Tragic Events in Pakistan

August 1, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Pakistan has been hit with successive tragedies lately resulting in enormous loss of precious lives.

Earlier, there were significant fatalities from the air crash near Islamabad. While the people were grieving over the aviation mishap, the country is swept with massive flooding and more than 1500 people reportedly lost their lives.

The flooding is expected to worsen with thousands displaced and millions facing life disruptions due to power outages and transportation problems.

Pakistani government appears to have deployed its military for rescue operation. It’s challenging to deal with mass mobilization for any emergency crew. The Pakistani forces are apparently doing their best in saving lives.

In addition, the United States logistic support in this regard expedites the relief effort. The major concerns during natural disasters are the spread of diseases and the populace exodus to the safety zones.

Aid workers involved in minimizing casualties have a daunting task in reaching the victims because of the limited access and air lifting survivors often delays the progress.

It’s a horrendous humanitarian endeavor and the people of Pakistan are courageously enduring the aftermath despite the natural constraints in delivering the urgently required services.

United Nations are presumably engaged in providing the appropriate assistance that would not only alleviate the burden on the local governments but also maximize the restoration capabilities.

The people of Pakistan deserve global attention in the economic and social development sharing the status with numerous developing nations around the world.

As such Pakistan has been held hostage by the terror networks prompting ongoing military intervention and continuous violence through frequent suicide bombings render survival impossible for the peaceful majority within the country.

Any other incidents along with natural calamities exacerbate the situation especially for the millions at the demographic bottom experiencing critical economic condition.

The Pakistani government is faced with eliminating terrorism and rebuilding the country amid unpredictable catastrophes on its shores.

Pakistan is long overdue for a new beginning with peaceful existence now and in the future.

It’s imminent and the governing authorities could enable the onset sooner by prioritizing the citizens’ plight through divestments from excess military expenditure to economy, education and social structure.

In terms of the current crisis, consolidating the resources including the United States and UN contributions towards different humanitarian needs in the grim moment could perhaps yield the desirable outcome.

International Red Cross and other U.N. humanitarian programs might greatly impact the deteriorating environment in containing the rising death toll from the severe floods that has seemingly affected many provinces.

Please rush your affordable and generous donations to the International Red Cross and other recognized U.N. humanitarian agencies to help the people of Pakistan.

We offer our sincere condolences to the victims’ families mourning on the unfortunate events in the past week.

More importantly, there is hope for the struggling population braving the harsh realities as they are not forgotten in the commitment to end human suffering.

On that positive note, wishing strength and optimism to the people of Pakistan in overcoming the multitude difficulties at present.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Humanitarian | Leave a Comment 

Republic of Cuba in the Twenty First Century

July 23, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Per Wikipedia.org – Thank you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cuban dissidents face arrests and imprisonment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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

Relief to the Unemployed Citizens through Jobless Benefits

July 20, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Congratulations! To the millions of Unemployed citizens whose jobless benefits expired in June 2010, now have the means to support them while they are looking for work.

Job search is a stressful experience in a tough economy with millions competing for fewer jobs in the job market.

The extension revival by the Democrats and two Republican Senators Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins is a saving grace for the Americans out of work and the slow economic recovery.

An estimated five million people is expected to be relieved through this measure for they will receive allowances up to 99 weeks averaging $309 a week.

The long fought legislation survived the filibuster threat despite the majority in the opposition along with a lone Democrat, Ben Nelson from Nebraska voting for it.

It appears that the newly sworn in West Virginia Democrat Senator Carte Goodwin’s vote was crucial to move forward for the final Senate approval.

The contentious issue was the $34 billion benefit extension cost being added to the $13 trillion national debt instead of being provided for with cuts in the $3.7 trillion federal budget.

Although, the national debt is a legitimate concern with a valid proposal for funding the legislation, the Republican Senators could have identified the reallocation from the $3.7 trillion federal budget if they were seriously committed in helping their unemployed constituents and the people across the nation.

However, it’s never too late to review the federal budget to eliminate wasteful spending and prioritize economic activities such as this legislation over less important or extravagant budget expenditures.

