those involved in vandalizing the hospital, along with compensation for the victim’s family.

The rape and murder of the 31-year-old female trainee doctor has sent shockwaves across the country. Her body, found severely injured and half-naked, was discovered in a seminar hall at R G Kar Medical College after she was reported to have gone there to rest during her shift. A volunteer at the hospital has been arrested in connection with the crime.

In response to the criticism over the slow progress of the investigation, the case has been transferred from local authorities to India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has stated that “monstrous behaviour against women should be severely and quickly punished.”

The incident has also ignited a political debate in West Bengal, with the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the ruling Trinamool Congress Party (TMC) of orchestrating the attack. The TMC has denied these allegations, attributing the violence to “political outsiders.”

On Wednesday night, tens of thousands of women in West Bengal took part in the Reclaim the Night march, demanding “independence to live in freedom and without fear.” Although the protests were mostly peaceful, there were clashes between police and a small group of unidentified men who entered the RG Kar Hospital and ransacked its emergency ward. So far, at least 25 people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Demonstrations have spread to other Indian cities including Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune. Sumita Datta, a demonstrator, shared with AFP, “It feels like hope is being reignited,” as thousands marched through the streets of Kolkata on Friday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the United States in September for the high-level United Nations General Assembly session. As part of his visit, Modi is also set to engage with the Indian American community, marking a significant event during his time in the US. The highlight of this visit will be Modi’s address at a large diaspora event at the 16,000-seater Nassau Coliseum in Long Island on September 22.

The United Nations has released a provisional list of speakers for the General Assembly session, indicating that Modi will deliver his address on September 26. This upcoming speech is highly anticipated, given Modi’s history of engaging with the Indian diaspora during his international visits.

It has been a decade since Modi last addressed a large community gathering at Madison Square Garden in New York in September 2014. That event was notable for its scale and the enthusiasm of the Indian American community, which came out in large numbers to listen to the Prime Minister. Five years later, in 2019, Modi once again addressed a massive community event, this time titled ‘Howdy Modi,’ at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. Both events were seen as significant moments in Modi’s efforts to connect with the Indian diaspora and strengthen ties between India and the United States.

As Modi prepares for this upcoming visit, there is a palpable excitement within the Indian American community. Many see these events as opportunities to connect with their roots and engage with India’s political leadership. Modi’s previous visits have been marked by high-energy gatherings and speeches that have resonated deeply with the diaspora, creating lasting impressions and strengthening the bonds between India and its overseas community.

The Nassau Coliseum event is expected to be a grand affair, with thousands of Indian Americans coming together to hear Modi speak. This event, like the ones before it, is likely to be a showcase of the strength and vibrancy of the Indian diaspora in the United States. Modi’s address is expected to cover a range of topics, including the role of the Indian American community in fostering closer ties between India and the United States, as well as broader themes of India’s growth and its role on the global stage.

The United Nations General Assembly session, where Modi is slated to speak, will also be a significant platform for India. Modi’s speech at the UN is expected to touch on key global issues, reflecting India’s perspective on pressing matters such as climate change, global security, and economic development. His address will be closely watched by global leaders and diplomats, as India continues to assert its position as a key player on the world stage.

In preparation for Modi’s visit, there is considerable diplomatic activity underway, with Indian officials working closely with their American counterparts to ensure that the visit is a success. The Indian government sees this visit as an important opportunity to further strengthen ties with the United States, a country that has emerged as one of India’s key strategic partners in recent years.

As Modi prepares to address both the United Nations and the Indian American community, there is a sense of anticipation and excitement. These events are not just about the speeches themselves, but about the broader message they send about India’s place in the world and the strength of its global diaspora. For many Indian Americans, Modi’s visit is a chance to celebrate their heritage and connect with their homeland, while also engaging with India’s leadership on important global issues.

Overall, Modi’s upcoming visit to the United States is set to be a significant moment, both for India and for the Indian American community. His addresses at the Nassau Coliseum and the United Nations General Assembly will be closely watched, as they are expected to underscore India’s growing influence on the global stage and the importance of the Indian diaspora in shaping the future of India-US relations.

Thousands of protesters took to the streets in several Indian cities on Friday, rallying against the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at a government hospital. The demonstrations, calling for justice and improved security at medical institutions, were marked by people holding signs and demanding accountability. The most significant gatherings occurred near Parliament in New Delhi, while other protests were reported in Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, where the crime occurred, as well as in Mumbai and Hyderabad.

The nationwide protests began on August 9, following the discovery of the bloodied body of the 31-year-old trainee doctor at the state-run R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. Found in a seminar hall, the body’s condition immediately raised suspicions. An autopsy later confirmed that the victim had been sexually assaulted. A police volunteer was subsequently detained in connection with the crime. However, the victim’s family alleged that this was a case of gang rape and insisted that more individuals were involved in the heinous act.

