India's Position in Global Politics and the Impact of Imperialism
The fear of the return of old-style imperialism through the bombing of Iran and raises questions about India's muted response to such international actions, particularly by major powers like the US and Israel.
India's Dilemma
- India faces a tough choice between criticizing its strategic partners and maintaining diplomatic ties for vital intelligence and military support.
- The challenge arises from the embarrassment of criticizing allies while needing their help.
Significance of Self-Interest in International Relations
- Nations pursue self-interest, as seen in India's strategic partnerships with the US and Israel.
- India's global respect is derived from its economic growth, strategic capabilities, and principled international behavior.
India's Strategic Capabilities
- India is the world's most populous nation with a significant economy and technological prowess.
- Key achievements include a successful space program, nuclear capabilities, and a strong military.
- India is a member of various international groupings such as MTCR, Australia Group, and Wassenaar Arrangement.
- Recent efforts focus on enhancing domestic weapons manufacturing capabilities.
Independent Foreign Policy
- India's strategic autonomy is rooted in the independent foreign policy forged since Independence.
- Participation in Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), BRICS, and BASIC highlights India's leadership in the 'global south'.
- NAM principles include respect for sovereignty and peaceful coexistence, guiding India's international actions.
Responsibility to Protect
- The principle emphasizes states' responsibility to protect citizens from genocide, allowing international intervention when states fail.
- India historically balanced this with NAM principles, as seen in its intervention during the Bangladesh Liberation War.
Debate on Sovereignty and External Intervention
- The text questions the justification of attacks on oppressive regimes like Iran's, comparing it to historical internal oppressions in India.
- External regime change often leads to chaos, as observed in Iraq and Libya, contrasting with internal resistance-led changes.
Conclusion
India should uphold principled international relations and speak against imperial aggression, finding both self-interest and moral courage in doing so.