As stated earlier, job creation and sustenance is an immediate requirement and the unemployment benefit is a catalyst to stimulate consumer spending that would promote the retail industry and the small business sector, the two most significant bases contributing to the ripple effect on the manufacturing, wholesale and the service industry in the economic recession.

Expediting job growth in the retail industry and small businesses is vital for long-term economic progress.

The argument about the out-of-control spending is more appropriate in the alarming defense budget with no auditing or accountability factor. Moreover, the extraordinary investment has not delivered the desirable results thus far.

Ironically, the ‘deficit’ is not an issue in the bipartisan legislation to increase defense funding for the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan and Yemen including the U.S. military bases around the world.

Whereas in the economic aspect the mere existence has been challenging for many and with the opposition blocking funding to the struggling states, the current federal aid is a lifesaver besides being an economic stimulus.

Even if the economic prospect is downsized, any improvement in people’s daily life enables them to endure hardships without losing hope.

According to the latest reports, the unemployment rate in many states is on the decline.

Any attempts to jumpstart the economy would restore consumer as well as investor confidence.

Jobs, housing market and economy have a major impact on the electorate anytime more so in the election year.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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

Human Tragedy

July 19, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Condolences to the families mourning the loss of life from different tragic events.

The recent train crash in West Bengal, India with reportedly 61 people dead in the accident is regrettable.

In other incidents, terrorism taking toll on human life is the norm in certain parts of the world.

The bomb blasts in July 2010 alone has claimed many innocent lives –

Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran…in July 2010 is worthy of condemnation as often the civilians are the victims in the terror related violence.

Freedom along with social and economic opportunities would substantially deter the terror recruitment among the desolate youth population hired for committing horrendous crime against their fellow humans.

Evidently, the citizens in these regions unanimously favor the divestments from prolonged wars towards social and economic development.

Peaceful resolutions focused on economic progress would enormously benefit everyone involved in the global terrorism era.

Terror networks successfully engage the impoverished segment of the population under the pretext of improving their life and the lack of education among the terror recruits is a huge advantage to them.

Accordingly, the militants and the terror organizations regularly attack schools and the educational institutions to deprive the youth from proper education.

Investments in drones, bombs and sophisticated artillery thus far might have eliminated the crucial targets. However, terrorism never dissipates despite the relentless military intervention due to the underlying hindrances in human existence.

Besides participation in the governance through democratic process, the overwhelming majority in these nations seek basic requirements such as clean drinking water, healthy environment to live in modest conditions enabled by agriculture and industrial growth .

Unless these issues are addressed effectively which is not possible by a dysfunctional government, the terror networks will continue to exist as a parallel governing authority holding the people hostage to their violent agenda.

Empowering people with necessary economic and human rights is the best alternative to the military options that are increasingly alienating the local population from the Western interests.

Perhaps, the nations combating terrorism could consolidate their resources and aim to alleviate the suffering through peaceful means.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Southern Poverty Law Center – Promoting Tolerance, Acceptance and Social Equality

July 18, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

My sincere apologies to the following individuals for the delay in responding to their request.

Nobel Laureate and Author Toni Morrison (The First African American to win the Nobel Prize for Literature) – Congratulations! On this phenomenal achievement. In addition, thank you for your kind remarks in the Certificate of Appreciation.

Hon. Senator George McGovern (Former Democratic Presidential Candidate)

Renowned Author John Grisham – and,

Last but not the least – The respectable Harry Sarazin – Special Agent FBI (Ret.) – One of the first FBI agents assigned to the Mississippi Burning case.

It’s to acknowledge your call for support to this organization founded by the eminent Chief Trial Counsel, Morris Dees stating that:

SPLC – Southern Poverty Law Center – Fighting Hate, Teaching Tolerance and Seeking Justice.

“The single most effective organization in fighting hate groups in the courtroom and teaching tolerance and acceptance in the classroom.”

The Chief Trial Counsel, Morris Dees’ accomplishments testify his dedication in promoting tolerance and social justice. It’s highly commendable and deserve the necessary aid.

Despite significant progress in this respect, there is still a great requirement to spread the positive attributes of human nature – mutual understanding, respect and unity.

Humanity benefits by treating one another as human beings first prior to any other denomination.

