Tragic Events
May 22, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
Heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families of the following events:
India – Air India plane crash in Mangalore, India on May 21, 2010 with more than 160 lives reported to have been lost and the few survivors seriously injured.
Afghanistan – Plane wreckage north of Kabul, from an Afghan commercial airliner with 44 people claimed to have succumbed to the fatal crash.
Insurgents attacks against NATO base in Afghanistan reportedly wounding coalition troops and civilian staff in the repeat assault on a major military installation.
Iraq – A Car bomb had killed 23 shoppers and wounded 50 in a crowded market in a Shiite town near Baghdad.
The loss of life from plane crash and the violent attacks in Afghanistan and Iraq are deeply regrettable.
Time is the best healer in overcoming grief and the victims memories remain as their legacy.
We pray for the departed souls to rest in peace and the injured for speedy recovery.
Welcome to a New Era!
April 12, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
Dear Fellow Americans and Citizens of the World,
This morning a major decision was made to allow the smooth transition of Executive Power in the Oval Office.
It was done in order to move forward in achieving the domestic and international goals.
There are far too many challenges to deal with, here at home and abroad.
Beginning with politics, economics, health care, education, social issues, energy, environment, national and global security are the main issues.
In the United States, the economy and the health care legislation require fixing. There is an urgent need to expedite the job recovery and simultaneously revive the slow housing market.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the March unemployment rate remained at 9.7 percent with the number of unemployed persons at 15.0 million.
Of this data, the long term unemployed appears to have increased by 414,000 over to 6.5 million. Further, in March alone 44.1 percent have been unemployed for 27 weeks or more.
This is a difficult situation for the American families and the economy.
Extending the unemployment benefits along with resurrecting the manufacturing base, energize the small business and retail outlets including tax incentives to corporations should provide a reasonable relief to the job market.
The housing market experiencing foreclosures and credit crunch require immediate attention with credit flow and effective strategies to reverse the trend.
Therefore, the American families can retain their home values and for most of them, it would be the loan adjustment programs allowing them to make affordable payments in order to stay in their homes.
Both job and housing markets are dependent on credit supply.
The financial sector is due for a financial reform with the re-enactment of Glass Steagall Act along with an independent consumer rights agency to monitor the home loans, credit card and other retail transactions.
Reducing national deficit and fiscal responsibility will be a primary objective.
A thorough review of the financial market is essential to implement the regulations to protect the consumer, investor and the taxpayer from any future bailouts.
Health care legislation will be amended to conform with the ‘Medicare for all,’ Single Payer System and the necessary reform for the private industry to coexist as detailed in the ‘Universal Health Care’ article recently.
Education will be reviewed to address the funding status in terms of salaries to attract highly qualified teaching staff, school supplies and better facilities, curriculum to assist K-12 students in becoming more competitive at the local and international level.
Focus on Science, Math, Arts, languages, sports will be a priority including programs for students with special needs.
College education fees revised for the students from low-income families and federal grants for research and development to the state run institutions with an investment value return.
Social issues would involve immigration, gay rights; focus on improving poorer neighborhoods and community services, early child centers and senior citizens services to be renewed with an identifiable revenue source to fund the programs.
Energy Policy – Clean renewable energy will be pursued – Solar, wind, hydro thermal notwithstanding bio fuel to supplement the varying demand.
Environment – The Mexico summit in 2010 is crucial for the global nations to accomplish the COP15 agenda and other environmental issues.
National and Global Security – Troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan along with military budget divestments to Peace Corps and diplomacy will precede the extraordinary military budget consumption.
The national and global security issues – A departure from the activities since 2000-2010 on torture, overseas rendition, Guantanamo bay etc. in compliance with the humanitarian law.
High value terror related sources would be verified and structured accordingly to meet with the national as well as international security.
Socio-economic investments in the regions susceptible to terror recruitment will replace the military expenditure.
Economic aid to Africa, Middle East, Latin America, Asia and Island nations will be promoted.
Foreign Policy:
Israeli-Palestinian Peace Treaty – Independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. Palestine and Arab nations’ agreement on recognition of Israeli sovereignty and security. Freezing settlements and return of land to Palestine in the Palestinian territory.
Iran and North Korea – Strategic dialogues initiated with the governments. Efforts in outreaching the population of these countries by exchanging cultural, educational and travel activities would vastly improve the political situation.
Cuba – Dialogue and diplomacy with the Cuban government. Extending round trip travel for U.S. residents and the families in Cuba. Eliminate the trade embargo as it hurts the population more than the power.
Latin America – Democracy will always be favored over military regimes and repressive governments. Military base in these regions is to be withdrawn to ease tensions within borders.
Brazil – It’s an emerging economic power and a regional force in Latin America. There is hope and optimism in the relationship between the United States and Brazil.
Mexico – The drug related violence would be addressed by prohibiting the arms supply from the United States.
United Kingdom – The partner in the Afghan and Iraq war. The U.K and the U.S share a vision on many issues. Exchange intelligence information to safeguard global security and maintain the formidable unity between the two nations.
Russia – It is promising. U.S and Russia along with other nuclear powers should arrive at a consensus on complete nuclear disarmament.
Europe – Healthy relationship will continue and work together on economy, environment and energy policies.
Japan – Strong economic ties and strategic partnership to resolve the North Korean nuclear and political standoff in the Korean peninsula.
South Korea – Warm friendly relations reflected in economic trade, political and cultural exchange.
China – Beijing has been conciliatory on the currency value adjustment. It’s enormously encouraging.
However, fair trade practices towards foreign corporations could enhance the bilateral economic prospects.
Human rights issues in China and Independence for Tibet will commence shortly as part of the planetary preparation to form free nations on earth. I look forward to Beijing leaders’ positive reaction.
India – Many opportunities are on the horizon. Economic, environment, nuclear disarmament, energy and educational ties could mutually benefit the two popular democracies. Regional security in the Indian sub-continent and the Indo-China border would be a dominant issue.
Nepal – The nation at the Himalayan foothill should form a democratic government and not desire a communist system even in a coalition as it had experienced the political unrest from it. Nepal is a tourist attraction for the American tourists.
Pakistan – Similar relationship with that of India. Transform warfare into peace through investments in economic, social and educational projects. Collaborate on eradicating terrorism and share resources for common security.
Afghanistan – President Hamid Karzai’s administration has to disavow corruption and make the government more transparent. Peace with Taliban fighters willing to disarm is a good approach. It has to be a long-term commitment. Afghan government must start working on the economy and the infrastructure.
It’s understandable that it cannot make progress with the war on the Afghan soil. That’s why the troop withdrawal will be a priority beginning this year.
President Karzai should repeal the non-consensual consummation law against women and allocate funding for social advancement to uplift the women’s status. Nation building with international aid is the fundamental step towards progress.
Central Asia – Trade and economic cooperation in the region would be mutually beneficial.
Sri Lanka – The ethnic Tamil population and other minority groups deserve equal economic, educational and social rights particularly the political representation in the Sri Lankan Parliament.
Burma – Democracy is the preferred system by the Burmese population and the military junta should release the pro-democracy leader Ang Sang Suu Kyi for her participation in the national election. Burmese people have suffered long enough. It’s time for them to be free and lead the nation to the twenty first century.
Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam – The U.S relationship with all of these nations is solid and has a great potential to grow in many areas.
South Africa – An economic, cultural, environment and a peace partner with the United States. South Africa is the regional leader in Africa. There are lots to look forward to with the young democratic nation.
Rest of Africa – Renunciation of civil wars, military regimes and corruption is earmarked for the African nations. No more political instability and investments in conventional arms. Instead, African countries will be assisted to become the self-sufficient and economically vibrant region.
Middle East:
Saudi Arabia – Will continue to remain a strong ally of the United States.
The coalition government in Iraq with Sunni representation is important for the region. The United States and Saudi Arabia need to collaborate in helping Yemen economically that would alleviate the Yemeni plight and perhaps end the internal political turmoil. Moreover, the terror networks might find it hard to hire young recruits in a better economy.
Jordan – A great friend and an ally of the United States. The mutual aspiration to see a Palestinian state is imminent. Jordan’s economic and political partnership with the United States is poised for a continuous success.
Egypt – Is another vital representative and a key player in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
United States and Egypt go back a long way in the political remaking of the Middle East.
Like other nations, the people in Egypt yearn for freedom of expression and a free and fair election. Egypt could probably transcend the current system to enable the people rejoice their newfound liberty in the next election.
Iraq – Is unique like a phoenix. The latest general election dispute should be settled without any violence and the secular coalition government is the ideal political solution to bring peace to Iraq. United States troop withdrawal in 2010 would normalize the people’s existence in Iraq.
Syria and Lebanon – U.S. could have fresh diplomatic ties with both nations. At the same time, it’s best for Israel, Syria and Lebanon to reconcile the differences and aim for a peaceful beginning.
Peace is attainable with peace seekers perseverance.
UAE & Bahrain, Qatar and the Rest of the Middle East:
Economic ties and military cooperation with all of these nations are good. Much to anticipate in the long run.
Australia – The land of OZ is a beautiful country with common democratic principles. Environment, nuclear disarmament, renewable energy, trade and commerce create tremendous outcome for both U.S and Australia.
New Zealand – United States and New Zealand could become leading partners in green technology and explore other trade partnerships.
All other island nations across the globe – Each one of you are equally important and the United States will work with you to resolve the environmental threats you face in the rapidly changing climate. We should strive to reach an agreement during the Mexico summit in 2010. In addition, the U.S. will coordinate efforts in the economic, energy and all other fronts.
I welcome you all to a new era. I request that we put our differences aside and work together in harmony for a peaceful, brighter and prosperous world.
