India – Anti-Corruption Bill By Indian Civil Society

April 22, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Indian politics is not different from the rest of the world on issues like public dissatisfaction with bureaucracy, corruption and political scandals.

In fact politics without corruption is analogous to fish on the land with the permeating odor affecting the surroundings upon contact.

Indian society has been long dealing with corruption from top down in public and private sector.  The nation has developed immunity to the virus resistant to both prevention and cure.

India’s independence movement began with sentiments contained on the surface and underneath simmering frustration on the bondage endured in homeland from foreign oppression.

If not for the strong and courageous leadership of the nation’s founding father – Mahatma Gandhi and several committed freedom fighters,

Indian history would perhaps be similar to the nations struggling for political liberty in the twenty first century.

Subsequently complacency to corruption, nepotism and cronyism predominantly contributed to the status quo – tax evasions, embezzlement, money hoarded in Swiss bank accounts and tax havens, complicity to atrocity against humanity,

Notwithstanding systemic abuse of power benefitting the powerful, affluent and influential in the society with demography at the lower economic strata marginalized including lagging investments in infrastructure and green technology.

As previously mentioned, no political faction is “Sanctus Stephanus Protomartyr” given the erupting political scandals.

The prolonged investigations and judicial process are still underway with prime suspects committing suicide or fleeing town to avoid trials against them.

Invariably all political parties and governments slighted the citizens’ voices against corruption and requests to address the issue over four decades leading to the recent hunger strike by a seventy two year old citizen Anna Hazare – reportedly Mahatma Gandhi follower, a former soldier in the Indian Army then a community organizer and later became a social activist.

The senior citizen Anna Hazare claimed to have written to Prime Minister DR. Man Mohan Singh and the ruling Congress Party President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi earlier this year on the worsening corruption situation.  Mr. Anna Hazare confirmed there was no response from either political leader to the plea.

Mr. Anna Hazare launched his fasting in mid-April that soon galvanized into national rally demanding government attention to the overwhelming corruption charges and allegations against ruling as well as opposition political parties at the central and state levels.

Indian citizens gathered in large numbers seeking a committee with members representing the civil society and the legislators from the government to draft a bill against corruption through robust measures to curb the epidemic stalling progress in many frontiers,

Besides tarnishing the image of a great nation poised to lead the world in the most challenging era.

The government’s agitation in accepting the civil society proposition on the committee with fair representation on both sides was evident in the developments involving the panelists nominated by Mr. Anna Hazare.

If the government approach was to adopt a high moral ground in exemplifying the important legislation’s ethical efficacy then it would have been appropriate to begin with their members – the four prominent cabinet ministers as eminent legal minds albeit not without political baggage in their respective domain.

Congress Party has been inundated with numerous allegations from 2G-Spectrum scam, Commonwealth Games Funds misappropriation, bribery charges during vote of confidence in 2008 to the direct implications of the political alliance with DMK and the Chief Minister Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu.

Notwithstanding the corruption cases dropped against the Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi in the Bofors Scandal by the Congress led government in 2009 and,

Closure of CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) probe in the criminal investigation against Mr. Quattrocchi per the Delhi High Court decision in March 2011 concluded after 250 crores Indian Rupees approximately $50 million expenditure in 25 years producing no result.

Likewise on the opposition front, the BJP protection to the Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa alleged dealings and the CM’s defiance in every respect reveals the impunity granted to members across the political spectrum.

The Congress Party President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi’s letter to Mr. Anna Hazare clarifying the disdain for smear campaign against the civil society panel,

Amid the Congress Party General Secretary Digvijaya Singh and the potential coalition partner Amar Singh relentless attacks against Lokpal committee members proved contradictory to the national party position rendering Mrs. Sonia Gandhi’s statements disingenuous based on the reality.

It is well known that politics is served with selective memory and made obvious in Mr. Digvijaya Singh’s analogy of the Congress government’s former Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology Mr. A. Raja – currently held in prison on 2G-Spectrum scandal in the remark against Lokpal committee representatives Mr. Shanti Bhusan and family.

Mr. Anna Hazare began the honorable mission against anti-corruption on the beleaguered victims behalf comprising the vast national majority.

The committee members notably Mr. Shanti Bhushan and his son Prashant Bhushan were nominated by Mr. Anna Hazare despite reservations within the support network on possible nepotism assertions from the groups against the bill.

Furthermore Mr. Anna Hazare previously insisted upon retaining the Bhushans for their legal expertise in parallel to the government’s delegates in the committee.

Now in the wake of controversies emanating from the incumbent party members and government officials’ concerted efforts against civil society panel,

Mr. Anna Hazare is reported to have distanced from his nominees Mr. Shanti Bhusan and Mr. Prashant Bhushan.

Since the legislation concerns the society posing imminent threat to the moral fabric of the nation known for noble Kings and in modern times the patriotic statesmen allegiance to truth, honesty and integrity,

It would be in national interest to select Lokpal (civil society) committee members subject to meeting the specific criteria on legal background i.e. specializing in ethical framework for the society at large combined with legislative procedures and constitutional law.

Mr. Shanti Bhushan and Mr. Prashant Bhushan could relieve the committee from their involvement and let the civil society proceed with the selection of the necessary emissaries in drafting the historic bill.

Social activists Arvind Kejriwal and Kiran Bedi deserve participation in the committee considering their knowledge, familiarity with social plight, dedication and unflinching determination to prevail in the national cause.

