Indian Election 2019 – Dilemma and Dynamics

Indian Election 2019 – Dilemma and Dynamics

Padmini Arhant

The two major political parties – one projected as secular, plural and tolerant proved in name only i.e. Congress party headed by Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi representing dynasty politics besides scandalous legacy is dé·jà vu for the base and the rest of the nation.

Interestingly, the neighbor Pakistan’s prominent press cheering for Congress return to power in India while celebrating the ejection of political dynasties submerged in corruption investigations in their domain viz. the Nawaz and Zardari family explains the former selective fascination and rejection respectively. 

The other – BJP with RSS as the guiding force widely known and perceived as fundamentalists in the misuse of religion with Hinduism as casualty brandish the sword against dissent.  The latest action against human rights activists as well as several controversial communal incidents traced to RSS influence cannot be ignored as political barb from the opposition and critics.

Indian politics being run by families as personal family affair at national and state level, they are noted as such and referred to as Parivar meaning family.

For example – Gandhi Parivar is in reference to Sonia Gandhi family with her son Rahul Gandhi elevated as party President and ever remaining the Prime Minister candidate.

Similarly, BJP is identified as Sang Parivar associated with RSS organization.

At the regional and provincial level, the Parivar (family) factor is prevalent and the political parties are set up following the common tradition – inheritance of power like the DMK in Tamil Nadu, RJD in Bihar, SP in Uttar Pradesh (UP), NC and PDP in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) and the trend continues nationwide in the so-called world’s largest democracy.

Though there are many political factions representing different states in India, the ultimate choice is usually narrowed between BJP and Congress with both of them requiring coalition in Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament.

BJP political alliance with parties conforming to same strategy cane to power as NDA – National Democratic Alliance in 2014.

Congress on the other hand teamed up with whoever willing in the political assortment and came to power as UPA – United Progressive Alliance in 2008 and earlier.

Congress and coalition were ousted in 2014 predominantly due to an avalanche of corruption scandals that brought BJP as NDA to office.

BJP under RSS direction is currently dealing with self-inflicted wounds and branded as Hindutva, the title conferred to misinterpret Hinduism.

The term Hindutva is invented to malign Hinduism largely emanating from ignorance and indoctrination.

Hindu philosophy on peace, gender and social equality aptly depicted in Hindu Goddesses epitome of different faculty from energy to wisdom and prosperity. Furthermore, Hinduism is the progenitor to other religions like Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and so on.

The assault on religions whether Hinduism, Islam or Christianity and Buddhism…is premised on provocation for political and vested interests. Notwithstanding the intent to stir reaction on sensitive issue.

The political options for Indian electorate are not unfamiliar as the two national parties BJP and Congress along with the remaining political groups prepare for the upcoming election in May 2019.

BJP tied to RSS have to contend with dissatisfaction and disappointment in the wake of many social and economic problems not barring freedom of speech and intolerance to peaceful protest or activism experienced among mainstream ordinary citizens in society.

Likewise, Congress maintaining dynasty and tarnished trajectory on corruption scandals hardly appealing to the public. The voters are burdened with the responsibility to choose the government in the forthcoming election.

Considering the tough situation, the question to both parties and their response most likely through surrogates and talking heads would clarify the status quo on India’s democracy as well as the quest for power over republic progress.

Given the latest hype, nod and frenzy to add confusion to dramatic disposition of Punjab’s State Minister – the cricketer turned politician Navjot Singh Sidhu and his apparent good will trip to Pakistan to attend the oath ceremony of the newly elected Prime Minister Imran Khan, also a former cricketer, raise the obvious question.

Since Congress President Rahul Gandhi recently claimed that he has no ambition to contest the Prime Minister post,

Would he then nominate the Congress member and Punjab State Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu to run for office of Prime Minister of India?

Navjot Singh Sidhu having been approved by both sides of the political aisle to represent India in Pakistan at the formal event might reflect well on Congress party in choosing the young State Minister to lead the youthful Congress in the national election.

With BJP – the candidacy offered to other potential contenders within party or outside other than the incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi in addition to disavowing RSS would provide better choices for the electorate in 2019.

In a genuine democracy, the people electing the Prime Minister candidate from across the political spectrum and the race between two final contenders at the general election would justify as a true democratic process. Unlike the existing system with party nominated Prime Minister candidates vying for the coveted position in politics.

Regardless, the above proposal for Congress to back Punjab State Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu and BJP to field new challenger instead of the current Prime Minister Narendra Modi would determine the political parties’ democratic values in addition to infusing new dynamics in the race in 2019.

Are Congress and BJP ready for such political illustration?

Also, Dalit obsession among Indian, Pakistani press and alike including the female rank and file member of Pakistan’s PPP party touting Tanzanian ancestry citing Hindu Dalit woman in interview, or for that matter any member from that community specifying them as Dalit that is not applicable to a brahmin, Kshatriya or Vaisya castes from India and various denominations in other religions or culture speaks volume of the individual trait and background arguably beneath human nature.

Do they act and behave as such in obedience and servitude to foreign diktat? These are the kind who bow to liability called royalty despite the latter existence dependent on the so-called commoners’ charity.

Whatever the reason behind crass demeanor, it only highlights their impropriety.