We must reject war for peace. Let there be freedom for all with none held against their will.
As the earth’s inhabitants, we have individual responsibility to preserve the habitat for eternal life.
We can make it possible collectively in appreciation of nature’s gift to humanity.
May God bless all and the Planet Earth.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
President of the United States
The Powerful Truth
April 12, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
Ever since the health care legislation bill was analyzed and presented on this website, democracy has been suppressed by powerful forces represented in the highest office through false propaganda by media and press corps including the nation’s so-called liberal magazine against Truth.
The obituary for Truth published in the newspapers through innuendo against the evidence of its existence is oxymoron, if not unscrupulous.
Again, for the record – Truth is well, alive, and more determined than ever to prove the purity and sanctity of its element.
When one has nothing to hide and is honest, open and completely transparent – the vehemently opposed ethical practice in contemporary politics, the deadly carcinogens polluting the minds beyond salvation consider Truth as a major threat to their diabolical means.
Often those who judge others on the premise of disparaging information provided by those in Power against truthful dissent ought to turn inward and question their own morality prior to voluntarily reaching the lowest ebb in journalism and/or theatrical performance via skits and movies on the specific overseas vile television network.
Is news being reported to inform public or entertain them by transforming their magazine or program to a cheap tabloid and a desperate source of concocted lies to appease those in power with nuclear arsenal?
If it’s the latter, then it’s doomed to fail on complicity with authority’s flagrance allegation of debauchery against Truth.
Any honorable individual would confront the facts and take responsibility for their wrong doings rather than indulging in character assassination of Truth.
As for the alleged cover up in the health care scandal – any incident political and otherwise propagated in the selective nation’s so-called liberal magazine and the public funded network in the name of Free Speech,
The Bible – King James Version: John 1:47
“Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!”
I present the unequivocal facts about my involvement going back to the political campaign of the candidate –
Senator Barack Hussein Obama and his spouse Michelle Obama.
a. 1608, William Shakespeare, King Lear, II, II, 102.
“I know, sir, I am no flatterer: he that beguiled you, in a plain accent.”
Beginning with my personal life, I was nurtured with the value to earn respect and not demand it.
My Principle – Rise to glory through your noble deeds that you can share with all.
Regarding the unsubstantiated allegation of debauchery – I wish to state that chastity and morality is revealed in the human conduct.
When the guilty accuses the truth finder of debauchery for exposing the factual Presidential scandal it’s a confirmation of the accuser’s personal experience.
My personal life is no longer personal and subject to the triviality of –
‘She is anyone’s guess and a fair game indeed.’
Accordingly, the self promoted moral guardians of the society consider their prerogative to target the woman who is a mother, sister, daughter…in family relations.
More importantly, a human being committed to the sanctity of spiritual call by accepting God’s will.
I bear none other than the Almighty God witness to this truth.
Never mind about the fact that she too has a family.
The passion, dedication, sacrifices made thus far for humanitarian issues is presumed a sheer exhibition on the world stage, despite enormous benefits to those responsible for the caricature.
Further on chastity and morality issue:
The irony is the purveyors of physical pleasure (the flesh trade) are denigrated by those contributing to the establishment.
What does one call trading human trust for profit and self-interest in today’s politics?
If morality and ethical norm is patented by those holding the power mantel, then it’s incumbent upon them to demonstrate through action.
After all, isn’t action believable than rhetoric?
Reverting to the political involvement that began in January through April 2008 – then September 2008- until March 2010.
I was approached by the candidate Senator Barack Obama via email, subsequent to my first time political donation in life – an amount $25.00.
From then onwards, I had repeat requests from then Senator Barack Obama, his spouse Michelle Obama and other prominent Democratic Party members to volunteer for the campaign and make regular donations.
The endless course literally led me to financial bankruptcy serving the beneficiaries not only in political gains but also material for mockery of my difficult monetary status.
The email requests were periodically published on the website including my responses.
I adopted the policy of transparency and accountability from day one of the Presidential election campaign and advocated vigorously in that regard.
On all issues pertaining to political, economic, social and environment matter, I emphasized on ethical efficacy conspicuously abandoned in the political capital, Washington D.C. where decisions concerning millions of lives across the globe are made.
I routinely submitted the communication with all political entities via World Wide Web for public view and understanding of the issues that are imperative to global community.
All my ideas, suggestions and strategies were presented on the web site and were addressed to the authorities for implementation.
However, they were selectively neglected on both domestic and international issues. The ones that were adopted like the economic stimulus and the job bill assumed the administration’s titles.
I deplored the pork barrel or earmark spending in the stimulus bill through the blogpost upon identifying the items in the news report.
Any communication from the President of the United States and the Democratic Party were strictly related to campaign donations, rallying for the candidates and complaints about the opposition attacks.
The communication was published on the website and available for public review.
I unsubscribed to the email from the President Barack Obama, the administration and the campaign in early October 2009.
The reason being, it had only instructions to energize the public on health care, energy legislation asking constituents to contact their local representatives without providing any details on the bill.
I learned about the components from the news report published in my local newspaper, on-line news publications and television broadcast.
My communication was always relayed through the website, for which there was no response.
I was not privy to the White House and/or the Congress members’ dealings and discussions with any interest groups in Wall Street, Washington and elsewhere.
My information source on legislative matter and the political affairs was solely through local and international news reports available in print and public news media.
As stated earlier, I was never hired by the White House, the Democratic Party, corporations, any groups or agencies intimately or remotely affiliated or associated to political members or authorities in Washington, Wall Street or anywhere in the World.
I was constantly approached for mandatory service without pay as the political aide by the Obama campaign and then the administration in getting the Democrats elected to Congress and never briefed or detailed on the nature of any developments on the legislations or administration’s policies.
I worked since January 2008 and until now without any payments or benefits.
Now, there are false rumors about me claiming unemployment benefit, which is absurd and completely distorted. I’ve never been on any unemployment benefit.
At the same time floating the fictitious narrative on me as super wealthy to drown any other candidate.
A Super wealthy collecting unemployment benefit alongside! Obviously, they were attributing own practice to feel better.
Then the comedy satire insinuating bipolar disease, acute mental illness and the continuous slander thereafter to show their loyalty to political class is nothing more than own mirror reflection.
Perhaps, the notion is that Brown Foreigners are not supposed to eat. They don’t need a home and maintain a modest existence by being able to pay their utility bills, transportation needs, and provide for their family.
My explicit request to President Barack Obama on my precise role in the administration or the Democratic Party following the influx of donation reminders had no response to that until date.
I regularly clarified my position with President Barack Obama in 2009 and 2010 through the website, that I was unwilling to be a cheerleader of policies against public interest and refused to be an attack dog for the administration at any time.
I had no previous knowledge about the distant period setting and the health bill negotiations between the White House and their special interest allies.
It was also published on the website and obtainable if required.
I was treated as the political campaigner for the Democratic Party and not an administration or Congress member. They sought help with the political election in 2010 to boost public support for President Barack Obama.
There is political smear from the critics, more interested in the investigation of my openness instead of channeling their resources towards the Bilderberg secret meeting attended by Presidential candidates Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton and John McCain in 2008 that I unveiled on my website for public awareness and fearlessly dissented the authorities’ decisions on many issues including the troops increase in Afghanistan.
If I were to allegedly cover up on the health care or any other issue manufactured by the White House,
Why would I become the victim of violent threats by the authority in power?
Why would they insist that I should quit being inquisitive and even nick named me Snoop Dog in their parlance?
I questioned the then candidate Barack Obama on flip-flopping of issues during the political campaign and after the administration assuming power in the White House.
For switching from Single Payer System to private health care for profit.
Defaulting on campaign finance at the crucial moment of the Presidential election.
Casting his vote on FISA in 2008. Patriot act and the discriminatory policy in 2009.
Torture, detention, overseas rendition, troop withdrawal from Iraq and Afghanistan, altering the 9/11 terrorists federal trial to a military jurisdiction, the continuation of the predecessor, the former President George W. Bush’s policy.
Collecting public donations while claiming that there were no special interests’ contributions to his campaign, when the funds were flowing from Goldman Sachs, AIG, health industry and others – the figures that I published on the website much to the administration’s anger.
The administration and the State Department blocked the EU unilateral declaration under Sweden’s Presidency that embraced my policy on Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It was scheduled in November 2009. The people in both states were prepared and unbeknown the news vanished.
Similarly, in the Honduran crisis, the military coup leader agreed to step down and allow the former President Manuel Zelaya to remain in office until the national election in November 2009. The prospect was extinguished with the administration not inclined to intervene.
The materials with visual content were published on the website to this effect.
Haiti – the recommendation on the exiled leader Jean Bertrand Aristide’s return to his country was ignored.
Challenged on the environmental policies that was contradictory to the pledge made on the campaign trail. I called the COP15 summit a failure in the absence of real achievement.
In the 2008 Pennsylvania Primary election – I expressed my objection earlier on about Senator Obama’s approval to spend an estimated 11 million dollars on the television advertisement against his formidable opponent Senator Hillary Clinton while they declined to pay the foot soldiers $10 an hour for going door-to-door campaign. Most of them were African Americans eager to serve in the contentious primary that he lost to his democratic contender.
Lately, I responded to the Washington Post’s article by Richard Cohen on,
“Obama Policy unappreciated by the right and the left,” where I indicated that showering praise on the inadequate or failed policy would qualify as cronyism and exacerbate the corrupt political system.
I was issued a warning and a remark ‘She does not follow rules and creates her own that does not bode well with the authority.’ i.e. the international incognito clique running the gamut via proxies and puppet governments worldwide.
Because of my strong position on ethics and morality, I was abruptly eliminated from the campaign in March 2008 after ensuring the Democratic Party nomination in the primary election victories.