It is equally crucial to invite representation from the segments deemed outcasts viz. the dalits in the society.

The non-discriminatory bill aptly reflecting the compliance requirement regardless of political, economic and social stature with legal consequences is paramount to deter corruption and other prevalent crimes related to unethical conduct and immoral dealings costing taxpayers apart from draining national treasury.

Due diligence is necessary to ensure loopholes free legislation to prevent circumvention by authorities at the helm to the bottom.

India could set precedence in passing the monumental legislation and successfully implement the law for national good.

Congress Party and the government through finance minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee pledged to introduce the bill during the monsoon session and the conciliatory exchange is welcome.

The initial acknowledgment of the corrosive elements in the system is a refreshing start and devising methods for systematic elimination required to promote effective legislation.

Although democracy is vibrant with myriad views and opinions on the public matter, the objections from the government’s surrogates characterizing the civil society locally known as Lokpal as ‘anarchists’ and,

The spokespersons interpreting the citizens’ call for government reaction after waiting over forty three years as ‘impatience’ clearly demonstrates the polarity between the mainstream and the political establishment.

The apprehensions on civil society presenting the agenda is ironic in a democracy with the constitution set up to represent the government of the people, by the people and for the people – the recognition ominously missing in the present environment.

When the privileged and the political class could safeguard their prospects through active and passive input in the Parliamentary actions, it is rather prejudicial to question the ordinary citizens’ synonymous rights especially them experiencing the brunt of the widespread corruption in the society.

The government and the members against the anti-corruption bill are urged to refrain from mud slinging witnessed up until now for negativities hurt those harboring than the ones aimed at in the karmic and pragmatic sense.

It is sincerely hoped that the civil society would exercise sound reasoning and judgment in choosing the committee legal experts and the government on their part offer cooperation in constructing a formidable legislation and deliver the promise to eradicate corruption.

Upholding transparency and accountability is a key factor with a unique opportunity for the government to utilize the event by allowing the committee meeting to take place in public view via live broadcast.

Good Luck! To civil society and political leaderships in the social as well as political reform victory.

Thank you.

 

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

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United States – Budget Deal Prevents Government Shutdown

April 9, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Congressional members under the leaderships of the House Speaker John Boehner, House minority leader Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority leader Harry Reid and minority leader Mitch McConnell passed the budget providing federal funding to last until Thursday April 14, 2011 that averted the government shut down.

The stopgap measure allows government functionality and further time to complete the required tasks i.e. federal funding for the remaining year and the fiscal year 2012 budget approval.

Budget deal is claimed to have achieved $78 billion savings against deficit reduction without social issues holding up the legislation and the political gridlock serving none except news discussion.

As stated earlier the debt reduction is necessary but not at the vulnerable population expense.

The other areas consuming significant proportion of spending with negative returns are to be targeted rather than aiming at life saving programs and essential investments guaranteed to boost economic growth in the immediate and long term future.

The negotiation methods leading to a general consensus on the budget could be emulated in the coming week to avoid any delay or threats to government operation.

The elected representatives to public office bear greater responsibility to diligently engage in meaningful debates and reconcile the differences for a desirable outcome in legislative matter.

Again disagreements for political reasons are detrimental to national interest with an inevitable electoral backlash common in a democracy.

Identifying the unreasonable and unaffordable causes effectively benefitting all could facilitate better environment in public policy engagement.

Although every elected official is inclined to serve their respective constituency and political party,

The national legislation especially fiscal management is always contentious and requires rationality as well as balanced approach resisting political appeasement for universal benefit.

Every American is part of the society. Therefore health, education, jobs, housing and environment problems experienced as individuals or communities has ripple effects.

Poignantly denying funding for Planned Parenthood involved in women’s health care and wellness contributes to the national health care costs overriding deficit containment.

The Republican lawmakers and conservative democrats opposed to Title 10 related to funding for Planned Parenthood are requested to focus on the wide range of health benefits received by women in lower income category that otherwise could deprive them from healthy living standards not to mention the economic liabilities exceeding the fund provision for preventive care.

Such unnecessary opposition is deflective from the objective to reduce national debt.

Besides the political position could generate gender bias perception usually reflected in the electoral outcome.

Change promised on the campaign trail could be realized upon cooperation, acknowledgment of issues in the broader sense and sincere commitment to serve the people and nation at large.

Working in harmony could alleviate partisanship attributed to legislation failure.

Adopting a strategy to exchange ideas and recommendations at various levels to improve American lives while leaving behind the political ideology found in the legislation blockade would enhance performance and fix the broken system in Washington.

Nonetheless the renewed teamwork displayed in the budget agreement is commendable.

President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, The White House Staff, Congressional leaderships and members’ perseverance in this regard is greatly appreciated.

Hopefully similar actions will prevail in the week ahead becoming the new resolution rejecting obsolete practices in Washington politics.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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United States – Budget Impasse and Possible Government Shutdown

April 7, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

United States is confronted with many contentious issues.

The disagreement on federal spending, funding for the rest of this year, the deficit, and the FY 2012 budget constitutes the highlight of the political standoff.

There is no doubt that deficit is a major concern not only for the elected officials but also the mainstream taxpayers especially the average citizens forced with tax burden and drastic spending cuts directly affecting vital programs such as health, education and environment protection.

Republican members have always maintained that balancing a budget means targeting essential services to the vulnerable members i.e. children health, youth population dependent on educational grants, senior citizens and veteran affairs without due consideration for the reverse impact on the net output.