Again, it verifies their lack of credibility to serve or represent any segment let alone marginalized demography in Sindh, Pakistan or anywhere and for those in the press in India, Pakistan and elsewhere never cease to mention Dalit in their articles and public discourse reveal their inferior mindset, contempt and prejudice. Ironically, they discuss social and economic disparity when they contribute to inequality.

Yet another favorite expression in the Indian and Pakistani print press, media as well as for those whom they quote in articles is Hindu majoritarianism. 

By the same token,

Isn’t Muslim majoritarianism in Srinagar the bone of contention on the entire State of Jammu and Kashmir?

Only small minds could be the author of The God of Small Things and notably the preferred designate to  parody anyone beyond their scope of realism.

Unfortunately, the myopic view of these folks cloud judgment prompting ill-conceived classifications causing unwanted social rift and tension in the environment. 

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The deal making in the rise and fall of dictators

The deal making in the rise and fall of dictators

Padmini Arhant

The news buzz on deal making between odd couples as one might think turn out to be among not strange but familiar bed fellows exchanging thoughts on reining control i.e. clinging to power.

Though hardly surprising considering the trend in the rise and fall of dictators created and fostered by shadow operatives’ obsession with dominance.

The video in circulation on Pakistan’s former President General Pervez Musharraf negotiation for power arousing interests in public domain.

As per the news article;

The footage with Musharraf listening to a question by a member of the gathering. The questioner asked the former Pakistani president and military dictator, “what do we have to change so that our money is used in a positive way to protect Americans from terrorism, from radical Islam [and] from Al-Qaeda. What’s gonna do that for us.”  

Musharraf in his prompt and to the point reply said: “All I’m saying is, I have certain credentials from the past. I need to come [to power] again and I need to be supported not overtly but in a covert manner so that we win again.”

The news articles related to this story also cites the organizers of this secret meeting.

Jack Rosen, an American lobbyist and Chairman of the powerful American Jewish Congress, purportedly organized the gathering. The clip shows that Dr. Nasim Ashraf, the former chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board and head of the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) also accompanied the former president.  

A Wikipedia entry for Mr Rosen says he has advocated for Jewish and Israeli causes stating. “We are living in a post-Holocaust era and the forces that provided for a safe and secure Israel are changing. We have to look at what the future holds and have to use all the skills we’ve learned in America and that are available to us to ensure security for Jews around the world”, says the internet information portal.  

Apart from being a lobbyist, the 69-year-old CEO of Rosen Partners, Jack Rosen is a board member of Altimo – a British Virgin Island (BVI) company that is the telecom investment arm of Russia’s Alfa Group consortium. It has investment interests in Russia, Central Asia, Middle East and Bangladesh.  

JackRosen, who, in his article in Jerusalem Post, believed “A Pakistan without Musharraf could be a much more dangerous place.”  

The stated article ended there.

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Pakistan’s General and former President Pervez Musharraf striking deals to reappear on the throne as Wazir-e-Azam (Head of the State) of Pakistan is common practice among those seeking the glamor of power. In reference to the secret meeting, one cannot imagine open rendezvous involving matter of this nature.

The current political situation in Pakistan following controversial general election in 2018 has the recommendation of members like General Pervez Musharraf behind foreign sources touted PTI Chairman, Imran Khan. General Pervez Musharraf has made the rounds on Pakistan, Indian and US media extending support to PTI chief Imran Khan.

As for the Jewish lobby – the powerful American Jewish Congress has been cited earlier in the involvement of local uprising in Iran, Israel’s primary rival in the Middle East.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

The Art of Peace and Diplomacy

The Art of Peace and Diplomacy 

Padmini Arhant

The latest offer from President Donald Trump to meet with Iran on fresh nuclear agreement is a positive step towards reconciliation of differences and misunderstandings that would benefit all, the Middle East in particular.

Iran accepting the opportunity for direct communication with United States would enable both sides to improve relations that are imperative in terms of global economy and energy sector.

President Donald Trump personal meeting with the leaderships from North Korea, Russia and now the overture to Iran are necessary to renew relations opening the channels for constructive peace and diplomacy. The peaceful dialogue is the only way that guarantees permanent resolution to long standing confrontations and adversarial positions maintained thus far.

India and Pakistan adopting similar policy with the incoming Pakistan government by setting aside political and strategic rhetoric is vital to defuse tensions between two nuclear states.  Indo-Pak involvement in building trust and reliable partnerships in trade, social and cultural exchanges as well as addressing common problems like water supply and environment conditions are critical for bilateral progress. 

Likewise, Taliban in Afghanistan recent ad hoc meeting with United States diplomat in Doha, Qatar for peaceful negotiations related to nearly two decades warfare in that nation is yet another promising start for the people of Afghanistan deserving respite and end to violence experienced thus far. 

However, the word of caution in this regard is unlike the previous event in 2013  with Taliban representation of Afghanistan in Doha, Qatar under separate flag proclaimed as The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan could not be simply taken as symbolic without strategic goals from behind the scenes operatives viz. the forces in Pakistan. 

Taliban commitment to peace in Afghanistan must be subject to renouncing violence which means disavow ties with architects and catalysts of terror including the purveyor of arms and ammunitions.

In doing so and upon verifiable and incontrovertible evidence of this requirement would then qualify them as Mujahids or liberators of their nation from foreign occupation and neighbor control such as Pakistan ISI and army. 

United States deploying peaceful means to conclude the Syrian conflict is paramount for Middle East peace and stability.

