The human cost
THE way a country treats its prisoners says a lot about its values. Nelson Mandela, who was incarcerated for 27 years for opposing apartheid, once said: “A nation should not…
To draw the battle lines now
AN unspoken dispute stalks India’s Congress party. It may define the battle lines for the scattered opposition groups to align against a ferocious but not invincible right-wing assault on democracy.…
Dubious distinctions
PAKISTAN now has not only the fifth largest population in the world but it also bears a very heavy burden of disease. Also, negative determinants of health or risks to…
Devastating effects of drug abuse
June 26 marks the International Day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The theme for 2023 is “People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention”. According to the United Nations…
Relying on US
THE tragedy of Europe becoming, initially at least, a satellite of the US came about in 1945. Twice in its history, Europe begged America to intervene in its civil wars…
About political homeopathy
THE idea that the left alone can defeat the right has become unconvincing. On the contrary, it’s often the left that is forced to don the robe of the right…
Word up
THE internet, to keep one’s tongue firmly in the cheek, has its uses. In the wake of climate-change disasters of increasing frequency, from forest fires in France, to floods in…
Reality of violence
The rise of Hindu nationalism, known as Hindutva, in India has fueled a disturbing wave of communal violence and intolerance, emboldened by state support. Hindutva, rooted in a desire for…
Jailhouse rockers
IF 2024 will be known as the year of seismic general elections, it will also be remembered as the one of unforgettable weddings. In India, Mumbai is still aglitter in…
Communalism and the budget
THERE was a time in India when the display of wealth and conspicuous consumption was frowned upon as an immorality associated with parvenu classes. Leaving food on the plate was…
