Norway – Memorial Service for Victims of Twin Terror Violence

July 27, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Norway is mourning the loss of innocent lives in the twin terror that shocked the capital Oslo and Utoya island in the city proximity on July 22, 2011.

The bomb blast in the government headquarters in Oslo followed by the shooting spree at the Labor youth camp on the island has claimed 76 lives and left many injured.

Norwegians have shown extraordinary courage and reacted to the horrific event with calm and solidarity.

The peace loving Nordic nation’s dignified response to an individual act is a fine example of demonstrating humanitarian quality that truly represents the innate human nature.

Despite the fear and tragedy in the unexpected violence caused by the single entity’s misguided belief,

The government and people decision to reject acrimony in favor of harmony is remarkable upholding democratic values and principles,

But not compromising on security and proactive measures to deter recurring incidents in the future.

Honorable Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg message promoting peace and unity alongside distinguished Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere and esteemed dignitaries of the monarchy, Crown Prince Haakon attending memorial service in the World Islamic Mission Mosque in Oslo on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 provides exemplary guidance to society in their commitment to non-violence and diversity – the essence of natural creation enriching the beauty of life.

Notions deflecting from reality often misleads human mind triggering deeply regrettable actions with irreversible outcome when it involves fatalities and painful consequences for those engaged in such crimes.

Contemporary world is confused and embroiled in detecting differences rather than recognizing commonalities and uniqueness in human race that brings forth the concept of oneness while maintaining personal attributes for greater good.

The arrest of Anders Behring Breivik for the combined assault on fellow citizens is a necessary judicial process in lawful society,

However spreading knowledge about reconciliation prospects outweighing confrontational practices would immensely help human relations evolve to benefit self and others in the increasingly violent environment.

Every step towards social progress begins with mutual understanding and regard for one another,

Notwithstanding acknowledgment of consolidated strengths – the important factor in any achievements by society.

Human accomplishments thus far is a testimony to the fact that nation thrives in staying united and not divided for polarization through ignorance serve none including the source of origin.

Collective contributions in human talent and labor enable the world productive challenging impossibility on milestones in every frontier.

Synthesizing the best features in eastern and western cultures for a new dimension in development could be promising for the equally significant civilizations in ancient and modern context.

Hence all efforts to sustain racial, religious and gender equality would be the impetus to alleviate economic disparity and prevalent political instability across the globe.

Norway citizens and political leaderships deserve praise for handling the domestic crisis with poise in addition to their consistent role in peaceful negotiations on international conflicts.

No words can offer solace to the bereaved members bearing the burden of sorrow from the senseless violence.

Nonetheless time is a great healer and trust in a better tomorrow filled with hope, love and respect for life guarantees tranquility and happiness in daily existence.

With sincere condolences to the victims’ families, thoughts and prayers conveyed for the departed souls to rest in peace and the wounded for speedy recovery.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

United States – National Debt Ceiling, Deficit Reduction and Balancing the Budget

July 24, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Leaders in Congress and White House held vigorous discussions on national fiscal crisis up until recent standoff disrupting political discourse.

The main focus was clarifications from each side in achieving the goal and winning congressional support for their specific agenda.

The White House request to raise debt ceiling by $2.5 trillion carefully analyzed by Congress.

Cut, cap and balance bill aimed at middle class, senior citizens and veterans from Republican majority in the House rejected in the Democrats controlled Senate.

Meanwhile the Gang of Six from the Senate presented their version highlighting tax reform alongside deep spending cuts creating a political puzzle with the legislative and executive branch struggling to arrive at a consensus urgently required to prevent national default portending serious ramifications upon failure.

Given the current national debt at $14.3 trillion extending credit limit by $2.5 trillion to facilitate borrowing for spending without revenues in the form of tax restructure and other sources exacerbates the debt situation.

Republican House bill targeting essential programs like Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and Veterans benefits while demanding spending cap at 2008 level in the absence of revenues to accommodate White House $2.5 trillion credit increase is imprudent considering the prevalent economic conditions on unaffordable health care costs and high unemployment.

The Republican members’ mandatory requirement to balance the budget through constitutional amendment is an important strategy to restore fiscal order.

However the milestone cannot be reached on severe austerity alone.

Last year Bush tax cuts extension to the wealthiest individuals and corporations with extraordinary gains was overwhelmingly approved holding the optimistic outlook on job creation and economic revival yet to be realized a year later.