The adaptation of peaceful outreach and persistent diplomacy to end crises in every part of the world is the absolute measure to achieve global peace and security.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com 

Pakistan – Struggles and Strategies

Pakistan – Struggles and Strategies

Padmini Arhant

Pakistan – The Islamist nation in the Indian sub-continent having sought independence on August 14^th, 1947, the day before the parent, India on August 15^th, 1947 as a result of colonial power devised partition with a parting gift Kashmir remaining the contentious issue for the progeny Pakistan.

Pakistan is yet to establish democracy as the free civilian authority serving the electorate mandate rather than the diktat of sources within and offshore.

Though independence and real freedom in a democracy and other political systems is far from reality due to shadow global government reining control over political events, economy and social evolution via proxies in governance and institutions, the experience of democracy is relative worldwide.

The official decree Indian Independence Act 1947 passed by British Parliament on July 5^th, 1947 upon the colonial departure in 1947 referring to India and Pakistan as Dominions confining the autonomy to ninety nine years of which seventy one years gone by meaning the act nearing expiry in twenty eight years explains the imperialist motives to retain dominance.

In this respect, when reminded on this site https://padminiarhant.com with elaborate details on the Dominion reference in the Indian Independence Act 1947 and future implications from such inference,

Unlike Indian government and Parliament, Pakistan national assembly overwhelmingly acted passing legislation in 2010 essentially removing the term Dominion in the Statute of Independence declaration clarifying the independent status for Pakistan from 1947 onwards.

Dominion alludes to British Commonwealth that is maintained until today with British Monarchy and heir presiding over Commonwealth governments meeting in the so-called independence era.

As for Pakistan in the past seventy one years and up until now, the state has been subjugated by national forces viz. the Pakistan Army and the Intelligence Services Agency (ISI) asserting authority over legislative, administration and judiciary.

In fact, the military rule in Pakistan never ended even after the dismissal of former President, General Pervez Musharraf with the top brass in the army and ISI wielding power over civilian government evident in the latest developments and recent national election.

Pakistan military and ISI intervention in civilian rule is stated as necessary citing inherent corruption and incompetence of the administrations elected to power in the past three terms and earlier during the late Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto term in office. The former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated in December 2007 during General Pervez Musharraf government in power.

Interestingly, Pakistan military and ISI in particular fail to recognize the worst legacy considering the army rule in Pakistan’s political history spanning over longer period than short lived civilian governments predominantly attributed to the former intrusion.

Going back to last Governor General and first President of Pakistan Iskander Mirza suspending the constitution much to own detriment enabling his then appointee General Ayub Khan to depose him set precedence thereafter with military successors General Yahya Khan and General Zia-ul Haq following suit in public execution of elected heads of state.

General Yahya Khan unsuccessful engagement in war with India over East Pakistan led to the liberation and formation of what is now known as Bangladesh.

Subsequently, General Pervez Musharraf daring nuclear India for potential nuclear confrontation in 1999 in Kargil war delivered outcome in favor of India.

Domestically, General Pervez Musharraf adopting army predecessors’ hard line policy, imposed emergency rule and massive crackdown on public institutions including the Supreme Court of Pakistan that ultimately forced him into exile until today.

The western backed General Pervez Musharraf was paid billions of dollars per then United States administrations account and U.S. State department expressing disappointment with Musharraf government failure to curb terror networks like Haqqani and radicalism in Saudi Arabia funded madrassas becoming recruits for al Qaeda.

On General Pervez Musharraf watch, Pakistani youth representing majority of population in the country were regularly abducted from urban and rural areas to undisclosed foreign locations under U.S. administration authorized renditions exercising unlawful extra judicial power.

The trajectory clearly demonstrates Pakistan army rulers’ priority and agenda for military confrontations with India and grossly neglected Pakistan population dire needs exacerbating people suffering and endangering lives not only in Pakistan but also in the entire South Asia.

The quest for power driving aspirants to attain by any means is the common trend not just in Pakistan but world over perhaps with distinctions in mechanisms and individual traits.

Pakistan’s ISI involvement in fomenting terror, aiding and abetting terror plots within the country especially sensitive territories like Sindh and Baluchistan as lately in Quetta with a bomb blast killing more than thirty civilians near the poll station are by no means few and far between incidents.

The violence in every part of the country with bomb blasts and terrorism wreaking havoc constantly witnessed by the world.

As for cross border terrorism with India, the terror infiltration has been the routine affair initiating Kargil war in 1999 and consequentially prompting troops deployment on either sides of the border in return making lives in Indian State of Jammu & Kashmir nearly impossible.

The terror activities across the border are experienced by other neighbors of Pakistan as well viz. Afghanistan and Iran having brought the matter to Pakistan’s army and intelligence authorities attention urging them to address the security threats to neighbors in the region.

In terms of protecting Pakistani citizens and defense personnel, the NATO air strike on Pakistan check post stationed as NATO allies in 2011 killing 24 Pakistani soldiers with no apology from the U.S. administration of then President Barack Obama or NATO command further defined the vulnerability to western inflicted catastrophe that continues unabated in Afghanistan and along the border with Pakistan.

Pakistan ISI knowledge in weapons supply to terror outfits like Lashkare e Taiba (LeT) and Jaish e Mohammad, the chief architects and operatives of terror attacks in India and similarly Taliban in Swat Valley are neither acknowledged nor denied leading to complicity in the terror outfits endeavors.