Perhaps, the critics’ selective memory may not serve them well.
I launched a campaign through my earlier website and endorsed the former Vice President Al Gore for President in May 2008. Furthermore, in an unprecedented gesture, I selected the Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold as the Vice Presidential candidate on the ticket.
It was in protest of the dramatic shift in Senator Obama’s policies visible after clinching the Democratic Party nomination. My rejection of the international Presidential candidate Barack Obama infuriated many of his ardent supporters, who have now become my cynics.
I was called a traitor even though the Senator’s policies did not synchronize with the base.
After the arrival of the Alaskan Governor Sarah Palin, the Republican candidates gained momentum in the general election and so did the communication from the candidate Barack Obama, his spouse Michelle Obama (for whom I was non-existent during the Gala Democratic Party Nomination) and the Obama campaign.
The flurry of emails and snail mail asking me to get back in the campaign was superfluous.
They managed to persuade the Vice President Al Gore to email me and send a letter in that regard, which was also published on the website.
Somehow, the alleged ‘character’ of the woman they have misportrayed now didn’t seem to matter then, when they were aspiring their dreams.
Is it political expediency or cutthroat politics to borrow the term recently used by them?
My communication medium from the start has been the website to keep the public informed on the direct engagement with the power in Washington throughout the election and up until now.
Unlike the then candidate Barack Obama’s surrogate and spouse Michelle Obama, reportedly dictated the The View show hosts on the permissible questions that debarred the co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck from straying in the contrived conversation.
The press media also confirmed on the restrictions imposed by the Obama campaign that prohibited many reporters and anchors from asking relevant questions with the candidate and the talking heads.
The prevalent censorship on free speech and the Nuclear Policy signed with Russia on April 9, 2010 – especially the overtone against the non signatories of NPT and reservations to use nuclear weapons is extremely disturbing and deserves scrutiny.
There were verbal attacks against me on the delay in rebuking the administration on the health care legislation scandal.
It’s easier to view the situation from one’s own perspective.
According to the news media, certain African American legislators were in the process of creating a preventive measure to grant immunity to Obama Presidency against impeachment following the inauguration.
Besides, it was necessary to be mindful of the repercussions such as the racial discord, two wars and the stock market in the aggressive removal of the President of the United States, found guilty of treason.
Therefore, the systematic procedure was to hold the elected official to the highest office accountable to the people, who have been betrayed in the national legislation that was bound to impact millions of lives.
Hence, soon after I exposed the unethical bargain with the health insurance industry,
I waited for the explanation from the President of the United States and the Congress leaders who shared the recognition as the victorious team of historic health care reform.
I ask the Press Corps and the media,
Why are you not pursuing those members in this matter, who are the signatories to this legislation?
Isn’t Congress leaders and other legislators’ responsibility to review the content prior to casting their vote?
I was never presented with the details of the bill, until the report from the New York Times, which none of the critics, who are attacking me bothered to analyze and bring it to public attention.
So much for their investigative journalism in the liberal frontier.
The President then conveniently sent me a letter in the usual manner – glorify privately and vilify publicly.
There was no request from the President to share with the public, I still went ahead and published the content to honor democracy.
Subsequently, there is no remorse or acknowledgment from the President of the United States, elected to the office to protect the republic interest.
Up until such time, I was a mere blogger to indefinitely campaign for elections.
If my word was the rule of law,
Why was my plea prior to the final health care vote, to modify the legislation to universal health care in the letter published on the website to President Barack Obama discarded?
After them being caught in the act of ethical compromise that I detected on my volition, I was bullied with death threats and implicated as an accomplice to turn the tide against me, the public watchdog all along.
Any domestic and global policy submission through the web site was initiated exclusively due to my commitment to the higher calling to serve humanity.
When there is divine intervention the integrity is measured by the solemn oath to serve the people not just in the United States but also across the globe and I’m expected to deliver the humanitarian goals determined by the Supreme cosmic force.
Unlike the tradition in contemporary politics, there is neither carte blanche nor financial gains in humanitarian service. The rules cannot be circumvented for the appointee’s agenda.
Whatever is being organized, it’s in coherence with universal convergence for a new beginning and a bright future.
I hope this would put the derogatory demagoguery to rest. If it doesn’t then it would be to the offenders’ downfall caused by their recalcitrant behavior.
People in glass houses should not cast stones at others.
The content is in reference to the events unfolding at present.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Afghan War after Troops Increase
April 1, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The latest on Afghan war after adding more troops to the nine-year-old battle, a contentious debate that was dominant last year.
Associated Press – Sunday, March 28, 2010.
By Sebastian Abbot – Thank you.
“Troop deaths rise in Afghanistan – Numbers soaring as U.S. adds soldiers
Kabul – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum.
Those deaths have been accompanied by a dramatic spike in the number of wounded, with injuries more than tripling in the first two months of the year and trending in the same direction based on the latest available data for March.
U.S. officials have warned that casualties are likely to rise further as the Pentagon completes its deployment of 30,000 additional troops to Afghanistan and sets its sight on the Taliban’s home base of Kandahar province, where a major operation is expected in the coming months.
“We must steel ourselves, no matter how successful we are on any given day, for harder days yet to come,” Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at a briefing last month.
In total, 57 U.S. soldiers were killed here during the first two months of 2010 compared with 28 in January and February of last year, an increase of more than 100 percent, according to Pentagon figures compiled by the Associated Press.
At least 20 American service members have been killed so far in March.
The steady rise in combat deaths has generated less public reaction in the United States than the spike in casualties in the summer and fall, which undermined public support in the United States for the mission here.
Fighting typically tapers off in Afghanistan during the winter but peaks in the summer.”
————————————————————————————————–
War Strategy Assessment – By Padmini Arhant
The troops increase to Afghanistan was a national debate last year with mixed reaction from all sources.
It’s important to emphasize that there wasn’t an overwhelming public support to the additional troops deployment in Afghanistan.
There were many reasons for the lack luster response.
Among them, the most relevant ones being:
The U.S. and allies’ nomination of President Hamid Karzai as the head of the government for second term defied the Afghan people’s will.
Notwithstanding, the international outrage on the fraudulent general election that led to the opponent, DR. Abdullah Abdullah’s withdrawal from the election.
Another factor is the U.S. occupancy in Afghanistan approaching a decade and the constantly changing ‘purpose’ behind the mission remains intriguing until now.
After much deliberation, President Barack Obama decided to approve the request from the defense high command and argued, “It’s not an easy decision to do so.”
Indeed, pledging the troops’ lives to succeed in the targeted goals is never a simple action.
However, a prolonged war provides enough evidence to consider winding up the operation or at least minimize the troop level by supplementing with diplomacy and peaceful negotiations.
Peace and diplomacy could have prevailed with a democratically elected government. It was thwarted by the U.S. endorsement of an unpopular candidate.
Further, the explanation for more troops involved the U.S and NATO efforts to restore political stability in Afghanistan and terminate the Taliban/Al-Qaida activities.
The irony is, the Afghanistan political situation under the U.S. backed Karzai government shows no improvement in governance, despite the incumbent Afghan President being the U.S. foreign policy designates’ choice.
Similarly, the shift in the U.S. and Afghan government’s strategy towards Taliban insurgents appears to be a new approach to win the militants on their side with cash payments and abandoning the poppy fields eradication – the main source of income for the Taliban forces.
An action that is widely criticized by the human rights groups against narcotics in Afghanistan.
As predicted, the tension between the Karzai government and the U.S. administration has surfaced confirming the mistrust in the relationship.
While the political stalemate between the authorities in Kabul and Washington persists, the mounting U.S. casualties in the Afghan war cannot be ignored.
Troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and Iraq is no longer a choice but an immediate requirement to end the procrastinated occupation in foreign lands.
Divestment from wars to social and economic development in these regions must begin to reflect the sincere commitment to bring hope and opportunity in a society deprived of normal existence for decades.
Substituting the combat troops with Peace Corps eliminates the tragic loss of lives on all sides.
In addition, the peaceful atmosphere would deter terror recruitment and foster an environment for the youth as well as others to build their nations towards a positive direction.
Now is the time for the U.S. authorities in the White House, Pentagon and the State department to relinquish failed policies that is proved a liability claiming precious lives and contributing to the rising deficit.
War leads to grief, revenge and destruction.
Whereas, peace is an eternal bliss.
I convey my condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and pray for the early recovery of the wounded brave hearts.
Your sacrifice makes freedom possible for all.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
His Holiness Dalai Lama in Spotlight
February 23, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
His Holiness Dalai Lama was a guest at the CNNs Larry King Live show on Monday, February 22, 2010.
During the interview, the host Larry King stated,
“Most Americans do not want the United States relationship strained with China over Tibet’s independence.”
Interestingly, Mr. Larry King did not provide any specifics like who exactly these Americans are, the pollster name and details for authenticity.
Such position could not be from the mainstream population given the fact that by and large American people are samaritans and strong believers of democracy including human rights for them and others.
That being the case, it makes one wonder –
Like everything else is Made in China, if the questionnaire for this interview was possibly,
Prepared by China or Beijing’s representatives in the United States due to the provocative and insensitive questions posed in the interview.
Should a major international network like CNN compromise on substance to boost rating?
As for the alleged statement cited by the CNN talk show host, the anonymous individuals prioritizing economic opportunities over Tibetan people’s freedom cannot be living in the,
Land of the Free, Home of the Brave.
More likely, they belong to the – Land of the Narcissists, Home of the Hypocrites.