The agreement between Republican members and White House in 2010 on Bush tax cuts extension proved detrimental since the opportunity to rein in deficit then was missed with generous tax breaks to the top 10 percent thereby transferring the debt burden on the remaining 90 percent – the routine targets in fiscal management.

White House stance is claimed to be over trillion dollars in spending cuts i.e. domestic discretionary and defense spending combined in addition to $650 billion from entitlement programs such as Medicare, Medicaid and Social security.

The contention for the White House is revenues not measuring up to spending restraints from the Republican side.

White House determined to obtain debt ceiling increase to a tune of $2.5 trillion beyond 2012 elections.

White House expectation from Republican members is to raise $1.2 trillion income through tax restructuring that would lower tax rates by broadening base and eliminating tax loopholes plus deductions to maintain balance.

Republican House members on their part favor slash spending and no revenues especially tax related options not considered in the equation.

The pragmatic approach to the highly contentious issues – raising debt ceiling and taxes simultaneously with drastic spending constraints not sparing Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans benefits and Social security could be rationalized beginning with two major resolutions.

It would be economically sound to abandon impulsiveness when searching for practical rudiments to complex fiscal conditions.

Following precedence on debt ceiling extension is not suitable in the highly volatile global environment featuring promising gains and precipitous decline in individual and overall growth.

Similarly, compromising entitlement programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans benefits and Social Security – the only safety net for average Americans in the political bargain is best safeguarded than dismantled to attain positive returns through productivity and consumerism from healthy, able and economically stable citizens.

First and foremost, review and re-organize budget appropriations.

Budget financing for current expenditure already available in discretionary as well as defense allocations, tax reforms addressing tax evasions and deductions for luxury purpose rather than tracking the middle and lower income stimulus programs returning to the economy being the consistent consumer segment is a straightforward approach.

Exploring savings and revenues for government operation could begin with freezing salary increase and perquisites availed by Congressional members and federal agencies top management including the executive branch for two years.

Poignantly wasteful spending by Congress and federal organizations on travel and trimming bureaucracy with efficient technology could bring some relief.

Reviewing trade tariffs, levies and fees applicable on imports and providing incentives to corporations for local manufacturing and industrial expansion would trigger economic upward trend.

Selling or privatizing government owned buildings and tangible assets could assure cash conversion.

In an attempt to enhance the super wealthy income status – lowering tax rates for the rich and concurrently imposing taxes viewed negligible against the underemployed American work force tilts the scale higher again on the middle and lower income groups barely surviving in the harsh economic environment.

Corporations like General Electric innovative techniques to not only avoid paying taxes but also receiving tax refunds on zero tax payments are the kind to be blocked and dues collected retrospectively to fund legitimate services.

Protracted government operations and congressional offices replicating functions could be centralized to perform under single unit directives and supervision.

U.S. taxpayer bailouts of banking industry from 2008 to date – toxic assets removal from bank balance sheets with treasury intervention using taxpayer funds enabled banks to avoid bankruptcy,

Since rescue with taxpayer funds – banks have not eased the credit crunch experienced in commercial lending, housing market and small business stalling progress and economic recovery.

Accountability on interests owed and remaining principal balance from the bailout recipients could aid treasury from potential national default considering the banking sector’s record profits largely directed to CEO‘s extravagant bonuses and stock option distribution adhering to business as usual practice.

Eliminating tax subsidies to energy industry exempting clean natural resource energy production,

Nonetheless pursuing fossil fuel producers are some aspects of savings and revenue prospects to assist in debt reduction.

Environmental damages from gross negligence as witnessed in Gulf coast oil spill and repeat offences restoration costs collected from energy, pharmaceutical and agricultural chemical fertilizer companies…would supplement state and national income.

Without having to raise debt ceiling now or in the future, the unused budget allocations not excluding redundant expenditures could be identified for budgetary requirements.

Lowering tax rates from 35 to 29 percent to the top bracket could be incentivized for domestic investments and job creation instead of the reduction standardized that is otherwise held in offshore tax havens and Swiss bank accounts.

Again reiterating the fact that mortgage interest payments and other genuine deductions to middle and lower income groups representing the vast active consumer base and labor force routinely reinvested back in the economy.

Therefore any drastic initiatives to terminate essential services to Senior citizens, veterans and vulnerable demography notwithstanding economic stimulants to middle class America would fall back on the state ultimately affecting national GDP.