Tolerance comes from natural empathy. Unfortunately, misconception supersedes better knowledge about a particular race, religion or gender and their lifestyle orientation.

For knowledge demands patience, sincere learning and proper application in life.

Mankind easily identify differences than recognizing commonalities among them with or without the realization on the self-inflicted miseries through wars, hate crimes, and social upheavals.

Education focused on appreciation rather than denunciation about people and culture would help the society to embrace uniqueness in the diverse creation.

All are created equal and have the inalienable right to freedom without being subject to any injustice mainly oppression, persecution and other discriminatory practice.

The civil rights attorney Morris Dees’ long journey has witnessed the anomalies in the struggle for fairness.

Nevertheless, the successful outcomes reflect his resolve as well as the commitment towards social equality.

If you wish to extend your support to this organization, please send your donations to:

Southern Poverty Law Center
400 Washington Avenue
P.O.Box 548
Montgomery, AL 36177-9621

Best Wishes for more SPLC triumphs and the humanitarian goal in bringing people together.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Financial Regulatory Reform – HR 4173

July 15, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Congratulations! To President Barack Obama, Senator Chris Dodd, Rep. Barney Frank and other Congress members from both sides of the aisle for their contribution to the historic victory on the Financial regulations bill.

The United States Senate approved the long overdue financial regulatory reform that was challenged by Wall Street and their representatives since conception.

Not long ago, the global economy faced the possibility of the ‘Great Depression,’ emerging from the deregulated financial markets with extraordinary privileges in the public fund mismanagement and speculative trading showing no regard for the dire consequences, now a harsh reality experienced by the billions around the world.

Wall Street exercising the ‘free market’ power to engage in calculated high-risk ventures especially through derivatives and hedge fund activities led to a near free fall in the absence of any oversight on the reckless involvement.

The U.S. economy would have succumbed to the economic crisis if not for the American Investment Recovery Act passed by the Democrats and isolated republican members in Congress.

President Barack Obama and the lawmakers behind this legislation deserve credit in this regard.

Unfortunately, their actions have not been truly acknowledged for the substantial measures implemented through this stimulus bill aimed at helping citizens across the political spectrum.

The positive results benefiting American life from the economic stimulus subverted for political reasons in the election year.

In a democracy, the most grueling aspect is the legislative process.

It’s even harder with the special interests controlling the legislative course on every issue, further exacerbated by the majority in the opposition pledged to defeat the legislation against national interest.

With respect to HR 4173 – it’s a monumental task to gain unanimous consensus on a broad legislation targeting the most powerful sector in the economy.

As expressed by the Chairman, U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, Chris Dodd, the dissatisfaction from the different political factions are legitimate and reaching an agreement on common grounds is the preliminary step towards consumer protection along with many other important regulations in this bill.

Arguably, it is not perfect as every Senator holds some reservations and distinct views about their support or the lack thereof in the crucial legislation.

The main components of the bill are elaborated in the – http://banking.senate.gov/public/_files/FinancialReformSummary231510FINAL.pdf

Pros and Cons: The Treasury secretary historically and more relevantly have close ties with Wall Street – going back to several administrations.

Hence, the conflict of interest is a major concern with the Treasury secretary as the head of the 10 member regulatory council – evidenced in the failure to monitor the financial market between 2000 and 2008 that caused the economic meltdown.

Otherwise, the 10-member council of regulators representing the oversight committee is an effective strategy.

Given the facts on the subprime lending and credit card abuses, the consumer protection agency is the hallmark of this legislation.

The contentious derivatives and hedge fund management is subject to rigorous standards underscoring the transparency and accountability factor in this bill.

Opposition claim on the omission of the controversial Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac from the financial regulation could be clarified to dispel misconceptions about any exemptions to the lender.

The compromise on the $19 billion bank tax to earn the Republican Senator Scott Brown vote whereas not pursuing the Democrat Senator Russ Feingold seeking tougher regulations is an irony in the democrats led legislation.

Nevertheless, the three Republican Senators cooperation is praiseworthy.

