Happy Independence Day on August 14, 2010 to Pakistan!

Pakistan celebrated its 63rd anniversary since partition from India and the nation has been confronted with humongous challenges until now.

The recent flooding has taken a toll on the population and the victims’ frustration is directed at the authorities engaged in rescue operation.

The United States assistance and the generous contributions from people around the world are significant in saving lives.

Pakistan is also politically and economically undermined by the various terror networks wreaking havoc within and outside the country.

More than six decades into independence and Pakistan is deprived of a vibrant democracy predominantly due to the liaison maintained by the key officials in the Pakistan military along with ISI, the intelligence agency with the militants and radical groups like Taliban, Lashkar-e-Taiba, the Haqqani networks, the underworld don viz. Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar and the likes.

Why is Pakistan so tolerant and providing refuge to these criminal elements despite their notoriety are the legitimate concerns in the international community?

One would presume that the substantial U.S. military and financial aid to Pakistan to clamp down on terrorism should have eliminated terror from the nuclear nation.

Instead, the terror organizations prominently the Al-Qaida, Taliban, the Haqqani and Lashkar-e-Taiba have transformed Pakistan into a terror haven killing more Pakistanis, their fellow Muslims in the endless explosions across the country.

Besides, them instigating violence in neighboring Kashmir and consistently plotting against the United States as well as other democracies around the world.

How can they possibly justify these actions in the name of Almighty God, the Allah and the Holy Quran that forbids any harm to the living in any shape or form?

Can these individuals be regarded Muslims considering their indiscriminate violence towards fellow human beings particularly their own Muslim brothers and sisters, whether in the United States, India, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, or for that matter the incessant bombings that are occurring in Pakistan?

It’s no secret that the certain Pakistani military and ISI members ‘aiding and abetting has emboldened the terror networks and enabled them to freely operate in the nuclear armed nation.

What is the solution to this radicalization and how can it be addressed effectively?

Arms embargo in addition to freezing bank accounts facilitating terror activities within Pakistan is paramount in ensuring global security.

The Pakistani educated youth and the middle class have a responsibility to take control of their nation.

For, it’s their future that is being squandered by the unscrupulous sources in the national defense and intelligence agency.

Pakistan has enough military power to have contained if not eradicated terror, considering the successful military coups against democratic governments since its birth.

Then, why the combined forces of Pakistan and U.S. military are having difficulty demolishing the medieval terror infrastructure in the twenty first century is mind boggling.

As a result, the Pakistani citizens and the U.S. taxpayers are forced to bear the brunt in human casualties and the economic aspect.

How long should these war games continue and at what cost?

These are the questions to be raised by the people of Pakistan and the United States.

Human lives are expended on both sides with no end in sight to the war on terror.

Throughout history, the people have demonstrated the will and courage to stand up to the forces stalling human progress.

Evidently, they have triumphed from time and time again.

Therefore, Pakistan’s public complacency to the decadent status quo from the myriad sources dominance is the problem and could be easily resolved through solidarity by identifying the ‘bad apples,’ and replacing them with those dedicated in renewing Pakistan’s image as a friendly neighbor, viable economic partner and a true ally in the global war on terror.

There is an opportunity for a new chapter in the twenty first century provided the people initiate the peaceful beginning.

‘Change,’ cannot be brought upon by mere hope, it has to be delivered through action.

Best Wishes to the people of Pakistan in achieving peace, progress and prosperity.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

The California Senator is due for re-election in November 2010 after having diligently performed the constitutional duties in the best interests of the State of California, the United States and the international community at large.

Since 1992, Senator Barbara Boxer has served the Golden State and the great nation of the United States.

The Senator’s stellar record speaks volume about her dedication, ingenuity and above all conscientious decisions in matter related to the national and international interest.

Please refer to Senator Barbara Boxer’s extensive Public Service Record on;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbara_Boxer

Senator Barbara Boxer is the incumbent –

Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works,

In addition to serving as;

The Chairwoman of the Senate Select Committee on Ethics.

Both Committees are highly significant and Senator Barbara Boxer has impressively demonstrated her commitment to the environment as well as the ethics committee.

Senator Barbara Boxer is a distinguished Congress member and has consistently delivered for the average Americans who are often neglected in the special interests dominant legislative matter.

The Senator’s pragmatism has not only benefited her constituents in the State of California but also the entire nation.

Senator Barbara Boxer is a true representative of the democratic electorate having been the human rights stalwart aptly reflected in the various legislations.

Senator Barbara Boxer has risen to the occasion throughout her Congressional career to defend and promote the socio-economic status of all Americans especially the disenfranchised segments in the society.

While, the Senator has extended bipartisan support and worked across the aisle on important legislations,

She has not hesitated to challenge the fierce opposition against democrats’ policies aimed at improving American lives or national image.

Senator Barbara Boxer is a valuable asset to the Democratic Party, the esteemed Congress, the State of California and the United States.

People in the democratic base, the independents and others across the political spectrum are best served by the energetic, thoughtful and the doer democrat from California –

The Hon. Senator Barbara Boxer.