The House Speaker John Boehner and Republican House members’ position declining debt ceiling adjustment is relevant in light of alarming national deficit at $14.3 trillion and inevitably escalated with $2.5 trillion borrowing that could be procured from within the budget and monetary instruments at the treasury.

At the same time, Republican Congress in the house and Senate cannot avert default without meaningful and realistic fiscal solutions consisting revenues with tax reforms, levies and payments from Wall Street for causing economic and environmental adversity.

Although spending cuts targeting Main Street is the predominant component in every proposal not sparing the economically vital programs like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans provisions and Social Security,

Republican majority in the House – Legislation titled cut, cap and balance primarily slashed and deprived significant population from basic existence.

White House plan extracting $650 billion Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans and Social security is in coherence with Republican strategy – streamlining funding for fundamental needs and tampering with robust Social security system.

Senate Gang of Six debt minimizing strategy admittedly contains 74 percent deep spending cuts and 26 percent revenue – the estimate cited as inadequate by the White House and,

Last but not the least –

Senate Republican minority leader Mitch McConnell offer yielding to White House on elevating debt ceiling generates a perception of political maneuver due to onus entirely on Democratic administration undertaking huge deficit hike likely to impact democrats in the 2012 election.

Hence ascertaining wealth in possession, income flow from taxes and other revenues juxtaposed to discretionary, defense and Congressional frugalities could provide for various government obligations.

In terms of deficit containment – ending the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Yemen and Libya and divestments in economy, health care, education and infrastructure repair and renewal is the only viable permanent remedy to rebuild the nation.

Constitutional amendment to balance the budget would not be sustained as long as the unsubstantiated unaffordable indefinite warfare remains the agenda for any administration.

The lawmakers and the White House passion to bring troops home from all corners of the world and sincere engagement in constructive dialogue leading to fruitful negotiations on all issues – fiscal matter in particular would exemplify congressional pledge towards national and public interest.

With the nation on the brink of financial insolvency communication breakdown and obstinacy for political reasons perpetuates the problem and adversely impact incumbents on both sides.

Esteemed members in Congress and White House are urged to resume talks by isolating political differences for bipartisanship on budget –

Without moving debt ceiling,

Preserving Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans and Social security funding,

Expeditious tax overhaul for ongoing legitimate income,

Exploring further income options on federal government activities and,

Finally concluding wars conducted on borrowed money from overstretched credit limits and external creditors viz. China and Saudi Arabia.

It’s time to halt the destructive course and steer the nation forward with thoughtful decisions relieving the present and next generation from burgeoning debt as long lasting legacy and tribute to the brave hearts for their sacrifice to the nation they defended in all frontiers.

Hopefully wisdom and rationality would guide leaderships in the peaceful reconciliation of fiscal and monetary policy.

When diverse ideas recognized and formulated to promote common cause that guarantees satisfaction to all then none left behind in their aspiration to rise to the occasion.

Good Luck! To all members for successful legislation on national debt reduction, adopting fair income expenditure methods in balancing the budget and diligently reverting to budget surplus than relying on enlarging unmanageable debt ceiling.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

India – Mumbai blasts and Terror Attacks

July 17, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

The financial capital Mumbai, India was once again targeted with bomb blasts on July 13, 2011 resulting in civilian casualties and injured victims notwithstanding public frustration over repeat attacks emanating from serious security lapse in the nation’s commercial center.

Whenever terrorism leaves footprints, the trail leads to easy access of materials used to detonate bombs and live ammunitions in the open market.

The intelligence failure including lack of coordination among the national and foreign intelligentsia also contributes to terror activities in the technological era.

As stated above, the stockpiles availability through defense industry channels facilitates terrorism that otherwise would be hard to emerge causing immense human suffering.

The terror networks presence in Pakistan and elsewhere further confirms the unsuccessful global war on terror despite trillions of U.S. taxpayer dollars spent in pursuing the terror groups over a decade.

Political will and military decision to replace combat forces with peace keeping personnel to promote economic development and political stability in the war torn regions would substantially impact terror recruitment enabling the local and disenfranchised population to be productive in the respective society.

Terrorism is a by-product of ill-informed and dejected citizens deprived of fair economic opportunities, political rights and social justice.

Terror operatives utilize the disadvantaged demography to convey their political objectives with no regard for life creating perpetual violence and social discord.

Authorities could infiltrate the operation with effective non-violent strategies rewarding terror plot informants to deter attacks and involve civilian vigilance in addition to law enforcement officers deployment.