The people of the oppressed nation, Tibet may not necessarily be the strongest ally of the United States for whom the latter poised as the leader of the free world would not undertake risks against the invader and persecutor, the Communist China, like it did in 1991 –
When the U.S and allies waged war against Iraq in retaliation to Iraq’s President Saddam Hussein’s invasion of a comparatively small kingdom, the oil rich Kuwait,
Or for that matter,
Threatening to wipe out (Obliterate with nuclear weapons- the rhetoric during Presidential campaign) anyone harassing the nuclear armed Israel, the United States surrogate partner in the middle east despite Israel prominently established as the Neo-Imperialist in the region.
Is freedom a natural right and an entitlement for the privileged while remaining a fantasy for the weak and defenseless?
What would be the twenty first century like in the absence of the following events?
The women’s suffrage movement leading to the women’s vote in the United States of America.
If, President Abraham Lincoln had not ended slavery.
A young civil rights leader DR. Martin Luther King daring to dream a world without prejudice.
If, a resilient leader Mahatma Gandhi had failed in the non-violence principle to free his nation from two hundred years of colonialism.
Creating the state of Israel in OId Palestine amid Arab disagreement in the aftermath of holocaust.
The fall of Berlin wall and Eastern Bloc nations set free from the former Soviet Union.
Liberation of South Africa from the brutal apartheid.
Likewise, Independence for the small island nation East Timor -after prolonged tyranny and massacre.
Emancipation of human beings is not up to free individuals or the oppressive authority to decide whether the enslaved are eligible for liberty or not.
Reiterating the earlier message – All living beings are created equal and born to be free.
The people in Tibet, Palestine, Iran, North Korea, Myanmar, Afghanistan and the nations in Africa, Middle East, and Latin America are no exception to this natural rule of law.
No military might and economic power can continue to suppress the freedom of the population for their false sense of political superiority.
His Holiness Dalai Lama for diplomacy sake could seek autonomy rather than independence for the persecuted and tortured six million Tibetans on account of Tibet’s economic dependency on China.
China’s communist politburo decline political freedom and economic opportunities for long oppressed Tibetans in the Buddhist land.
However, India and South Africa would not be independent had they been abandoned under similar notion that the fate of the several millions are better off as the oppressed minority in their domicile.
Every tribe, community and society has leadership potential to guide and govern the people irrespective of the economic and educational status.
It’s an innate quality provided by nature and commonly seen throughout the animal kingdom.
Because of human greed to amass wealth and territories poignantly,
China – In spite of being third largest nation by total area and the second largest in land area, Beijing authorities insist on retaining Tibet, Xinjiang province, annexing Taiwan and currently eying on neighbor India.
Furthermore, the Chinese Communist rule conspicuously reining in on the most powerful nation, the United States transformed into a subservient economic debtor through unfair trade practices.
Not barring the Most Favored Nation (MFN) status, WTO membership and veto power in the UN Security Council consistently abused by the Communist nation at any given time.
Again, the United States and allies biased treatment of other communist nations is noteworthy.
Cuba and North Korea are incessantly subject to economic sanctions for a variety of reasons ranging from human rights violation to the nuclear standoff.
On the other hand, China, the ultimate communist authority with gross human rights violation and utter disregard for international rule of law is granted immunity based on the emerging economic power status by the democratic nations.
United States lacking in political will and corporations with investments in China are pressuring media to evade democracy depriving the people of Tibet the political freedom.
Then the real power – the people as consumers from all walks of life across the world should prove that the political and economic stakeholders can no longer determine the destiny of human beings.
Worldwide boycott of Made in China goods along with investments withdrawal from the state controlled Chinese holdings by humanitarians, democracy and peace seekers for all contrary to the selective few could lead to the beginning of the end of the communist rule in China and elsewhere.
Not long ago, in the latter part of the twentieth century i.e. during the cold war, the former Soviet Union was formidable opponent of the United States.
Lo and behold, the iron curtain dropped astonishing the rest of the world in marking the end of the repressive rule.
History is testimony to the fact that the rise and fall of empire and emperors not attributed to honorable surrendering of power or the oligarchs’ magnanimity but instead the voice for democracy within and outside oppressed nations have enabled the political transition.
With an inevitable freedom for the people of Tibet, Palestine, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea and others, the optimism will prevail over the lingering insecurity among the authorities and their proxies in the political and economic domain.
Caring, compassionate and peace activists from around the world must stage a non-violent protest and display solidarity in the freedom movement for Tibet, Palestine…the only hope and a guaranteed victory towards democracy for these nations.
Finally, the consumer power always succeeds against any economic and political power.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Reflection on the World Economic Forum – Davos, Switzerland
February 19, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The World Economic Forum on January 27 – 31, 2010, at Davos, Switzerland contemplated the global economic crises.
Speakers from the large consortium expressed their thoughts and hope or the lack thereof about the global economic prospects at the annual meeting.
Summarizing the summit issues:
The general focus has been:
The economic recession.
The financial crisis and the need for financial reform.
U.S economy, the dollar, the deficits and the gridlock in Washington due to Special Interests’ control of Congress.
Skepticism on the EURO currency strength and concerns regarding European market from the economic struggles in Greece, Spain, Iceland, Ireland, Portugal, Latvia to name a few further exacerbated by the majority euro members surpassing the 3percent budget deficit cap, a criteria for the euro currency usage.
ECB (European Central Bank) role in easing the liquidity crisis.
UK urging banks to assume responsibility – i.e. resume credit to the frail economy.
National Debt from bailouts – A common symptom shared by the major global economies.
Emerging Markets’ potential in stimulating economic growth through international mergers and acquisitions.
Corporate leadership in risk undertaking, growth sustainability and resisting or embracing reform.
Technological impact on business and adapting social networking concept to promote global agenda.
Google – China controversy on hackers and censorship.
Green Technology and consensus on the climate change policy.
Humanitarian issues related to natural resources such as water scarcity, inadequate food supply in fighting hunger, poverty and disease worldwide.
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Economic Synopsis – By Padmini Arhant
Global economic recession – The general agreement is:
The massive capital interjection with public money in the private sector particularly the finance and the auto industry in the United States was essential in the year 2008 and 2009 to avert a major catastrophe – a full blown depression.
Following that, the bailed out bankers have supporters and cynicists to defend or vilify the mega rewards via executive bonuses amid severe financial meltdown mostly attributed to the current economic crisis.
Another contentious issue related to the financial sector is:
Should governments continue to bailout banks under the banner?
“Too Big to Fail.”
Regardless, it’s clear from the recent experience that a serious financial reform is no longer an option but a necessity to counteract risk undertaking in the financial market.
Moreover, the finance industry being the vehicle for the economic growth, it cannot resist regulations due to the uninsured public funds management by the private sector.
Evidently, the real estate slump exacerbated the liquidity crisis in the global economies viz. Iceland (nicknamed as the “subprime economy”) Ireland, Spain and not sparing the once booming commercial real estate capital – Dubai, UAE,
Leaving the United States not unique in the burgeoning residential and commercial real estate decline.
In terms of stimulating the economic growth, industrialized nations and the emerging markets face a common dilemma – stimulus packages, bailouts and the rising national debt.
Government stimulus programs target specific industries in the domestic economy with the green technology touted as the promising field.
Unequivocally, the green technology should be promoted by all nations big and small besides infrastructure projects and reviving the manufacturing industry.
However, the stimulus activity is bound to create national debt from the budget deficit because of sluggish GDP and the negative current account balance for import-oriented economies like the United States.
U.S Economy:
Although, the multi-trillion dollar deficit has not drastically affected the U.S credit rating as the investor confidence in the U.S market is not lost,
The status quo cannot prolong with the persisting Republican members’ opposition against tax hikes to protect self-interest and special interest.
Notwithstanding their blockade in the financial, health care and energy sector reform.
Therefore, the American electorate must be careful prior to swinging their support to the Republican members in Congress.
The ideologues were responsible for bringing America on its knees under the disastrous Bush-Cheney administration.
Now, the same republican members are determined to stay on the course to debilitate the U.S economy with an utter disregard for the ‘average’ Americans.
While comparing the economies in the stimulus funding, it’s clear that the nations investing in the domestic economy like China, Japan, India, Brazil… have survived the worst crisis through quasi participation.
Private sector project with public capital infusion is seemingly a viable economic strategy to reduce unemployment and curb public outcry over increasing national debt.
It’s attention worthy that President Barack Obama has similarly approached the economic woes with the SBA loans to boost small businesses, tax credits to the corporations and the green sector only to be browbeaten by the “fiscal conservatives” in name only on both sides of the aisle.
Again, something to remember about the so-called “fiscal conservatives” successful derailment of economic progress.
So far, the opposition policy in every national issue is “Penny wise and Pound foolish.”
Not to mention their conduct exemplified in the tarnished U.S image at WEF with,
Communist China scorn democracy by citing the Special Interests’ dominance in American politics.
The statement is not far-fetched except for scapegoating democracy against totalitarianism.
United States should adopt big and bold economic actions to contain the high unemployment and that would be:
Job creation in the infrastructure projects, innovate the manufacturing sector with technology alongside revolutionizing industrial growth on eco-friendly foundation.
Energizing the small businesses and retail industry is equally important to enhance the per capita income, an appropriate inclusion in the economic progress measurement rather than reliance on GDP growth alone.
United States is rich in resources in every aspect with an advantage of being the pioneer across the economic spectrum.
The rumor about United States weak economic status and attempts to denigrate the U.S dollar as the international currency is nothing but smear tactics by the competitors vying for the leading role in the world economy.
What the investors should bear in mind is the U.S economy’s resilience to rebound in the face of worst economic and political crisis and history is testimony to that effect.
In addition, the democratic system is a positive factor in attracting investments within and offshore.
European Economy:
The EU and the ECB (European Central Bank) proposals are pragmatic in many ways.