Initially, the case was handled by state government officers, who have since faced accusations of mishandling the investigation. As public outrage grew, the case was transferred to federal investigators, following a court directive. The situation has escalated into nationwide indignation, sparking protests against violence towards women and prompting thousands of doctors and paramedics to strike, demanding safer working conditions in hospitals across the country.

Sexual violence against women is a pervasive issue in India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, there were 31,516 reported rapes in 2022, marking a 20% increase from the previous year. However, these figures are believed to represent just a fraction of the actual cases, as many incidents go unreported due to the stigma associated with sexual violence and a lack of trust in law enforcement. This problem is particularly pronounced in rural areas, where victims often face social ostracism, and families are concerned about their reputation.

Richa Garg, a doctor participating in the New Delhi protests, expressed her fears for her safety at work, stating, “As a woman, it boils my blood. The culprits of this crime should be found immediately… and our workplaces should be made safer.”

On Wednesday night, the hospital where the trainee doctor was murdered came under attack. While police have not yet identified those responsible, they have arrested 19 individuals so far. The Indian Medical Association (IMA), the nation’s largest body of medical professionals, responded to the escalating situation by calling for a “nationwide withdrawal of services,” excluding essential services, for 24 hours starting Saturday. In a statement issued on the social media platform X, the IMA emphasized the vulnerability of doctors, particularly women, to violence due to the nature of their profession. “It is for the authorities to provide for the safety of doctors inside hospitals and campuses,” the IMA declared.

The crime has also drawn reactions from political figures, Bollywood celebrities, and other high-profile personalities, all of whom have condemned the incident and demanded harsher penalties for perpetrators of such crimes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on its 78th Independence Day, stating, “Monstrous behavior against women should be severely and promptly punished.”

For many, this attack has evoked memories of the brutal 2012 gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old student on a New Delhi bus. That case sparked massive protests across the country, sometimes violent, and led to significant changes in India’s laws regarding sexual violence. In response to public pressure, lawmakers enacted stricter penalties for such crimes, including the creation of fast-track courts dedicated to handling rape cases. The government also introduced the death penalty for repeat offenders as part of these legal reforms. The 2013 amendment to the rape law also expanded the definition of sexual violence to include stalking and voyeurism and lowered the age for being tried as an adult from 18 to 16.

Despite these legal reforms, the current case demonstrates that the issue of sexual violence in India remains deeply entrenched, with widespread calls for more effective implementation of the laws and greater accountability from authorities. The ongoing protests reflect a nation grappling with the persistent threat to women’s safety and the need for systemic change to protect them.

In the May 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the INDIA Alliance made the demand for a caste census one of its key campaign issues. This strategy, among other factors, contributed to their electoral success, though it wasn’t enough to secure a majority for the coalition.

Nitish Kumar, a BJP ally, had already implemented a caste census in Bihar but has kept the findings under wraps for now. During a Lok Sabha speech responding to the Finance Minister’s budget, Rahul Gandhi revived the issue, making a compelling case for the caste census. Gandhi also criticized the current budget preparation process, stating, “Those elements who are preparing the budget at present belong to the upper caste mainly, and halwa is consumed by few upper layers only.”

Gandhi’s powerful argument was met with a sarcastic response from Anurag Thakur, known for his controversial remarks. Thakur mocked Gandhi, saying that someone who doesn’t know his own caste shouldn’t be demanding a caste census. Rahul Gandhi, with his mixed heritage—Hindu father, Christian mother, Hindu grandmother, and Parsi grandfather—represents the product of a free society, despite threats to such marriages from conservative forces. Though Thakur’s remarks were later removed from the official Lok Sabha records, Prime Minister Narendra Modi endorsed the speech by tweeting it.

The need for a caste census is increasingly urgent, given that reservation quotas were set decades ago, and the current population percentages might be quite different. The political ideology of Anurag Thakur and Prime Minister Modi is generally opposed to affirmative action designed to uplift marginalized castes. Although economic progress alone may not ensure social acceptance of Dalits, it is a critical component for achieving social equality for people from various caste backgrounds.

India’s deep-rooted caste system makes it challenging to achieve social justice and dignity for the system’s victims. The struggle for caste dignity and equality for Dalits has been long and arduous. Jotirao Phule was among the first to identify the caste system as a major weakness of Hindu society and initiated efforts to educate Dalits, who were historically denied access to education. Phule’s wife, Savitribai Phule, also contributed by opening a school for girls, recognizing the intertwined nature of gender and caste hierarchies. These pivotal steps towards caste and gender equality were taken nearly a century ago.