Last but not the least, the underworld criminal elements viz. Dawood Ibrahim facing extradition charges has found safe haven and settled in Pakistan’s metropolis and commercial capital Karachi frequenting to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE in the Middle East and continuing the organized criminal operation in Mumbai, India from Pakistan.

In light of such track record,

Could Pakistan army and intelligence agency ISI blame the civilian governments in Pakistan solely responsible for lack of economic and social development?

The corruption investigation against political families are not disputed, however the policy targeting only some and not applied across the spectrum including the army, intelligence and others in society evading taxes, taking bribes, hoarding money overseas and money laundering makes the process selective raising credibility factor.

Meanwhile, Pakistan public hope for civil governance and elections devoid of army and ISI meddling seen in the latest polls appears to be a fantasy unless introspection amongst those contributing to impediments in Pakistan’s trail for political stability and economic growth that are desperately required reverse actions and refrain from counterproductive measures.

The corruption scandals among political class ejecting governments having become the norm, the pursuit to drain the swamp has to be impartial and consistent in the application of law on all barring preferences and exemptions based on political, economic, social or religious background.

Meanwhile, the new government ushered in with army and ISI paving the way for victory is burdened with the balancing act of accountable governance and civilian administration functioning independently away from the shadow of the forces in national and foreign domain.

Pakistan cannot afford wars with India or any other nation in the region. The escalation of tension between India and Pakistan only promotes adversarial relations that benefits none. Instead, Pakistan investing resources in purging terror and terror affiliates within the country besides intelligence sharing with India and other neighbors on any possible terror assault in their soil would improve situation and restore trust, the main aspect for normal ties with nations near and far.

Importantly, the terror masterminds and agents behind terrorism in Pakistan, India and anywhere residing in Pakistan brought to justice would indeed highlight the commitment towards the slogan Naya (New) Pakistan.

The military and intelligence renewal of contacts and cordial approach with counterparts in India would enhance understanding assuming better positions that could guarantee peace and harmony anticipated among population on both sides affected in the status quo.

The topic on Pakistan will resume with the focus on economy, social status, human rights and environment.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

 

 

 

 

Memorial Day – Troop Withdrawal from Afghanistan

Memorial Day – Troop withdrawal from Afghanistan

Padmini Arhant

Memorial Day memorializing war veterans is the tradition.

The tribute to those sacrificing their lives for any just cause is always honorable and more so with the soldiers and defense personnel laying their lives to defend their country and fellow citizens from any potential danger.

However, the trend in the past and present century forging wars for reasons other than national defense costing young blood and nation’s treasure proved counterproductive and futile. Whatever explanations accompany prolonged occupation of foreign land with massive troops deployment and troop surge along with increase in defense budget predominantly expended in military bases maintenance worldwide, the outcome of such maneuvers evidently not favorable.

United States assuming the role to patrol and police global frontiers has escalated tensions, promoted nuclear options in self-defense and deterrence besides imposing mandatory defense spending on all nations at the expense of economic growth and development.

In other words, United States military presence worldwide has left nations with only one option and that is to beef up military capability boosting the military industrial complex represented defense sector to thrive rain or shine regardless of market conditions benefitting selective members in the hierarchy.

United States and NATO waged wars and subsequent occupation in different regions of the world on false premise has produced chaos and catastrophe creating permanent war zones and leaving those nations bereft of recovery otherwise possible in restive and peaceful environment.

The wars aimed at profitability with no concern for loss of innocent lives and defense force especially the misinformed young men and women led in harms way could no longer continue business as usual. The propaganda based wars, military interventions and terror sponsoring targeting nations and regions for hegemonic goals squandering ordinary citizens lives and their tax dollars are enormous liability in economic, political, social and humanitarian terms ruining nations and destiny of millions forced into refugee status.

The contemporary situation demands fair assessment to end illegal occupation of foreign land and territory allowing the population of those nations normal existence and self-determination rights barring foreign intrusion.

The case in point is Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Korea to name a few.

Considering the extended timeframe and purpose not serving the local and regional inhabitants interests and furthermore the military and aggressive involvement fomenting violence and security violations, the complete withdrawal of forces and ceasing violent engagement are necessary to establish peace and stability in these parts of the world.

Afghanistan is primarily used as United States and NATO military base to exert dominance in Central Asia denying Afghanistan the sovereign status and Afghans the fundamental right to political freedom and social progress critical for economic prosperity.

Above all, the economic costs since invasion of Afghanistan in October 2001 until today including protracted warfare in Iraq and Pakistan has cost U.S. taxpayers $4.8 trillion per Congressional Budget Office report and still counting with the warfare carried out on borrowed money inflating United States budget deficit and subsequent impact on national debt leading to sharp hikes in consumer interest rates reflecting macroeconomic effects.

The current allocation of $45 billion this year for Afghanistan alone is again repeating predecessors pattern without subjecting pentagon to accountability and independent audit given the trajectory on disproportionate spending and trillions of taxpayers dollars admittedly missing as confirmed by former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld on $2.3 Trillion and the same acknowledged in previous Congressional hearings with no actions from any administration or Congress thus far.

The article from Project Censored under – The News That Didn’t Make The News .

