The Concept of State Hardness
The article discusses the concept of a "hard" or "soft" state, questioning the existence of such distinctions and proposing that a state must inherently maintain cohesion and order. This idea is attributed to a broader discussion on the functional capabilities of states like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
Case Studies of State Functionality
- Nepal
Recent government collapse within a day due to Gen Z protests. This follows similar events in Sri Lanka (July 2022) and Bangladesh (August 2024). The state's failure highlights its non-functionality and lack of democratic patience. - Pakistan
Despite widespread protests in May 2023 led by Imran Khan's supporters, the government survived due to its capacity to maintain law and order, rather than being a "hard" state. Over 250 protest leaders are being tried in military courts, showing a strengthened state apparatus.
Lessons from Historical Context
- USSR and Georgia
The USSR's response to protests in Georgia (1988-89) with military force showcased a classical hard state. It ultimately failed due to a broken economy and inability to manage dissent.
Key Elements of a Functional State
- A functional state requires law and order, which is maintained through:
- Properly trained uniformed forces
- Negotiating skills
- Democratic patience or willingness to compromise
- The presence of an effective opposition acts as a pressure-release valve, allowing citizens to express grievances constructively.
Implications for India
India’s constitutional democracy inherently prevents abrupt regime changes through protests. Historical examples include:
- JP's Navnirman Andolan (1974)
Despite significant unrest, it required an election to challenge the government effectively. - Anna Hazare's Anti-Corruption Movement
Despite media and opposition support, the government maintained stability, and parliamentary debate played a crucial role in resolving the issue.
Conclusion
The document concludes that the strength of a state lies in its functionality, not in being "hard" or "soft." This includes maintaining law and order and enabling democratic processes. The example of M K Narayanan's gut instinct metaphor reinforces the necessity of internal resilience for state stability.