Overall, the framework of this legislation encompasses the requirements to avert the financial crisis and the economic downturns barring no Wall Street intrusion in the regulatory mission.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Business | Leave a Comment 

Health Insurance Industry Policy between 2010 -2014 – Impact on the Average American Life

July 10, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Further to the article published on this website – “Amendments to National Health Care Legislation,” 04/07/2010 under “Health,” category, the predicted Insurance industry practice is taking toll on ‘average’ American lives.

Source: Bay Area News Group July 4, 2010

By Sandy Kleffman – skleffman@bayareanewsgroup.com – Thank you.

“Health Care Nightmare,” – Minor conditions lead to major insurance costs

Ralf Burgert had no idea how costly toenail fungus could be.

The San Rafael resident got rid of the common infection by treating it with the prescription medication Lamsil. But he could not believe the reaction when he applied for a health insurance policy on the individual market a short time later.

Because of the toenail fungus, an insurer informed him, he would be in a higher-risk insurance pool with a 50 percent jump in premiums.

Consumer advocates say they are often perplexed by the minor health issues that can create serious problems for people seeking health insurance. Each company sets its own policies.

People have been rejected for such common conditions as acne and high blood pressure, said Judy Dugan, research director for Consumer Watchdog.

“If you are pregnant, (insurers) will run the other way screaming,” she added.

“They don’t want to insure a baby until they have looked it over to make sure it’s absolutely healthy.”

A Fremont doctor said she was shocked when one insurer rejected her application because of her eczema, seasonal allergies and a brief bout with viral meningitis, despite a full recovery.

At age 45, Angelique Green, chief medical officer of the Tri-City Health Center, considers herself very healthy, with low cholesterol. She has never smoked, and her hobby is hip-hop dancing.

“To say no to somebody and not even try to work with them, that’s just wrong,” she said.
“It was very frustrating.”

Consumer advocates say they want to make sure that insurance companies do not become more aggressive with denials or dramatically hike premiums for those with pre-existing conditions during the next four years.

“The insurers now compete based on their ability to deny (coverage) to anybody who might actually need care,” Wright said.

“That will change, but not in the near term, and that’s a problem we will have to reckon with.
“It’s particularly important to be vigilant between now and 2014,” he said.

“We would like to see that the regulators closely monitor the denial rates for pre-existing conditions and the reasons for the denials.”

Insurance industry representatives call such concerns misguided and say they do not expect any major changes in underwriting policies before 2014.

“We have a competitive market in California, so health plans want people to buy their coverage, and they will charge a competitive price,” said Patrick Johnston, president and CEO of the California Association of Health Plans.

He noted that the insurance industry generally supported eliminating medical underwriting and guaranteeing coverage to applicants, as long as the change came with a government mandate that most people buy insurance.

Pre-existing conditions are not an issue for the 21 million Californians who have group insurance, usually provided through employers, because group plans accept people regardless of their medical histories.

But they can be a big worry for the 2.5 million Californians who buy insurance on the individual market.

California and many other states will soon set up new high-risk pools for those who have found it difficult or impossible to obtain coverage.

California will receive $761 million to fund this new pool, a dramatic increase over the $33 million for the state’s existing high-risk pool. But this money will not cover everyone with pre-existing conditions, and some may find the still-to-be-determined premiums too costly.

As a result, many people with pre-existing conditions are expected to remain in the individual market during the next four years and experience frustrations as they attempt to find coverage, consumer advocates say.

Consumer advocates such as Wright say people with pre-existing health conditions often encounter serious problems in obtaining coverage that hopefully will be resolved in 2014.

“Many people find it bewildering that it’s exactly the people who need coverage who are the ones who cannot get it,”

As more and more people get denied for smaller and smaller medical problems, both the industry and individuals have figured out that this is not sustainable,” he said.

“The system is broken.”

Redwood City resident Terri Mullen agrees. When she experienced work-related stresses in 2008, her doctor suggested she see a therapist and try anti-anxiety medication. Little did she realize the problem this would cause.

When she later applied for an individual insurance plan, a firm told her she would be in a high-risk pool with much higher premiums because the therapy and medication were signs of a serious mental illness.

