Dhanada K Mishra, Hong Kong, 8 April 2024
Introduction
Recently, I read about a police case where the victim of electoral violence was made the accused under political pressure and she had to fight for years to finally get justice. It’s a small example of what can be safely termed as a travesty of justice, which pales in significance when compared to high-profile cases such as the Bhima Koregaon case, IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt’s case, the cases of jailed sitting Chief Ministers Hemant Soren and Arvind Kejriwal, etc.
India, as a diverse nation with a rich cultural heritage, has always strived to strike a balance between development and the preservation of its core values. In recent years, however, there has been a growing concern regarding the prevailing development model championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This model, often associated with the so-called Gujarat model, is seen by critics as a path leading to authoritarian crony capitalism reminiscent of Putin’s Russia and Xi’s China. In contrast, there is an urgent need to envision an alternative development model that upholds the principles of social equity, environmental responsibility, secularism, and welfare of the downtrodden, as enshrined in the Indian constitution.
Challenging the Gujarat Model
The Gujarat model, touted as a blueprint for India’s development, has been criticised for its focus on economic growth at the expense of social welfare and equality. Critics argue that this model promotes crony capitalism, where a handful of influential corporations thrive while most of the population struggles to meet their basic needs. A glaring case is the meteoric rise of the Adani group, which has been in the news due to the Hindenburg report exposing several serious flaws, wrongdoings and unethical business practices. It seems clear now that political leaders and parties in power can facilitate the rise of crony capitalists in exchange for financial favours, as exposed by the Electoral Bond scheme, recently declared unlawful by the Supreme Court of India. Such practices were also prevalent earlier, but it has been taken to stratospheric levels by the current regime. This approach exacerbates income inequality and impedes marginalised communities’ progress, perpetuating social divisions.
Social Equity: A Foundation for Progress
An alternative development model for India must prioritise social equity. It should aim to bridge the socio-economic gaps by providing equal opportunities for all citizens, irrespective of their caste, creed, gender, or socio-economic background. This requires an inclusive approach to education, healthcare, and employment, ensuring that development benefits reach every corner of the nation. Empowering marginalised communities, such as Dalits and tribal groups, should be a priority, as their upliftment is crucial for the country’s overall progress.
Environmental Responsibility: Sustaining for Future Generations
India faces numerous environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, deforestation, and climate change. An alternative development model should recognise the urgent need to address these issues and transition toward sustainable practices. Embracing renewable energy sources, promoting green technologies, and adopting eco-friendly urban planning can help mitigate the adverse effects of development on the environment. Additionally, conserving biodiversity and protecting natural resources should be integral to any development strategy, ensuring a sustainable future for future generations.
Secularism: Upholding the Spirit of Unity
India’s secular fabric is one of its greatest strengths, fostering a harmonious coexistence of diverse religions and beliefs. Unfortunately, the emergence of the BJP has coincided with Hindutwa politics with the ultimate goal of converting India into a majoritarian state. The Babri Masjid/Ram Janambhoomi controversy, stoked since the early nineties by the right-wing Sangh Parivar, resulted in the tragic Godhra incident. The resultant anti-minorities riots in Gujarat and the recent politicisation of the Ram Mandir construction have dealt a decisive blow to the secular foundations of the country. Any alternative development model must uphold the principles of secularism, ensuring that all citizens have the freedom to practice their religion or choose not to follow one without fear of discrimination or persecution. This inclusive approach fosters social cohesion and unity, allowing people from different backgrounds to contribute to the nation’s progress without prejudice or bias.
Honouring the Constitution: Restoring the Damaged Republic
Recently, there have been concerns about the erosion of democratic values and the misuse of power. Mega corruption scandals, such as the Electoral Bonds and PM Cares, have highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in governance. As the nation approaches the impending national election, it becomes crucial for voters to consider their choices carefully. While the main opposition party, the Congress, has presented a manifesto based on fundamental ideas of justice to restore what they perceive as the damage caused by the last ten years of Modi’s rule, the ruling BJP’s lack of a comprehensive manifesto raises questions about their intentions and commitment to the welfare of the nation.
The Role of Informed Voting
In this critical juncture, citizens must listen to the voices of reason, such as Dhruv Rathee, Ravish Kumar, and Sonam Wangchuk. These individuals, among others, have been advocating for a more inclusive, responsible, and accountable form of governance. By staying informed and critically analysing the available information, voters can make informed choices that align with their vision for a better India.
Conclusion
India stands at a crossroads where the prevalent development model and the principles it embodies are being questioned. As a nation founded on social equity, environmental responsibility, and secularism, it is imperative to envision an alternative development model that reflects these principles. By embracing inclusive growth, sustainable practices, and unity in diversity, India can forge a path toward a future that prioritises human happiness and the well-being of its citizens. The impending national election allows voters to carefully consider their choices and shape the nation’s destiny, ensuring a prosperous, equitable, and harmonious India for generations to come.