Title – The Pentagon Money Pit: $6.5 Trillion In Unaccountable Army Spending And No DOD Audit

“According to a July 2016 Department of Defense Inspector General (DODIG) report, $6.5 trillion of Army Spending allocated to the Pentagon have no paper trail and no audit has been made by the Department of Defense (DOD) for the past two decades to resolve this issue. In other words, David Lindorff reported that “the Department of Defense has not been tracking or recording or auditing all of the taxpayer money allocated by Congress — what it was spent on, how well it was spent, or where the money actually ended up. There are enough opportunities here for corruption, bribery, secret funding of ‘black ops’ and illegal activities, and or course for simple waste to march a very large army, navy and air force through. And by the way, things aren’t any better at the Navy, Air Force and Marines.”

The referenced excerpt of the article and earlier incident on $2.3 Trillion vaporized is just the tip of the iceberg with successive administrations and Congress obliging pentagon demand for billions of taxpayer money exempting the tax payer funded military headquarter Pentagon and federal defense agencies from checks and balances that are applicable to ordinary citizens in society.

These events decisively and conclusively determine the need for immediate withdrawal and winding up of operations in Afghanistan and other destinations having no relevance to national interests except undermining United States credibility and wasting taxpayers money that deserves to be invested in domestic economy such as job creation, health care, public education, scientific research and innovations and infrastructure.

On U.S. taxpayers behalf, the Congressional authorization of independent oversight to probe corruption and financial irregularities in taxpayer funded defense department viz. pentagon and other federal agencies dealing with defense activities is paramount for transparency and economic viability.

Finally, national defense force is meant to safeguard nation’s security and not misused for some entities and certain groups’ hegemonic ambitions and exclusive gains.

Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com
Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

United States – Violence and Perceptions

United States – Violence and Perceptions

Padmini Arhant

How crimes committed through shooting and automobile used to ram over pedestrians are characterized in media reporting following cue from those in control of events in the world?

The horrific gun violence involving indiscriminate firing at people in the crowd whether during a concert in Las Vegas or attending prayers in a place of worship in Sutherland Springs, Texas are described as tragedy carried out by the assailant invariably suffering from mental problem. In both Las Vegas and Texas rampage there were at least twenty or more casualties and several injured from firepower. The Hollywood style Rambo aggression displayed in shooting spree on both occasions and similar crimes earlier is categorized as unfortunate happenings.

Juxtaposed, the killing of pedestrians using vehicle in the recent East Manhattan, New York incident by the offender identified a Muslim from Uzbekistan is termed terrorism. There were eight fatalities and some hurt in this incident.

The bizarre distinction on actions claiming innocent lives with one referred to as mental illness or some personal background issue related event while the other definitively pronounced terrorism especially when the attacker is a Muslim. The trend playing race and religion card regardless of political position left, right or center and so on in media outlets explains indifference to victims affected in gun violence besides the usual practice targeting religion i.e. Islam in this instance with negative connotation.

In the wake of East Manhattan killing, the media report declared the entire Uzbekistan, a Muslim country as a threat to the United States.

Interestingly, the press and communication media in Islamic nations whether in Pakistan or elsewhere – the English language press corps in particular never failing to respond to such references from non-Muslim neighbors in the region, now remaining oblivious to slander of Islam in media discrimination of violence in the United States is perhaps economic interest outweighing importance and respect for faith.

The discriminatory practice is a reflection of those having no value for life and lack of virtues exemplified in sacrilege of religion.

The crime committed using lethal weapons and any other means against unarmed citizens is terror and there cannot be bias distinguishing one from another.

Similarly, the murder of children, women and men described as collateral damages when exerting power and authority through artillery, predator drones and military force is terrorism in worst format.

The isolation of one comparatively with less wounded and fewer deaths as terrorism against massacre in violent gunfire episodes exhausting magazine acknowledged otherwise promotes mass killing without the stigma of terrorism.

Again, the violation of life and rights in whatever manner is a serious crime deserving condemnation and terrorism in contemporary era evolved from conventional warfare deploying arms and ammunition for maximum impact.

Since the culture is created to accept violence subjectively, society is expected to develop immunity to disparity.

Nonetheless, the victims plight in all these situations remain the same in dealing with pain and suffering inflicted upon them by those indulging in senseless act and abuse of power.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Spouse in Divine Mission

 

 

Iran Nuclear Deal

Iran Nuclear Deal

Padmini Arhant

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran, P5+1 and EU is regarded firm agreement in the backdrop of Iran declared a nation having never attacked any other country in the world.

Iran’s history extends into Central Asia and Indian subcontinent. Nader Shah from Persia invasion of Delhi, India in 1739 and jewels from the famous peacock throne along with massive treasure plundered at that time is documented episode.

Persia now known as Iran subject to imperialist backed monarchy headed by Shah of Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi later overthrown in Iranian revolution in 1979 preceded by Britain, U.S. and oligarchy coup against democratically elected Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh in 1953.

Iran also faced imperialism imposed regional conflict lasting eight years from 1980 until 1988 in the protracted war with Iraq during then President Saddam Hussein.

Iran under theocratic order as the Islamic Republic post 1979 revolution has been challenged with sanctions to conform to western policy. The economic sanctions were tightened in the past decade denying medicines and essentials to citizens of the country. The sanctions related fatalities among children in 2011 and 2012 were constant without any respite.

There were no justifications on economic embargo against Iran and similarly the nations targeted by UNSC arbitrary decision while ignoring the states deserving sanctions for human rights violations and sponsoring terrorism.

The Shiite Iran’s regional competitors Wahhabi Saudi Dynasty and Judeo Israel in an effort to contain the rise of Iranian influence insist on intensifying trade restrictions through key allies Britain and United States in particular.

Iran has maintained that any nuclear programs would be for deterrence not in defiance of non-proliferation to which Iran is a signatory long before JCPOA despite being a non-nuclear state in contrast to regional nuclear state Israel opting out of non-proliferation treaty.

Nonetheless, the western demand on Iran at middle eastern allies Israel and Saudi Arabia’s behest to make Iran’s nuclear facility available for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspection continued with UN monitoring and updates confirming Iran’s stagnant nuclear plan.

Unlike Israel, an established nuclear state yet to be confirmed and acknowledged as such in international domain in addition to uninhibited use of nuclear components in air strikes against civilian population in Gaza, Syria and Lebanon, Iran’s stranded nuclear capability was used as false pretext for western sanctions to strangle the oil rich Iran’s economy.

Iran’s persistence in the removal of illegal sanctions alongside repeat UN verifications of Iran’s nuclear site led to JCPOA.

The media implying pride playing a role in accepting or rejecting JCPOA is in fact applicable to those involved and especially United States unwillingness to lift inappropriate sanctions against Iran in the process resulting in JCPOA. Since the argument lost cause in the unsubstantiated Iran’s nuclear ambitions, JCPOA invented reason with conditional easing of sanctions against Iran.

The assurance that JCPOA has halted Iran’s nuclear motion is a political statement given the Islamic state commitment to non-nuclear activity evident in IAEA and UN reports.

Any accord would have statutory limits validating the treaty.

In the nuclear conversation, the nuclear disarmament across the spectrum regardless of stockpiles and capability beginning with United States, Russia, China, Britain, France and Israel leading the trend for other nuclear states India, Pakistan and the rest is a necessity to quell nuclear options frivolously used in the threat against anyone deemed an adversary.

The prolific nuclear arms race and testing among nuclear powers with the recent public pledge from the White House to allocate more funds in modernizing nuclear status is impetus to those perceived vulnerable in the wars for profitability.

United States self-contradictory position pose a credibility factor when sharing concerns over Iran or North Korea’s nuclear affairs. The former legacy in using nuclear arsenal on civilians and thereafter deploying nuclear material in warfare against Vietnam, Iraq, Syria and Yemen until now create the requirement to abolish nuclear weapons in possession of all.

The safeguarding of nuclear site and inventory is a high risk task relying on precision, competence and trustworthiness besides eroding nuclear powers national budget depriving urgent needs such as health care, infrastructure and steady job growth.

Likewise, India and Pakistan’s budget allocation to nuclear maintenance leaves overwhelming population in despair due to lack of basic facilities and many struggling to survive amid poverty and disease.

The irony is nuclear weapons are regarded potent for national security. Meanwhile civilians amongst poor and underprivileged backgrounds are dying from premature deaths in the absence of minimum standards and opportunity. The nuclear states misplaced priorities contributing to preventable mortality compared to the odds of nuclear attack and casualties arising from the event is hardly rational.

Obviously, the unnecessary and unwanted skirmishes from territorial disputes, regional and global dominance quest are driving forces behind nuclear armament.

The hype on Iran’s nuclear deal transferred to nuclear powers viz. United States and all nuclear and non-nuclear nations abandoning nuclear proliferation and aspirations is critical responsibility for the world.

The global consensus and preparation for safe disposal of nuclear ammunitions is no longer a choice but a mandatory requirement to guarantee humanity peaceful existence.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Spouse in Divine Mission

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

United Nations – Litmus Test

United Nations – Litmus Test

Padmini Arhant

The United Nations General Assembly scheduled on September 2^nd assuming a new role in the event of UNSC dissolution is critical for the organization poised as an international body.

United Nations with 186 countries as members is headed by key powers nominating their representative as Secretary General rather than the position filled through election by member states considering the international forum expected to preside over global matter unlike the trend until now.

UN annual assembly featuring world leaders’ speeches on common issues besides relevant problems concerning them and their region is the standard format. However, the resolutions to crises are few and far between. Any attempts in this regard suffer setbacks due to obstacles from those against such measure.

The urgency to end conflicts in Syria, North Korea, Yemen, Iraq and Libya…lack political will and initiatives despite massive humanitarian toll, refugee crisis, health and environment hazard from terror sponsorship in Syria, Iraq and Libya while provocative military drills in Korean Peninsula inviting response from North Korean authority.

Not to mention starvation imposed through illegitimate sanctions affecting vast number in the country dealing with such irrational move.

The sources behind ongoing warfare and tensions declining to cease aggression towards nations targeted for economic interests and strategic dominance are primarily responsible for unwanted skirmishes and bloodshed in the regions undermining those nations sovereignty.

Any terms and conditions in disputes would normally apply to all sides for peaceful settlement. The party involved in incursions of a sovereign nation blaming the other and at the same time continuing with military exercise or backing terror outfits as the case may be rejecting international rules and civil engagement forfeit the right to objection to any response from the states bound by national defense.

The provocateurs unwillingness to refrain from activities whether military operations in Korean peninsula, illegal occupation and invasion in Afghanistan or terror manifestation in the Middle East exacerbate situations threatening world peace and security.