ECB intervention to pull the European financial markets from the liquidity crisis would facilitate the anticipated credit flow in the union.
Economic setbacks in Greece, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Latvia and last but certainly not the least Iceland are significant and cannot be abandoned for it might reach a crescendo irrespective of the trade volume.
Accordingly, the conditional offer from Germany and France to bailout Greece is vital to protect the EU economic interest with Greece being the union member.
The leadership in the Mediterranean nation under the Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou is capable of salvaging the dire economic situation.
When the reckless banking sector was bailed out for speculative trading, otherwise gambling of public investments,
The Greek economy with labor capital, entrepreneurial exuberance and political stability deserves EU / IMF /World Bank assistance to survive the economic turmoil.
It would be detrimental to hinder the borrowing opportunity for Greece and other ailing economies predominantly due to the regional impact.
At the same time, Greece and Iceland should be transparent with facts and display fiscal responsibility to the international monetary oversight for creditworthiness.
United Kingdom is right on target in demanding the financial sector to resume credit to the frail economy.
U.K has been forceful in urging the much-required global financial regulations even though not surprisingly, the conservative political faction is against it.
France – Recommendation on the long overdue closing of corporate tax havens is a step in the right direction.
In fact, the rule of thumb for the global economies dealing with budget deficits is to:
Eliminate redundant expenditure
Differ or limit discretionary spending
Scale back unaffordable commitments like wars, conventional stockpiles and nuclear proliferation not barring extravagant agenda like moon travel more for prominence than purpose.
Revision of tariffs and taxation laws to expand the revenue horizon.
It’s imperative to consider tax increases and close tax evasion loopholes through tax havens.
Spending freeze with tax cuts and synonymously tax increases with skyrocketing expenditure would be oxymoron at any given time.
Emerging Markets viz. BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China):
The salient feature in the group is their ability to focus and invest entirely on the domestic economy.
Unlike the United States and NATO, none of the four nations is currently engaged in active warfare though; cross border tension is permanent with contingent defense forces on the periphery.
Still, the four nations ‘combined defense spending falls short of the exponentially escalating U.S military expenditure appropriated for –
Two overt wars in Iraq and Afghanistan,
A proxy war in Yemen with drones and fighter planes provided to the Yemeni forces,
Over and above the U.S military base situated nationally and overseas.
Poignantly China more than Russia is engaged in the lucrative arms race to Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Pakistan, North Korea, war torn Africa – Darfur in Sudan, Congo, Somalia, Guinea, Rwanda…
Yet, not competitive enough to the United States in this respect and confirmed by:
The New York Times article By THOM SHANKER – Thank you.
Published: September 6, 2009
Despite Slump, U.S. Role as Top Arms Supplier Grows
“Despite a recession that knocked down global arms sales last year, the United States expanded its role as the world’s leading weapons supplier, increasing its share to more than two-thirds of all foreign armaments deals, according to a new Congressional study.”
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Economic Synopsis – By Padmini Arhant
BRIC countries impressive performance is expected to continue with the investor confidence higher in these regions than Europe.
Their view on the U.S domestic job creation as isolationism or protectionism do not bode well since the BRIC nations have adapted the domestic investment policy to expedite economic revival.
The irony is the characterization of the United States and Europe adhering to similar strategies as ‘protectionism.’
It’s noteworthy that Brazil, India and China have benefited from globalization with transnational ventures in their shores.
Such anomalies beckon paradigm shift in the globalization concept among the emerging markets.
Some U.S corporations as the global operators echo the sentiments much to the displaced domestic workforce anguish and disappointment.
They remain oblivious to the facts that the United States being the largest consumer base and a major importer is struggling to contain high unemployment, fragile housing market and credit crunch in the financial sector.
U.S economic recovery is paramount for the global economic stability.
Optimize Technological Applications:
World society is more digitalized than before and technology embedded industry maximize efficient output. Incorporating technology in every imaginable field is the cornerstone for the present and future generation.
Green Technology and Climate Change Policy:
Industrialized countries along with developing nations are grappling to arrive at a consensus on climate change policy.
Fortunately there is tremendous enthusiasm towards green technology and the economic powers are reluctant to make the swift transition by renouncing fossil fuel and nuclear power to natural sources like solar, wind and hydrothermal energy.
The main problem lies with the profit guiding politics by the energy behemoths obstructing the fossil fuel and nuclear technology abandonment against all natural elements for energy production.
Life survival and sustenance on the planet is dependent upon clean air, water and food chain maintenance, not achievable without an aggressive climate change policy.
Hybrid policy targeting carbon emissions through carbon tax and cap & trade is the viable solution from the economic and political standpoint, other than possibly winning bipartisanship in the climate bill legislation in the United States.
Humanitarian Issues:
Water scarcity and inadequate food supply is the global challenge confronting humanity.
Emerging markets favoring globalization have a primary responsibility in addressing the plight of the vast majority in their domain rather than exclusively focused on GDP growth.
The population in Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East cannot be ignored by the affluent nations and their $100 billion commitment in economic aid during the G20 meeting reflects meagerness and not eagerness to alleviate suffering on the planet.
Poverty being the reality, the global community can provide to the needy by reining in on personal greed.
Communal development against concentrated growth guarantees a bright future for humanity.
Global progress and prosperity begins with economic equality, social justice and political freedom.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Eulogy
February 16, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The nation bid farewell to the two honorable members of Congress recognized as the veterans in national defense and politics.
Rep. John Murtha (June 17, 1932 – February 8, 2010)
John Murtha, a former Vietnam War veteran and then a Democrat in the United States House of Representatives from the 12th Congressional District, Pennsylvania, turned into a strong critic of the Iraq war.
Initially, Rep. Murtha joined the majority of the Democrats and voted for the Iraq war.
However, the Congressman reportedly remained confused about the premise surrounding the Iraqi invasion. Later, Rep. Murtha called for the troop withdrawal from Iraq.
Legislatively, the democrat representative served his constituents until the last moment and earned the reputation as the longest serving member in Congress for the state of Pennsylvania.
Like most public figures, Rep. John Murtha was criticized on ethics related to earmarks spending and receiving campaign contributions from the special interests.
Militarily, Colonel John Murtha appeared to have gained distinction for his service having won many Medals of Honor.
Appropriately, the Congress acknowledged Rep. John Murtha’s invaluable service to the nation.
The veteran Congressman will be missed in the strong dissent against the military presence in Iraq.
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Charles Wilson (June 1, 1933 – February 10, 2010)
Charles Wilson – Previously, a United States naval officer and subsequently a 12 term Democrat Representative in the U.S House of Congress from the 2nd congressional district in Texas is remembered in the U.S operation against the Soviet Army in Afghanistan.
Rep. Wilson was apparently a true celebrity in many aspects with positive and negative connotations.
Nevertheless, the Congressman’s contribution towards the U.S expulsion of the Soviet Union from Afghanistan is memorable.
Similarly, Rep. Charles Wilson as the naval officer deserves credit for his service in the United States Navy and later at the Pentagon in the intelligence unit.
We hope and pray for their soul to rest in peace.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
State of the Union Address by President Barack Obama
January 29, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
President Barack Obama presented the first State of the Union address to the joint session of the United States Congress.
Appropriately, the core message was about the economy and the various proposals to revive the nation from the prolonged economic recession that began in 2002.
Attention to the small businesses, students and the average American families who represent the significant consumer base is timely and the commitments are economically viable.
The tax cuts to Corporations preserving American jobs is a necessary strategy to deal with the double digit unemployment risen to the current rate by 2.6 percent, since inheriting the 7.6 percent rate in January 2009 when the former President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney left office.
In fact, the $787 billion funding towards President Obama initiated American Investment and Recovery Act helped to contain the economic crisis and the unemployment to a marginal increase against the financial sector avalanche.
There was a large emphasis on education to improve Math and Science skills among K-12 students.
In addition, the President laid out the programs to ease the burden on the students attending Community College through tax incentives, affordable loan payments, increasing Pell Grants and even enticing them to join public service in exchange for the loan adjustment. Of course, the families were included with a $10,000 tax relief for their children’s college education.
As highlighted by the President, sound education is the stepping-stone to progress and prosperity in a society and the effective means to reduce poverty. Also, it would decrease the prison population that is straining the state budgets like in California.
In social issues – the President pledged to repeal the ‘don’t ask don’t tell,’ discriminatory policy in the United States military against the gay service personnel who are equally dedicated in their patriotic duty. A remarkable recognition and long overdue.
On the discretionary budget-spending freeze scheduled to begin in 2011, it’s relieving to note that the safety net for the retirees and senior citizens available through social security, Medicare and Medicaid for the low-income families would not be affected.
However, it’s essential to apply tighter control on the defense spending that is disproportionately increasing against health care, educational and environmental cause regardless of party representation in the White House.
The President urged both parties in Congress to rein in wasteful spending in the form of earmarks or pork barrel – It’s necessary to be discerning in the expenditures given the accumulated national debt.
Job creation through public projects such as high-speed railways and infra structure maintenance is coherent with the former President JFK’s achievement in connecting America from coast to coast.
It’s a worthwhile investment and pervasive in dealing with the energy and environment issues.
The President is right on target in this respect due to multiple benefits on these projects viz.
First, it would decrease unemployment and boost the economy simultaneously.
Second, it enables energy conservation with mass transit possibly becoming the desirable public transportation, besides having a positive environmental impact.
Third, from the health standpoint – the automobile accidents being the leading cause of premature deaths and often leaving the victims with horrific physical injuries in the industrialized countries, the proposed system is a preventive measure in that regard.
Moreover, the stress factor that is common among the motorists could be eliminated as well.
Last but not the least; the local economies would enormously gain from an efficient public transport system attracting tourists within and outside the country.