The movement gained momentum with B.R. Ambedkar, who raised awareness among Dalits and identified the landlord-priest combination, particularly in Maharashtra, as their main oppressors. This led to the Non-Brahmin Movement, which aimed to challenge upper-caste dominance. However, this movement faced resistance. Upper castes, already uneasy with Gandhi’s efforts for Hindu-Muslim unity, were further unsettled by Dalit demands for equality. This unrest contributed to the formation of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which advocates for a Hindu Rashtra based on the values of the Manusmriti, an ancient text that upholds the caste hierarchy.

The RSS opposed the Indian Constitution, arguing that it neglected the values of the ‘golden’ past. Despite this, reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes began to slowly effect change in society. However, rumors began to circulate that those benefiting from reservations were unfairly advantaged, leading to resentment among the upper castes. Beneficiaries of the reservation system were derogatorily labeled as ‘son-in-laws’ of the government, and the system itself was criticized as a hindrance to merit.

This growing anger among the upper castes first became evident in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, following the success of Madhav Singh Solanki’s KHAM (Kshatriya, Harijan, Adivasi, and Muslim) alliance. The backlash led to anti-Dalit violence in Gujarat in 1981. Scholar Achyut Yagnik noted, “The educated middle class, mainly the Brahmins, Banias, and Patidars, reacted sharply by starting an agitation against the reservation system in 1981.” This tension escalated when caste-based job promotions were introduced, sparking another wave of anti-Dalit violence in Gujarat in 1985. During this period, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) vigorously promoted the Ram Temple movement, which the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) later adopted. L.K. Advani launched his Rath Yatra from Somnath to Ayodhya, which further mobilized upper-caste Hindus.

V.P. Singh, whose government was supported by both the BJP and leftist parties, implemented the Mandal Commission recommendations, which allocated a 27% quota to Other Backward Classes (OBCs), who made up 52% of the population. The upper castes were strongly opposed to Mandal, but for electoral reasons, the BJP could not directly oppose it. Instead, they intensified their support for the Rath Yatra, which resonated strongly with the upper castes, who were against the Mandal Commission’s recommendations. Groups like ‘Youth for Equality’ emerged to oppose Mandal, and the politics of Mandal saw the rise of leaders like Sharad Yadav, Lalu Yadav, and Ram Vilas Paswan. BJP leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee articulated the party’s position by stating, “They brought Mandal, so we brought Kamandal” (religion in politics).

The BJP’s opposition to social justice was often cloaked in anti-Muslim rhetoric, culminating in the demolition of the Babri Mosque in a well-orchestrated plan. Their goal was to achieve Hindu unity while maintaining the caste hierarchy. Although the Mandal parties achieved some success, many eventually adopted the politics of Manu for narrow political gains.

However, the current INDIA coalition, particularly after the two Bharat Jodo Yatras, has seen Rahul Gandhi emerge as a strong advocate for the caste census. Gandhi argues that understanding the social composition of castes is essential for determining reservation percentages. The Supreme Court’s decision to allow sub-caste quotas is a positive step, and including the left-out castes is crucial for achieving genuine social justice.

While the INDIA coalition is clear in its demand for a caste census, the BJP, the driving force behind the NDA, is expected to obstruct this effort. The success of this much-needed step will depend on the strength of popular support, including agitations, protests, and other forms of public pressure.

India, the world’s largest democracy, has been regarded as a beacon of hope in the developing world. However, recent years have seen significant challenges to its democratic fabric, causing global concern. Various indicators suggest a troubling decline in India’s democratic health, with notable falls in several key freedom indices.

Erosion of Democratic Institutions

The degradation of India’s democratic institutions has been substantial. The judiciary, traditionally a pillar of Indian democracy, has faced political interference, particularly in the appointment of judges. In an unprecedented move in 2018, four senior Supreme Court judges held a press conference to voice their concerns about the court’s functioning, particularly the allocation of cases to judges with less seniority. This event highlighted deep-seated issues within the judiciary.

Similarly, the Election Commission of India (ECI), responsible for overseeing elections, has been criticized for perceived biases. Allegations emerged during the 2019 general election that the ECI favored the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Moreover, the handling of electronic voting machines (EVMs) has been contentious, with security and tampering concerns leading to widespread distrust.

Restrictions on Free Speech and Media Freedom

Free speech and media freedom, crucial indicators of a healthy democracy, have faced increasing restrictions. Laws like the sedition law and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) have been used to suppress dissent and silence critics. Journalists critical of the government have faced harassment, intimidation, and even arrest on dubious charges.

The government introduced new rules for social media platforms in 2021, demanding the removal of “unlawful” content within 36 hours and identifying the “first originator” of messages deemed a threat to national security. Critics argue these rules could stifle dissent and severely undermine free speech.

Discrimination and Violence Against Minorities

India has seen a disturbing rise in discrimination and violence against minorities, tarnishing its rich cultural heritage of diversity. Religious minorities, especially Muslims, have faced significant violence. In 2019, a Muslim man in Jharkhand was attacked by a mob for allegedly transporting beef and subsequently died from his injuries. Numerous incidents of lynching of Muslims accused of cow slaughter or beef consumption have been reported.