United Nations legitimacy is largely dependent on ability to function withstanding pressures, threats, incentives and influence having been the norm since inception to maintain international status quo. The UN concept as an international society is yet to be established with aspiring members unable to enroll and represent their cause and people oppressed by those exerting control over the organization.

Accordingly, United Nations effectiveness is based on implementing the following actions in the upcoming session.

Syria – Ending Syrian conflict with cessation of violence and terrorism. The states in opposition to peace and renouncing terror would clarify motives and inevitably deal with consequences like the ones experienced in the past and present.

Afghanistan – UN vote to end foreign occupation and complete withdrawal of U.S. and NATO troops including private contractors, intelligence agents and operatives from the war torn nation is imperative.

North Korea – The withdrawal of United States base in recognition of Korean nations sovereignty allowing dialogue and diplomacy between South and North Korea to take precedence is paramount to ease frictions in Korean Peninsula. Again, insisting on prolonging strains with military instructions and preparations would only result in defeat and unnecessary confrontation.

Yemen – United States, Israel and allies enabled Saudi intrusion in Yemen producing casualties and widespread disease like cholera could no longer be a Yemeni problem. The termination of bombing and shelling in the North African nation is an immediate requirement to let Yemen emerge from persistent decimation.

Palestine – United Nations General Assembly vote to bring Palestinian plight to conclusion by declaring Palestine statehood is pertinent not only for Palestinians in beleaguered Gaza, West Bank and Jerusalem i.e. occupied Palestine but also verify UN authenticity and effectiveness to act on long standing Middle East issue.

Tibet – Similarly the independence of the Himalayan nation from the People Republic of China annexation deserves attention and recognition of sovereign statehood in addition to membership as a separate country in the UN.

Taiwan – Independent status to be acknowledged as the Far East nation is a UN member.

Sri Lanka – The nation to offer equal rights barring segregation and disenfranchisement of Sri Lankan Tamils in the island nation. The other alternative is full autonomy to Tamil majority provinces to compensate for hard line government policy leading to human rights violation and denial of equal opportunity.

Myanmar – UN to vote on Rohingya Muslims citizenship rights as naturalized inhabitants of the country providing relief to Rohingyas abandoned by global community.

Kashmir – The entire population – both majority and minority rights, purging terror from across the border, demilitarization on both sides in India and Pakistan, independent investigations of abuse on all fronts, granting easy access without bureaucracy interference for citizens to travel for medical treatments and civilian government addressing the needs of all not just the preferred demography is to be promoted and executed to guarantee citizens safety and security in the valley.

Pakistan – Baluchistan and Sindh province grievances cannot be neglected as an internal affair with growing frustration among locals in these territories facing many difficulties jeopardize potential for peaceful coexistence in South Asia.

Likewise, the citizens in Africa, Latin America and indigenous groups subject to civil wars, foreign interventions disrupting political and economic stability and atrocities respectively are to be resolved in a fair and just manner to justify UN embodiment of peace and unity.

Failure in this respect would confirm United Nations power or the lack thereof and perhaps create the requisite for new global platform where all nations regardless of size and stature would contribute to the decision-making process on equal footing eliminating hierarchy.

Finally, the entities outrage at hate sentiments expressed in the organized rally in Charlottesville, Virginia is contradictory given their complacency and participation in genocide in the region and other parts of the world.

Hate and discriminatory practices against any not just the selective few must be condemned without reservations as that would exemplify genuine intolerance to prejudice prevalent towards race, religion, ethnicity, culture, socioeconomic and educational background.

Humanity served to benefit all is the path to sustainable peace and success.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Spouse in Divine Mission

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Afghanistan – Troop Surge Repeat Failed Strategy

Afghanistan – Troop Surge Repeat Failed Strategy

By Padmini Arhant

 

The latest decision to increase troops in Afghanistan is repeat failed strategy with same expectation. The proposal to defeat terrorism is exactly the same since invasion of the country in 2001. United States military leaderships and White House stating the reason for troop expansion around this time as targeting terrorism shifting focus from nation building is rephrasing strategy.

The main issues – Taliban, al Qaeda, government and Afghan security lacking strength and resources to quell terrorism and last but not the least neighbor Pakistan remaining terror haven are cited as contributing to United States and NATO setbacks thus far.

United States from the beginning had more than 100,000 boots on the ground in addition to NATO contingency until recently to contend with Taliban, al Qaeda and prepare Afghan security forces to combat terrorism and insurgency. Now in the national address, the position is referred to as dealing with terrorism in Afghanistan is the only focus for United States.

Accordingly, the stagnancy poses many questions.

What did United States and NATO exactly do in the past 16 years in Afghanistan?

How come the largest 100,000 troops presence along with NATO alliance could not contain Taliban insurgency comparatively less at that time and al Qaeda redeployed in Libya, Syria and Iraq from 2011 until today?

What is different now that was not possible despite expansive operation in Afghanistan for over decade and a half unanimously acknowledged a failure?

The current situation stated as Taliban insurgence and al Qaeda are major threats has long been identified as such and the status quo further clarifies the losing war besides economic liability having cost U.S. tax payers $6 trillion in Afghanistan pursuit.

Pentagon quoting Taliban and al Qaeda as factors for troop surge. Taliban in return asserting insurgency as resistance to United States occupation. The inverse status is a vicious circle.