It’s gratifying to note the President’s affirmation on the health care reform – Echoing the President’s message – Health care legislation cannot wait indefinitely for it’s proved to be a burgeoning crisis contributing to national deficit due to horrendous costs not to mention the loss of lives.
The President also detailed on the financial reform that ought to be implemented to save the domestic and the global financial markets from major catastrophes in the future. It’s crucial for the legislation to be loopholes free to deter the industry from circumventing the rules and regulations.
With respect to the on-going wars in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the capturing and killing of terrorists might be a partial success for the military operation. Nevertheless, terrorism emanating from despair and desolation cannot be eradicated with military might and sophisticated drone attacks.
In the absence of a functional government facilitating basic necessities like clean water, agricultural and industrial growth, education, health care and social equalities that guarantees freedom to live life with dignity, the regions will continue to be the breeding ground for terror.
The President fulfilling the campaign promise on troops withdrawal from Iraq by this summer deserves praise and credit. Again, the veterans returning home after a traumatic combat situation have to be suitably provided for their settlement in the civilian environment. These patriots and their families cannot be abandoned after their sacrifices for the nation.
Warning the rebels in Iran and North Korea on nuclear programs is warranted. But, the successive failures in the multilateral talks in 2009 and 2010 among the 6 powers including Russia on Iran’s nuclear program suggests the inherent mistrust and power struggle conspicuous in the United Nations Security Council.
Reiterating the earlier suggestion, the solution to resolve the international crisis on different fronts is to expand the U.N. Security Council from 5 to 11, with the inclusion of new and conciliatory members like Japan, Brazil, India, South Africa, UAE and the present defacto member, Germany.
In other international crisis, even though the Israeli Palestinian conflict was not part of the address, the President responded to a town hall participant’s question on this issue.
Despite Israel being the United States strongest ally and the political predicaments prevalent more in Israel than Palestine, Israel’s settlement expansion along with brutal occupation and humiliation through check posts in Palestine must be condemned unequivocally to reflect fairness and United States commitment to an independent two state solution in the region.
To summarize the first State of the Union address by President Barack Obama, the content was relevant with the economy being the primary focus and the well-articulated objectives strengthened the urgency to act on the issues confronting the nation.
The presentation was immaculate for it had the measured composure and at the same time the passionate delivery revealed empathy, resilience and resolve to energize the party members and the democratic base especially after being let down in the preceding political upheavals.
Now, the responsibilities lie with the Congress members of both political parties to lay their ideological differences aside and coalesce to pass the legislations designed to alleviate the average Americans’ suffering, for which the representatives were elected.
The people on their part, i.e. the students, working families, senior citizens, businesses and alike have a unique opportunity to renew democracy by calling the local representatives in the House and the Senate to pass the pending legislations on financial reform, health care and climate bill.
Democracy is efficient with the main street activism to promote the desired ‘Change,’ in Washington and Wall Street.
When we could succeed in 2008, we will do so in 2010, if you make it possible.
Please extend your support to our President Barack Obama and those Congress members who are devoted to your interest and not the special interests.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Obama Presidency – State of the Union Address
January 27, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
On the eve of the first State of the Union Address by the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, the media frenzy with opinions and speculations preceding the important event is not uncommon.
President Barack Obama is scheduled to address the nation and the rest of the world about the administration’s efforts and achievements in the past twelve months and the commitments moving forward.
The past week political and legal outcome has created anxiety and genuine concern among the people and some lawmakers in Congress.
Although, the political consultant based in Washington D.C. echoing the ‘K’ street sentiment by presenting oxymoron analogies would like this development downplayed, the truth of the matter is the high court decision embolden the prevalent corporate dominance and enhance the opportunity for the legislators to either remain or return to power regardless of their detrimental performance in public service.
Assailing the facts as ‘hyperventilation,’ a spin that undermines democracy when the elections are swift boated with the Corporations, Unions and religious institutions’ influence, is rather naïve if not ignorant.
Amid dismal forecasting of the Obama Presidency, the rationality beckons a fair analysis of the Obama administration’s accomplishments and errors since their election to the White House.
President Barack Obama was sworn into the office on January 20, 2009.
State of the Economy:
The former President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney administration left the White House on January 19, 2009:
United States FEDERAL BUDGET – WIKIPEDIA, THE FREE ENCYCLOPEDIA
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_federal_budget
Deficit and Debt Increases 2001-2009 … to a total debt of $10.6 trillion as of January 2009. …
For the first time in FY 2008, the U.S. added $1 trillion to the national debt. …
Then bipartisan Congress approved taxpayer spending on two simultaneous wars in Iraq and Afghanistan by allocating $1.05 trillion up until September 30, 2010.
Source: http://costofwar.com/
Total cost of wars since 2001 until date – $954 billion and rising
Spending on Iraq war – $704 billion and Afghanistan war – $250 billion
In addition, the Bush-Cheney administration Wall Street bailout that included insurance giant AIG, Mortgage lender Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, major banks and the auto industry in 2008.
Reference: www.padminiarhant.com under Business Category, Date – July 23, 2009
Title –Bush Stimulus Package
Total – $1.557 trillion i.e. $1 trillion and 557 billion dollars.
Source: The United States Labor Department
Unemployment Rate in January 2009 – 7.6 percent with 11.6 million Americans out of work.
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Reality Check: By Padmini Arhant
With that being the actual state of affairs, the Obama administration initiative towards jumpstarting the economy was passing a stimulus package to benefit the average Americans and the small businesses worst hit in the economic recession that started in 2002 but acknowledged by the republican members and the Bush administration in December 2007.
Economic Stimulus: $787 billion Passed in February 2009 without any vote from the Senate and a single vote from the House of representative among the Republican minority.
Having previously voted for the Wall Street bailout to AIG and the TARP fund under Bush administration in 2008, the republican members refrained from assisting the American workers and families in the Obama stimulus package in 2009.
Obama Administration Stimulus Funding:
$787 billion economic stimulus package for job creation and tax cuts to help average American workers, families and small businesses.
$275 billion mortgage stimulus program aimed at saving troubled homeowners from foreclosure.
$30 billion bail out to AIG (in addition to the $150 billion Bush administration bailout to the insurance giant in 2008) to avert the conglomerate collapse.
$1 trillion “toxic asset” buyout program designed to get under-water assets off the U.S. banks balance sheets and facilitate the credit flow in the market to help small businesses, first home buyers, home owners refinancing as wells as the medium corporations in retaining jobs.
At the end of March 2009, the Obama Administration gave automakers General Motors and Chrysler another $22 billion in low-interest loans to protect the manufacturing jobs.
In June, the Obama Administration gave General Motors another $30 billion to help them steer through bankruptcy.
Total Obama Stimulus Package – $2.1 trillion dollars – $2 trillion and $144 billion dollars, of that $1 trillion relates to “toxic asset’ program.
It’s noteworthy that the subprime and hedge fund activities accompanied by various Wall Street speculative gambling happened on Bush-Cheney administration and the republican majority watch i.e. 2000-2006 and the recession had already been well under way, even though they refused to take responsibility.
2000 – 2006 the republican members controlled all three branches of the government.
The legislative i.e. both the House and the Senate, The executive, a.k.a. The White House and the judiciary branch.
During that time, the Bush-Cheney Presidency was preoccupied with the wild adventure in Iraq that commenced in 2003 under the pretext of WMD, the weapons of mass destruction that turned out to be Work of Mass Deception.
Again, the Bush-Cheney administration and the republican members were focused on the Halliburton, the oilfield service corporation and its subsidiary, the Kellogg Corporation’s prosperity by neglecting the U.S economy and the brewing global financial crisis.
When the same republican Congress and the Bush administration decided to accept the financial debacle and the economic crisis in December 2007, it’s a year after the democrats gained majority in the House of Congress with the selective news network and the republican members blaming the democrats for the economic crisis.
Shifting attention to the year 2009 -2010, the Obama administration and the democratic Congress passed the necessary legislations to stimulate the economy and devoted much of their time towards the historic health care reform.
President Obama and Democrat Congress Accomplishments:
Economy –
– Salvaged the global financial markets from the brink of collapse,
– Extended unemployment benefits to help families survive the massive layoffs,
– federal tax credits to first home buyers that decelerated the crumbling housing market,
– Stimulus funding generated jobs for the veterans and the green technology projects.
Education and Arts:
Provided College Students relief by shifting the unaffordable student loan payments from the private industry to non-profit organizations.
$787 billion Stimulus Package included –
Federal funding to boost K-12 education supplementing the state budget crisis across the nation.
Federal funding to preserve arts and cultural science.
Health Care Legislation – A phenomenal feat by the democrats in the Congress and the White House, despite the existing resistance from the health care industry to block the legislation.
Poignantly, the milestones in the health care legislation reached without any republican votes in the Senate and again may be with an exception of a single vote from the House of representative.
Average Americans across the nation shared their harrowing experiences from the health care industry abuses and pleaded with their representatives for a universal Medicare and save American lives – approximately 45,000 dying every year due to denial and the lack of health insurance.
Besides, the members of both political parties were well informed on the burgeoning health care costs contributing to the national deficit, an issue that has been squarely attributed to the democrats by the republican members while forgetting their own legacy to the American taxpayers, the accumulated $10.6 trillion, the wars, bailouts…cited above.
Energy and Environment:
The Copenhagen summit in December 2009 is a huge disappointment.
Nevertheless, there is an opportunity in the remaining term to accomplish the desirable goals.
President Barack Obama’s domestic environmental actions surpass the expectations in the first year.
Source: Environmental Policy – San Jose Mercury News, January 19, 2010 – By Paul Rogers
“The economy, war and health care are dominating discussions about what he has or hasn’t accomplished.
