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.