The government’s treatment of other minorities, such as Dalits and Adivasis, has also drawn criticism. Dalits, historically subjected to discrimination, have faced violence for asserting their rights, like entering temples or inter-caste marriages. Adivasis have been displaced and faced violence due to policies favoring industrialization. These incidents indicate a violation of pluralistic principles, which are fundamental to a democratic polity.

Rise of Authoritarianism

The rise of authoritarianism under the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a significant concern. The government’s actions, such as the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), reflect efforts to consolidate power at the expense of democratic norms.

Opposition leaders and critics have been targeted using state power. In 2020, opposition figures like former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and former West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya were placed under house arrest. Activists and academics critical of the government have been arrested under the UAPA, seen as a tool to silence dissent. These actions signify a troubling shift towards authoritarianism.

Global Reputation: A Waning Democratic Credibility

India’s backsliding democracy has raised alarms internationally. Freedom House has downgraded India from “free” to “partly free,” citing declines in political rights and civil liberties. The Human Freedom Index and the Press Freedom Index also highlight the deteriorating state of democratic freedoms in India.

International human rights organizations and some Western governments have criticized India’s democratic backsliding. However, geopolitical considerations, particularly India’s role in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific, often temper these criticisms.

Defending Democracy

Addressing these democratic challenges is crucial for India’s future. Ensuring the independence of the judiciary, protecting free speech and media freedom, and promoting equality and justice for all citizens are vital steps. Civil society, opposition parties, and the international community must hold the government accountable and advocate for the preservation of democratic values.

India must take these steps to restore its status as a beacon of democracy in the developing world. As a former Supreme Court judge remarked, “The strength of a democracy is measured not just by the vibrancy of its institutions but also by the respect it commands in protecting the rights and freedoms of its people.” Only through such measures can India continue to inspire and lead by example in the realm of democratic governance.

Rahul Gandhi has agreed to take on the role of Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, a decision made by the Congress Working Committee. This announcement was made just before the first significant clash of the 18th Lok Sabha between the opposition and the ruling BJP-led NDA, centering on the election of the Speaker.

The Congress and the INDIA bloc were prompted to contest the Speaker’s election after being denied a traditional assurance that an opposition member would be given the Deputy Speaker position. They nominated K Suresh to run against the BJP’s Om Birla, who held the position in the previous Lok Sabha. Although Wednesday’s election for Speaker is anticipated to be largely symbolic, given that it requires a simple majority of 272 MPs and the NDA already has 293 MPs along with support from the YSR Congress’ 4 MPs, the opposition aims to signal that parliamentary dynamics will not be as they were in previous terms.

Rahul Gandhi’s elevation to Leader of the Opposition is seen as a significant move. This is the first time since 2014 that an opposition party has secured enough seats (54, which is 10% of the Lok Sabha’s strength) to claim the post. Along with a cabinet rank, this position allows Gandhi to address the concerns of the people and the INDIA bloc robustly, especially now when the opposition is at its strongest in a decade.

Issues Gandhi is expected to tackle include alleged paper leaks in various exams, like NEET-UG, which has sparked significant protests, and the controversial Agnipath scheme for Army recruitment, which emerged as a major election issue. As Leader of the Opposition, Gandhi will also participate in key panels for selecting Election Commissioners and the CBI director, alongside the Prime Minister. This constitutional role provides him the opportunity to engage with visiting heads of state to present his perspective on national issues.

The decision to appoint Gandhi was announced after a meeting of INDIA bloc floor leaders at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence on Tuesday night. “Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson (Sonia Gandhi) wrote a letter to Pro-Tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab, informing him of the decision to appoint Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. Other office bearers will be decided later,” said senior party leader KC Venugopal. However, sources indicated that the Congress’ allies were not informed about the decision during the INDIA meeting.

On June 8, four days after the Lok Sabha election results were declared, the Congress Working Committee, the party’s highest decision-making body, passed a resolution stating that Rahul Gandhi should be appointed as the Leader of the Opposition. The resolution praised Gandhi’s role in the Lok Sabha elections, stating, “Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi has to be singled out largely because of the Bharat Jodo Yatra and the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra that he designed and led. Both these Yatras that reflected his thinking and personality were historic turning points in our nation’s politics and instilled hope and confidence in lakhs of our workers and crores of our voters.”

Although Gandhi was initially hesitant to take up the post, sources revealed that he eventually agreed due to pressure from his mother, Sonia Gandhi, and sister, Priyanka Gandhi. Additionally, Congress President Kharge had humorously warned Gandhi that disciplinary action would be taken if he did not comply with the Congress Working Committee’s decision. Gandhi himself acknowledged this when he said, “a threat has been made,” during the announcement that he would give up the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat for Priyanka Gandhi to contest from there.