Terror alerts as precursor in preparing for potential assault would be credible upon preventing frequent incidents in massive scale and the vulnerable cities like Mumbai as well as other metropolitan areas that are continually attacked could benefit from widespread monitoring in all fronts – air, land and sea,

Besides trustworthy intelligence sharing between various agencies committed to eliminating terror as a global challenge.

Above all, nations bear responsibility in extraditing terror assailants for trials in the inflicted domains without granting them impunity for political reasons.

The conspirators protected by their governments’ inaction or refusal to cooperate in the necessary investigation and subsequent legal proceedings become the catalyst for future terrorism given the amnesty to terror related arrests from foreign nations.

Governments’ role is critical in honoring victims’ plight regardless of terror striking home or across the border.

Response on humanitarian grounds transcending political differences would categorically emphasize solidarity to terror networks and possibly debilitate organizational effort to sabotage peace.

In the absence of comprehensive cohesion among nations fighting terror, the individual aspirations would remain a monumental task producing false sense of invincibility for the relatively inferior terror establishments.

Unified forces against terror sources would permanently dismantle terror camps and bring lasting relief to the world.

The state and central government pledge to curb such explosions in Mumbai and other parts of the country would be sound when public safety is not compromised at any level arising from broken chain link in communication and implementation process.

Adequate funding for national security also boosts precautionary measures against terrorism.

Compensation to victims’ families is helpful but defending nationals from falling prey to violence is nation’s priority.

The ruling and opposition power concerted actions in this respect would strengthen national defense.

With heartfelt condolences to victims’ families on the loss of precious lives, prayers offered on the mournful event July 13, 2011 for the departed souls to rest in peace along with rapid recovery of those hurt in the horrific crime against humanity.

Hopefully the healing would bring solace to grieving survivors and provide them fortitude to endure life ordeal.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

http://youtu.be/7nIics7gGh8 http://youtu.be/9C92rpNRwKE http://youtu.be/S5JM7-PQda0 http://youtu.be/QyQSpIgaYXQ http://youtu.be/EMg-gD2vtcE

India – Anti-Corruption Bill. Civil Society vs. Political Class

July 8, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Indian civil society movement against corruption that began in March 2011 led by the leader Shri Anna Hazaré and five members team to negotiate legislative action with the government and Parliament members is contested in terms of applicable law to various government branches beginning with the Prime Minister’s office, the intelligence bureau directly under the incumbent power as well as the judiciary.

Additionally the issue is debated on whether the law should be effective on the serving cabinet members barring investigation until their term expiry.

The government attention to the crippling corruption problem was drawn following the leader Anna Hazaré’s fasting and non-violent protest in April 2011.

National rally asking government to address rampant corruption was the impetus for the meeting between civil society locally known as Lokpal and the government.

Although the meeting was held marking the preliminary step towards recognizing the inherent lack of ethics within society, the legislation draft still remains contentious leaving the outcome more ambiguous than ever.

Meanwhile the nation’s Yoga Guru Sri Ramdevji calling for accountability on funds embezzlement and black money holdings via Swiss Bank accounts not excluding money laundering among the wealthiest, influential and powerful in the society added another dimension to this issue.

The Yoga Guru Sri Ramdevji fasting on national stage with mass gathering in the capital, New Delhi on June 4, 2011 unfortunately resulted in the government backlash to citizens concern.

The law enforcement officers’ severe crackdown of unarmed citizens during peaceful attendance produced serious harm to civilians endangering their lives for participation in national discourse.

Incidents involving police assault on non-violent crowd is maintained to quell dissent in a democracy and other political system.

The authorities use of violence against citizens does not bode well for political power especially the democratic society – eliminating the underlying distinction in the constitution governed democracy granting freedom of speech and political, economic or social event assembly.

Democracy is threatened and undermined when political power exercise excess clamp down to restrict citizens’ voices from being heard.

Subsequently no inquiry in the abuse of power in public view creates perception of the government condoning the prevalent security personnel misconduct.

Since corruption is affecting all particularly the mainstream population the most, with mandatory bribery to the government and private industry for public service,

Stringent measures and loophole free anti-corruption legislation would unequivocally deter the widespread practice possibly terminated at the roots with a robust law in place.

The general consensus among various political factions in the ruling coalition and opposition along with civil society team is the bill introduction in Parliament in the monsoon session – August 2011 for the elected representatives’ scrutiny.

The ruling party and the opposition’s formidable approach to pass legislation in the upcoming session rather than postponing the citizens’ plea to winter session in December 2011 would confirm the leaders’ sincerity in prioritizing national and electorate interest.

Anti-corruption bill is crucial for damage control with respect to national image, economic return and social transformation through laws embracing strong ethics and morals.

It would lead the present and future generation in the path to success and glory earned righteously setting continuous trend beyond the immediate period.

Hence reluctance in transcending politics and social differences poignantly the existing hierarchy with political class declaring ultimate authority is counterproductive amid national sentiments to emerging corruption scandals.

The government spokespersons argue that civil society is attempting to run a parallel government with the Lokpal bill.

When in fact the legislation request spans over five decades and the political parties are yet to deliver the long awaited anti-corruption law.

The pattern persists with political disagreements taking precedence over compelling factors to legitimize legal consequences on corruption charges.

Another contentious element is the civil society anti-corruption draft aimed at comprehensive impact including Prime Ministers office, judiciary and intelligence unit.

The proposal has vigorous opposition in relation to Prime Minister coming under purview more from the political party and those safeguarding the privileged status from individual standpoint than contributing to the much-required change for national benefit.

Concurrently subjecting all branches and entities without exception under the national law would be acknowledgment of the fundamental democratic doctrine  –

None are above the law in any land of justice.

The condescending remarks against civil society as anarchists and the repetitive question raised by the political party appointees…are noteworthy.

‘Who is going to Lokpal the Lokpal?’

Otherwise to whom are the civil society held accountable?

The answer lies in the question. The civil society team would be accountable to the people.

Just like with any leadership and representation, if the navigational guidelines are slighted for agenda at the vast majority’s detriment then evidently the credibility is lost and,

The civil society has liberty to choose members dedicated to the cause allowing republic rule determine the constitutionality of citizens’ will in protecting national welfare and progress.

Political parties’ surrogates in their defense have consistently attempted to isolate people from the Parliament asserting the public as intruders in Parliamentary affairs proclaiming the constitutional guidance exclusively to serve legislative body.

This is an irony in a democracy with Parliament and State legislators directly elected by the respective constituents and electorate.

The constitution guarantees citizen rights in seeking policy implementation through elected officials in a Parliamentary procedure.

Legislations indeed are passed in Parliament per the appropriate protocol.

Nonetheless the public input in the form of ideas and viable solutions to the crippling crisis predominantly caused by the political class at the main street immense suffering cannot be rejected for that would invalidate the democratic system.

If the government committee comprising high profile cabinet ministers with some implicated for the same problems are entrusted to resolve the burgeoning issue through policy making,

Then conflict of interest arises preventing a meaningful reform.

The civil society version or Lokpal bill would identify core issues and provide remedies applying fairness by replacing demands such as capital punishment with community service in the prison sentence for those apprehended in the corruption act.

Pursuing black money hoarders and tax evaders regardless of social stature and economic class incorporated in the Lokpal bill would ensure anti-corruption law effectiveness,

Besides remaining non-discriminatory in national assets recovery.

The government reaction towards citizens against black money and corruption thus far has been disappointing with undemocratic means adopted to contain the growing public anger and frustration on the pervasive moral and ethical decay in the society.

Any authority irrespective of political faction whether state or central government utilizing intelligence and armed personnel for undue advantage against citizens is in direct violation of constitution protecting civil rights,

Not to mention the aggression in recent events indicative of the nation founded on commitment to non-violence now misled in a wrong direction.

Leaders across the spectrum have unique opportunity to demonstrate the art of living with respect and dignity without compromising human characteristics i.e. honesty, integrity, humility and social discipline in adherence to law.

Also espousing philosophy that enhances positive attributes viz. patriotism and compassion expressed in service to the nation and humanity at large.

It could not happen unless one pledges to disavow ‘Me, myself and I’ concept from the basic instincts prompting impulsive indulgences in life.

The desire for personal advancement at any costs is destructive and poses grave danger to mankind in the fiercely competitive environment without boundaries revealing the lack of self-restraint primarily responsible for human miseries unable to find peace within and around.

Human nature to care for life is intrinsic.

However, the aspiration diverted towards self-promotion ignores bountiful effects of utilitarianism bringing real happiness and lasting peace to all.

Every person could make a difference in the world with special talent lying dormant in some while vibrantly active in others producing collective gains for fair distribution amongst all.

Refining ones’ thoughts and work ethics is essential to achieve milestones leaving a legacy as the benefactor and beneficiary to life endowments.

Life is an investment with good deeds promising profitable returns and negative pursuits yielding similar outcome.

Human beliefs and choices in life have greater influences in improving living standards for them, their family and community eventually experienced by others in the remote and far corners of the globe.

There is optimism despite the status quo.

Mutual understanding and consideration to reconcile differences by exchanging genuine views and grievances could potentially resolve political standoff expediting legislation passage in saving national grace.

It is sincerely hoped that wisdom and rationality would guide leaderships in adapting pragmatic course alleviating citizens’ plight by restructuring moral foundation and ethical pillars to withstand any challenges ahead.

Anti-corruption law could be a phenomenal catalyst in spreading transparency and accountability culture throughout society modifying human conduct in dealings monitored by national criminal offense code.

The law would also facilitate eradicating other social crimes like ransom claimed in dowry not dissipated in spite of anti-dowry act due to bribery infiltrating police force to judiciary – an accepted norm in the moral decline.

Procrastination in legislating the Lokpal bill would categorize the political class in unflattering light confirming complicity to corruption in the electorate mind notwithstanding serious political ramifications witnessed in the latest state elections.

Moment lost may not return since time and tide waits for none.

Anti-corruption law could perhaps be the cornerstone in preserving national wealth with a new chapter in history for India.

Best Wishes to Indian civil society and leaderships in the successful passage of Lokpal bill in Monsoon session – August 2011.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

 

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://youtu.be/vFGbrCupfxs http://youtu.be/QReLJJX6xnk http://youtu.be/-NQTzYtpxRA http://youtu.be/OM20VJQH9qw http://youtu.be/5_nrRrgcgBc http://youtu.be/mzsf0ezDRmI http://youtu.be/XTjLQL52syA http://youtu.be/AIlJ493gBjI http://youtu.be/gUZYTrBslkk http://youtu.be/N96VRoeuHyc http://youtu.be/GfeTGEJ8H64 http://youtu.be/qW3JciaMkc8 http://youtu.be/qtPsMHlZVfA http://youtu.be/eOogscMeIHw http://youtu.be/S6Pkor7n7QM http://youtu.be/AvrQXzCUODE

United States – Fourth of July (Independence Day) 2011

July 4, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

United States celebrates declaration of independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776.

Independence day marks the value of freedom, the inalienable human right conforming to natural law that all are born to be free.

Nations across the world have fought for sovereignty since civilization and the battle continues now in the modern age.

Previously the countries were seeking emancipation from foreign invaders on their soil and presently the struggle remains the same but made complex with the people fighting against the respective heads of state or governments appointed by external powers for political and economic dominance.

Land invasions are prevalent at extreme human suffering in the relevant domain denying them an opportunity to survive without violence.

Exerting authority by use of force through armed personnel traditionally recruited for national defense and public security is exclusively used for advancing personal agenda.

Freedom oppression is not restricted to political rights although the representation would grant equal access to the marginalized segments in the society drawing attention with funding for various problems related to social, economic and environment cause.

Economic freedom is increasingly deprived with governments under corporate control in the globalization era focused on remaining in power while special interests draft legislation to suit their immediate and long-term goals leaving the main street vulnerable to fiscal woes stemming from various industries assertive role in policy matter.

From taxation to toxic assets, the decisions favor the wealthiest and corporate interests with financial burden on the average citizens escalating beyond realistic means exacerbating national debt settlement.

The deficit contributed by unsubstantiated expansive warfare, corporate indulgence in activities producing unmitigated losses and inherent corruption within political class are addressed imposing severe austerities to the detriment of mainstream population despite them being the victims in the willful economic mismanagement.

Instead the quasi functionality sharing the public and private sector attributes directed at job oriented economic growth, environmental protection and social development in bridging the gap between the haves and have-nots could be nationally beneficial accelerating productivity and required efficiency at all levels.

In the contemporary period, freedom is determined by influential political powers discretionary actions executed under national security pretext defying international law on human rights and warfare.

Meanwhile political representatives elected to office in a democracy to curb misuse of power at the executive and legislative branch seemingly positioned at defending or objecting similar policies based on party affiliations rather than implications on humanity at large allowing individual sentiments override rationality.

The Superpower syndrome is exhibited in maintaining large military presence via combat forces and/or utilizing sophisticated technology to circumvent the contentious ‘boots on the ground’ factor,

Besides holding the so-called terror suspects in detention indefinitely without due process showing little or no concern for others rights and their freedom aspirations.

Patriot Act targeting citizens for political reasons is an affirmation of discriminatory law fostering isolation and polarization within diverse society.

United States freedom is rejoiced every year with fanfare and justified in commemorating hard fought independence.

Simultaneously being instrumental, as honest brokers barring preferential treatment in the establishment of independent states would further signify the prominent image as the land of the free and home of the brave.

For instance in the Middle East peace process – according to the latest reports on June 29, 2011:

“Military cooperation with Israel is at an all-time high;

President Barack Obama has supplied Israel with a key missile defense system;

The U.S. boycotted an anti-racism conference seen as anti-Israel; and

America is set to spend valuable international political capital beating back a Palestinian independence declaration at the United Nations in September.”

U.S. involvement behind the scenes with respect to Libya, Egypt, and constantly against Palestine favoring the strongest ally Israel has been counterproductive derailing the six decades old conflict resolution.

Whether it is Libya, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Bahrain, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and poignantly Palestine among Islamic nations or North Korea, Tibet, Burma…in Asia,

Likewise in Africa and Latin America in the absence of vested interests,

United States and U.N. permanent Security Council members’ procrastination in extending unequivocal support and solidarity to the persecuted citizens’ liberation movement has consistently disrupted long overdue political liberty and republic rule free of foreign influence.

U.N. Security Council permanent membership reconfiguration request with members representing the economic and geopolitical status reflecting twenty first century progress and constraints is rejected excepting false promises to certain aspirants in order to secure trade agreements – confirms the lack of commitment for genuine world peace.

United States is at the helm to be the wind beneath the wings for the nations in rising like a phoenix.

Freedom cherished at home is dedicated to those who sacrificed their precious life,

Notwithstanding the courageous patriots for their ingenuity and thoughtful framework to guide the nation on the path to glory upholding democratic principles, national sovereignty through republic governance and honoring civil rights.

Happy Fourth of July!

Peace on earth.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

http://youtu.be/PFQnqywq6Jw http://youtu.be/0fOdsr0nf7g http://youtu.be/e2AZDO4lDjw http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/LibyaandW http://youtu.be/88bEr5-fdLg http://youtu.be/5odVgjWI0oo

Thailand Election Results 2011

July 4, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Congratulations! To Thailand citizens and the first female Prime Minister elect Yingluck Shinawatra of Pheu Thai Party.

Thailand faced many challenges in 2010 with the outgoing government under the leadership of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva representing the Democrat Party.

The government’s violent crackdown against pro-Democracy supporters (United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship) of the exiled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra resulted in civilian casualties prompting public demand for the then Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjijiva’s resignation.

The people’s request for political reform was slighted and the national election stalled until July 3, 2011.

Election outcome on July 4, 2011 reveals Thai electorate rejection of the military backed government run as constitutional monarchy believed to benefit the elitists at the vast majority’s plight.

The newly elected Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has the electoral mandate having secured a landslide victory to strengthen democracy preventing any form of intervention either through military coup as often seen in Thai politics or re-emergence of the monarchy.

People power evidently delivered the desirable political change.

The national unity message from the incoming Prime Minister serves as the beginning to end political turmoil encouraging foreign investor confidence and accelerate economic growth.

The political dissidents’ sacrifice in 2010 proved to be  not in vain and Thailand could be a model for nations seeking meaningful democratic system.

Thailand peaceful protesters call for transformation initiated through ballots confirms the people holding key to power.

Nonetheless there are many tasks ahead for the elected government in addressing economic disparity and social issues.

The new government’s initial pledge to raise minimum wages to US $10 is a positive step considering the economic viability and regional potential to boost upward trend on exports such as rice currently proposed for price adjustment.

These economic and social measures would be hopefully implemented upon the administration assuming office.

Thailand is bracing for a bright future with the major political development and the leaders have unique opportunity to safeguard republic interests in adopting transparency and accountability in governance.

Good Luck!  To the citizens of Thailand and Prime Minister elect Yingluck Shinawatra for a successful term with political stability and economic prosperity.

Peace to all.

Thank you.

 

Padmini Arhant

http://youtu.be/dqqw27GFVfg http://youtu.be/jZtTdy9VPN8 http://youtu.be/u06R167jueI