Meanwhile, the tax breaks to the wealthiest including estate tax exemption passed during the Bush tax cuts extension in 2010 combined with disproportionate defense expenditure on the ongoing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan which were never even budgeted prior to engagement are contradictory to their objective in containing deficit.

The White House fiscal year 2012 budget and the 2011 federal spending is also based on drastic cuts in domestic discretionary spending expected to cause significant pain in states with budget crisis.

Again the Pentagon spending and corporate tax evasions have not drawn the White House and the conservatives’ attention in the crucial debate.

Otherwise – General Electric, America’s largest corporation having made ($14.2B) $14,200,000,000 in profits last year paid $0 in taxes — that’s right, zero dollars in taxes.

Further GE CEO Jeffrey Immelt ensured his compensation doubled and then diligently concentrated on imposing severe concessions in wages and benefits against 15,000 workers.

Ironically Jeffrey Immelt is the Chair of President Barack Obama’s Council on Jobs and Competitiveness – the coveted status for any Corporate Executive to be in the realm of policy making at the executive branch.

People grievance in this regard is justified – Mr. Immelt assisted his company to evade taxes on its mega profits and subsequent to securing personal compensation double has been pursuing the workers to accept pay cuts – signifying the culture in the corporate dominant political systems.

Citizens petition seeking CEO Jeffrey Immelt to step down and President Barack Obama for Mr. Immelt’s resignation is yet to be obliged much to public frustration.

CEO Jeffrey Immelt position as the Chair of the White House council is evidently in conflict of interest and therefore honoring citizens’ call to quit from the controversial post would be a dignified decision in a democratic setting.

Perhaps the lawmakers’ favoring austerity on the middle and low income America could review their overwhelming generosity in tax breaks facilitating certain corporations and the super rich executives to defraud the current taxation law.

Congressional Democrats particularly the progressives being the only hope for average Americans are hamstrung in their efforts to prevent the intense attacks against the working class.

Social security – the guaranteed safety net for the baby boomers and retirees is another misplaced political maneuver in the fiscal mismanagement.

The latest stopgap measure passed in the House by Republican majority providing a mere week funding instead of the remaining year reflects the lack of seriousness to perform the services pledged on the campaign trail.

Balanced approach and clear rationale is required to overcome the political gridlock contributing to possible government shutdown likely to exacerbate the situation rather than resolving for national benefit.

Congressional members from both parties are urged to set aside their respective political differences and earnestly involve in fruitful discussions to exemplify their commitment to the American electorate.

Representatives are elected to run the government efficiently and not dedicate to the closure for political appeasement.

Besides the House Speaker John Boehner in the tearful moment upon being elected the Republican leader declared the victory as the strong message from the American people to “change course.”

It is poignant to remind the esteemed Speaker John Boehner on the promises made at the emotional hour.

Republican Congressman John Boehner’s statements were:

“The people’s priorities will be our priorities. The people’s agenda will be our agenda.

This is our Pledge to America; this is our pledge to you!

Let’s start right now by recognizing this is not a time for celebration. This is a time to roll up our sleeves and go to work. We can celebrate when small businesses are creating jobs again.”

The status quo could be attributed to politics served more with rhetoric than actions and as for changing direction – it is worth travelling down memory lane when the then Republican House Speaker Newt Gingrich successfully led the Government shut down under the former Democratic President Bill Clinton.

Experimenting old ways for new results might yield self-satisfaction and in this instance to national detriment.

However prolonging the stalemate only confirms the reluctance to ‘Change’ despite the relevance in political stagnancy.

Promoting inaction is not the solution to the burgeoning problem and,

Political leaderships arriving at a consensus through middle ground without marginalizing those struggling to make ends meet or the demography striving hard to revive the economy is instrumental in leading the nation forward.

Spending cuts are vital in the areas that are redundant and destructive to humanity like incessant warfare as well as incentives to energy behemoths indulging in environmental damage.

Contrarily the spending reductions are invariably focused on life saving and prospective investments.

Hence the two substantial avenues to address the federal spending, balancing the budget and deficit control – essentially fiscal responsibility are:

Containing military expenditure with a definitive exit strategy on Iraq, Afghanistan and military bases around the world.

Tax reform to close tax evasion loopholes and tax structure review for fair assessments.

Additionally eliminating wasteful spending i.e. earmarks with the exception of infrastructure improvement in the congressional districts or uplifting social standards producing business and community growth opportunities benefitting all are viable for a meaningful breakthrough in the budget dispute.

It is time to deliver and not deliberate on the government functionality through collective reconciliation of the fiscal matter.

Hopefully all parties will rise to the occasion by recognizing their individual obligation to public and national service without alienating the issues for political purpose.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Message to Iman Al-Obeidi – Beacon Light of Libya

April 6, 2011

From: Padmini Arhant

Dear Iman Al-Obeidi,

Your courage and love for your country is witnessed with great admiration not to mention the attention around the world.

Please remember – your plight along with thousands of martyrs to free Libya will not be in vain.

Your ordeal is shared among the compassionate fellow humans across the globe and those responsible for innocent civilians suffering will be brought to justice.

More poignantly they will be ousted from power regardless of their maneuver to prolong oppression.

Injustice endured by you and other patriots serve as testimony to tolerance reflected in complacency and complicity to a large extent revealed in the latest developments.

Otherwise the request to shut down the communication media used by Muammar Gaddafi and servitudes for false propaganda would not have been slighted combined with expediting arrest warrant for trial in the International Criminal Court dismissed as ‘not interested in prosecution.’

Such reactions suggestive of the strong alliance between the so-called democratic powers and dictatorships for economic interests.

However the same actions were diligently carried out in toppling the democratic government in Lebanon demonstrating the U.S and allies’ discriminatory foreign policy.

People power can no longer be suppressed throughout the world on a wide range of issues.

As stated on numerous occasions – the governments run by the global empire are on the brink of collapse adversely affecting the dictatorial powers relying on false assurance.

Therefore the leaderships in the Middle East and elsewhere are reminded to refrain from use of violence and abuse against pro-democracy movement in the respective nations.

Furthermore they are also advised not to under estimate the revolutions’ resolve to prevail in the quest for political freedom and fairness in the society.

Muammar Gaddafi and loyalists too have daughters, sisters, wives and mother in their lives.

Yet the inhumane treatment of Iman Al-Obeidi and several young captives confirm the lack of respect for life particularly women targeted as inferior and vulnerable members by the tyrannical force and their supporters.

Iman Al-Obeidi and all other hostages’ immediate and unconditional release ending in family reunion are paramount to avert cataclysmic events for the authoritarian powers and descendants.

The Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and family departure is quintessential to represent the meaningful political transformation and the western powers’ have an opportunity to prove their commitment in this regard beginning with Iman Al-Obeidi and many victims release from Gaddafi aides’ custody.

Hence the government under Muammar Gaddafi leadership has less than twenty-four hours to free the honorable daughter of Libya Iman Al-Obeidi and every other citizen held in detention.

Failure to act including external interventions as occurred previously would exacerbate the political crisis and the imminent fall of the defiant authorities.

Iman Al-Obeidi and other persecuted citizens are requested to remain strong for you will not only see the daylight,

Indeed cherished as the beacon light in Libyan liberation cause.

Peace to you and your family with a bright future on the horizon.

Thank you.

Best Regards

Padmini Arhant

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Libya – The End Game

April 4, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Middle East uprisings are evolving into prolonged violent crackdowns.

Libya has been in the center stage allowing the dictatorship to negotiate with the western democratic powers.

The reports on events such as secret talks between the heir apparent Saif al-Islam Gaddafi aides and U.K. foreign ministry on the Libyan leadership substitution rather than regime change with people choice is the fundamental cause for the frustration witnessed in the regional demonstrations.

Further, the defectors and the next of kin from the declining dictatorial powers viz. Libya and Egypt are granted asylum in the United Kingdom revealing the strong relationship maintained with the unpopular leaderships.

The United States refusal to recognize the National Transitional Council in Benghazi, Libya based on “We don’t know who they are,” is a weak and disingenuous argument considering –

The White House admission of CIA operatives on the ground along with MI5 surveillance of not only the Libyan opposition but also the entire pro-democracy movement in the region.

Despite rigorous monitoring the United States and United Kingdom might refute information about the people represented revolutions,

Nonetheless the ordinary citizens from all walks of life in these societies have risked their lives to openly plead through western media for recognition.

The world witnessed their ally Muammar Gaddafi and the clan brutality in the genocide against civilians and army personnel rejecting the shoot at sight order confirming the leaderships’ true characteristics and utter disregard for life in general.

Libyan massacre through aerial bombings and ground assault since political unrest epitomizes Muammar Gaddafi and the descendants’ ruthlessness to remain in power with the oligarchy complicity in the decadent power survival.

Muammar Gaddafi and the dynasty having exemplified unparalleled monstrosity arguably is the ultimate threat to humanity compared with any groups suspected by the western powers in their procrastination to legitimize the republic appointed National Transitional Council awaiting opportunity to lead the revolution.

It is clearly indicative of the irony in the leading western democracies – the United States and the United Kingdom willingness to conduct meetings with the regime while the revolutionary council members are sidelined exacerbating the citizens’ plight in the forty-two years of oppression.

In the combat zone, the recent casualties suffered from NATO attack against Libyan opposition position impending investigation is yet another compounding factor generating a perception of misplaced coalition with the regime more emboldened from the setbacks on the population front.

The dictatorships defiance to reconcile terms with reality and the hope of being salvaged by the powerful liaison will not come to fruition due to the imminent regime collapse evident in the fractured government under Muammar Gaddafi.

Besides the global empire allies in Libya, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Jordan…attention to the developments in the democratic systems is vital to realize the people power impact on the prominent leaderships defeated in the respective political actions viz.

Canada – The government led by the Prime Minister Stephen Harper brought down by no-confidence vote in the Parliament on March 26, 2011 with opposition strengthening ties to remove the failed leadership from power.

Germany – The German Chancellor Angela Merkel was delivered a humiliating loss in a poignant regional election on March 27, 2011 over nuclear policy reviving the Green party resurgence.

These are phenomenal evolutions in the inevitable new beginning on the horizon.

Attempts to evade or circumvent the long overdue political transformation would precipitate the natural course resulting in the rapid expulsion of forces responsible for the status quo.

Hence the authoritarian leaderships relying on the influential alliance to suppress the public demand for the cessation of power are reminded to acknowledge the revolutions resolve to implement the desirable change through republic governance.

The dynasties and demagoguery era is nearing end with the meaningful democracy pledged to national interest unlike the prevalent self and special interest succeeding in republic empowerment.

Again the reforms offered in the wake of mass protest are unauthentic considering the exchanges within the establishment.

People involved in seeking political freedom are requested not to relent and accept superficial or hypothetical proposals meant to benefit the puppet governments run by the international nexus organization.

Libya and other oppressive leaderships using violence against own people cannot sustain power irrespective of the western efforts to extend the political crises by default predominantly for economic and strategic advantages in the oil rich nations.

Any genuine resolution to Libyan warfare would comprise legitimizing the citizens’ council thereby denouncing the existing autocracy and expediting Muammar Gaddafi, family and associates’ departure.

On the contrary the deliberations and discreet dialogues with the preferred nominee Saif Al-Islam Gaddafi implicated for Libyan bloodshed confirms the western democratic powers’ paradoxical maneuver.

Striking deals with repressive regimes involved in the slaughter is anything but democratic.

The hypocritical stance in providing refuge and recourse to belligerent leaderships sharing identical traits with terror masterminds especially in killing innocent civilians is noteworthy.

Muammar Gaddafi and the loyalists never had credibility among the people persecuted over several decades.

Launching successors from Gaddafi family or the cabinet would be resistance to real democracy by the democratic powers lacking in transparency and accountability on the domestic and foreign policy contributing to human suffering.

Libyan revolution persistence in the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi is necessary for true liberation and honoring martyrdom across the nation to free Libya.

Wishing the people of Libya triumph over tyranny.

Peace, progress and prosperity to Libyan patriots.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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U.S., U.K. and UN Stance on Libyan Council in Benghazi

March 31, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

It’s been over a month for the National Transitional Council set up in Benghazi comprising professionals and regular workers across the mainstream occupation.

Yet the United States, U.K. and the UN have not recognized the council considering the direct meeting with the council leaders by the U.S. Secretary od State in Paris in March 2011 not barring the western intelligence surveillance of the council members and their activities.

The people appointed council in Benghazi have courageously demonstrated viability despite the violence against them by Muammar Gaddafi intensified with the loyalists’ constraints on their status.

From the Benghazi resident Iman Al-Obeidi abduction and captivity to ground assault against opposition by forcefully arming civilians in the western front – Gaddafi regime is anything but under pressure from U.S led coalition in the ‘Operation Odyssey Dawn.’

The United States strategy is not clear especially in the face of the Libyan leadership gaining control of the oil fields that were recently captured by the opposition in Ras Lanuf, Brega, Uqayla, Bin Jawad…and other key locations.

Although the military operation is said to have debilitated Gaddafi defense capabilities – the resurgence against ill-equipped Libyan opposition apparently driving the civilian fighters to retreat.

The strange development in the deposed leadership’s advantage raises the following questions that require clarifications from the global powers engaged in Libya.

What is holding the United States, United Kingdom and the United Nations from rejecting the brutal dictatorship by legitimizing the republic represented and appointed National Council in Benghazi?

France and Qatar’s decision on council recognition is pragmatic and instantaneously convey a strong message to the unlawful leadership in Tripoli.

Muammar Gaddafi control over communication media through state television for false propaganda against honorable citizens like Iman Al-Obeidi and other victims in the Libyan revolution is obviously an effective tool to quell dissent and the persistent attacks are carried out via mass medium as an alternative air power.

Given the situation that is strengthening Gaddafi’s position –

Why is the television tower still left at the regime disposal for misuse and clearly undermining the stated objectives of the international effort?

The former Foreign Minister and importantly national security adviser to Muammar Gaddafi – Moussa Koussa’s recent defection is ominous for the autocratic power.

However, the momentum gained by Gaddafi troops against the Libyan opposition cannot be ignored for it prolongs the conflict stalemate induced in the military intervention.

If today – Gaddafi forces regain authority over the opposition held western oil fields then there is a sudden climax with Gaddafi army restraining attack allowing the revolution to occupy the same territories followed by an immediate reversal to reflect the opposition vulnerability.

Perhaps this cat and mouse game could be halted once for and all to save U.S. and coalition taxpayers dollars desperately required in the respective domestic investments with attention directed at Muammar Gaddafi removal from power, which has been categorically eliminated from the immediate goal.

There is no denial that Libyan massacre has hurt the ‘world conscience,’

Nonetheless refraining from actions viz. recognizing people council in Benghazi as the poignant step towards ousting Gaddafi government combined with seizing communication assets creates a default position favoring the root of all evil.

Hence the Libyan warfare could be decisively concluded with the U.S., U.K. and UN declaration of the Libyan people choice – National Transition Council as the legitimate authority against the belligerent leadership Muammar Gaddafi who fled the country soon after the uprising per U.K. foreign minister statement at that time,

But then mysteriously appeared to conduct the ensuing civil war through aerial bombings not previously considered during the defeat in the eastern part of the country is rather intriguing.

International views aside, the Libyan population never accepted Muammar Gaddafi as the head of the state in the repressive rule over four decades.

Now the sentiments are pronounced with an emphatic demand for Muammar Gaddafi to step down and face trial on the heinous crimes against humanity.

The burden is on the International Criminal Court to prove the independent jurisdiction in humanitarian matter and the esteemed judicial power validity instituted for the purpose of delivering justice to global citizens.

The judicial process could not only end the unnecessary quagmire having claimed thousands of innocent lives, it would also set precedence for other oppressors currently involved in bloodshed to retain power.

Besides there are the economic and environment costs in the timeless military aggression supposedly focused on ‘civilian protection,’

When ground reality showing opposition targeted in the newly captured territories and chased away from the western region.

Notwithstanding the events being contradictory to the defined military mission.

Further the emphasis on ‘Muammar Gaddafi’ not being the interest in the military pursuit during the U.S President latest speech on Libya generates a perception of safety assurance to the demonstrably weak and wilting figurehead projected otherwise with no credibility among the people.

Leaving Muammar Gaddafi in power – the leadership having unleashed tyranny on own nationals is complacency that could also be regarded by the victims as complicity in this political turmoil with serious repercussions.

Libyan success is squarely based on expediting Muammar Gaddafi departure from Libya for judicial proceedings in the International criminal court.

Failure in this respect particularly with all the available evidences would severely impact the participating powers’ ability to resolve political crisis.

Meanwhile, Libyan revolution must not be discouraged from moving forward and it is absolutely essential for every Libyan yearning for basic human rights – political freedom, individual liberty, social equality and economic prospects to support the pro-democracy movement by peaceful means to overthrow forty-two years of Muammar Gaddafi government

Libyan revolution must not forget that justice is on their side and they will prevail in the battle for democracy.

Perseverance and steel resolve would guarantee the desirable outcome.

Best Wishes to the brave hearts in the Libyan liberation cause.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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India and Pakistan – Peace Between Nuclear Neighbors Through WCC

March 29, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

India and Pakistan are scheduled to play against each other in the world cup cricket semi-final on
March 30, 2011 in India.

The expectations on both sides to clinch the title is overwhelming and the exciting event has created
an opportunity to bridge the gap between the two nuclear neighbors with the invitation from the Indian Prime Minister DR. Man Mohan Singh to the Pakistani counterpart Hon. Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani expected to attend the riveting one-day cricket match.

Meanwhile the two nations have come a long way in mending the fence with the acknowledgment of direct dialogue and persistent diplomacy to pave the path towards permanent peace and viable
solutions for myriad of political, economic and social challenges.

The peace summit in Thimpu, the capital in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan was the icebreaker with significant consensus on economic relationship such as trade and transportation in addition to cultural exchange through sports, arts and entertainment.

Further developments on cooperation in Mumbai terror attack investigation and Pakistan Presidential pardon on the release of Indian prisoner held for cross-border violation are very encouraging.

The talks at various levels by both foreign ministries could come to fruition in the Prime Ministers’ personal meeting.

There is tremendous hope for peace to prevail in the Indian sub-continent with Pakistan and India providing the much-required assistance to other partners – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal.

Fostering mutually beneficial relationship to promote political stability, social equality and economic prospects would strengthen regional growth with global impact.

Besides it would enable trust building quintessential for easing and eventually eliminating security threats in the conventional and nuclear fronts.

Defense expenditure divestments in education, infrastructure, science and technology and importantly protecting the natural environment could revolutionize individual achievements.

The unique paradigm could serve as the model for other territories viz. Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe and Middle East.

In sharing the available resources and technological expertise the national deficiencies could be addressed effectively leading to coordinated efforts in alleviating common plight like poverty, disease and literacy problems.

On the broader aspect – India and Pakistan could potentially lead in nuclear disarmament especially in the face of the devastating nuclear disaster sadly experienced by Japan with pervasive effects.

Solidarity among nations within a sub-continent or a continent also provides protection during natural catastrophes with quick access to humanitarian aid due to proximity.

Any compassionate response to human tragedies always generate good-will transforming the bilateral and multilateral ties to extraordinary heights.

With respect to the cricket game – the millions of fans cheering for their home teams are poised to accept the results in harmony than acrimony confirming the inherent quest to improve relations.

India and Pakistan as former world cup champions have proved their formidability and more so evident in the current tournament.

It will be a sure delight to watch the cream of the crop performance on both sides to win the coveted trophy.

India and Pakistan have reached an impressive milestone in the favorite sport and striving for similar status in political negotiations would guarantee the desirable outcome.

Perseverance is one of the key elements to success.  Maintaining the momentum will sustain the incremental victory thus far.

Wishing India and Pakistan a fabulous game producing lots of fun for the cricket enthusiasts in the respective domain.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Egypt Status Quo under Egyptian Army Rule

March 28, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Egypt Revolution surely prevailed in terminating Mubarak Presidency but the question now arises on the status quo under Egyptian military council with U.S. military aid over $1 billion flowing and,

Subsequently the Egyptian army rule directly reporting to the U.S. military command including the Defense Secretary periodically – The present situation is a cliché.

However on the important humanitarian issue – grimmer incidents reportedly involving the pro-democracy revolutionaries targeted and arrested not barring women for persecution, torture through electrocution of the detainees continuing seamlessly in the post Mubarak era.

These events are extremely disturbing and confirms the Egyptian military rule evidently not conducive to democratic transition especially when loyalty squarely remains with decadent powers reining control over the Egypt Supreme Council.

Following the Mubarak regime overthrow, the Egyptian revolution further resisted the military takeover of the government knowing the abuse of power extending under military administration.

With such possibilities currently turning into eventualities, the revolution required to rise again in Tahrir square and demand for the Egyptian army to step down allowing the people represented opposition to form a government and prepare the nation for democratic election within feasible timeframe.

Even with the constitutional reform through referendum last week – the meeting was apparently discreet without all parties and poignantly no woman member present in the closed chamber session.

Although these developments are no revelation to the mainstream and the watchful eyes monitoring the political evolutions throughout Middle East,

The systemic authoritarianism prolonging under the pretext of the so-called ‘orderly’ transition to suppress democracy beckons valid justification considering the conflicting reality since the military rule in power.

It was never easy for the allies of the former dictatorship Hosni Mubarak to bid farewell based on the ex-President’s unwavering complicity towards their political agenda.

As for the Egyptian and global citizens awareness on the deposed leader Hosni Mubarak – the leader might be no longer the head of the state and comfortably settled in his favorite island resort residence acquired through massive Egyptian assets embezzlement,

Nonetheless there is no investigation on crimes against Egyptian population during thirty-two years of tyranny and various corruption charges evaded under granted immunity.

Egyptian revolution comprising the youth power cannot afford to be complacent particularly in the aftermath of the brave activists’ martyrdom.

The horrific recounts from the latest arrests of ordinary citizens at Tahrir Square is a stark reminder that Egypt still under siege with foreign powers maintaining superiority.

Again meaningful and functional democracy cannot originate from military or foreign rule determined to contain political dissent.

Egypt revolution bears responsibility to lead the nation towards realistic democratic rule protecting sovereignty by challenging domestic and external powers to cease intervention in national governance.

Please remember that revolution jolted the Mubarak citadel and evicted the repressive government in worldview.

Similarly eliminating the prevalent autocracy is paramount to realize the true political freedom.

Regrettably the Egyptian army clash with Coptic Christians lately does not serve the democratic cause.

It is extremely vital for all citizens to come together in solidarity to achieve the common goal – a free and democratic Egypt with peace, progress and prosperity for all.

The immediate objective is for the Egypt army to transfer power to the people representatives per the Constitution and restrict the military role to providing national security.

Egypt revolution needs to expedite the relevant political transformation to a reliable democracy that is inclusive not exclusive besides commitment to human rights.

Best Wishes to Egypt revolution in completing the political endeavor.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Featured, International Politics | Leave a Comment 

Libyan Victim of Abuse Iman al-Obeidi – Release Requirement from Captivity

March 27, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

The horrific crimes against people pleading for democracy is widespread anywhere.

In Middle East as peaceful protesters gain momentum the government violence disproportionately escalating to quell dissent.

Libyan people having endured forty-two years of tyranny are now subject to medieval times brutality known for inhumane practices commonly including captivity in unknown locations.

The young victim from Benghazi – Iman al-Obeidi’s horrendous plight deserves international condemnation and swift action against the perpetrators.

Even in the new millennium, women are deprived of basic rights and often treated as inferior gender denying due respect as well as dignity.

The lack of progress on women’s rights in the society is largely attributed to greater inequality in political representation.

Some political systems have either token member or none at all to address women’s issues.

Whenever a woman is abused, mocked and vilified in the manner witnessed in Iman al-Obeidi’s situation, it brings the worst of human character to surface.

These individuals both men and sadly women taking part in silencing the voice literally by using life threatening means from bread knife to shot gun pointed at the victim and as though that was not enough –

The suffocation method adopted with a bag over Iman al-Obeidi’s face to display their vehement loyalty to a tyrant and the forces behind the despotic leadership only confirms their cowardice and corroded human element devoid of empathy towards fellow being.

Again if these members were to pause and reflect on the fact that committing a crime to appease authority in power does not necessarily guarantee immunity from similar harm to them or their loved ones by the belligerent powers.

Besides a woman being someone’s daughter, sister, spouse and mother ridiculed and her honor violated in public reveals the actual status of women in the offenders’ life with truth being far from reality.

Regardless of the moral principle – ‘Treat others as you want to be treated,’

Women targeted for settling political scores through slander and physical assaults might appear to be vulnerable when to a large extent the deplorable act depicts the deterioration within overwhelmed with irrationality leading to misguided conduct.

Muammar Gaddafi and loyalists too were given birth by a woman not different from the captive Iman al-Obeidi in the entitlement to fairness as the natural right unlike the status granted presumptuously on gender magnanimity or state determined factor in honoring womanhood.

Iman al-Obeidi is innocent and a courageous heroine for coming forward to expose the atrocities under the republic deposed leader Muammar Gaddafi whose capture with arrest warrant ironically not a priority in the international mission.

The heinous crime by the enslaved government workers having lost their self-esteem fail to recognize that Iman al-Obeidi in sharing the excruciating experience with the world proved her integrity and selflessness to protect other women from falling prey to social injustice.

Iman al-Obeidi must be released unconditionally and the violators brought to justice to exemplify the civil society’s non-complacency to abduction, persecution and torture routinely carried out flexing political muscle.

Further, judgment through natural course is imminent for Muammar Gaddafi and league responsible in the dishonor brought upon Libya’s daughter and sister Iman al-Obeidi.

Perhaps those in power with the ability to empower the powerless could heed to brave Libyans like Iman al-Obeidi and others sacrifice in expediting the instant release of Iman al-Obeidi held in the regime’s custody to demonstrate their commitment to human rights.

It is incumbent upon the world powers to respond and rescue the oppressed victim Iman al-Obeidi by demanding the Libyan leadership to free the political hostage kept in violation of international law.

If these events were not convincing to the global leaderships in removing Muammar Gaddafi then economic benefits and political dominance in the region would be the compelling reasons behind such reluctance and inaction.

Hopefully there will be no procrastination in saving the life of Iman al-Obeidi – again the honorable Libyan patriot commended for extraordinary valor exhibited in national interest.

Wishing Iman al-Obeidi peace and speedy recovery from the trauma.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Featured, International Politics | Leave a Comment 

Libya – NATO Operation and Libyan Revolution Goal

March 26, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

In the latest development on Libya – NATO under Supreme Commander – U.S. Navy Admiral James Stavridis is expected to oversee the military operation involving ‘No Fly Zone,’ and Arms embargo to protect civilians from pro-Gaddafi attacks.

Further the U.S. military Command defined the objectives limited to degrading regime’s air force and air defense capability with no interference in dismissal from power.

Upon media request for clarification on the military position being different from President Barack Obama’s public statement in ending Gaddafi rule – the senior army official confirmed the military mission being executed by the President as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

The military intervention thus far is claimed to have prevented massacre in Benghazi and debilitated government air power.

These efforts are appreciative nonetheless there are disturbing reports regarding civilian deaths caused by Gaddafi loyalists visiting homes near Benghazi and other eastern fronts killing young men identified as protesters thereby revealing the prevalent brutality against the innocent mass.

If the military is directed at maintaining ‘No Fly Zone’ for civilian protection while leaving the terror mastermind Muammar Gaddafi in power then it is analogous to extinguishing fire without eliminating the source igniting the flames.

Besides the economic sanctions and diplomatic pressure considered towards removing Gaddafi from power is unlikely to be effective prolonging belligerent rule witnessed throughout Middle East.

On the contrary the dictatorial leadership is emboldened to rein control generating the false perception of invincibility common among despotic powers.

Success in Libya regardless of NATO or US operational management is directly linked to terminating Muammar Gaddafi’s forty two years of tyranny and oppression.

Allowing the republic-deposed leader to continue with ongoing violence unleashed to stop revolution from besieging Tripoli is counterproductive to the military assignment in desisting assaults.

The leader Muammar Gaddafi through mercenaries, security personnel and aerial bombings waged war against peaceful and non-violent Libyan demonstrators.

Now the U.S and coalition or NATO intention to accomplish conflict stalemate resulting in Gaddafi government in power that otherwise would have been successfully overthrown by the Libyan people in the absence of air attacks proves the misplaced support to the regime rather than the revolution.

Similarly the reports on possible arms supply to Libyan citizens as opposed to disarming Gaddafi is contradictory to the arms embargo stated to be in place not to mention the strategy exacerbating violence in the armed conflict.

Reiterating the earlier statement – Libya cannot be peaceful or considered legitimate with the head of the state having committed horrendous crimes against humanity restored to power in the wake of containing civilian onslaught.

Although the world is immune to such leaderships given the status quo, foreign powers’ tolerance or facilitating oppression through default is worse than domestic aggression that could potentially lead to yet another problem – enabling terror networks’ recruitment – the premise for perpetual global warfare.

United States being the major artillery provider based on statistics in the recent Libyan air strikes need to abandon course that could inherently aid the unpopular government under Muammar Gaddafi to extend rule with an inevitable violent resurgence.

Any sincere commitment to bring peace to Libya is directly linked to avoiding bloodshed and replacing authoritarianism with republic rule represented by the council established in Benghazi.

United States’ procrastination in recognizing the people power could be misunderstood as complicity to current autocratic rule and the latest revelation on coalition alleged unwillingness to cooperate with U.S. in unseating Gaddafi government despite the genocide in worldview deserves explanation to Libyan population for the bizarre stance.

Libyan war synopsis comprises the unnecessary dilemma with complacency to Muammar Gaddafi rule compromising military action meant to save civilians especially in the face of alternatives through judicial process to apprehend the authority and the perpetrators for systemic abuse of power in Libyan citizens annihilation since the anti-government rally began on February 17, 2011.

In the modern civilization inaction on atrocities and selective pursuit of organizations for International Criminal Court trial exemplified in Libya 2011and Lebanon 2010 respectively jeopardize the nations’ democratic values alongside credibility factor in delivering meaningful outcome through non-violent methods when resolving international crises.

Hence the repeat recommendation on Libya is to expedite the arrest warrant for Muammar Gaddafi and all the members engaged in relentless crimes targeted against domestic as well as foreign nationals showing no mercy or concern for life.

International Criminal Court purpose is to serve justice and the persecuted Libyans plight could not be ignored in this regard.

It is time for the rest of the world to renounce silence and rise to the occasion with peaceful, non-violent but potent measures rejecting governments and leaders responsible for human suffering not barring judicial proceedings in humanitarian matter.

Civil society significance is pronounced in adhering to standards beyond military solutions like honoring the local population plea for democratic rule of law.

Libyan national security cannot be guaranteed with Muammar Gaddafi and elements in power.

The biggest challenge for the people of any nation is treason by leaderships seeing no boundaries to retain power.

Natural events would precipitate the treacherous powers’ imminent expiry irrespective of the tactics to avert the new beginning on the horizon.

International solidarity with Libyan population displayed through instantaneous regime replacement by the people authorized council in Benghazi would prove the integrity in the rescue plan restricted to monitoring the standoff between Libyan democracy seekers and government resistance.

Libyan revolution will prevail upon the inevitable fall of the unscrupulous regime.

Best Wishes to all freedom fighters in the region determined to triumph over decadent powers.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Featured, International Politics | Leave a Comment 

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