Senator Barbara Boxer’s opponent, the Republican candidate and a former Corporate Chief Executive Carly Fiorina is disproportionately funded by the special interests over and above the contestants’ personal campaign investment.

Considering the Republican members’ failure to prioritize American people over politics in all legislation,

The democrats have been forced to make huge concessions to win the odd Republican votes on major issues concerning the American electorate and the economy.

Prominently, the finance reform bill was recently passed with a $19 billion tax exemption to Wall Street for the Republican Senator Scott Brown’s vote in the Senate.

Campaign finance reform is compromised rendering the bill a mere formality and still without any
hope of being passed.

Evidently, it’s a battle to secure Republican members’ votes in the House and the Senate due to their solemn pledge to the special interests.

Your participation in the electoral process beginning now is extremely crucial for economic revival and to move the nation forward.

Please send any affordable or generous donations to re-elect the democrats like Senator Barbara Boxer, Governor Jerry Brown, and Congressional democratic contenders across the nation.

An overwhelming majority in the House and the Senate would enable the Democrat Congress members
succeed in effective representation.

Besides, better future for the American electorate.

Thank you.

DCCC – Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee www.dccc.org

Attn: Speaker Nancy Pelosi
430 South Capitol Street S.E.
Washington, D.C., 20003

DSCC – Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee www.dscc.org
Attn: State Senator (?)
120 Maryland Ave., N.E.
Washington, D.C. 20002.

DGA – Democratic Governors Association – www.democraticgovernors.org
1401 K Street, NW
Suite 200
Washington, DC 20005

Further to the United States Senate Actions Chronicle, there were more relevant bills proposed by the Senate Democrats in the past month – July 2010.

Campaign Finance Reform: The bill aimed at the election campaign’s fundamental problem – the special interests influence undermining democracy.

Evidently, it did not survive the Republican members opposition.

Although, the House passed the legislation, it failed in the Senate by three votes short of 60 votes required to eliminate Republican filibuster against the Disclose Act and various important components protecting the democratic sanctity.

The Democrats introduced the bill primarily to offset the negative effects from the Supreme Court’s decision granting unlimited access to the corporations, unions and other interests through campaign contributions, political ads and advocacy for or against any political candidate ahead of the election.

However, there was an exception to the Supreme Court’s rule that permitted Congress to legislate the interest groups’ political rhetoric via disclaimer and disclosure requirements.

Democrats precisely drafted the legislation to prohibit overseas corporations, federal contractors and tax payer bailed out businesses from the sponsorship.

At the same time, the bill enforced the disclaimer and disclosure requirement on the rest with the respective organizations’ chief executive or union leader’s personal appearance and endorsement message in the political ad.

Similar criteria apply to the nexus group representing the corporations, trade unions…to identify the top donors in the political ad.

Additionally, the corporations and advocacy groups are expected to provide campaign contribution details exceeding $1,000 in their political expenditure accounts.

The purpose behind this legislation is to enable transparency for free and fair elections by limiting the powerful organizations from depriving the electorates’ voice being heard in a democracy.

Not surprisingly, the business groups had expressed their grievances claiming the legislative act violated the free speech right and reportedly highlighted on the unions not being subject to the same conditions.

This issue could be addressed with a clear emphasis on the bill to affect all participants in the political campaign including the non-profit organizations with a political agenda regardless of stature.

Up until now, the legislation passage is entirely dependent on the democrats and isolated Republican member votes viz. Senators Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe, in all major issues.

The Republican opposition has been driven by the special interests controlling the electoral and legislative process.

Now, the Republican members voting against the campaign finance reform prove their priority to the business groups over their constituents and the American electorate in the nation.

In return, the business groups have pledged extraordinary support and financial backing to the Republican candidates thwarting the democrats’ effort to represent the American people and the nation at large.

Therefore, the public demand across the political spectrum is imperative to revive the bill and restore democracy upon the Congress members’ return from August recess.

Any resistance to the bill will indicate the political party and the member’s self-interest against national interest.

Rest assured, the Democrats bill on the campaign finance reform is a phenomenal step towards fixing the broken political system in Washington.

People have the power to bring about the long overdue change in the political sphere.

It’s possible by electing the legislators demonstrating their commitment to work for the people and the democrats are diligently performing their constitutional duties in improving American lives.

Please send your affordable / generous contributions to DCCC, DSCC, DNC and DGA in getting the doers i.e. the democrats elected overwhelmingly to the House, the Senate and State Governors in November 2010.

It might be a great challenge to compete with the corporations, but the will of the people cannot be deterred by the forces against them as established in 2008 elections.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

P.S.: Please send your contributions to the following address or visit their websites.

DNC – Democratic National Committee – www.dnc.org
Attn: Governor Tim Kaine
430 South Capitol Street SE,
Washington, D.C., 20003

DCCC – Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee www.dccc.org

Attn: Speaker Nancy Pelosi
430 South Capitol Street S.E.
Washington, D.C., 20003

DSCC – Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee www.dscc.org
Attn: State Senator (?)
120 Maryland Ave., N.E.
Washington, D.C. 20002.

