By P Mohan Chandran
In an ever-polarized world, where does India find its stance amidst the global maze of conflicts? As terror rips through the streets of Israel, how should India perceive and respond to the echoes of a shared past?
Israel today finds itself shaken to its core by the terror unleashed by Hamas. The dusk of 7th October revealed harrowing images of anguish and desolation. Amidst the horrific acts, the world was served with meticulously crafted propaganda – a digital onslaught designed to sway emotions and opinions.
But to an Indian observer, these are not just disconnected snapshots from a distant land. They echo chilling reminders of a history that spans over millennia, beginning with the invasion of Muhammed Bin Qasim in 711 AD. The shades of brutality, once prevalent in India, seemed to replay on screens today.
So, what reflections should today's India glean from these turbulent currents?
1. History as a Mirror: Ideological or political preferences aside, India's turbulent past is undeniable. The weight of 1600 years, with its religious and cultural assaults, still lingers. Recognizing this is pivotal, for often, history has a haunting way of repeating itself.
2. Unified National Interests: Partisan squabbles aside, national interest ought to remain paramount. While democracy thrives on dissent and debate, a nation's security and integrity are non-negotiable. Israel's political leaders' united front against terror stands as a poignant lesson.
3. The Resilience of Memory: The younger Indian generation, although removed from the violent turns of this century, must still be reminded of the past. Our cities, once silenced by terror, have stories that the youth must be acquainted with.
4. The Guardian at the Helm: Why has India witnessed a sharp decline in urban terror incidents recently? One might argue that the answer is leadership. Regardless of political affiliations, the relative calm of the past decade is attributed to robust policies and assertive administration.
5. Complex Landscapes & Challenges: While India has made significant strides, challenges persist, from Jammu and Kashmir's volatility to the left-wing extremism pockets. A nation's journey to security is often winding, filled with evolving challenges.
6. Tangible Actions Over Virtual Gestures: In an age of information overload, real-world achievements often speak louder than digital proclamations. It's the quiet work behind the scenes, far from the limelight, that ensures national security.
7. Leadership as a Beacon: While processes and strategies are paramount, a nation's direction is often steered by its leaders. In times of crisis, unity and faith in leadership can be the glue that holds a nation together.
8. The Litmus Test for Public Figures: Public figures wielding influence must be held to the yardstick of national interest. Any dalliance with divisive or security-compromising ideologies should be met with skepticism.
9. Memory as the Nation's Shield: For a nation, forgetting can be perilous. While forgiveness might be a personal choice, collective amnesia can be detrimental. Nations must remember, for history not only teaches but often warns.
Amidst these turbulent times, as Israel grapples with its present, India must learn from its past, ensuring that the future remains secure. Is India poised to absorb these lessons, or will the pages of history turn yet again? Only time shall unveil the story.
Do you think we should "forget" our past and "forgive" the perpetrators?
A. No, we should never 'forgive' or 'forget' our history.
B. Yes, better to dwell in the future than in the past.
© 2023. P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.
11102023
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