Now, she says, “I’m not stressed out anymore – I’m mad.’
————————————————————————————————–

By Padmini Arhant – Health Care Snags Drags on…

As noted in the cited article, the victims’ experience is precisely the reason for the requirement on the health care reform to be effective immediately rather than in 2014.

Although, the health insurance industry like other Wall Street behemoths dictate their terms and conditions in every legislation to water down the impact, the legislators still hold the key to an effective and meaningful law on every national issue from financial, energy to health care bills.

It’s not surprising to note the insurance industry representatives’ emphasis on ‘the government mandate to buy insurance,’ to enable the industry compliance with respect to pre-existing conditions and coverage offer to applicants.

The problem lies with the insurance industry’s policy against the mandatory subscribers with pre-existing illnesses and affordability factor for comprehensive quality care even in 2014 and thereafter.

Meanwhile, the insurance industry is determined to continue the status quo with coverage denial and placing subscribers under high-risk pool for minor ailments between now and 2014.

Since it’s a life and death matter, those who are declined coverage by the insurers face the worst possible situations as there is no guarantee to their health care access until the health care legislation becomes the law in 2014.

Despite the expected federal funding increase to the states to address the high-risk pool, the amount projected as inadequate to cover the patients with pre-existing illnesses forcing them to deal with the escalating premium costs in the market for individual subscribers.

That’s why the ideal solution to all of these issues would be to amalgamate the existing federal programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, VA, COBRA and establish a “Single Payer” system for a “Universal Health Care” made available now to save life.

Nations thrive with healthy population contributing to a productive and prosperous economy.

It’s never too late to enhance the health care law for health care is a necessity and not a privilege.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Health | Leave a Comment 

Celebrating Fourth of July – Independence Day

July 4, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Freedom is the natural gift for the living.

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

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

Happy Fourth of July!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Featured, United States | Leave a Comment 

Supreme Court Nominee – Solicitor General Elena Kagan

July 1, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Wikipedia.org – Elena Kagan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Ethics, Featured, United States | Leave a Comment 

Extending Unemployment Benefits – House Bill Failed By Three Votes

June 29, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Less than an hour ago, the House of Representatives’ concerted effort to revive the bill extending unemployment benefits to the millions of people representing the stars and stripes fell short by three votes in the two third majority requirement.

Yea – 261 votes. Democrats – 231 and Republican – 30.

Nay – 155 votes. Democrats – 15 and Republican – 139

Not clear on the remaining single nay vote.

Despite the citizens’ plea to Congress members to pass the bill through bipartisanship,

By revealing their deteriorating economic situation due to the weak job market, severe recession and the unemployment benefits expiration,

The ‘Nay’ Sayers on both sides rejected the public plight to allow politics prevail over people’s life.

Legislation failing by three votes that could have salvaged millions from becoming homeless is a tragedy and a sad day for democracy.

Regardless of the political differences, ignoring the harsh realities experienced by the people across the nation is incomprehensible and speaks volume about the individual priority.

Perhaps, the lawmakers possessing the power to improve lives have a legitimate explanation for their action depriving the American families, the means viz. unemployment benefits and tax breaks for small businesses to cope with the dire economic crisis.

Human nature is to protect, preserve and nurture life, not aid in their destruction.

Unfortunately, the current trend is ominously in favor of the latter.

Anything that is detrimental to human existence and life threatening has overwhelming support in the political and judicial system fomented by certain news media.

On the contrary, the bills pertaining to economic recovery and legal issues on life sustenance is defeated with no concern for the consequences.

The reasons behind such decisions are usually related to personal and political ideology.

When human beings have the power to help others in their suffering and they willfully act against their conscience, it is clear that they are guided by their illusion rather than intuition.

The real joy and success is measured by the selfless activities i.e. without any expectations in return for promoting progress among the less fortunate in the society.

Any work performed for greater good often accompanied by empathy makes life worth living.

Notwithstanding the eternal bliss –

For health, wealth and power are meaningless without inner peace and happiness.

Something that cannot be achieved by superficial sources in life.

It’s a sincere hope that the Congress members in the House and the Senate elected by the people to address their needs would reconcile the disagreements with the majority and collectively resolve the national crises hurting their constituents and the citizens at large.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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

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