DGA – Democratic Governors Association – www.democraticgovernors.org
1401 K Street, NW
Suite 200
Washington, DC 20005

The United States Senate in the past week (August 2nd – August 6th 2010) made inroads through following actions.

1. Senate Confirmation of the Supreme Court Nominee.

Senate confirmed the Supreme Court Justice nominee, Elena Kagan and further enhanced the intellectual as well as the judicial acumen in the United States Supreme Court.

Congratulations! To the Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan for the highest honor and a lifetime opportunity to serve the people of the United States with objectivity, diligence in the interpretation of the constitutional law and decisions evaluated on the pervasive impact.

As stated earlier, Justice Elena Kagan would be a valuable asset to the present distinguished Supreme Court representation in all aspects.

Best Wishes to Justice Elena Kagan in the new judicial responsibility.

President Barack Obama and Congress members deserve credit in efficiently addressing the nomination process.

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2. Senate Confirmation of the National Intelligence Director

Senate also confirmed the National Intelligence Director – James R. Clapper to lead the nation’s 16 intelligence agencies.

Recently, there were concerns regarding the fragmented intelligence apparatus and the revolving complexity compromising the efficiency required to serve national security.

The newly appointed Director is claimed to possess the credentials and experience in the intelligence field with glowing references from the defense and intelligence departments.

Director Clapper is expected to integrate the national intelligence efforts and provide the management crucial for national security.

It appears that Director Clapper successfully demonstrated his ability in this respect and convinced the Senate Committee for a unanimous vote during the confirmation hearing.

Congratulations and Best Wishes! To the National Intelligence Director – James R. Clapper in the important designation to safeguard national interests.

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3. Senate Approval of $26 Billion for States and Schools

Earlier in the week, the Senate passed the bill to fund the States and School districts in an effort to protect the teachers and the several government workers’ jobs.

Teachers, law enforcement and emergency department employees were facing layoffs due to the states’ severe deficit crisis.

The federal aid is a saving grace for it would provide the school districts with timely financial supplement in maintaining the proper academic environment.

With respect to the states, the furloughs hurt the employees and deep spending cuts were targeted against the essential programs.

But, now the funding could help in those areas and prevent job losses that otherwise would have exacerbated the state and national unemployment.

The $26 billion is a stopgap measure to allow the states in continuing the necessary educational and social services including the border security provision by deploying 1000 patrol agents as a strike force in the sensitive areas.

The benefits are also extended to the department of Justice in handling the excess case overload.

It’s noteworthy that the bill is entirely funded by the revenue from closing the business tax loophole and making spending cuts.

Therefore, it does not add to the national deficit.

The $600 million appropriated towards border security is also paid for. The 10 percent increase in spending is adjusted against the visa application fee hikes on the few companies sponsoring foreign workers.

Senate action is praiseworthy and reflects the authors such as the New York Senator Charles E. Schumer as well as others’ true commitment in defending the nation from economic woes and security foes.

House of Representatives are returning to vote on this bill next week. It’s indicative of their dedication to rescue the vulnerable members in the society. Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the House members’ action are attention worthy.

The public gratitude in this regard would be inevitably conveyed through ballots in November 2010.

Republican Senators Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe share the appreciation for their bipartisan support in the recent legislations.

Perhaps, other Republican members would join their two esteemed colleagues in the near future.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

The Indian State of Kashmir is under curfew due to the escalating clashes between the militants’ proxies and the Indian Security forces.

Reportedly somewhere between nine and thirty three people had died, several security personnel got injured in the past three days alerting a cabinet committee review among the Central and State government leaders. The cabinet meeting presided by the Indian Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh appear to have discussed the pertinent issues on Kashmir.

Views on the Kashmir valley vary depending on the beholder.

Kashmir is the long disputed territory for the nuclear neighbors Pakistan and India since their independence. The misguided approach to the Kashmir dispute has stalled the strong bilateral relationship from fruition. Both countries that were once united in the Indian sub-continent share more similarities on a broad spectrum.

The multifold opportunities at political, economic and social front could benefit both countries enormously by divesting the disproportionate defense spending to improve the lives of the vast majority living in abject poverty and concurrently promoting the society’s educated middle class that has been instrumental in driving the respective work force.

Instead, the nations have engaged in conventional warfare and were at the brink of nuclear confrontation not long ago contributing to the lingering security concerns on both sides.

Kashmir is divided along the borders and the northern area alongside Pakistan referred to as ‘Azad Kashmir,’ falls under Pakistan’s jurisdiction.

Whereas the Indian side of Kashmir is bifurcated as Jammu and Kashmir state with a democratically elected Chief Minister Omar Abdullah under the governor N.N.Vohra.

Jammu and Kashmir with two state capitals Srinagar during summer and Jammu in winter has its origins tracing back to the first millennium when the entire valley was enriched primarily in Hinduism and governed by the people, a thriving republic.

Then the introduction of Buddhism came along, followed by the interim Islamic influence through Moghul emperors and again eventually ruled by the Dogras represented by the Hindu majority.

Maharaja Hari Singh, the most contemporary ruler (1895-1961) of the Kashmir valley sprawling from Jammu, Kashmir, Northern areas, Ladakh, Trans-Karakoram Tract and Aksai Chin had signed the instrument of accession to the Republic of India on October 26, 1947.