Yet with little notice from the public, Obama has been steadily rewriting a major area of American policy – the environment – from global warming to gas mileage rules, logging to endangered species.
Many of his initiatives have particular impact on California.
Obama on the Environment:
Increased gas mileage standards for cars and light trucks 40 percent, to 35 mpg by 2016.
Signed a bill establishing 2.1 million new acres of federally protected wilderness, the largest such bill since President Bill Clinton signed the Desert Protection Act in 1994.
The bill bans logging, mining and road building on federal forests and deserts in nine states, including portions of Joshua tree and Sequoia national parks and ancient bristlecone pine forests in the eastern Sierra.
Announced tougher new national smog standards from the EPA this month i.e. January 2010.
Issued EPA rules requiring large U.S. ships to cut soot emissions by 85 percent.
Blocked Bush administration rules on offshore drilling and endangered species protections.
Begun a process in December in which the Environmental Protection Agency will, for the first time, restrict the amount of greenhouse gases industry can release.
Directed more than $50 billion in funding and tax credits for renewable energy projects.
“This is by far the best first year on the environment of any president in history, including Teddy Roosevelt,” said Carl Pope, national executive director of the Sierra Club, in San Francisco.
“Most presidents have done their best environmental work late in their term. This is very very strong opening.”
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Democratic Congress and White House Administration errors requiring correction:
Domestic Policy: By Padmini Arhant
Passing legislations in the partisan atmosphere is a daunting task in itself.
Both the White House and the democratic Congress have not been meticulous in the policy implementations such as,
Banks bailout approval without any stipulations.
Oversight and accountability on the stimulus funding slighted by the financial industry.
Failure to reserve actions against banks’ non-compliance in easing the liquidity crisis and the housing market revival.
Resisting pork barrel or earmarks in the stimulus funding to negate the opposition and the selective media hypocrisy.
Recruiting the faulty economic team otherwise known as the Wall Street oligarchy –
The Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, the economic adviser Larry Summers and now backing the Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke for a second term, much against the main street protest is a tremendous political liability.
Further, the team members were the head of the respective institutions that led the economy to a near free fall and arguably viewed by the general public as the lobbyists for the financial sector.
Job creation and protection – It’s been slow irrespective of the stimulus programs and is the primary cause for losing the recent elections.
It could be recovered by offering tax cuts to deserving corporations preserving jobs as opposed to exporting jobs overseas.
Incentivizing manufacturing sector by reviewing trade and commerce law.
Embracing protectionism over globalization is necessary to promote domestic jobs, thereby confirming the White House and Congress priority for the American people over the overseas financier, China.
Regulations and reform in the finance, health care and energy sector is paramount for the present survival and future growth.
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Foreign Policy: By Padmini Arhant
Haiti disaster fund $100 million by the administration is commendable but news reports regarding the U.S military presence overwhelming the rescue and relief operation was alarming.
Remarkable improvement in the U.S. and Russian relationship particularly in the dialogue related to conventional stockpiles and nuclear arsenal reduction treaty.
The 64th U.N General Assembly session in September 2009 – Smart approach to discuss nuclear non-proliferation even though nuclear disarmament is the ideal path towards global peace and security.
G-20 meeting in April and September 2009 was a success and progress dependent on pending U.S financial reform.
April 2009 – $1 Trillion Stimulus Package – G-20 World Leaders Stimulus
The leaders of the 20 most powerful countries in the world (representing 85% of global economic production) convened in London and agreed to $1 trillion in economic stimulus funds, as well as tighter global financial regulations.
Environmental – COP15, Copenhagen Summit – A failure.
There is hope to realize the environmental scope in the 2010 and future global summits. The environmental pursuit must begin with the U.S climate bill legislation to gain credibility in the international forum.
Domestic issues like economy, health care, debates surrounding the troops increase in Afghanistan and national security have consumed most part of the 2009 and overshadowed the prominent world crises.
Pakistan – Financial aid to advance socio-economic development is a positive step as long as the funds are invested to alleviate the population plight and educate the children in the rural and urban areas. Drone attacks have caused many civilian casualties justifiably triggering anger and frustration among the local victims.
Military aid and the deployment of the private mercenary viz. The Blackwater a.k.a.Xe Services LLC and alike to eliminate the terror networks is a contentious issue to be discussed in length later.
India and Pakistan – The United States’ position to disassociate from the talks reveals political expediency.
Iranian crackdown of the democracy movement and defiance in the nuclear program – A cautious reaction and response by the United States arousing passion among the allies and the adversaries.
Worsening Israeli and Palestinian conflict – Jewish settlements, blockade and occupation continue to derail peace prospects and fomented by the United States adherence to the prior administration’s foreign policy.
The controversial three-dimensional wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Yemen via military and intelligence intervention will be elaborated in the later segments.
Containing the saber rattling – North Korea launching missiles, a tradition maintained since the former Bush-Cheney administration. Multilateral talks are vital to curb North Korean President Kim Jong Il’s erratic behavior.
Postponing the meeting with his Holiness Dalai Lama and accepting illegal invasion and occupation of Tibet as part of China in an effort to appease the major creditor – A diplomatic trend serving none and blatantly condones oppression, a diametric stance for the world’s first democracy.
Honduran Military Coup – A setback reflecting the flagrant U.S foreign policy towards Latin America complicated by the republican members’ rendezvous with the military coup leader Roberto Micheletti.
Darfur Genocide – President Obama’s interference was refreshing and requires intense pressure on the Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir to end the massacre entirely.
Burma – The Burmese junta extending the pro-democracy leader, Aung san suu kyi’s house arrest and exploiting the forthcoming election with false declaration to release the leader by November 2010 is bound to attract international interest.
Unrest in Sub-Saharan Africa – Guinea – The U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton appropriately condemned the violence and the message should resonate in other parts of the world for the United States to be received as the reliable negotiator in peace process.
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Performance Assessment and Future Role: By Padmini Arhant
President Barack Obama and the democratic Congress have demonstrated leadership in dealing with the humongous challenges inherited from the previous administration on the economy, war, national security and neglected issues pertaining to human life i.e. health care and environment.
Regrettably, the White House and the democrat Congress have not utilized the political capital earned from the historic election and the weaning public support especially among the independent voters stems from the promised ‘Change,’ not being delivered with Wall Street reining control over Washington and the substantial bailouts not producing the anticipated economic recovery.
Other factors like transparency and accountability are perceived to be in coherence with the earlier administration’s discreet policy, avoiding the free press and media, thus providing fodder for the critics.
In foreign policy and war on terror – The administration policy is viewed as Bush-Cheney policy in the international main street specifically in the most vulnerable regions of the world.
President Barack Obama seeking bipartisanship with a cabinet offer to the Republican Senator, Judd Gregg of New Hampshire to serve as the U.S Commerce Secretary was turned down.
Similarly, the White House invitation to the republican members for their input in the economic stimulus went stone deaf with criticisms volleyed against the President and the democrats for the economic stimulus package.
The President and the democrats’ bipartisan outreach have been futile, for they are doomed either way among the republican members who can’t find any common ground to agree upon any proposal.
In light of the status quo, the Congress members are obligatory to the American electorate rather than their colleagues in the House and the Senate or the Wall Street.
Creating jobs and restoring confidence among the consumers, investors and taxpayers is the inevitable victory against any form of opposition.
Negative attacks and distortions will persist. Maintaining a strong disposition and determination to succeed are the key characteristics when facing obstacles on the path.
Moving diligently with the legislations on financial reform, health care with a public option and concentrating on the climate bill will prove the inherent courage in the Presidency and Congress members to fight for the people and the nation.
Ultimately, in a democracy the power lies with the people as voters, consumers, taxpayers and shareholders.
Among the members in the society – Effectively, it’s better for different groups supporting a common cause to pool resources and present them as one voice against any powerful force during the elections and legislations.
For instance, the various environmental organizations should consolidate ideas and act together to defeat the industrial threat to the planet.
Likewise, the average citizens should join together as a resilient force to represent democracy during elections, and rally behind the President and the party that is dedicated to the public and not the private or personal interest.
The United States has a unique opportunity to rebound in all aspects and emerge from the present crises under the leadership of President Barack Obama and the democratic Congress.
People have endured and overcome many upheavals in the ‘Land of the Free and Home of the Brave, the United States.
President Barack Obama brought hope to many in this country and around the world in 2008.
People are the only ones who can bring about the ‘Change,’ they desire by electing the officials and the President who are willing to undertake political risks and protect the people’s rights in a democracy.
“Yes We Can,” did it in 2008 and “Yes We Will,” should elect the doers, the democrats to office in 2010 to complete the work began in 2009, the economy and health care…
I wish President Barack Obama and Congress members of both parties success in the legislative matter concerning “We the People.”
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Happy New Year! Arrival of 2010
January 3, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The world bid farewell to the first decade of the new millennium and greeted the beginning of the yet another decade with hope and optimism. Events in the years 2000 – 2009 have been remarkably pulsating with the Y2K hype, Presidential elections, political scandals, New Wave terrorism, simultaneous wars, space shuttle disaster, natural catastrophes, environmental onslaught, economic recession, corporate failures, pandemics, genocides, religious sacrilege, and the demise of the famous and the infamous personalities overwhelming the population in intensity and casting the news media on a spin.
On the bright side, the innovative technology introduced novel electronic devices, gadgets and gizmos and continues to revolutionize modern existence in all frontiers evidenced in medicine, space programs, travel, sports, and entertainment not barring the election process such as the 2008 Presidential race.
Human character is tested every moment in life. The extreme adversity survival is an affirmation of the victims’ tenacity to weather the storm at any level. Tragedies of greater magnitude often unify people and unfortunately it’s never long lasting. Soon after, society defaults to individualism, the factor that contributes to problems facing humanity.