This appointment marks Rahul Gandhi’s first constitutional post despite being in Parliament since 2004. Reports suggested that he was urged to take up a Cabinet position during the UPA’s tenure from 2004 to 2014 under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, but he declined. Gandhi became Congress president in 2017 but resigned after the party’s poor performance in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, taking moral responsibility. The Congress had secured only 52 seats, slightly up from 44 in 2014, while the BJP had won 303 seats.

Throughout much of his career, Gandhi was perceived as a less serious politician, especially compared to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s image as a tireless worker and campaigner. However, public perception of Gandhi began to shift following his 4,000-km Bharat Jodo Yatra in 2022-23 and the 6,000-km Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra earlier this year. This change was reflected not only in the Congress’s improved tally of 99 seats in the recent elections but also in Gandhi’s significant victories in the Rae Bareli and Wayanad constituencies, where he won by margins exceeding 3.5 lakh votes.

The INDIA alliance, comprising the Samajwadi Party, the Trinamool Congress, and the DMK, among others, won 232 seats compared to the BJP’s 240 and the NDA’s 293.

Speculation about Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s potential entry into electoral politics surged ahead of the Lok Sabha elections but was abruptly quelled when she opted not to run. However, the buzz has reignited, with sources informing NDTV on Thursday that the Congress leader might contest the bypoll from the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency if Rahul Gandhi vacates the seat.

Rahul Gandhi, who secured significant victories from both Raebareli and Wayanad in the Lok Sabha polls, added fuel to the speculation about his sister’s political debut. He remarked on Tuesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would have lost “by two-three lakh votes” if Priyanka had contested against him in Varanasi.

Long History

The uncertainty surrounding Ms. Gandhi’s candidacy has been present since the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. During that period, there was talk that she might challenge PM Modi in Varanasi, especially as the Congress struggled against the BJP’s dominance. Despite the speculation, Ms. Gandhi did not contest. Subsequently, she suggested she might run in the 2022 Uttar Pradesh elections, where she was the Congress General Secretary for the state, even hinting at the possibility of being the chief ministerial candidate. However, she later clarified that she was speaking tongue-in-cheek.

Before the 2024 elections, Sonia Gandhi vacated the Raebareli seat, which she had held since 2004, to become a Rajya Sabha MP. This development intensified speculation, with reports suggesting that Priyanka Gandhi would contest from Raebareli while her brother aimed to reclaim Amethi from the BJP’s Smriti Irani.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge reportedly asked the Gandhi siblings to decide on their candidacies, indicating a preference for both to run. Kharge suggested that their participation would send a positive message to party workers, allies, and the NDA. Despite this, Ms. Gandhi chose not to contest, with sources close to her explaining that having three Gandhis in Parliament—herself, her mother, and her brother—would bolster the BJP’s criticism of dynastic politics.

Winning Call?

Priyanka Gandhi dedicated much of her campaign efforts to Raebareli and Amethi, both of which her party won by substantial margins. The Lok Sabha results saw the Samajwadi Party-Congress alliance surprise the BJP and pollsters by securing 43 out of 80 constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, with the Congress improving from one to six seats compared to its 2019 tally. The BJP, which had won 62 seats in the previous election, was reduced to 33, trailing the Samajwadi Party’s 37.

Rahul Gandhi praised his sister’s campaign contributions, thanking the people of UP after the results were announced.

Rahul Gandhi’s Dilemma

The prospect of Priyanka Gandhi contesting the Wayanad bypolls depends on Rahul Gandhi relinquishing the constituency in favor of Raebareli. Despite his statement on Wednesday about facing a dilemma and being undecided, sources suggest he is likely to choose Raebareli due to its national political significance.

Two senior Congress officials have also supported this idea. Kishori Lal Sharma, a close aide to the Gandhi family who orchestrated a surprising defeat for Union Minister Smriti Irani in Amethi, has advised Rahul Gandhi to retain the Raebareli seat. Meanwhile, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee chief K Sudhakaran hinted that Rahul Gandhi might give up the Wayanad seat.

Sudhakaran remarked, “We should not be saddened as Rahul Gandhi who is supposed to lead the nation cannot be expected to remain in Wayanad. Therefore, we should not be sad. Everyone should understand that and give all their wishes and support to him.”

Congress workers in Wayanad have expressed their dismay, holding banners urging Rahul Gandhi not to leave. These banners also requested that Priyanka Gandhi “takes care of” the constituency if he decides to vacate it.

By-elections will be required within six months of Rahul Gandhi vacating the seat, potentially setting the stage for an intriguing electoral battle.

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently has 293 elected Members of Parliament (MPs), none of whom are from Muslim, Christian, or Sikh communities. This lack of representation is particularly stark given that India is home to over 200 million Muslims, more than 23 million Sikhs, and over 22 million Christians. This observation was highlighted in an analysis by the Hindustan Times.

Trinamool Congress leader and elected MP Mahua Moitra addressed this absence of minority representation, stating, “Over 200 million Muslims, 23 million Sikhs & 22 million Christians in India and yet NDA has zero representation in Lok Sabha. Modi Ke Saath Sabh Ka Vinaash.”

The BJP’s election campaign has often been criticized for promoting hate and making genocidal comments against Muslims, who are India’s largest religious minority. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been reported to have delivered over a hundred speeches with such undertones. Over the past decade under Modi’s leadership, religious minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians, have endured various forms of violence ranging from right-wing street violence to state-sponsored actions.

In terms of caste representation within the NDA, upper-caste Hindus, including Brahmins, Rajputs, and others, form 33.2% of the elected MPs. Intermediate castes such as Marathas, Jats, Lingayats, Patidars, Reddys, and Vokkaligas account for 15.7%, while Other Backward Classes (OBCs), including Yadavs and Kurmis, make up 26.2%. In comparison, the INDIA alliance’s composition includes 12.4% upper-caste Hindus, 11.9% intermediate castes, and 30.7% OBCs.

Dalit representation is another significant aspect of the parliamentary demographic. Within the NDA, Dalits constitute 13.3% of the elected MPs, while in the INDIA alliance, they account for 17.8%. Tribal representation is 10.8% in the NDA and 9.9% in the INDIA alliance.

Muslims, despite their significant population in India, have very limited representation. The INDIA alliance has 7.9% Muslim MPs, with 22 Muslim MPs elected on INDIA alliance tickets. Across the entire 18th Lok Sabha, there are only 24 Muslim MPs. Christian representation in the INDIA alliance stands at 3.5%.

Interestingly, the Buddhist community has no representation in the winners from both the NDA and the INDIA alliances. This lack of diversity highlights ongoing issues regarding the inclusivity of India’s parliamentary representation.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor stated on Thursday, June 6, 2024, that the INDIA bloc will act as a strong and effective opposition. Speaking with ANI, Tharoor emphasized that the alliance’s numbers give them legitimacy, and there is no point in creating unnecessary drama. He said, “The truth is that they do have the numbers in a pre-poll alliance, so there’s no question of begrudging them their right to form the government. And I think the INDIA bloc decided very clearly there’s no point in trying to create drama out of this. Let them form the government and we will be a robust and effective opposition.”

Tharoor also highlighted that coalitions, contrary to being detrimental, can enhance accountability for the Prime Minister and his party. Reflecting on the past decade of governance, he remarked, “In the last ten years, the kind of governance we saw was my way or the highway, demonetize the currency and don’t even consult the cabinet and your Finance Minister.” He took a critical stance on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, indicating that Modi will now have to heed the views of his coalition partners due to the lack of a majority.

The Election Commission of India reported that the BJP won 240 seats, a significant drop from their 2019 tally of 303 seats. In contrast, the Congress party showed notable progress, securing 99 seats. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won a total of 292 seats, whereas the INDIA bloc managed to secure over 230 seats, presenting a formidable challenge and surpassing many predictions.

Despite winning his third term, PM Modi’s BJP required the support of coalition partners, particularly JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar and TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu. NDA leaders passed a unanimous resolution during their meeting, re-electing Narendra Modi as their leader. PM Modi is scheduled to take the oath for the third time over the weekend.

Following the Union Cabinet’s recommendation, President Droupadi Murmu dissolved the 17th Lok Sabha on Wednesday, June 5. The Rashtrapati Bhavan issued a statement confirming the dissolution: “The President accepted the advice of the Cabinet on June 5, 2024, and signed the Order dissolving the 17th Lok Sabha in the exercise of the powers conferred upon her by Sub-Clause (2) of Article 85 of the Constitution.”

The 15-party National Democratic Alliance (NDA) officially named Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its leader for a third consecutive term on Wednesday, initiating the formation of a new government under his leadership.

“We are all proud that the NDA fought the 2024 Lok Sabha polls unitedly under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and won. We, the leaders of the NDA, unanimously elect Narendra Modi as our leader,” declared a resolution in Hindi, endorsed by top NDA leaders.

This resolution emphasized the country’s comprehensive development over the past decade, attributing it to the pro-people policies of the NDA government under PM Modi. It highlighted the government’s dedication to serving the poor, women, youth, farmers, and marginalized sections of society.

The meeting, convened by PM Modi, saw attendance from 21 leaders, including key figures such as Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar, Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu, and Maharashtra CM and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde. These three leaders are crucial for their numbers in the alliance. The TDP secured 16 Lok Sabha seats (along with two seats won by its partner, the Jana Sena, totaling 18), the JD(U) won 12 seats, and the Shiv Sena won 7 seats. Adding these 37 seats to the BJP’s 240 seats comfortably surpasses the majority threshold of 272.

Other notable NDA allies in terms of parliamentary strength include Chirag Paswan’s Lok Janshakti Party (RV) with 5 MPs, and Jayant Chaudhary’s Rashtriya Lok Dal and HD Deve Gowda’s Janata Dal (Secular), each with 2 MPs.

The NDA meeting occurred just hours after PM Modi officially submitted his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu, along with the Union Cabinet’s decision to dissolve the 17th Lok Sabha. President Murmu accepted PM Modi’s resignation and requested him to remain in office until the new government is constituted.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as the single largest party with 240 seats, falling 32 seats short of the majority mark. However, with support from MPs of 14 other parties, the NDA’s total reached 293 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha.

With the NDA securing 293 seats, PM Modi is set to become only the second Prime Minister after Jawaharlal Nehru to secure a third consecutive term. Nevertheless, the BJP’s failure to achieve an outright majority independently places PM Modi at the mercy of his unpredictable allies, Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu.

The seven-phase general election in the world’s largest democracy, India, began on April 19 and ended on June 1. The results saw the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) winning 293 seats, while the INDIA Bloc secured an unexpected 232 seats. However, the significant story was the BJP’s surprising underperformance.

Despite predictions that the BJP would surpass 400 seats, the so-called ‘Modi Magic’ faltered, with the party winning only 240 seats and failing to achieve an absolute majority. Although the BJP emerged as the single largest party, the Indian National Congress celebrated a strong performance, winning 99 seats. This comeback was notable given that the Congress had been largely dismissed by political analysts and the media. Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leader, also achieved personal success by winning both Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh and Wayanad in Kerala.

On the day of the results, Indica interviewed Sam Pitroda, former Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC), who resigned on May 8 following a controversial statement. Pitroda discussed the election outcomes and how the consecration of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya, which was expected to be a major advantage for Modi, did not secure the majority for the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. Pitroda, 82, also spoke about his relationship with Rahul Gandhi and expressed confidence that the INDIA Bloc would form the next government.

A key factor in the BJP’s diminished results was their poor performance in Uttar Pradesh, where they lost 29 seats, ending up with 33. Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party gained 37 seats, boosting the alliance’s standing.

One of the most shocking defeats was the BJP’s loss in Faizabad, which includes Ayodhya. Two-term incumbent BJP candidate Lallu Singh was defeated by Samajwadi Party’s Awadhesh Prasad. Pitroda commented that the temple inauguration appeared more as a spectacle for the wealthy rather than a significant event for the common people. “The jets which landed at the Ayodhya Airport, ferried the rich and famous,” he said. “The fancy clothes that they wore is not what Indian people are used to. It was a show.”

Pitroda identified another issue: public fear that a BJP majority would alter the constitution. He noted that the BJP’s silence on employment issues and their divisive strategies drove voters towards the opposition. “People rejected Modi, not the BJP, because everything was seen as Modi ki guarantee (Modi’s Guarantee). ‘Modi will deliver,’ and people feel that this is not the democracy that we want,” Pitroda said.

Pitroda praised Rahul Gandhi’s message of inclusivity. “I think the people of India have spoken, and Rahul’s message of inclusion went through well, saying we need opportunities for OBC, Dalit, minority, and we need jobs for the young and security for women, and the environment and we need to take care of the farmers,” he said.

Pitroda, who collaborated with Gandhi on the Congress manifesto, recalled their bond. He mentioned that Rahul would meet him whenever he visited India after Rajiv Gandhi’s death. “The mentorship, I wouldn’t call it a mentor but promoting him to the overseas audience since he was in the US several times. Even this morning we spoke, and I speak with him regularly,” he said. Pitroda shared that he and Rahul often communicate using emojis on WhatsApp, indicating Rahul’s happiness with the election results through three emojis.

Regarding the next steps for the INDIA Bloc, Pitroda said, “The partners will meet and decide what steps they should take, whether they should go forward and form the government or let the BJP form its third consecutive government.” He predicted that the hung government might not last a full five-year term and anticipated another election within a couple of years. However, he believes Narendra Modi will do everything possible to maintain his position as Prime Minister.

Pitroda explained his support for Rahul Gandhi, stating, “Because I believe in the Congress party. I was born in the British Raj, and so I am a product of the British Raj, but the fervor and ethos of the independence movement.” He emphasized the historical values of the Congress party and its role in shaping modern India. “I could go to college almost free, low fee, and how can I forget. All that was possible because the Congress party had the idea of democracy.”

Pitroda asserted that his loyalty to the Congress stems from its foundational values. “I have seen Rajiv as the custodian of the idea of India, and when he died, Sonia Gandhi became the custodian, and then Rahul became the custodian of the idea of India. There is nothing to do with dynasty.”

He highlighted the significance of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, a march led by Rahul Gandhi before the elections, as pivotal in the Congress’s revival. “Not just people, but it changed Rahul, and made him bold. Now Rahul speaks with confidence,” Pitroda said.

Pitroda also mentioned that the BJP-NDA often twisted his words to create false narratives, which led to his resignation. “The larger goal was no matter what I say, they will twist and make agenda for 24 hours, and so I resigned,” he said, adding that he did not want to negatively impact the party.

Commenting on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s role, he noted her effective campaigning. He suggested that had she contested a seat, her efforts would have been limited to that area. Instead, she campaigned extensively. He hinted that Rahul might give up the Raebareli seat, allowing Priyanka to contest it in a by-election.

In a press conference, Rahul Gandhi stated he had not yet decided which seat to retain. When asked if Rahul was suited to run the country, Pitroda affirmed his support, acknowledging that no one is perfect but grows into the role with time and support.

Indica  also interviewed George Abraham, Vice-Chairman and Former President of the Indian Overseas Congress, who supported the INC’s campaign. Abraham said, “The people of India have unequivocally rejected the BJP’s agenda, which sought to undermine the constitution and transform the country.”

He stressed that if Modi and Amit Shah continue to lead, they must adhere to the constitution, stop divisive politics, and allow free expression and objective journalism. “We at the Overseas Congress salute the INDIA coalition and its leaders, especially AICC President Kharge Ji and Rahul Ji, for their tireless efforts in getting the message to the people,” he added.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announced on Wednesday that the opposition’s INDIA bloc is open to welcoming all parties that share a fundamental commitment to the values enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution. In his address at the opposition group’s first meeting following their significant success in the Lok Sabha election results of 2024, the Congress leader stated that the mandate was “decisively against Mr Modi.”

Kharge also emphasized that all INDIA bloc partners had fought the elections well, unitedly, and with determination. He made these remarks during a gathering of opposition leaders at his residence.

“The mandate is decisively against Mr Modi, against him and the substance and style of his politics. It is a huge political loss for him personally apart from being a clear moral defeat as well. However, he is determined to subvert the will of the people,” Kharge said, highlighting the alliance’s stance on Modi’s governance.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the possibilities of forming a government, strategizing for the alliance’s future, and potentially reaching out to former allies Nitish Kumar and N Chandrababu Naidu.

“The INDIA alliance welcomes all parties which share its fundamental commitment to the values enshrined in the Preamble to our Constitution and to its many provisions for economic, social and political justice,” Kharge remarked in his opening speech.

Expressing gratitude to the INDIA bloc partners, Kharge stated, “I welcome all INDIA alliance partners. We fought well, fought unitedly, fought resolutely.”

Following the meeting, Kharge addressed the media and conveyed the alliance’s appreciation for the public’s overwhelming support. “The constituents of the INDIA bloc thank the people of India for the overwhelming support received by our alliance. The people’s mandate has given a befitting reply to the BJP and their politics of hate, corruption. This is a mandate in defense of the Constitution of India and against price rise, unemployment and crony capitalism and also to save democracy. The INDIA bloc will continue to fight against the fascist rule of the BJP led by Modi…”

Following projections indicating a potential third term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he convened a review meeting to discuss a 100-day program that his team aims to execute upon the completion of government formation. Senior bureaucrats of the government of India participated in this review meeting on June 2, where plans for the first 100 days of the new government were outlined.

Implementation Strategy:

Sources have revealed that at least 10 groups, each led by a Secretary-level official as a coordinator, have been established to execute this agenda over the initial 100 days of the new government. It has been reported that the plans are slated to be put into action by at least July 1.

Sectoral Group of Secretaries (SGOS):

An official disclosed that each Sectoral Group of Secretaries (SGOS) is headed by a Secretary of the government of India, accompanied by four or five senior officers. These groups, established in February, are responsible for fine-tuning plans, with a focus on governance, infrastructure, security, and the economy.

Key Initiatives:

Under the governance theme, the SGOS is tasked with evaluating the foundation courses of the Union Public Services Commission (UPSC) and introducing a ‘Karmayogi Talent Bank’, aimed at assessing civil servants before their promotions. Additionally, the BJP manifesto’s commitment to conducting simultaneous polls for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies is a part of the 100-day plan, with a focus on creating a common electoral roll, vital to this exercise.

Prime Minister’s Involvement:

Some of these groups presented their plans to the Prime Minister, who also presided over review meetings on the aftermath of Cyclone Remal and the challenges arising from the heatwave affecting northern and western India.

As Prime Minister Modi prepares for a potential third term, the strategic planning and implementation of the 100-day program are indicative of the government’s focus on key governance and electoral initiatives. The Prime Minister’s active involvement in these discussions underscores the significance of these plans for the future direction of India.