Upon Kashmir being attacked by Pakistani Armed Forces in 1947, soon after Pakistan and India’s freedom from British rule, Maharaja Hari Singh acceded the princely state of Kashmir in its entirety to the democratic India.

Maharaja Hari Singh is survived by his only heir His Highness DR. Karan Singh.

DR. Karan Singh held high profile cabinet positions during the former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s term in office between 1970 and 1984. Besides being elected the President of the Province, then Governor of the State in 1964,

At present DR. Karan Singh is the titular Maharaja of the State of Jammu and Kashmir.

Today, Jammu and Kashmir demography reflects a Muslim majority, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists from Ladakh region and other ethnic groups from Northern India.

Regardless of the history, the bone of contention has been the state with the highly concentrated Muslim population should either become part of the Muslim nation i.e. Pakistan or allowed to seek autonomy from India and Pakistan.

Both scenarios do not bode well for the Kashmiris as they would be economically disadvantaged and politically vulnerable without the distinctive statehood and a stable Central government.

Moreover, Kashmir has other indigenous population such as Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs…with formidable cultural and religious heritage going back to several centuries. The dispute settlement beckons the positive outcome for all rather than the selective course of action heeding to the national and international political rhetoric.

The militant groups’ activism originating from the Pakistan based Lashkar-e-Taiba misleading the separatist movement APHC, the All Parties Hurriyat Conference in the Indian State cannot be ignored.

Undeniably, the kamikaze policy is detrimental to the source and the parties affiliated to them.

If the notion is to create tension in the Indian state to destabilize the democratically elected government headed by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, such missions inevitably backfire leaving the majority population at the lawlessness mercy, thus exacerbating the political, economic and social environment.

The APHC and other separatist organizations seeking independence need not look farther for,

Pakistan in twenty first century is overwhelmed with internal turmoil triggered by ceaseless terrorism and the credible evidence against the Pakistan military as well as the intelligence agency’s affiliations to Taliban and terror networks keeps unfolding time and time again.

The democratic governments in Pakistan have been toppled and challenged since birth. The continued attempts only derail the economic progress for the country with incredible potential to compete in the global economy.

Pakistan is undermined by the defense sector focused on prolific arms trade. It is proved to be a major impediment in improving its relations with not only India but also Afghanistan and others in the region.

The intermittent diplomacy emerging between Pakistan and India including Afghanistan require perseverance in dialogue aimed at each other as allies not adversaries.

Although, the incumbent Pakistan government along with the United States has pursued the terror networks, the operation cannot be successful without Pakistan’s ISI and military officials’ true commitment.

Indian troop level maintained at half a million to safeguard the 10 million Kashmiri population has been the highlight of Pakistan’s complaint.

Pakistani government on its part is yet to address India’s legitimate request to eliminate radical terror groups – ominously Lashkar-e-Taiba, the Haqqani network and the likes, having been successful in the terrorist act against Indian civilians.

Even Pakistan’s cooperation has been dismal in extraditing the terror masterminds in the face of harsh realities.

It’s in the best interest of Pakistan to eradicate the contaminants polluting their soil and renew Pakistan’s image as a reliable partner in global war on terror.

Failing that people in Pakistan are held back from moving forward in the new millennium and stigmatized because of the various terrorist groups’ nefarious activities.

When comparing the economic and political conditions of ‘Azad Kashmir,’ under Pakistan governance with the Indian state Jammu and Kashmir, the citizens on the Indian side have better economic prospects and political stability barring the militant’s infiltration across the border and the Indian Security forces reaction to curb the instigation.

Poignantly, the advocacy on secessionism in relation to Kashmir from different corners ought to be analogized.

Those who favor Kashmir secession from the Union of Democratic India premise their decisions purely on the census data and disregard the dire consequences from it.

For instance, California is exceedingly populated by the once ‘minorities,’ projected to be the majority in the near future.

Similarly, France and other parts of Western Europe are dominant with immigrants especially a much higher Muslim population expected to grow exponentially by 2050.

The population ratio as the criterion for the secessionist demands on Kashmir sets a nonviable precedence with serious repercussions to India and the rest of the world.

Notwithstanding that India is the second largest Muslim nation surpassing Pakistan and other Islamic countries on the globe.

Therefore, Kashmir or any other state for that matter within India could not be isolated from the democratic union now or in the future.

Jammu & Kashmir for all the valid reasons have been represented by Muslim Chief Ministers duly elected by the people through a democratic process and are provided with the necessary support from the Central government under the remarkable leadership of Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh.

Any grievances towards the excessive security forces presence or the latest incidents involving them are to be resolved peacefully and effectively in a democratic setting.

In fact, the valuable suggestions from the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah is pragmatic and extremely hopeful.

The Chief Minister has made the following proposal during the Cabinet Committee on Security session:

“The CCS, while taking stock of the situation, also discussed the proposal of state Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for beginning an internal dialogue with all shades of opinion.