Contemporary issues are largely pre-empted by the concept of “me, myself and I,” involving power struggle, wealth amassment and spotlight.
From politics, economics to any form of entertainment, the aggressive domination serving the self interest rather than the common good is pursued as the only path to triumph in the targeted goals. Ironically, such behavior ultimately affects all including the original source, both morally and otherwise. Some change the course of action and evolve from it whereas others dissolve in it for a kamikaze end.
“Some things never changes,” is ominous throughout the crisis. Following the September 11, 2001 artfully orchestrated terrorism, the several testimonies to Congress concluded that the intelligence and the national security flunked in defending the country from the monstrous attack.
Eight years later the repeat scenario with the young bomber on Christmas day fortunately averted but again attributed to the same administrative branch’s dismissal of the warnings from the terror suspect’s father, the next of kin. Instead of following the lead and aborting the incident prior to any serious development, the bizarre explanation reportedly alluding to the suspect’s father not being a close relative defies common sense.
Pertaining to the terror revival, the travelling experience for particular people is guaranteed to be harrowing due to the ethnic groups branding largely stemming from ignorance causing further polarization.
The terror organization Al-Qaida is unduly regarded as the formidable opponent in the “war on terror,” when the reality being the gaping hole in the domestic front like the transportation department (TSA) deprived of the qualified personnel to lead the important division because of the partisan politics is an open invitation to all imaginable external harm out there.
Hence, the priority must be to thwart the internal threats, a hindrance to the functional government. It guides to the supermajority issue in the Senate that must be eliminated and made filibuster proof for democracy to prevail. Politics focused on self promotion uses the filibuster as a weapon, no less than the tactics availed in the terror plots by the assailants.
Only the public outrage and condemnation along with stripping the power that is misused will terminate the undemocratic means among the legislators entrusted to be the lawmakers. Further, the imposition of term limits is equally necessary in the meaningful political reform to enable successful legislations on national and global matter.
Today, politics is nothing but a popularity contest. It makes one wonder why nations bother holding the grueling elections that emits the worst out of candidates who pledge to safeguard the state sovereignty while grossly violate the ethics and sometimes even the constitution they are elected to defend. It holds no bar against the demeanor witnessed during the elections all over.
Since, politics seeks glamour and glitz with the media interested in style than substance, it might be simpler for the electorate to choose the most popular entity on-line and be disenchanted by the contenders. It would also save the political aspirants from the heartaches and blistering attacks funded by the special interests operating to reap huge dividends in the short and long term regardless of the outcome.
Then accordingly, the A-political celluloid celebrities will trump the political contestants for Hollywood is far-reaching with genuine dedication towards humanitarian progress monetarily and in policy advocacy, with the exception of the Californians’ leadership choice to represent the golden state.
With respect to the corporate structure, the recent revelations conform to the fact that the corporations rule the national and the international domain on all issues predominantly favoring them in their selective globalization and protectionism to suit the private agenda. There will be more in the forthcoming articles in this context.
When scanning the role of religion in politics, apparently, the constitutional separation of church and state is slighted with the religious groups heavily influencing the legislative process related to women’s health and the gay members in the society. The political fervor visibly displayed in the sermons posing a conflict of interest with the captive audience. At the same time, the activism among these groups is non-existent in deterring the government against war and human rights abuse.
Considering the global challenges, the religious institutions could be instrumental in alleviating the human plight, the appropriate call of duty that interprets service to humanity as the service to the revered entity.
For instance, the treasure held at the Vatican City, the holy shrine for the most venerable and compassionate Lord Jesus could adequately address the poverty, hunger and disease in the catholic and non-catholic regions of the world.
Lord Jesus personifies simplicity and sacrifice to mankind’s benefit and the wealth in possession of the “pious,” is an obstacle in the path to salvation and decries the ordained spiritual purpose.
The wealth disbursement for basic necessities viz. clean water, growing food crops, education, and disease prevention would provide enormous humanitarian relief to catholic nations like The Philippines, Mexico, Haiti, and other countries in Latin America, Africa and the Eastern Europe.
With Judaism, more rabbis need to join the scholars and peace activists in urging Israel to cease the settlement activity in West Bank and East Jerusalem. This would expedite the two state solutions for permanent peace between Israel and Palestine.
Likewise, the religion of Islam has come under merciless attack and falsely used as an alibi by the
terrorists to support their violent motives against innocent human beings. Islam has been wrongfully accused of preaching violence by some ill-informed political and religious representatives and certain media to stir controversy and infuse confusion in the mainstream thoughts.
It’s important for the religious order and the people of Islamic faith to overtly oppose the terrorists’ actions and the propaganda against Islam emanating from all sides. Silence is an improper response to slander.
Similarly, Hinduism is misunderstood for creating caste distinctions based on socio-economic status. On the contrary, Hindu religion invariably emphasizes on “all living beings created equal,” with the divine incarnates or “Avatars” on earth having represented the ostracized to dispel the human manufactured discriminatory conduct.
The multi-limbed goddesses have aroused curiosity for their appearance when in fact it’s symbolic of the feminine qualities in multi-tasking and places the female gender as the most productive and significant part of the creations.
Goddess Durga is worshipped as the mother of the Universe and the procreator sharing equal status and power with her consort God Shiva. Goddess Durga also known as Shakti meaning vibrant energy is omnipotent and a merciful savior of the weak and the oppressed.
However, the deity’s ferocious version of “Kali” is a force to reckon with and exclusively meant to deal with injustice, intolerance, treachery, chaos, carnage and destruction by the mortals.
Despite the aura of the Goddess Durga, women are still subject to atrocities reflected in the incidents of female infanticides, dowry homicides and denigration of various kinds in the Indian society.
Although, crimes of this nature are punishable by law, it’s essential to eradicate the concept that women are inferior in any shape or form. It reveals the hypocrisy with the female deities worshipped for fame and fortune but women in certain segments of the society do not receive the respect and dignity they deserve. Women’s organizations within India are fairly active and doing good work with room for improvement in promoting women’s rights.
In the neighboring Afghanistan and Pakistan, women fall in the subservient category and the abuse of women in these regions are legitimized through Sharia law and the Karzai administration legalizing the non-consensual consummation in a marriage against Afghan women. Women in other Islamic nations like Indonesia share the experience of being treated as second class citizens in some urban and most rural parts of the country.
Elsewhere, in Africa, Middle East and Latin America the women are burdened with the religious orthodox traditions and ancient rituals leaving the women shackled in medieval times.
Irrespective of the economic status, the female infanticide continues even in the metropolitan China and the abandonment of female children ending in the orphanage is not uncommon. The disparities in wages and other anomalies against women persist.
Industrialized nations are no better. The repressive conditions for women in Japan are well known and perhaps masqueraded with the western outlook.
As for the western nations, women encounter domestic violence and the corporate culture showcase women in a condescending manner to push the commercial merchandise and during deal negotiations. The news reports on physical assault against service women by the private contractors and discrimination of pregnant officer in the war zones is regressive for an advanced nation.
In the United States, the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) defeat recently in the legislation based on the myopic view that it would grant women equal participation in the combat role ignores other aspects on women’s rights.
Further setbacks on women’s rights extended in the Supreme Court Decision and the Senate Bill on equal pay for equal work killed by the Senate Republicans via 56-42 votes on April 23, 2008 on the grounds that the legislation would trigger lawsuits from the affected parties i.e. the women in this case.
Source: National Organization for Women – Thank you.
http://www.now.org/issues/economic/070530equalpay.html
”The Supreme Court decision in the case of Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. In a 5-4 decision, the Court ruled that a Title VII complaint must be filed within 180 days of the specific action that sets discriminatory pay, regardless of its ongoing and continuing discriminatory impact on the employee.”
Decisions of this kind are a huge embarrassment for nations setting high moral standards and the legislative outcome confirms that principles are held in theory but not delivered in practice.
To summarize, Religions have become the tool for secular incarcerations by the minority fundamentalists undermining the majority human rights.
The religious intervention in politics is best when encouraging the government to embrace peace over military aggressions and illegal occupations of foreign lands, human rights and environmental protection are some of the issues that would bode well for the religious centers.
It should refrain from negative activities through ballot measures and public forum inciting hatred and unwarranted fear against gay community, Undocumented workers and responsible pro-choice women.
On women’s rights, the global community has reached many milestones with women as the heads of the government and leading in most professions. Nevertheless, there are far too many bridges to cross in establishing the equality ratio demographically.
Women’s organizations and human rights watch groups are striving hard to help humanity achieve progress multilaterally and regrettably the government cooperation is either lacking or insufficient to attain the desirable results.
It’s vital for every citizen to be aware and generate awareness on legislative affairs for the decisions made in the Capitol Hill profoundly impact the daily life.
The excess human greed led to the disastrous decade and those behind the travesty refuse to heed to the warning that,
Mortals brought nothing upon arrival. Therefore, they take nothing back on their departure. One might assume to be powerful but the human capability is limited like everything else on this planet.
No one is invincible and never will be. None have a permanent contract to exist on earth and all actions immaterial of stature, will be evaluated and judged accordingly. That being the status, the humanity flourishes through fairness, equality and freedom for all.
Democracy is alive when the government is of the people, by the people and for the people.
New Year resolutions for 2010 – Healthy lifestyle, fiscal responsibility and positive engagement e.g. being resourceful, peaceful, compassionate and eco-friendly.
Peace within you helps spreading peace around you.
An apple a day might keep the doctor away, in addition lots of smiles and laughter is strongly recommended.
Happy New Year to the citizens in the United States and around the world.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant