Politillectual

Three recent incidents point to an unsettling scenario in Indian politics and the phenomenal divisions across the political sphere in India. The first incident was the inevitable start of yet another investigation of the Yadav family of Bihar; the beginning of yet another prolonged, protracted legal investigation into the misdeeds of the erstwhile feudal lords of Bihar. This incident has major ramifications for a large group of national political parties, who are dreaming of stitching together a coalition of parties which will challenge Modi and his BJP in the upcoming national elections. Such an alliance can seem to be formidable for at least eating votes away from the BJP and reducing its margin in crucial states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, if not outrightly winning the elections. However, the investigation into a major partner’s underhand dealings puts it at risk, and is likely to drive a wedge into it before talks of a large alliance begins. The second incid...

The first few years after independence were marked with a cautious approach to foreign policy. As Nehru resolutely kept himself away from major tangles in the Cold War and engaged with Russia mainly fulfilling the needs of nascent India related to defence and security. Not just that, India sought a lot of help to sustain its wobbly economy and armed forces through imports and technology transfers. A major element of Nehru's tilt away from America was the cold shoulder given to Israel, a nation which many believed to be a natural ally to India. While Nehru sympathized with the plight of the Jews and the atrocities they faced during the Holocaust, he bluntly refused deep collaborations with Israel, nor did he support the formation of Israel very enthusiastically, although India formally recognized Israel in 1950. However, the world has shifted drastically since Nehru’s time. The current situation in the world is not very suitable for clinging to long time friendships, espec...