The state government had also sent a request for a policy to rehabilitate former militants who had served their jail sentence and were unemployed besides a comprehensive policy for those youths who were willing to return from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

It may be mentioned that intelligence agencies had been reporting that the majority of stone pelters have been those who have been former militants at present unemployed.”

It’s clear from the deteriorating situation in Kashmir that the former militants and the youths behind the unrest could be deterred through economic solutions i.e. employment, government and private sector programs assisting youth participation in community projects; facilitate entrepreneurship – small businesses and self-sustenance modeled on urban development

Indian Central government has a responsibility to investigate the allegations against the security forces in the ongoing protest producing loss of lives.

Indian security force would be admirable as peace keepers and avoid measures leading to civilian deaths or physical harm.

The Kashmiris’ plight from all walks of life deserve the state and the Central government result-oriented actions targeting the political, economic and social problems with an assurance that Kashmir is and will always remain the integral part of secular India.

Kashmir harmony is paramount for the Indian sub-continent peace. The elements trying to sabotage the democratic system are destined for their own downfall in accordance with the end justifying the means.

Kashmir could achieve the long lasting peace and prosperity in the current democratic atmosphere ideal for new developments.

Good Luck! To Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the cabinet ministers, APHC and the people of Kashmir in the amicable resolution of the conflict.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

1. National economic situation: The stimulus package passed in early 2009 undoubtedly salvaged the economy from the brink of collapse.

However, need to work on policies to produce quick results in job growth and economic recovery. The legislative actions are encouraging and the public satisfaction is dependent upon their experience in job search and security as well as the overall economy.

The Democrats’ determination and diligence in passing several life- saving legislations deserve attention and re-election in November 2010.

Congratulations! To President Barack Obama, the Democratic Congress and the three Republican members on the financial regulations. Continuous monitoring to improve the housing market and the credit crunch would expedite the economic revival.

2. National Health care reform: Health care reform is historic and will be beneficial to the millions uninsured upon the legislative measures being effective in 2014 and 2019 respectively.

Meanwhile, the average Americans are still hurting especially the patients with pre-existing illnesses are currently denied medical access.

The year 2014 might appear around the corner but not to the people battling with life and death as they desperately seek immediate health care.

Interim health care assistance through legislative enhancements and pressuring health insurers to refrain from health coverage denial including the premium hikes in particular is quintessential to gain public acknowledgment.

The nomination of “Health Care Director,” to oversee Medicare and other federal health care programs is a sound approach to the status quo anomalies.

3. Energy Policy: The legislation in motion for review and debate is a monumental challenge considering the energy industry lobbying power.

As highlighted earlier, the offshore drilling is a proven disaster. Focus on clean renewable energy sources away from fossil fuel and nuclear energy to avoid not only environmental catastrophes but also restraining the nuclear proliferation is the only viable option for energy independence and environmental protection.

4. Immigration: Passing the immigration bill with amnesty for the estimated 12 million immigrants in the country besides strict border patrol to curb drug and arms trade is no longer an option but a necessity.

5. Education: Federal Grants and state funding are impressive in promoting quality education to prepare the American workforce for the competitive global economy. Again, the reality is not reflective of the generous provisions as the school districts struggle to maintain the regular academic standard. Therefore, oversight in the appropriate use of federal funds is vital.

6. Improving Race Relations: The recent legislation by Congress against the discriminatory rule in drugs and substance abuse among different racial groups is a progressive change.

Similarly, it should be extended to the abuses in the court rooms towards the ethnic groups that are simply not a matter of discussion or concern, since racial prejudice is presumed to affect only the prominent minorities.

The inherently flawed legal decisions due to judicial authorities’ predisposition against the ethnic members suggest the lack of diversity in the judiciary to serve the overwhelming immigrant population with fairness at the state and national level.

Contrarily, dispute resolutions and Ombuds Programs by the county are highly recommended as the first choice because of its excellent merits such as the individuals’ objectivity, patience and listening skills.

The free service is offered by professionals who volunteer to help the community on a range of issues. The mediators offering their valuable time to help society in itself speaks volume about their commitment and dedication to serve in the best interests of both parties. They are reasonable and result oriented apart from saving costs for everyone involved.

7. Foreign Policy: Tremendous input through peaceful negotiations and diplomacy is a priority in resolving disputes. The President’s efforts in the beginning following the inauguration raised international hope. Then understandably the administration time is largely devoted towards national issues.

Nevertheless, the major international on-going conflicts require momentum viz. Israeli Palestinian peace process not barring freedom for Tibet, Burma, Iran, North Korea…enduring oppression and persecution.

A. United Nations Security Council expansion is paramount in dealing with global crisis. As suggested earlier, the present U.N. Security Council permanent membership is inadequate and do not reflect the twenty first century economic, political and social environment.

B. Allowing neutral global partners like Japan, Brazil, India, Germany, South Africa, Turkey and United Arab Emirates with veto power would fairly represent the multidimensional world in solving the deepening regional problems.

8. Afghanistan: Preparation for troop withdrawal and deploying forces to improve Afghan lives in addition to empowering them to form an efficient government is urgently desirable at the national and international front.

9. Iraq Responsibility: Adhering to the U.S and Iraq time line withdrawal would ease the economic burden on the U.S. taxpayers.

At the same time, pressuring the Iraqi government led by Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki to honor the democratic mandate in the March 2010 elections by allowing the secular political power with the Shiite leader Ayad Allawi is critical in addressing the political stalemate. It’s a serious national security crisis for Iraq while the U.S and allies are faced with an economic liability from it.

Political stability and not U.S. military presence is the response to the Iraqi quagmire.

Unequivocally, U.S. withdrawals from Afghanistan and Iraq would contribute to national deficit reduction.

10. Job creation, housing market and the economy are imperative for most Americans.

Finally, despite vigorous opposition the legislative achievements by the Democratic Congress members in the House and the Senate and President Barack Obama’s administration are phenomenal.

Evidently, the law makers instrumental in the successful legislation have earned re-election opportunity in November 2010 to lead the nation towards prosperity.

Good Luck! to President Barack Obama and the Congress members in their future endeavors.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Dear Governor Kaine,

Thank you for your letter.

The responses to the requests were promptly sent by priority mail with return receipts and I’ve the delivery confirmation for all of them.

Perhaps, the delay could be at the mail distribution within the headquarters or at the White House and advising them to forward the urgent deliveries to the concerned parties without any delay would be helpful.

However, I’m sending you the information again for the President’s personal attention.

Hopefully, there will be no confusion this time.

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

The Caribbean nation has been through many political and social challenges in the past three centuries. Beginning with colonization leading to revolutions, military coups and the unfortunate communist rule prevalent until today, the 11 million Cuban population continues to suffer in silence without any hope on the horizon.

From the Cuban revolution, Bay of Pigs invasion to Cuban Missile crisis and Guantanamo bay, Cuba has remained a significant Latin American nation.

With the political system modeled after the former Soviet Union and China the three nations’ paradoxical images in the new millennium are striking.

China as a Communist nation is regarded the emerging economic power with extraordinary privileges prominently – permanent membership at the U.N. Security Council, ‘Most Favored Nation’ status renewed regardless of the Republican or Democratic administrations at the White House. China is also a WTO, G-20 and ASEAN member.

Russia shares equivalent position with China among the international community and currently has the United States endorsement for WTO membership at the Toronto G-20 meeting held in June 2010.

Cuba, on the other hand is isolated with various sanctions particularly the economic embargo crippling the island nation in the Western Hemisphere.

Under the previous U.S. administration, there were restrictions on foreign remittances and travel by the Cuban expatriates. However, President Barack Obama reversed it in 2009 along with the resolution adopted in June last year to end the exclusion of Cuba from OAS (Organization of American States). Cuban leaders apparently expressed their lack of enthusiasm in the OAS readmission.

Cuba’s isolation is attributed to the appalling human rights abuse from the international standpoint and nationally the political oppression combined with the state controlled failed economic policies having a drastic impact on the once prosperous middle class in the society are the reasons considered for the Cuban exodus.

The parallels and the ironies between Cuba and other nations in this context are noteworthy.

Haiti – Another Caribbean nation and Cuba’s neighbor on the east was systematically deprived of self-sustenance and economic success during the currently exiled democratically elected President Jean Bertrand Aristide due to the U.S. imposition on Haiti to allow imported crops over the national rice production and other consumer goods resulting in Haiti’s status quo.

Whereas Cuba as a Communist authority holds direct control over two-thirds of the economy with the private sector functioning under federal governance on capital investments approval to hiring policy and wage distribution.

With the exception of public education and universal health care, the state’s macro management of the economy proved to be inefficient on various accounts such as food rationing and inadequate housing for the growing urban population.

Cuba is reported to have found large oil reserves through the environmentally devastating “oil exploration” in North Cuba Basin.

It’s time for nations to realize that the planet sustenance is dependent upon the clean renewable energy resources viz. solar, wind, bio-fuel, hydrothermal projects. Pursuing other sources despite the catastrophic damages to the economy and the environment is denying reality.

On Cuba’s foreign relations – Strong ties with China and Venezuela in the aftermath of the Soviet Union collapse seemingly eased the economic sanctions impact.

National health care in Cuba guarantee free medical aid to all in the rural and urban areas.

Therefore, the infant mortality rate and maternal care are either comparable or better than some developed countries.

The trade embargo affecting the core services like the health care facilities is reportedly deficient in latest medical equipments, drugs and essential supplies undermining the expected standards.

Mandatory education at the basic and higher levels including vocational training appears to be beneficial for Cuba with the highest per capita medical personnel available to serve within and outside the country.

Notably, Cuba is acknowledged for the medical professional help in the disaster relief programs – witnessed recently to Haiti earthquake victims.

Human rights violation is not uncommon in any form of government. If not towards the majority, it is often directed against the minority or the ethnic groups in a society.

Arguably, the repressive governments’ conspicuous abuse of power against their nationals is well known.

Cuba is believed to rank only second to the People’s Republic of China in the imprisonment of journalists voicing their concern against government agenda.

Per Wikipedia.org – Thank you.

“The Cuban government has been accused of numerous human rights abuses including torture, arbitrary imprisonment, unfair trials, and extrajudicial executions (a.k.a. “El Paredón”).

The Human Rights Watch alleges that the government “represses nearly all forms of political dissent” and that “Cubans are systematically denied basic rights to free expression, association, assembly, privacy, movement, and due process of law”.

Cuba was the second biggest prison in the world for journalists in 2008, second only to the People’s Republic of China, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an international NGO.

As a result of computer ownership bans, computer ownership rates are among the world’s lowest.

Right to use Internet is granted only to selected people and these selected people are monitored.

Connecting to the Internet illegally can lead to a five-year prison sentence.

Cuban dissidents face arrests and imprisonment.

In the 1990s, Human Rights reported that Cuba’s extensive prison system, one of the largest in Latin America, consists of some 40 maximum-security prisons, 30 minimum-security prisons, and over 200 work camps.

According to Human Rights Watch, political prisoners, along with the rest of Cuba’s prison population, are confined to jails with substandard and unhealthy conditions.

Citizens cannot leave or return to Cuba without first obtaining official permission.”

Upon viewing the economic and political conditions in Cuba, it’s clear that the real beneficiaries in the economies under authoritarian rule and the democracies run by Corporations are not the average citizens, instead the ‘selective-powerful’ focused on self-interest rather than national interest.

Yet another irony is the statehood declaration as the “Republic” –

Whether it’s Republic of Cuba, Republic of North Korea, Islamic Republic of Iran, or People’s Republic of China and those not truly representative of the republic in the electoral and legislative process confirm the connotation.

A nation’s progress is measured by the political freedom, economic opportunities and social equality.

All are born to be free and economic prosperity in the absence of freedom is life without a purpose.

In the twenty first century, the people of Cuba and others facing persecution for their freedom quest deserve international support.

Liberty especially the freedom of expression is the inalienable human right.

Leadership is honorable when committed to celebrating life and not suppressing it.

Democracy is imminent with a bright future for the people of Cuba.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

July 4th is a glorious occasion for all Americans. On this day, the native and the naturalized citizens come together to cherish the individual freedom that still remains a far-fetched dream for many around the world.

Independence Day is an opportunity to commemorate the nation’s birthday. It honors the founding fathers’ wisdom, resolve and vision for the country they pledged to serve not only during their lifetime, but also beyond the foreseeable future.

“All are created equal and born to be free,” – the natural law has been discarded by human race since evolution and the dominance of some over others is exercised as an “entitlement.”

Liberty is an inalienable right of every life on earth. Yet, freedom is seized from the weak and forced to pay a price through sacrifice and prolonged struggle to regain the fundamental right.

For the unfortunate, the oppression continues without a ray of hope in the lifelong battle that spans over generations.

The minority that controls the majority justify their actions through various interpretations, despite the evidence proving otherwise.

The complacency to the territorial annexation, occupying lands for economic benefits and denying equality to fellow human beings has promoted injustice against the vulnerable population resigned to the reality as the destiny.

Throughout history, human behavior is consistent in the invasion, occupation, persecution and annihilation in the extreme events. From Stone Age to Digital Era, the pattern is maintained with the variation in imperialism evolved into totalitarianism.

United States and other nations’ contribution in restoring sovereignty during the twentieth century world wars is significant and saved humanity from tyranny.

Subsequently, such involvements have yielded unsavory results due to the mission lacking in clarity and purpose.

The courageous troops in harm’s way diligently serve the nation to protect the freedom rejoiced by the people on this Independence Day. They are always in our thoughts and prayers.

Human suffering is brought upon by excess greed for wealth and power. It has led to perpetual warfare with serious economic and political ramifications.

Regardless of the tremendous human progress, peace is not an overwhelming choice in resolving disputes.

Aggression and violence precedes diplomacy and peaceful measures indicating the lack of patience.

Defense spending consuming the major proportion of the budget is given priority and the society’s economic needs rejected on the ‘national debt’ criteria.

United States was envied for being the model democracy and lately the civil liberties has been compromised under “FISA and Patriot Act,” with wiretapping, monitoring private communication, NSA warrantless surveillance…rendering freedom a privilege at the authority’s discretion.

Global security is threatened by terror. Terrorism is a revenge for the bad elements.

Sadly, the groups are emboldened by the failed policies of the corrupt political powers depriving the local population from the economic and political freedom to live and thrive in their domain.

Terror recruitments would decline sharply, if the people in the impoverished regions have access to necessities such as clean drinking water, health and education, agriculture and industrial growth at the least.

Instead, the economic and political powers have maximized military intervention with minimal or zero investments in the social and economic development, transforming the environment into a war zone for a decade and longer from Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Freedom is the natural gift for the living.

History is testimony to the fact that none shall ever remain in eternal foreign rule.

The declaration of independence by the United States on July 4, 1776 followed by several other nations exemplifies the inevitable success to the oppressed.

Happy Fourth of July!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

The Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to confirm the Supreme Court Nominee – Solicitor General Elena Kagan is in process.

Solicitor General Elena Kagan upon confirmation would succeed the retired Supreme Court Justice, John Paul Stevens to the United States Supreme Court.

