India’s United Front: Revisiting the Past to Challenge the Present

A Historical Perspective: United Against British Raj In the era when resistance against the British Raj was gaining momentum, India witnessed the emergence of various political parties. These parties were primarily formed to counter the British policy of ‘Divide and Rule’, which segregated India along religious, cultural, linguistic, and caste lines. The British exploited India’s resources, including gold, cotton, and grains, to such an extent that the common people struggled to meet their basic needs. To counter the rising opposition, the British often manipulated these parties, pitting them against one another.

The Congress party, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, adopted a path of non-violence and truth (‘Satyamev Jayate’). It successfully collaborated with other parties, leading the movement that ultimately ended British rule in India.

Why This History Matters Today The relevance of this history is profound in today’s context. The current administration, often referred to as the ‘Modi Raj’, is perceived by many as mirroring the divisive tactics of the British Raj. Allegations of favoritism in infrastructure development, corruption, and nepotism have surfaced. Initiatives like demonetization (‘notebandi’), initially hailed as a step towards eradicating corruption, have faced scrutiny over their effectiveness.

The 2G spectrum scandal is another instance that raised questions. Initially, it tarnished the reputation of the Congress party, labeling it as ‘Scamgress’. However, subsequent developments, including the acquittal of key figures like A. Raja, have led to claims of a political witch hunt rather than a genuine pursuit of justice.

The Farmers’ Protest: A Case Study in Governance The recent farmers’ protests against the farm bills serve as a notable example. The government initially labeled the protestors as anti-nationals, only to eventually retract the bills, conceding to the demands. This episode, viewed by many as a capitulation to corporate interests over farmers’ rights, raises questions about the government’s commitment to democratic principles.

Media Control and the Threat to Democracy There is growing concern that mainstream media outlets are predominantly influenced by the ruling party, leaving social media as the sole platform for dissenting voices. However, efforts to regulate social media, potentially leading to the incarceration of non-compliant content creators, are seen as a direct threat to democracy.

The British Raj era saw leaders like Sardar Patel, Mahatma Gandhi, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak imprisoned for merely voicing their opposition. This historical parallel is particularly alarming for many who fear a similar trajectory of suppression of dissent in contemporary India.

A Call for Unity and Transparency Today, various parties are aligning to challenge what they perceive as a divisive and corrupt administration. The need of the hour, as many believe, is for the populace to unite and counter the narrative pushed by mainstream media. This collective effort aims to uphold democratic values and ensure transparent governance, echoing the united front once formed against the British Raj.