Afghanistan has experienced numerous foreign occupation in Afghan history. None could prevail in their aspirations forcing foreign powers exit from the terrain country. There will be no exception in this regard due to aggression and violent means for vested interests never succeed especially in the uniquely complex Afghan nation.

The foreign incursion in Afghanistan is attributed to relentless violence and political instability. Additionally, poppy cultivation funding arms purchase for war lords, terror factions and Taliban not without foreign occupiers sharing profit exacerbates security and conditions for Afghan farmers lured into narcotic trade over agriculture.

Politically, Afghan government installed rather than elected barring assassinations of viable candidates not surprisingly in agreement to foreign agenda highlight corruption – yet another serious problem obstructing reliable and competent governance. Afghanistan election including the Pashtuns tribal assembly – loya Jirga intercepted by foreign influence as witnessed in 2011 to steer representation favoring foreign permanent existence in the country.

American security claimed in the late night bid for troop surge ignores American lives in uniforms lost in the long embroiled battle seeing no end in sight. Not to mention scores of innocent civilian lives in Afghanistan falling prey to all sides more so with cluster bombs and U.S. defense capability tested on Afghan soil during all administrations, predator drones chasing Afghan men, women and children from their humble dwellings in the so-called attempt to drain the swamp rampant with previous administration.

The trajectory clearly confirms the challenges and constant impediments brought upon by foreign occupation whether by troops, private army and contractors, intelligence agents imposing military authority and political clout denying Afghanistan – sovereignty and political freedom.

No matter how the circumstances are maneuvered to extend occupation in Afghanistan, no nation can eternally depend on foreign powers to protect them for that arrangement exposes the host nations’ vulnerability and absence of will to safeguard own citizens and territory.

In outsourcing tasks to foreign military not necessarily accepting for client state defense instead focused on economic endowments such as lithium, plentiful minerals and precious metals in Afghanistan failing that to establish strategic dominance in the region unveils the veneer behind open end policy in Afghanistan.

Evidently, neither the people in Afghanistan nor United States are beneficiaries in the protracted warfare. The population in both nations are expending lives and U.S. taxpayers footing extraordinary bill for timeless military engagement while Afghan citizens deprived of long overdue economic opportunity.

As for neighbor Pakistan, the stigma as terror haven will stick as long as Pakistan’s relevant institutions and political groups neglect responsibility to purge terror wreaking havoc across the borders and rocking every city and province making life impossible for citizens in Pakistan as well as those around in South Asia. Again, arms dealers involved in arming terror networks, defense contractors and brokers are instrumental in bolstering terror anywhere.

United States and NATO complete withdrawal of forces not excluding private entities in any capacity responsible for embattled Afghanistan and not troop buildup that would guarantee Afghanistan peace and stability.

The popular consensus in Afghanistan and United States is for U.S and NATO as well as foreign operatives to return home. United States having reached a crescendo unable to provide credible explanations in prolonging undertaking proved counterproductive and unsustainable.

Afghanistan rising to the occasion and demonstrating commitment to resolve internal conflicts would exemplify Afghanistan’s independent statehood. In eliminating or at best mitigating the two contentious issues –corruption and terrorism would charter course for effective governance and strong national security thwarting terror and insurgence from within and outside the country.

I convey my best wishes to people in Afghanistan for peace, economic progress and independence free of foreign intrusion and domestic tribulations.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Spouse in Divine Mission

 

 

 

Independence Day – Singapore, Pakistan and India

Independence Day Celebration – Singapore, Pakistan and India

By Padmini Arhant

The three nations sharing Independence Day around the same time has potential to address issues posing impediments to pervasive progress.

Political freedom and economic growth along with social equality are key to national achievements.

Corruption, terrorism together with lack of transparency and accountability of those at the helm are fundamental problems depriving meaningful and effective development.

Laws made applicable to all regardless of socio economic and political status on crimes that are ordinarily enforced on population would exemplify real freedom.

Unlike the present system providing impunity to many despite their actions and involvements that are otherwise punishable by law.

Independent nations would live up to liberty and justice for all not just the selective few that are witnessed worldwide.

The racial, social and political divide denying fair opportunity to significant segments not recognized as fellow citizens polarize society.

Those in position of power and authority and influential entities undue advantage due to privileges exacerbate conditions for majority struggling to make ends meet and increase economic disparity.

Notably the difference between haves and have nots largely matter as votebanks only during election.

India and Pakistan – The basic needs such as electricity without load shedding, clean drinking water throughout the day and health facilities accessibility to citizens nationwide as political priority would be significant.

The rural and remote areas targeted in political race deserve attention beyond election.

Unfortunately, defense spending to curb incursions from across the borders and combating terrorism absorb bulk of the national budget,

Notwithstanding corruption and tax evasion amongst those in politics and other fields equally drain economy depleting national revenue.

The resolutions transformed into reality would demonstrate sincerity to lead the nation in a positive direction.

Any steps in alleviating social and economic difficulties to benefit the middle, lower and poorer class are always welcome.

Leaving behind casteism, sectarianism and prejudice identifying all citizens by the country of origin rather than sect, class and creed would be hallmark of true independence. Furthermore, renouncing discriminatory practice would clarify disinheritance of colonial trait in addition to emergence away from the dark shadow.

Happy Indeorndence Day!

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Spouse in Divine Mission

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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