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UK News World News Your Blog

British Political Parties Set Out to Appease Muslim Vote Bank

The Labour party’s position on the Israel-Hamas war appears to have dented its support in Muslim areas in England’s local elections. Despite the fact that Labour has traditionally been far more popular with Muslim voters than any other major party, the party has suffered heavy losses in wards with a large number of Muslim voters … writes Dr Sakariya Kareem

As many as 3.9 million Muslims in the UK are likely to vote in the upcoming general election, making the Muslim vote key for all political parties. And party positioning on Gaza is going to have a serious electoral consequence.

Political parties in the UK are responding to the demographic landscape, by focusing on a growing population of immigrant origin voters from Muslim countries.

If the council elections, held across England on May 2 are to be considered a sampling of public opinion before the July 4 general elections, then the war in Gaza appears to be the big issue affecting polling patterns.

The Labour party’s position on the Israel-Hamas war appears to have dented its support in Muslim areas in England’s local elections. Despite the fact that Labour has traditionally been far more popular with Muslim voters than any other major party, the party has suffered heavy losses in wards with a large number of Muslim voters, in a sign its stance on the Israel-Gaza war is affecting its vote in those areas. Its initial stance after the war began, in which it called for humanitarian pauses in the fighting, prompted Labour resignations in councils and from its frontbench last year.

For instance, Worthing Councillor and Momentum co-chair Hilary Schan resigned from Labour in order to support pro-Palestinian candidates from other parties – and she has joined journalist Owen Jones’s We Deserve Better campaign. In Blackburn with Darwen, Labour lost council seats to independent candidates who quit the party over the leadership’s Gaza stance.

In the West Midlands mayoral race, independent candidate Akhmed Yakoob, who campaigned over ‘Gaza,’ won over 69,000 votes. The Greens, who called for an “immediate ceasefire” just over a week after the war began, have increased their share of the vote from 2021.

As a result, Labour’s stance on the conflict in Gaza has shifted since. Since February, the party has been calling for an immediate ceasefire in the region and the release of all hostages. And already Sir Keir Starmer is beginning to edge away from the strong support for Israel which he expressed immediately after Hamas massacred 1,200 Israelis on 7 October.

Taking a pro-Palestine anti-Israel stance would be a mistake, both politically and morally. Because while there is much to criticise in the policies of Netanyahu’s policies, the nature of Islamist opposition to Israel is unappeasable.

There is a weird and dangerous alliance between punitive Muslim extremists who believe women are inferior, homosexuals should be killed etc and the usually white hard-left Corbynites whose social agenda is completely different but share Islamist hatred of Israel and the West.

In fact, aside from Gaza, Kashmir too has become a prominent issue in the UK elections.  George Galloway of the Workers Party who won the local elections had made both Gaza and Kashmir primary issues during campaigning in Oldham which has a large concentration of Pakistani/ Kashmiri community voters.

Islamist rhetoric finds place in Britain’s political debates. In December 2023, Scottish National Party leader and MP Alison Thewliss brought up the Kashmir issue in the British Parliament. Specifically, Thewliss queried the British government’s stance on the Supreme Court of India’s decision to uphold the President’s authority to revoke Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.

In the run up to the July 4, 2024 general elections, leaders of British Kashmiri groups have started lobbying among candidates of different political parties on the Kashmir issue. Appeals are being made to the Pakistani and Kashmiri community to play their role for the success of those candidates in their constituencies who not only promise resolution of the Kashmir issue as per wishes of the Kashmiris and condemn alleged human rights violations by Indian forces in Kashmir.

While generally true that parties of the Left nominate support Muslims than do parties of the Right, all political parties seem attuned to the need to appease the large Muslim vote bank in the UK. Attention to Islam and anti-Semitism in the main United Kingdom (UK) political parties has increased substantially in recent years. Integration of British Muslims has been a challenge to British people and Muslim organisations, including the Muslim Council of Britain, ENGAGE, the Muslim Public Affairs Committee, the You elect initiative, and Operation Black Vote, strategically positioned their support to political parties based on their support for perceived Muslim issues be it Gaza or Kashmir.

The Scottish National Party has connections to Islamist groups. In March 2023, the SNP elected Humza Yousaf as its new leader and Scottish First Minister. His election marked a significant moment as he became the first Muslim to lead a major UK political party. The Scottish National Party (SNP) has increasingly adopted a strongly one-sided anti-Israel position amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.

Muslim activists in Britain seem obsessed with Israel-Gaza. It is the subject of the angry weekly marches in London to protest against Israel since the Hamas-led October 7 onslaught on Israel that sparked the ongoing war in Gaza. On Feb. 21, large crowds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators reached the gates of Westminster. According to various media reports, British lawmakers advocating a pro-Israel stance amid the Israel-Palestine conflict have been subject to numerous threats. And yet the Conservative government has failed to counter London’s weekly anti-Israel marches and to enforce the law. An article titled “Are ‘Islamists in Charge of Britain’?” published in The Free Press highlights the increasingly aggressive and anti-semitic nature of pro-Palestine protests in the UK, where demonstrators are calling for the dissolution of the state of Israel.

Immigration has fundamentally altered the ethnic and religious makeup of most advanced democracies, but in the UK it has substantially altered the manner of political representation. Britain’s indulgence and appeasement of Islamic groups sets a dangerous precedent.

Sir Winston Churchill once noted, “An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping that it will eat him last.”

For its future, Britain needs a new generation of leaders who are untainted by association with, or sympathy for, Islamic extremism and who are proud of their British identity. They must be willing to condemn terrorism unequivocally and help root out extremists from Muslim communities.

______________________________________________________

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Lifestyle Woman Your Blog

Silver Linings: Embracing Your Greys with the Magic of Nature

Ah, grey hair. The whispers of time and experience find their way to showcase naturally. However, it is understandable for many of us – the need to slow down this change in life. But instead of waging war by applying chemicals on our hair, let’s explore some natural ingredient-led hair dye alternatives.  With the world moving towards natural and sustainable alternatives, the choice towards softer ingredients is finally expanding.

Harsh chemicals are instruments of hair-hate and are out of the question, so instead let’s dive into the kinds of ingredients we should seek in a hair dye. Along with being successful colour pigments, these ingredients are also beneficial for vibrant and healthy hair.

Mistletoe, known for its calming effect, subsides scalp irritation, creating the perfect environment for nourishing hair. Fennel’s vitamin-rich composition strengthens the hair, reducing breakage and promoting hair health. Yarrow, with its acidic nature, assists in controlling excess hair oil, ensuring a clean and healthy scalp. Balm mint and chamomile join forces to provide a refreshing and soothing experience, making the hair care routine a sensory delight. Meanwhile, Hops, with their antioxidant properties, protects you from hair loss. Together, these natural ingredients are responsible for healthy and nourished hair.

Now, let’s bust some of the myths that could cloud the world of grey.

Myth 1 – Greys are coarse and unmanageable.

However, the reality is that with hair care, such as deep conditioning and using gentle cleansers, Grey hair is just as smooth and manageable.

Myth 2 – Grey hair can’t be coloured.

Hair colours like Bigen, infused with the ingredients mentioned above, can colour your grey hair just as effortlessly and get them looking like your acquired hair colour. To discover more about Bigen and explore their range, visit their e-shop at – https://bigenshop.co.uk/. Additionally, incorporating a balanced diet enriched with vitamins and minerals plays a vital role in maintaining hair health and colour. Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and biotin contribute to the overall well-being of your hair, ensuring it remains vibrant and strong.

Myth 3 – Only strong chemicals can colour the greys

Let’s bust this myth once and for all. Due to the lack of natural ingredient led products in the market, many have turned towards chemical-led products. However, with products like Bigen’s Speedy Conditioning Colour that use the essence of natural ingredients to not only colour, but also nourish your hair; it is safe to say that natural led ingredients do the very job without damaging your hair.

So, the next time your greys call out for some maintenance – know that there are gentler and natural friendly options waiting for you to be tried. Remember, there’s always a silver lining.

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Canada World News Your Blog

Trudeau’s China Connection Under Scrutiny

When Trudeau was sworn in as Prime Minister in 2015, it was well known that his family had enjoyed close ties with China. The National Post reports about Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau (Justin’s father) visit to China in the midst of a famine that killed 30 million, he came back to report that China was a model of central planning! Trudeau was still a child when his father Pierre introduced him to Mao Zedong. Within months of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, the teenage Justin was with his family on a private visit to China (but fully supported by the Chinese State) during which his father took great pains to avoid criticizing China’s actions. A special article by Dr Sakariya Kareem on Trudeau family’s relationship with Communist China

In March 2023, a series of leaks from the Canadian Security & Intelligence Service (CSIS) hit the headlines in Canada. Of the many, the most explosive was one which claimed that Chinese agents had pursued an “influence” operation against Justin Trudeau since his earliest days as an opposition MP. Even more, damning is the book by Peter Schweizer, who writes in his “Red-Handed: How American Elites Get Rich Helping China Win” that “Leftist Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has followed in his father Pierre’s footsteps in assuming the high office and using it to further the interests of the Chinese Communist Party.” This allegation has a history to it and it is therefore, not surprising that Prime Minister Trudeau chose to ignore the CSIS leaks on China’s interference in the 2019 and 2021 elections in Canada and instead focused his ire on India, alleging that New Delhi had carried out an assassination of wanted Khalistani extremist.  

When Trudeau was sworn in as Prime Minister in 2015, it was well known that his family had enjoyed close ties with China. The National Post reports about Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau (Justin’s father) visit to China in the midst of a famine that killed 30 million, he came back to report that China was a model of central planning! Trudeau was still a child when his father Pierre introduced him to Mao Zedong. Within months of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, the teenaged Justin was with his family on a private visit to China (but fully supported by the Chinese State) during which his father took great pains to avoid criticizing China’s actions. The elder Trudeau was explicit about framing the People’s Republic of China as a friend of Canada whose methods were not to be criticized. Peter Schweizer writes that the Trudeau family was in China in the immediate aftermath of the Tiananmen Square massacre in 1989. The now-ex prime minister, along with his two sons, an 18-year-old Justin and 15-year-old Alexandre, got permission for a family vacation but were informed that they would be accompanied at all times by government minders! The elder Trudeau refused to offer any criticism of the crackdown, either during the trip or after perhaps beholden to the Chinese for having made his family vacation a success.

Pierre Trudeau had an open affinity for Communist China, states Tristin Hopper in the National Post, that would be strange even by the standards of 2023.  As a student, Pierre Trudeau had backpacked through China in 1949, just as Communist forces were completing their consolidation of the country. He visited again in 1960, in the midst of the Great Leap Forward, a disastrous program of national industrialization that ultimately led to the deadliest famine in human history, and ended up killing an estimated 30 million people in China. None of this was shown to Trudeau and his traveling companion Jacques Hebert – a Quebec journalist whom Trudeau would later appoint to the Senate. The pair’s Communist Party minders instead took them on a carefully staged tour featuring humming steel mills, fully stocked department stores and Chinese government officials reciting fantastical economic figures. The book, ‘Two Innocents in Red China’, penned by the senior Trudeau recalls his visit to China.

New Delhi, Sept 10 (ANI): Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses a press conference on the G20 Leaders’ Summit, in New Delhi on Sunday. (ANI Photo)

Justin Trudeau, at his first press conference in China after becoming Prime Minister reminisced about first visit as a “young boy” adding that “The friendship and the openness towards China that my father taught me, I’m certainly hoping to pass on not only to my children but to generations of Canadians in the future.” His leadership of the Liberal Party was marked almost immediately by an odd affinity to China for a government that had never entirely been in the good graces of the Canadian public. This is best characterized by a 2013 quote at a Toronto fundraiser in which he picked China as the “administration he most admired.”  He went on to say, “There is a level of admiration I actually have for China because their basic dictatorship is allowing them to actually turn their economy around on a dime.” After successfully taking office in 2015, Trudeau would pursue what he called a “reset” with the People’s Republic of China. After his first meeting with President Xi in 2016, Trudeau said, “Canada wants to increase engagement with a peaceful, stable, and prosperous China,” He also thanked the PRC for the “great deal of warmth and respect” he found there.

But this dance with the dragon did not take long to sour and by 2018, China was openly kidnapping Canadian citizens in a bid to swing extradition proceedings against Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou. By late 2022, Xi Jinping was publicly dressing down the Canadian Prime Minister. “We should have conversations in a respectful way, otherwise, the result can’t be predicted,” Xi told Trudeau in a comment that many perceived as a veiled threat. The Chinese leader was objecting to Trudeau’s alleged leak of the details of an earlier conversation the two had shared. In November 2022, Trudeau said “unfortunately we’re seeing that countries, state actors from around the world, whether it’s China or others, are continuing to play aggressive games with our institutions, with our democracies.” The hard fact is that Trudeau faces increasing isolation, not just for his perceived tilt towards China, but also for his unsubstantiated allegations against India. The political repercussions of this action will be felt across the globe for some time, before the dust settles. Of interest is how China has used its influence operations globally to penetrate government systems. The CSIS leaks are a lesson for Canada and its governance systems, but is Justin Trudeau listening?

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Films Lite Blogs Your Blog

OPPENHEIMER : A critical response to the 2023 movie

The whole idea of making the bomb was to confront the Imperial Japanese Army who were attacking Pearl Harbour…writes Dilip Roy

Although I saw the movie on the opening day and sat through three hours monotonous performance I stayed until the very end with anticipation that it will have references to Hindu philosophy but to my surprise there was none just a passing remark of the line “Now I am become death the destroyer of worlds” but no explanation as to what it means. However, I saw the movie once again but I did not get the answer I was hoping to find.

The movie has been huped up and over publicized over the last two years for its IMAX technologyetc. Mr Nolan thought it was important to show explicit sex scenes of Oppie having with his mistress which was completly out of context besides too much of thumping sound effects is used through out the movie. Nazi Germany features more strongly while Japan only surfaces towards the end. The whole idea of making the bomb was to confront the Imperial Japanese Army who were attacking Pearl Harbour.

Mr. Nolan has completely ignored the intellectual side of Oppie as he was popularly known, that entire process of making a bomb came from his study of  Sanskrit literature particularly the Bhgavadgita Nolan has not even done justice to the biography American Prometheus which contains lot of references to Oppie’s interest in Indian philosophy all these things  played a very pivotal role in his life as a matter of fact all most all the award winning physicist were inspired by VEDIC philosophy such as Niels Bohr, Werner Heisenberg and Erwin Schrodinger who also appearin the movie believed that Quantum theory originates from India, even the likes of Albert Einstein who also appear in the movie was influenced by Hindu philosophy.

Christopher Nolan should have done some research on Indian philosophy before embarking on such crucial project. However, in my opinion this movie is a complete disaster though it will probably be a commercial success for its technical gimmicks. The script could have been shortened to two hours. Being the only highest grossing blockbuster movie of 2023 is now heading for the Oscares win as there are none in the compition. In my opinion Mr Nolan needs to do some serious introspection, if you are embarking on a serious subject like Oppenheimer one needs to do some serious study and research and not just get away with technical gimmicks.

ALSO READ-Oppenheimer: The man behind the atomic age

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Lite Blogs Travel & Tourism Your Blog

Phuket, surrounded by beautiful islands, rival of Maldives and Bali

Most of tourists arrive here from India and Russia, Thailand is comparatively cheaper than Maldives and Bali. The best season to visit in Thailand is between October to March. It will be hectic to cover Bangkok and Phuket both in one visit. If you are a nature lover, must visit Phuket and Krabi…writes Nilesh Shukla

With endless coastlines, Southeast Asia offers a plethora of opportunities to relax in crystal clear water and explore the white stretches of sand without pinching the pocket. After careful consideration and comparison,  I finalized  Phuket and Krabi in Thailand, for a holiday this March. Considered a  rival of Maldives and Bali, this island province is located in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach.

Phuket is also a popular destination for scuba diving, snorkelling, and other water sports. The island is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including temples, museums, and markets. Phuket is a great destination for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous exploration of the island’s many attractions. The population of Phuket is estimated to be 890,000. The majority of the population is Thai, with a significant minority of Chinese and Muslim communities. This island is a popular tourist destination, with over 10 million visitors each year. The economy of Phuket is largely driven by tourism, with the majority of the population employed in the hospitality industry.

Massage parlours are a popular attraction in Phuket, with many offering traditional Thai massage, aromatherapy, and other spa treatments. Most massage parlours are located in the tourist areas of Patong, Kata, and Karon. In the mind of most Indians, Thai massage parlors are interpreted as a sex business. No.. no.., it is an art, a therapy that is good for the relaxation of the body. Prices vary depending on the type of massage and the length of the session. Massage parlours are a great way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or exploring the islands.

Krabi Island is a great destination for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous exploration of the island’s many attractions. The Tiger Kingdom in Phuket is a popular tourist attraction. The park is home to a variety of tigers, including white tigers, Bengal tigers, and Sumatran tigers. Visitors can interact with the tigers in a safe and controlled environment. The park also offers educational programs about tigers and their conservation. The Tiger Kingdom is a great place to learn about these majestic animals and their importance in the world.

The Big Buddha of Phuket is a 45-meter-tall statue located on the top of the Nakkerd Hills. The statue is visible from many parts of the island and is a popular tourist attraction. The Big Buddha is a symbol of peace and harmony and is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and admire the stunning views of the island. The statue is also a popular spot for locals to come and pray for good luck and fortune.

Phi Phi Island is also a popular destination for snorkelling, scuba diving, and other water sports. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, lizards, and birds. Phi Phi Island is a great destination for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous exploration of the island’s many attractions.


The economy of Thailand is one of the most dynamic in Southeast Asia. The country has a strong manufacturing sector, with exports of electronics, automobiles, and textiles. Tourism is also a major contributor to the economy, with over 35 million visitors each year. Agriculture is also an important part of the economy, with rice, rubber, and other crops being exported around the world. The government has implemented a number of economic reforms to promote growth and reduce poverty.

The political background of Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. The country is divided into 76 provinces, each of which is governed by an elected governor. The Prime Minister is the head of government and is appointed by the King. The country is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Women’s contribution to the Economy is sizable, women play an important role in the economy of Thailand. Women make up a significant portion of the workforce, with many employed in the manufacturing, hospitality, and service industries. Women are also increasingly becoming entrepreneurs, with many starting their own businesses. The government has implemented a number of initiatives to promote gender equality and empower women in the workforce.

The tattoo business in Phuket is booming. Phuket has long been a popular destination for travellers looking to get a unique and memorable tattoo. With its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, the island is an ideal destination for a tattoo. There are a number of tattoo studios located in Phuket, and many of them offer custom designs and unique artwork. If you are looking for a unique and meaningful tattoo, Phuket is the perfect place to get one. Whether you are looking for a traditional Thai design or something a bit more modern, you will find plenty of artists who can help you create the perfect tattoo. The price for a tattoo in Phuket can vary depending on the size and complexity of the design, as well as the experience of the artist. Generally, a small tattoo can cost around 1,000-2,000 baht (approximately $30-60 USD). Larger, more intricate tattoos can cost up to 10,000 baht (approximately $300 USD).

Most of tourists arrive here from India and Russia, Thailand is comparatively cheaper than Maldives and Bali. The best season to visit in Thailand is between October to March. It will be hectic to cover Bangkok and Phuket both in one visit. If you are a nature lover, must visit Phuket and Krabi.

Overall, Phuket is an amazing destination to visit with plenty of attractions, activities and more to explore. It is a great place to relax and experience a different culture and way of life. With its stunning beaches and lush tropical forests, Phuket and Krabi offer something for everyone. With the right planning and preparation, a trip to Phuket and Krabi can be an unforgettable experience.  Last…there are a number of Indian restaurants here but if you are a pure vegetarian, don’t forget to carry ready to cook meal.

Do & Don’t in Phuket

Do:

1. Visit the beaches, temples, and other attractions in Phuket.

2. Try out some of the local cuisines.

3. Take a boat tour around the islands.

4. Take part in some of the island’s water sports.

5. Explore the nightlife and shopping options. 6. Go on an excursion to nearby islands.

Don’t:

1. Don’t barter too aggressively with street vendors.

2. Don’t leave your belongings unattended.

3. Don’t swim too far out to sea.

4. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and wear a hat.

5. Don’t forget to bring cash and ATM cards.

6. Don’t forget to bring your passport.

(By Nilesh Shukla)

ALSO READ-Less travelled roads in South Africa for next trip

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Columns World News Your Blog

‘Corporates Influence Governments’

Prof. Wilfried Swenden is Professor of South Asian and Comparative Politics and Deputy head of Politics and International Relations, School of Social and Political Science at the University of Edinburgh. He is internationally recognised for his studies in the realm of federalism and his research interests includes comparative federalism and territorial politics, intergovernmental relations in multi-level states and centre state relations in India and Indian party politics.

Prof. Wilfried, who hails from Belgium where he completed his D. Phil (University of Oxford) followed by a Post – Doctoral fellowship at Leuven, funded by the Flemish Fund of Scientific Research. Asian Lite’s Abhish K. Bose meets Prof. Wilfried

ABHISH K BOSE:   What is your take on Indian federalism vis-a-vis American federalism?

PROF. WILFRIED SWENDEN: I would not say a priori that US federalism is stronger today than say a century ago (in fact with the expansion of the welfare state, the size and powers of the US centre have increased significantly). However, states have more secure powers under the US constitution which is very hard to amend. Citizens of the US also accept that state governments should have strong fiscal autonomy and no guarantee of a federal bail-out if they default on their fiscal responsibilities. In India, states lack that autonomy but that also makes them more vulnerable to federal incursions which are often open to political discretion (such as in the allocation of CSS to states aligned with the government policy and political preferences).     

 

 ABHISH K BOSE: Do you think that reinforcing political and cultural regionalism is the solution for this? Doesn’t this weaken the ‘oneness of spirit’ that a dynamic nation must cultivate?

PROF. WILFRIED SWENDEN: There can be no federalism without federal spirit. It is one thing for the BJP to say this, but this does not mean that it is true (e.g Canada is a performant federation despite the comparatively strong position of its provinces, or the US given the role of the states) or that voters will buy into this narrative. Only if they continue to vote BJP governments into federal and nearly of the states this may become closer to reality. Federations work on the basis of solidarity (the oneness of spirit you refer to) and autonomy. This autonomy entails that states and regions have the freedom to exercise autonomy within their domain and to vote for the parties and leaders of their choice. To impose unity on a society that is highly diverse on the basis of region, language, caste and religion is counter-productive and can in the long term generate support for secessionist movements or political violence. That being said, I have been somewhat surprised by the willingness of the Indian voters and even some of the regional parties to buy into the BJP narrative. Perhaps parties do so because they feel that their options are curtailed if they take a stance more clearly against the central government, but what compels voters to believe the same? Even before 2014, some surveys (LIKNITI, World Values Survey) show strong support in India for a strong national leader and rising support for a majoritarian understanding of democracy. Both of these sit uncomfortably with the federal spirit and certainly with the understanding of India as a liberal democracy in which the rights of minorities must be constitutionally protected.

 ABHISH K BOSE: Do you see the federal structure of India is changing?

PROF. WILFRIED SWENDEN: There is definitely an erosion of the federal principle at play in India at the moment, even though in these circumstances it is useful to remind ourselves of the fact that given the size and diversity of India, there will remain room for state and local autonomy, particularly in fields which are in the exclusive state list and in which the current centre has shown limited interest to interfere. The presence of a minority government and/or coalition government until 2014 and for most of the time since 1989 provided an important political safeguard against the centralisation of the Indian polity, something which can be easily accomplished given the rather centralised features of the Indian constitution.     

           

 ABHISH K BOSE: Article 365 of the Indian Constitution is perceived to have harmful ramifications vis-a-vis its implementation. The Union government, under the Congress regime, first invoked this provision for dismissing the EMS-led, left government in 1959. This was followed by other such dismissals. Can this provision be retained without violating the spirit of federalism enshrined in the constitution? If yes, what are the further safeguards to be put in place?   

PROF. WILFRIED SWENDEN: Although you are correct in your earlier assessment that the Supreme Court has not been an important safeguard of federalism since 2014, it has held on to its reading of the President’s Rule since the Bommai judgement and in Modi’s first term in office struck down the unconstitutional application of public-relations, even forcing ousted Congress governments to be reinstated. President’s Rule may have a role to play, but only if it is used in the constitutionally intended way: when there is a breakdown of law and order at the state level or indeed where a government loses its majority in the assembly without a possible alternative. Arguably, India could move towards constitutionalizing a constructive motion of confidence as an instrument to achieve the latter as already practised across several parliamentary majorities. The absence of an alternative majority could then lead to fresh elections being called within a prescribed time period. One may question the need for President’s Rule in circumstances such as these.       

ABHISH K BOSE: With the onset of globalisation the corporate groups using powerful central governments, led by leaders who have sizeable backing to pursue their business interests is a new phenomenon, which works often to the detriment of public interests. State governments are powerless to resist both the political and pecuniary power of giant corporations. What is the peril that this process holds out to the feasibility of federalism in India?   

PROF. WILFRIED SWENDEN: There is a clear nexus between power and leading business corporations, but it is also possible to imagine that nexus operates at the subnational level. Corporations have often pushed centralisation on efficiency grounds, e.g. the adoption of a GST as a means to ‘integrate’ the Indian market. It is even possible that corporates seek access to state government rather than the central government when the latter is controlled by parties who are keen on implementing more redistributive reforms (hence the nexus with BJP in Gujarat whilst UPA I engaged in more socially corrective policies). I would also argue that in India the tie between business and politics is a partial reflection of the opaque way in which parties are financed and of the continued power politicians hold, for instance in issuing environmental clearances or endorsing land development licenses. The people (through social movements and as voters) can play an important check in this regard, as evidenced by the eventual retraction of the farmer’s laws. Ultimately the spirt of federalism hinges not just on the constitutional and institutional fabric but also on the extent to which it is imbued by voters at large. What is perhaps striking is the lack of resistance from below to the centralization of the Indian polity in the last few years, even from quarters where it may be more expected (e.g. the citizens in the North-Eastern states)  

ABHISH K BOSE: The flexibility of Indian federalism tends to favour the centralising tendencies of the State. The abuse of various central investigating agencies –the NIA, CBI, the ED, the IT department, etc., aggravates this danger. This also threatens the survival of opposition parties, the plight of the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra being a recent and eloquent illustration of this.   Should checks and balances be mutual instead of one-sided so as to bear the spirit of the principles of federalism?  What can India learn from the American model of federalism in this respect?  

PROF. WILFRIED SWENDEN: These institutions should operate at the arm’s length of the political executive. Just as many countries have realised that it is in their interest, if central banks have independence in formulating monetary policy, so too these enforcement and regulatory agencies should be able to operate more independently. Recent practices (but also observed during earlier periods of one-party dominance) question the separation of powers, a principle that is more embedded in the American constitutional system (even though here the practice is one of separation of institutions ‘sharing powers’ e.g. the political executive appoints many of the judges (including Supreme Court), so these branches never operate in isolation.

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FEATURE Lite Blogs Your Blog

SPECIAL: India’s Cultural Influence on 19th Century German Intelligentsia   

The Hindu text of Bhagavadgitaa component of (Mahabharata 3000 BCE) has become one of the most prominent and well known expression of Hindu thought and belief and the foreign land that encountered Gitawas none other than Germany, where it originally appeared in the last phase of eighteenth century when Germany was undergoing transformation of the so called the Romantic Period and thus, 19th century produced some of the greatest artists like Beethoven, Goethe, Schiller and Wagner … A special report by Dilip Roy

This was also the period when strongest influence was felt on prominent intellectuals of the time such as Paul Deussen, Herder, Holtzmann, Humboldt, Max-Muller, Novalis, Schelling, Friedrich von  Schlegel and Arthur Schopenhauer to name but a few. The two names are very crucial here.

The thought of Gottfried Herder (1744-1803) was a key influence on the development of Romanticism and German Idealism. Herder was a poet a philosopher of culture and history. He was attracted to the new discipline of Indology. For Herder India was the (cradle) of civilization of absolute unity of the basis of all things. Herder revisited Indian sources time and again to capture as a part of his wide-ranging effort to understand the world history as a whole. Among the numerous writings on India we find translations of Bhagavadgitapublished in 1792 which constitutes the first appearance of the text in German intellectual circles. In a broad sense with the concerns of his intellectual community inevitably gave India the recognition and thus the reception of  Gitaplayed a crucial role taking its place in the development of Indian sources (Indology) to the scientific study of the language (Philology) In this text, Herder presented some of the most enduring interpretations of Indian culture, and while these depictions became more distinguished in his other writings, the fame of the text meant that it would represent the most significant part of Herder’s legacy for early nineteenth century intellectuals who wished to study the great Indian civilization.  

The Romantic period of Germany also gave us Friedrich von Schlegel (1772-1829) who was a German poet, literary critic, philosopher, philologist and Indologist. In June 1802 he arrived in Paris to study Sanskrit and in 1808 he published epoch-making book, Uber die Sprache und Weisheit der Indier (On the Language and Wisdom of India). It is here he advanced his ideas about religion and importantly argued that the people originating from India were the founders of the first European civilizations. Schlegel compared Sanskrit with Latin, Greek, Persian and German languages noting many similarities in vocabulary and grammar. The assertion of the common features of these languages are now generally accepted. The essay also begins to open up the significance of the religious conception for Schlegel’s reading of Indian texts. This analysis provides the foundation for Schlegel’s interpretation and rendering of the Bhagavadgita which was appended to his famous treatise on India. Schlegel reaffirmed this myth as a part of the emerging Romantic program in an explicit attempt to establish Indian culture and religion as a source for European cultural renewal. As a part of this narrative, Schlegel continued to draw on important conception of fundamental Hindu ideology that began to emerge in Herder’s thought. However, one has the sense of this conception that has become something of a slogan in Schlegel’s text that Indian metaphysics and the language Sanskrit is superior above the rest.

Addendum: The Bhagavad Gita in twentieth century and Beyond.

Robert J. Oppenheimer (1904-1967) who is now regarded the father of Atomic Bomb was an American Scientist of German origin just like his friend world renowned scientist  Albert Einstein was also a German and both were influenced by Indian philosophy and thought.

Oppenheimer was not only a genius in his own field but he was strongly drawn to Hindu philosophy and the Hindu religion in particular, which resulted in feeling the cosmological mystery of the universe that surrounded him like a fog. He saw physics clearly, looking toward what had already been done and he turned away from the hard , crude methods of theoretical physics into the mystical realm of broad intuition. In 1933, he learned Sanskrit and met the Indologist Arthur W. Ryder at Berkeley university. He read the Bhagavadgitain the original Sanskrit, and later he cited it as one of books that most shaped his philosophy of life.

The Bhagavadgita is essentially a discourse between Prince Arjuna and God Vishnu (Lord Krishna) on the battle fields of the great MAHABHARATA war and Krishna is trying to convince Arjuna by implying that everyone in the battlefield will eventually die in time and that it his duty to fight.

In August 1945 when first Atomic Bomb was detonated on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the explosions reminded Oppenheimer of the quote from Bhagavadgita: Now I am become Death, the Destroyer of the Worlds.”

Postscript: Today at least eight countries have the destructive Nuclear weapons.

(Dilip Roy is an Indo-German cultural enthusiast and one of the greatest admirers of Nineteenth century German composer Richard Wagner. Mr. Roy’s articles on Wagner has been published by Wagner Societies of Australia, London, New Zealand and Scotland. Mr. Roy is also an elected Fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland.  )

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P.K.Rosy: An unwritten chapter on an enchanting Dalit Malayali actress

The name P. K. Rosy was brought back to the limelight recently when actress Kani Kusruti dedicated her State Award for Best Female Actor to the late actress of Malayalam Cinema…writes Ashok Parameswar

Born in 1903 to a Dalit family, Rosy acted in the first Malayalam movie called Vigathakumaran. However, the film was lost to a fire, erasing all memories of its existence with it. Rosy played a character named Sarojini in the 1928 silent film directed by J. C. Daniel, considered the father of Malayalam Cinema.

Born at Nandankode in Trivandrum, Rosy was reportedly raised in abject poverty after her father died when she was very young. From a Dalit family, her caste background caused controversy when the film was released. Rosy had dared to act in a movie when it was objectionable for a woman to do so, let alone a Dalit woman. And she played an upper-caste Nair woman, which enraged the Nair community.

Rosy endured the shoot, but the story goes that director Daniel had to keep her away from the cinema hall called Capitol during the film’s first screening as important men from the upper caste were present at the show. Rosy stayed away, and the screening was inaugurated peacefully, but when the upper caste men found out a Dalit woman was portraying a Nair, they responded spitefully. They threw stones at the screen, and Rosy’s hut was burnt down that very night, forcing her to flee.

Rosy reportedly fled Kerala with the aid of a lorry driver belonging to the Nair caste. She later married him and left all the hardships behind. However, her grandchildren refuse to acknowledge her Dalit legacy, which makes it nearly impossible to trace her entire story. The only biographical book is a small booklet titled P. K. Rosy by Kunnukuzhy S Mani, and a novel titled Nashta Nayika (The Lost Heroine), authored by Vinu Abraham. The book was translated into English by C.S. Venkiteswaran.

Rosy is thus, the first heroine of Malayalam Cinema and also the first Dalit woman to act in a Malayalam movie. Her story is also the story of the birth of Malayalam Cinema. Unfortunately, both are smeared by the horrors of casteism, which still holds on to Kerala’s cinema and culture. The story of the lost heroine sheds light on the politics of gender, caste, and society in Malayalam cinema.

In 2019, 89 years after the release of Vigathakumaran, the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) founded a film society in Rosy’s name in an attempt to restore her lost legacy.

WCC, made up of a group of female actors of Malayalam cinema, said: “This act of naming our film society PK Rosy Film Society is an attempt to be sensitive and to take note of all those who have been excluded from dominant cinema histories through their gender, caste, religious or class locations and our imagination.”

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‘MAA’ : A Heartfelt Film On Social Issues (***)

The mainstream film industry is an inaccessible dream for many cinema buffs who may want to act or direct but lack the means or connections…writes Shelja Pallath.

Well, this was the reality until some time ago. With a technology boom, more people who love cinema are breaking barriers to bring with small budget films that are close to their hearts to the forefront. One such example is the Malayalam film MAA, released in December 2019.

Produced by London High Commission employee Antony Thomas Vallikad and directed by cine artist Jayaraaj Aarattuvazhy, the 16-minute film tackles several pressing issues in society, making it a compelling watch.

From our addiction to smartphone to our disregard for the elderly and fellow humans, the film highlights our current times’ uncomfortable realities with reasonable sensitivity, depth, and insight.

The movie begins with a shot of a young girl playing a game on her smartphone and develops it through other interesting plots and subplots.

Three Ms — ‘Mobile, Madhu and Mother’ — are the main themes of the film. In the modern world of technology, phones play an inexorable role in our lives. While we remain engrossed in it, the world with its small, beautiful moments passes us by, including the selfless love of parents. As more and more children take to online gaming and social media, it poses a serious challenge for future generations. These are among the several issues that the film captures.

The second theme, ‘Madhu,’ is a name that Keralites can never forget. In 2018, a tribal named Madhu was tied up and reportedly beaten to death by a violent mob for stealing food. The movie draws out the incident through a similar narrative, asking for a change in people’s attitude towards other humans.

The film also underlines the widening gap among generations, highlighting to its audience the similarities between the elderly and children. While both age groups need care, love, and attention, the old is discarded by society who often restricts children from loving them.

“There is one shocking incident that was reported in a newspaper, which was weaved into the script and the film. The scene made a huge impact on our audience. It is the most heartfelt sequence of the film. People who watched the movie may wonder if a child can do such things to their parents, but the incident did happen, and in Kerala, God’s own country!” said Antony, the producer of the film.

Created by a group of cinema buffs from Kerala, most people who worked on the film are from Alappey. The director’s own brother Joseph Vallikkad is an experienced cine artist who has starred in one of the central roles in the film. He has been working in the industry for the last 20 years, but unfortunately, he couldn’t reach the pinnacle of fame.

“He worked as production manager and participated in several television projects, including Tapasya, Rose in December. He has also acted in films and coincidentally starred in Parvathy Jayaram’s Ashokante Aswathy, which was released in 1989, as well as her son Kalidas’ 2019 film called Happy Sardar,” Antony added.

If you want to watch a simple movie that depicts some hard realities of life, touching the heart and making you think, this is the one to watch.

The movie’s storyline was created by Anil Virad, and Binoy Antony developed into a script by PS Shibu in collaboration with the director. The cast includes Kaviraj, Jophy Joseph, Antony Vallikkad, Jomon, Sajai, Jaaraj and Master Aloshya and Fayas. Makeup artist Alappey Johnson and composer Roshan Joseph are also part of it. The visuals have been created by Saji, accompanied by Roshan Joseph’s background score. Vallikkad production’s movie is available on YouTube.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qT59xkpB7PY