Notably, the appointment would strengthen the female representation to one-third on the current bench.

While it still remains a minority. it’s a significant social progress made in recent years to the highest court on land.

President Barack Obama’s commitment in this respect is praiseworthy.

Since the hearing commencement, the Solicitor General Elena Kagan has responded patiently and diligently to most if not all of the issues raised by the distinguished panel.

The Solicitor General’s disposition conforms to the previous appointees for similar position.

Therefore, it’s not unprecedented in the Senate confirmation hearing.

Although, departure from such tradition would benefit public confidence in the potential lifetime appointee entrusted with judicial duty on life and death matter.

The Senate members posed many important issues to ascertain the nominee’s position. Some were politically motivated and the majority relevant to the cause.

Solicitor General Elena Kagan’s background and credentials has been under scrutiny from the early introduction to until now.

The Supreme Court nominee is profiled for better understanding and in some instances caricatured to place the aspirant in spotlight depending on the critics’ “ethical” standard.

Solicitor General Elena Kagan stellar academic and career achievements have rightfully earned the recognition leading up to the Supreme Court nomination.

The buzz about the nominee from the beginning was her lack of experience in the capacity as a ‘Judge,’ despite the precedence set by the Supreme Court predecessors, the latest being the former Justice William Rehnquist nominated by the Republican President Ronald Reagan.

During the Senate hearing, the nominee, Elena Kagan had to address diverse issues ranging from:

The executive power, Congressional deference, corporate influence, political activism – a common attribute towards the democratic nominee by the opposition, past incidents linked to,

The military recruitment on college campus including clarification on personal statements and memos to determine adaptability to the existing judicial view.

Solicitor General Elena Kagan maintained throughout the session that she would strictly adhere to the Constitutional law and not attempt to interpret it differently for political or any other reason.

Further, the Solicitor General elaborated on personal humility and pledged to respect the precedential settings on historic hearings notwithstanding the Supreme Court recent ruling safeguarding the second amendment.

In addition, some Senate members sought assurance from the nominee on the denial of Habeas Corpus to detained terror suspects apprehended from civil or combat environment.

The nominee in agreement with “battlefield law, including indefinite detention without a trial, could apply outside of traditional battlefields.”

International law was extensively discussed against the Constitutional law to establish the nominee’s priority pertaining to the academic period as the “Dean at Harvard Law School.”

In other controversial social issues such as abortion, gay military personnel and the “Don’t ask, don’t tell,” policy, the Solicitor General confirmed the published views.

Protecting women’s health and highlighting the drawbacks from depriving the gay members to serve the nation on equal basis.

However, in the related subjects the nominee Elena Kagan reportedly stated the following:

Source: Wikipedia.org – Elena Kagan

“ 1. From 1995 to 1999, Kagan served as President Bill Clinton’s Associate White House Counsel and Deputy Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy and Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Council.

While serving in that position, Kagan co-authored a May 13, 1997 memo to the President urging him to support a ban on late-term abortions stating that, “We recommend that you endorse the Daschle amendment in order to sustain your credibility on HR 1122 and prevent Congress from overriding your veto.”

2. In 1996, she wrote an article in the University of Chicago Law Review entitled, “Private Speech, Public Purpose:

The Role of Governmental Motive in First Amendment Doctrine.” Kagan argued that government has the right, even considering the First Amendment, to restrict free speech, when the government believes the speech is “harmful”, as long as the restriction is done with good intentions.

3. During her solicitor general confirmation hearing, she said that “there is no federal constitutional right to same-sex marriage.”

Also during her solicitor general confirmation, Kagan was asked about the Defense of Marriage Act, under which states don’t have to recognize same-sex marriages from other states. She said she would defend the act.”

In due fairness to the nominee’s statements, the approach to defend the constitution is a primary judicial responsibility.

At the same time, if exercising empathy in the decision-making is characterized as ‘social activism,’ then similar considerations to the authorities in the executive and legislative branches not barring the corporations exceed the judicial power granted within the confines of the law.

Unfortunately, it’s a growing trend hindering justice particularly on ethical misconduct in the democratic system.

Again, the Solicitor General perceptions on the basic human rights – women’s health, freedom of expression superseding the second amendment in the Bill of Rights, and gay rights is lacking in candor consequentially the clarity on the fundamental law that –

“All are created equal and hence qualify for the equal application of law.”

Social injustice based on race, religion, sexual orientation, gender discrimination, economic status…are explicitly prevalent given the human progress in other tangible fields.

The political, economic and religious institutions intrusion in justice has the ‘average’ human life hanging in balance with the hope that justice is served by taking into account,

Obedience to the law as well as the facts and evidences authenticated by the conscionable action to be impartial.

Solicitor General Elena Kagan is regarded for her intellect, consensus building, hard work and thoughtfulness, the valuable assets that would not only contribute to the enriched Supreme Court representation, but also empower the nation’s highest court with additional perspective.

If confirmed, Solicitor General Elena Kagan would have the opportunity to be a superb Supreme Court Justice.

Best Wishes to the Solicitor General Elena Kagan in all her endeavors.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant