Modi makes a digital surgical strike against Chinese Apps: Some, however, find PM's move well thought out & "populist"

Time to chill ?

Some, however, find Namo's move well thought out as a "populist" measure as Indian people's mood is immensely anti-China.

"I had raised concerns in Parliament about the vulnerability of Indians to data harvesting by Chinese apps. I will ask the Ministry to brief the Standing Committee on IT in detail on the rationale for today's ban, &also to suggest/promote alternative services that are more secure." - Shashi Tharoor

India's Ministry of Information Technology said it was banning the 59 Chinese apps after receiving "many complaints from various sources" about apps that were "stealing and surreptitiously transmitting users' data in an unauthorised manner".

"The compilation of these data, its mining and profiling by elements hostile to national security and defence of India, which ultimately impinges upon the sovereignty and integrity of India, is a matter of very deep and immediate concern which requires emergency measures," the IT ministry said.

Modi's India makes digital surgical strike, bans 59 Chinese apps

In a move displaying no going back from the faceoff between India and China along the border; the Narendra Modi government brandishing its muscular characteristics yet again on Monday evening

banned as many as 59 China-made internet apps including popular TikTok, Share It, WeChat and Weibo. . 

In a statement, the government - engaged in a bitter row with its neighbour and Asian giant - said the apps were "prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order".

Opposition parties have broadly welcomed the government's initiatives at a time when there have been overwhelming protests across India demanding "ban" on use of Chinese products and companies. 

One minister Ramdas Athawale (of Republican Party of India) also had demanded a ban on serving Chinese food items in the restaurants.

Priyanka Chaturvedi, Shiv Sena: "To ban 59 apps is understandable as many were engaged in data collection as reported extensively. Next,- will the govt cap Indian tech start up’s over dependence on China funds (approx $4bn)?- will the govt keep China companies away from power, telecom & infra eg 5G rollout?

(Extract from an old blog...must be read .....with a pause.....before u read the subsequent paras)

In short – Chinese people are friendly despite the language being a major weakness. Chinese are also hardworking and no doubt that’s how today they are Asia’s anchor economy, which provides a connectivity and innovation platform to its neighbours.

In 2013-17, the country accounted for 35 per cent of Asia’s total outward FDI, with about one-quarter of that investment going to other Asian economies. Reflecting its rapidly growing innovation capacity, China also accounts for 44 per cent of the world’s patent applications in 2017.

....another striking feature that drew my attention (during my week long maiden visit to China) has been that the Chinese have laws and practices that would combine together to help their national growth.

(this para is from an old blog written to share my experience of China visit)

https://bestofindiarestofindia.blogspot.com/2019/10/first-person-missive-when-it-has-to.html

ZZZZZZZ

Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren - heading a coalition regime of a regional party and country's principal

opposition party Congress- has said: "....the Central government is late in taking this step. These mobile applications have already spread the infection".

"We welcome the decision to ban Chinese apps. In light of the grave intrusion of our territory and 

the unprovoked attack on our armed forces by the Chinese army, we expect our  government to take more 

substantial and effective measures," senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel tweeted.

The Congress party and its leader Rahul Gandhi and party chief Sonia (Rahul's Catholic born Italian mom) have been

lately engaged in debate with the central government headed by Bharatiya Janata Party over the China policy.

Several top BJP leaders including party's national president J P Nadda has accused Congress of going soft

on China because of a 2008 pact between Congress party and Communist Party of China.

The Congress leaders, however, deny the charge and said as the principal opposition party in the country,

it has all the right to question the Modi government for its "failure" in protecting Indian land and soldiers against 

China at the borders.

The Indian government, however, says it is able to give a befitting reply to Chinese at the border.

Hence both the government decision to ban as many as 59 apps and opposition parties 'welcoming' the 

decision is significant in Indian politics.

Indian market used to be flooded with Chinese products and doing business with these items which made economical

sense had provided jobs to thousands of Indians across various ranges.

"Hundreds of Indians were dependent on these applications as their only source of income. These have Indian creators, many of these platforms have offices and employees in India. What happens to them and how they respond remains to be seen?," says an opposition socialist leader on the condition of anonymity.

with Chinese friends at Great Wall

The apps like TikTok have been very popular in India and there used to be an estimated 100 million active users.

Other platforms Bigo Live and Helo are also popular.

But BJP leaders are confident that the people of India would stand by the government decision even at the cost of some hiccups and initial inconvenience.

"We are decimating China on various fronts, there is political decimation due to strong leadership under Prime

Minister Narendra Modi.... this is economic decimation - important contracts have also been canceled or annulled,"  says

BJP spokesman Gaurav Bhatia.

But there is a voice of skepticism also. "The ban does not make a difference to Chinese economy by blocking 

these apps. We should try to control how the data is being captured," says Sanjay Vasudeva, CEO of BuzzOne,

that calls itself an 'Influencer Marketing Platform' that enables brands to run influencer campaigns.

However, there is a section who sees this as a move to unleash pressure on Chinese leadership.

In recent weeks, several contracts given to Chinese companies have been tarnished even at state levels.

One such decision was taken by the Bihar government in eastern India - where Modi's BJP is a coalition 

partner of regional outfit Janata Dal United.

Indian Railways announced termination of a contract given to Chinese firm worth Rs 470 crore contract.

According to trader Avinash Gupta, a member of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), a lobby of 70 million 

local traders, has decided to step up its nationwide movement against the boycott of Chinese goods.

As a matter of fact, TikTok was banned in India on the order of the Madras High Court for a few days in 2019

but was allowed to function after the court vacated the ban. 

Xi Jinping - Knowing the man, his upbringing and politics

New Delhi:A lot of is being written and rewritten today about China. Of course the principal focus is on Xi Jinping, President of China as a protagonist in the entire geo-strategic and political theatre.

It is, therefore, interesting to take a closer look at the man and his journey – both political and personal.

Of course, China and its leadership has its own set of problems. The two potential new growth poles, as highlighted in several reports - the high technology and the consumer spending—are facing tough times. There are challenges on the domestic front as  the economy is going through rough patches. Some statistics are lowest in the 27-28 years timespan.

Xi Jinping comes from a political background. His father Xi Zhongshun was a close associate of Chinese military commander Liu Zhidan. In 1962, Senior Xi was thrown into prison and his wife (Xi Jinping's mom) too was banished to a labour camp. Xi Jinping, like many youngsters of his time was asked to "denounce" his parents by those promoted to positions of responsibility.

In 2012, Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a Hong Kong-based scholar had written: "Xi is taking charge of the country at a particularly delicate time. China is having to adopt an alternative growth model whilst the government is struggling with powerful economic and regional feudalities". 

Moreover, the infamous 'Bo Xilai affair or scandal' had surfaced in 2011. It showed certain "weaknesses" of the Chinese political system and the government as well. Corruption of the elites became a byword and so called deep-rooted ideological differences within the 'Party machine' also were exposed. The stability was shaken !

In the write up. Cabestan maintained, the Chinese Communist Party needs a leader who is both strong and courageous! More importantly, he posed a question: "Is Xi such a person?" In short and in retrospective effect, one can say Xi Jinping came up the ladder hard way. It was only in 1997 - Xi's rise at the national level began to fructify. At the 15th CCP Congress, Xi was elected a member of the Central Committee. He was only 43!

Now, a question comes - given his background, cultural revolution in 1970s and of course developments related to 'Bo Xilai scandal' of 2011 - did Xi Jinping benefit out of these?

The answer is 'Yes' and too an extent it was not unnatural. He became a beneficiary and was seen as one of the leaders who would fit in the bill of China of 2011-12.

Blogger in Chinese Foreign Ministry: Aug 2019

Moreover, in domestic Chinese politics, Xi was seen as a 'moderniser'. Those who followed Xi's career graph later on said - Xi Jinping stuck Hu Jintao's political line and made a strong pitch for
harmony between migrant workers and entrepreneurs and also sought for improvements in civic body level governance.

Such political protagonists like Xi Jinping have benefited in other countries as well. In the United States, it is strongly believed Ronald Reagan became the real beneficiary and "herald of a born again Americanism" of the politics over Vietnam war and not the illustrious Jimmy Carter.

Thus, can we say Xi Jinping demonstrated true revivalism for his party and country in 2011-12?


This question can be answered in more ways than one!

Around 2017 - Xi Jinping's politics and foreign policy was seen as activist posture and thus invited easy comparison to Donald Trump’s difficulties in accomplishing his own diplomatic agenda. Chinese media hailed Xi's stint as one known for pushing through “historic changes”. It was also observed that Beijing would give up a well known Chinese guiding principle of “avoiding brightness, cherishing obscurity” meaning a low-profile foreign policy.

Both Chinese media and the western experts were also overwhelmed by what was given out as the 'Xi Jinping Thought'.

The 19th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) convened between Oct 18 and 25 2017 was also widely interpreted as a manifestation of the personal power that Xi amassed since 2012 after only five years at the top post.

Certainly, some critique put him on a par with Deng Xiaoping or even Mao Zedong.

US always welcomes Indian talent, says MEA on new Visa move

New Delhi: India on Thursday gave its first reactions on the Trump administration decision on H 1B Visa and maintained while people-to-people linkages are vital, it is also true that the US has "always welcomed talent" and exuded hopes that Indian professionals will continue to be "welcomed" in that country.

"People-to-people linkages and trade and economic cooperation, especially in technology and innovation sectors, are an important dimension of the U.S.-India partnership. High-skilled Indian professionals bring important skill sets, bridge technological gaps .....The US has always welcomed talent and we hope our professionals will continue to be welcomed in the USA in the future," MEA spokesman Anurag Srivastava told reporters at a virtual weekly briefing.

Answering to a series of questions on the issue, he said: "We have seen the Proclamation issued by President Trump on June 22 temporarily suspending entry of certain categories of non-immigrant visa-holders and their family members till December 31, 2020".

"This is likely to affect movement of Indian skilled professionals who avail of these non-immigrant visa programmes to work lawfully in the US. We are assessing the impact of the order on Indian nationals and industry in consultation with stakeholders," he said.

The new curbs could see an estimated 200,000 H-1B workers, many of them Indians, lose legal status in the United States.

It may be mentioned that President Trump’s order on Monday 'temporarily suspending' new work visas until the
end of the calendar year has already strong reactions from the industry.

"In a statement, Trump said that the ban stems from the government’s “moral duty to create an immigration system that protects the lives and jobs of our citizens.” But tech luminaries, many of whom are immigrants or children of immigrants themselves, disagreed, arguing that foreign workers are key to American prosperity," said a report in Fortune.com.

It goes without stating that 'declining jobs' will force American companies to give these jobs to Americans first.

H1B visa was taken as a key charm of education and work for youngsters in the United States and Indians
also clamoured for the post-study work visas that actually helped Indian students to find high-paying jobs.

"Current situation along LAC is vitiating"

Meanwhile, MEA spokesman Srivastava in the context of ongoing tension along the LAC between India and China said,
two Foreign Ministers Dr S Jaishankar and Wang Yi had "a conversation" on June 17, 2020 and had agreed that the overall situation would be handled in a "responsible manner, and that the disengagement understanding of 6 June would be implemented". 

MEA spokesman asserted: "We expect that the Chinese side to sincerely follow up on this understanding and ensure the expeditious restoration of peace and tranquility in the border areas" - but he also hastened to caution the obvious - that "A continuation of the current situation would only vitiate the atmosphere for the development of the relationship" (between two Asian neighbours)".

He also said: "The incidents and face-offs along the LAC need to be understood in the larger context of recent developments. That also helps to bring out the key issues that both sides are seeking to address. At the heart of the matter is that since early May, the Chinese side has been amassing a large contingent of troops and armaments along the LAC".

This, Mr Srivastava said, is not in accordance with the provisions of various bilateral agreements, "especially the key 1993 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China Border Areas".

On the recent statement from Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, MEA spokesman said: "Our position is consistent on this matter and has no ambiguity. OIC has no locus standi in matters strictly internal to India, including that of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. We have in the past also reiterated that the OIC should refrain from making unwarranted references on India".

Extracts/Quotes

"This is likely to affect movement of Indian skilled professionals who avail of these non-immigrant visa programmes to work lawfully in the US. We are assessing the impact of the order on Indian nationals and industry in consultation with stakeholders.

High-skilled Indian professionals bring important skill sets, bridge technological gaps and impart a competitive edge to the US economy. They have also been a critical component of the workforce that is at the forefront of providing Covid-19 related assistance in key sectors, including health, information technology and financial services." - MEA spokesman

Blogger

ON LAC row

".....We have made our position clear on the unfolding developments in the Western Sector of India China Border areas. In particular, our statement of 20th June provided the relevant facts and clearly established it has been the Chinese actions thus far which have led to increase in tension in the region and also to the violent face-off of 15th June with casualties.  

In early May, the Chinese side had taken action to hinder India's normal, traditional patrolling pattern in the Galwan Valley area. The resulting face-off was addressed by the ground commanders as per the provisions of the bilateral agreements and protocols. In mid-May, the Chinese side sought to change the status quo in other areas of the Western Sector. We had registered our protest on the Chinese actions through both the Diplomatic and Military channels, and made it clear that any such change was unacceptable to us.


Subsequently, the Senior Commanders met on 6 June 2020 and agreed on a process for de-escalation and disengagement along the LAC that involved reciprocal actions. Both sides had agreed to respect and abide by the LAC and not undertake any activity to alter the status quo. As I mentioned in my statement on 20th June, the Chinese side departed from these understandings in respect of the LAC in the Galwan Valley area and sought to erect structures just across the LAC. When this attempt was foiled, Chinese troops took violent actions on 15 June 2020 that directly resulted in casualties. Thereafter, both sides remain deployed in large numbers in the region, while military and diplomatic contacts are continuing.

The incidents and face-offs along the LAC need to be understood in the larger context of recent developments. That also helps to bring out the key issues that both sides are seeking to address. At the heart of the matter is that since early May, the Chinese side has been amassing a large contingent of troops and armaments along the LAC. This is not in accordance with the provisions of our various bilateral agreements, especially the key 1993 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China Border Areas. This notes in particular that ‘each side will keep its military forces in the areas along the line of actual control to a minimum level compatible with friendly and good neighbourly relations between the two countries’. Obviously, the Indian side had to undertake counter deployments and the resulting tension has thereafter expressed itself.

Respecting and strictly observing the Line of Actual Control is the basis for peace and tranquility in the border areas and explicitly recognized so in the 1993 and subsequent agreements. Indian troops are fully familiar with the alignment of the LAC in all sectors of the India-China border areas and abide scrupulously by it. They have been patrolling all along the LAC, including in the Galwan Valley, for a long time. All infrastructure built by the Indian side has always been on its own side of the LAC. The Indian side has never undertaken any actions across the LAC and has never attempted to unilaterally change the status quo. However, that has not been reciprocated by the Chinese side and that from time to time has led to face-offs.  

Over many years, both sides have developed patterns of patrolling and it is reasonable expectation that patrols will not be obstructed in the discharge of their legitimate duties. Unfortunately, we have experienced in the last many years obstruction to patrolling that often accompany efforts to unilaterally change the status quo. To provide for situations where the two sides encounter each other, a set of procedures and norms have been mutually agreed upon. These are reflected in a number of agreements and understandings. While there have been occasional departures in the past, the conduct of Chinese forces this year has been in complete disregard of all mutually agreed norms. 

The deployment of large body of troops and changes in behavior has also been aggravated by unjustified and untenable claims. The recent shift in the Chinese position on the Galwan Valley is one example.

The maintenance of peace and tranquility in the border areas is the basis of our bilateral relationship. It is imperative that the established mechanisms are used by both parties to address the current situation. The meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) yesterday was, therefore, a significant development. It was preceded by a discussion among senior military commanders on 22 June that focused on implementation¬¬ of the understandings reached between them on 6 June 2020. 

"We expect that the Chinese side to sincerely follow up on this understanding and ensure the expeditious restoration of peace and tranquility in the border areas. A continuation of the current situation would only vitiate the atmosphere for the development of the relationship."

In Parl. democracy, is a judge competent to override Parliament ? - Indira defending Emergency

Emergency was imposed on June 25, 1975........

"Newspapers are part of a force which is there to obstruct the social and economic changes that we try to bring about....It (emergency) was just for a very limited period. And during war time, we have lot of political rights are taken away from people and this was for India as serious as a war" - Indira Gandhi justifying emergency and lampooning at so called 'press freedom' !!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8aETK5pQR4fe&ature=youtu.be

More from extracts:

"In a parliamentary democracy is a judge competent to override what Parliament has done?

The decision I took was ratified by the cabinet, and by the Parliament. It was not only expected, it was applauded by the entire nation. Had we held the elections in 1976, we would have won hands down!

We did not hold the elections because the state of the economy was such that time .....Therefore, we jeopardised our political future and decided to give economic stability and soundness to India...."

Question: Why it was necessary to imprison Mr Morarji Desai ? Was he an economic threat....?

Indira Gandhi: Because these were the people DESTROYING DEMOCRACY ! .....I am sorry you people have short memory....They said we must take the battle to the street!

Mr Morarji Desai is on record to say we are going to surround the Prime Minister's House....Parliament and we will see that no business is done"

Desai and his chief rival

"....Somebody else incited the police and the army" - (perhaps in reference to J P Narayan)

 In a piece in 2018 - in the context of Emergency and PM Narendra Modi's leadership, I wrote:

Critics of politics often complain that it encourages and promotes the art of self-interest. But one irony of this situation is that political decisions often come back to haunt those who make them, meaning one mistake can become a legacy.

This is the dilemma the leaders of India's leading opposition party, the Congress, now face after accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of pursuing sectarian politics for the last four years, often crushing India's democratic principles.Modi, leader of the pro-Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has forged an image as a decisive leader and tough taskmaster since he rose to power in May 2014.

https://international.la-croix.com/news/echoes-of-india-s-1975-civil-rights-restrictions-under-modi-regime/8031

Jaitley refers to an episode whereby the Gandhi administration removed certain judges from the Supreme Court and appointed its own replacements to head the top court during this stormy period of undemocratic rule.

"The court was packed with the government’s preferred judges. A dangerous thesis was propagated by Law Minister H.R. Gokhale that the judiciary must follow the social philosophy of the government and judges must be appointed on the basis of their social philosophy," Late Jaitley wrote.

He has also courted controversy by comparing Indira Gandhi with Hitler.

PM and her 'powerful son' Sanjay

India ups ante, seeks 50 percent reduction in Pak High Commission staff strength

In a major move that reflects diplomatic uneasiness in South Asia, India on Tuesday
summoned Pakistan Charge d’ Affaires Syed Haider Shah and conveyed the Government of India "decision" to reduce the staff strength in the High Commission in New Delhi by 50 percent.  

New Delhi would "reciprocally reduce" its own presence in Islamabad to the same proportion. 

This decision will be is to be implemented in seven days, an MEA statement said here. 

Haider Shah was summoned today to the Ministry of External Affairs and "informed that India had repeatedly expressed concern about the activities of officials of his High Commission". 

India alleged that its western neighbour has been engaged in "acts of espionage" and maintained dealings with terrorist organizations.

"The activities of the two officials caught red-handed and expelled on May 31, 2020 was one example in that regard," MEA said.

"While their officials indulged in actions that are not in conformity with their privileged status in the High Commission, Pakistan has in parallel engaged in a sustained campaign to intimidate the officials of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad from carrying on their legitimate diplomatic functions," the statement alleged alluding to alleged "abduction at gunpoint" of two Indian officials and their severe ill treatment underlines the extent to which Pakistan has gone in that direction.

"These officials who have returned to India on June 22, 2020 have provided graphic details of the barbaric treatment that they experienced at the hands of Pakistani agencies".

The MEA statement maintained that the behaviour of Pakistan and its officials is "not in conformity with the Vienna Convention and bilateral agreements" on the treatment of diplomatic and consular officials.

"On the contrary, it is an intrinsic element of a larger policy of supporting cross-border violence and terrorism.
Therefore, the Government of India has taken the decision to reduce the staff strength in the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi by 50 percent. It would reciprocally reduce its own presence in Islamabad to the same proportion. This decision, which is to be implemented in seven days, was conveyed to the Pakistani Charge d’Affaires," the statement added.

Jaishankar gives clear message to China

The leading voices of the world must be exemplars in every way. Respecting international law, recognizing the legitimate interests of partners, supporting multilateralism and promoting common good are the only way of building a durable world order. -  says External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar at RIC MEET

EAM's Opening Remarks at the RIC Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Video Conference

June 23, 2020

Your Excellency Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov,
Your Excellency Foreign Minister Wang Yi,

Friends,

• A very good afternoon to you all. We welcome this special RIC meeting of Foreign Ministers to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the conclusion of the Second World War, as well as the foundation of the United Nations.
• The victory over Nazism and Fascism was achieved through sacrifices across many theatres by many countries. India made a significant contribution, with 2.3 million of its citizens under arms and 14 million more participating in war production. Indian blood was shed at the battlefields of the world, from Tobruk, El Alamein and Montecassino, to Singapore, Kohima and Borneo. We helped keep key supply lines open to both your countries, one through the Persian corridor and the other over the Himalayan hump. If Indian personnel were conferred the Order of the Red Star, the medical mission led by Dr.Kotnis was a legend in China. So tomorrow, when our military contingent marches through the Red Square, it would be an affirmation of the difference that we made.
• When the victors met to fashion the ensuing global order, the political circumstances of that era did not give India due recognition. This historical injustice has stood uncorrected for the last 75 years, even as the world has changed. Therefore, on this momentous occasion, it is important for the world to realize both the contribution that India made and the need to rectify the past.
• But beyond history, international affairs must also come to terms with contemporary reality. The United Nations began with 50 members; today it has 193. Surely, its decision making cannot continue to be in denial of this fact. We, the RIC countries, have been active participants in shaping the global agenda. It is India’s hope that we will also now converge on the value of reformed multilateralism.
• This Special Meeting reiterates our belief in the time-tested principles of international relations.But the challenge today is not just one of concepts and norms, but equally of their practice.The leading voices of the world must be exemplars in every way. Respecting international law, recognizing the legitimate interests of partners, supporting multilateralism and promoting common good are the only way of building a durable world order.
• I thank Russia for convening this meeting and look forward to our discussions

Some people make it a virtue of making mistakes !

Mistakes are made, it is usual. But some mistakes appear unusual and some people make it a virtue of making mistakes.

Rahul Gandhi did a small 'spelling mistake' and there was hungama ! The former Congress president and perhaps a future 'party chief' faced a barrage of criticism on June 21 from BJP and its allies after he misspelt ‘surrender’ word as ‘surender’.
In his tweet, Rahul called the Prime Minister “Surender Modi”. (instead of surrender)

Oh boy !

Himanta Biswa Sarma, a former Congress leader and now a BJP Minister in Assam, quickly responded in the micro blogging site - taking a potshot at Gandhi - who remains "virtuous" among the lot - as per the intellectual wisdom of the FAMOUS INDIAN SICKULAR GANG !

Mr @RahulGandhi -You're so exasperated you can't even spell correctly!

And surrendering has been hallmark of  Gandhi-Nehru family. In 1962, Assam was almost given away by Pt Nehru. When Chinese Army had captured Bomdila, Nehru said, "My heart goes out to people of Assam." Shame" - Himanta tweeted.

Another BJP leader Amit Malviya brought the Bofors scam back to the row to embarrass Rahul Gandhi and his party. “He earlier tried to salvage his father’s Bofors legacy by questioning the Rafale deal,” remarked Malviya in a Twitter missive.

Rahul Gandhi’s tweet read “Narendra Modi is actually Surender Modi”.

BJP ally Shiromani Akali Dal’s leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa ventilated his anguish against the Congress lawmaker and called him a ‘Chinese Gandhi’ !

In another tweet Sirsa went onto describe Congress era in Indian politics as "Gandhi Grahan".

"सूर्य ग्रहण 1 दिन के लिए लगा है।  गांधी ग्रहण देश को पिछले 60 साल से लगा है।
इनके खून में ही गद्दारी है। #gaddargandhi"

"Rahul Gandhi has completely lost it. He is trying to remain relevant and that is why he keeps putting out jarring messages. He has no connect with what is happening on the ground, what is the sentiment on the ground, and what actually happed in Galwan", Amit Mayvia Said.

"It is the probably first time that the Indian Army under Modi administration has asserted itself along the Indo-China border.  Rahul Gandhi is trying to create a perception that the Modi govt sort of given in the aggression which is not true and the entire nation is with PM Modi. He can continue to make a fool out of himself", he said.

BJP chief J P Nadda was not far behind but he confined his attack against the grand old party!


“We are not even asking how many kilometres of roads were built in the border areas under your rule. From 2014-19, about 98 per cent of the roads in the border areas have been completed under the BJP rule. The Congress is working day and night to break the morale of the soldiers. We are not even asking how much of our land China took during the UPA time.”

Addressing a virtual rally in Uttar Pradesh, the BJP chief said: “I tell the Congress party in clear terms that the roadmap for India’s development is ready under the leadership of Modi ji. You worry about your own roadmap as your graph is falling every day. If you do not know how to play the role of the opposition, then take tuition from us to be in opposition.”

China changed own position, 'hindered' traditional patrolling along LAC by India: MEA

MEA spokesman Anurag Srivastava in a point by point rebuttal to China and to all those including Congress leaders who tried to trigger a new row said: "Subsequently in mid-May, the Chinese side attempted to transgress the LAC in other areas of the Western Sector of the India-China border areas. These attempts were invariably met with an appropriate response from us. Thereafter, the two sides were engaged in discussions through established diplomatic and military channels to address the situation arising out of Chinese activities on the LAC".

PM Narendra Modi has emphasized that in contrast to the past "neglect of such challenges", Indian forces now decisively counter any violations of LAC (“unhe rokte hain, unhe tokte hain”). 

Peace is okay, but India ready for 'Aankhien Nikalkar haath me de dena'

This example may not convince everyone, but the significance of the message is important.

There is an allegory. A Guru once alongside his disciple/chela came to a river bank and was stunned by the swift current and deep water. The Shishya had abundant faith in his Guru and entered into the river merely taking his Guru's name and surprisingly he could swim across. For his part the Guru thought about himself - I am really GREAT. He was surprised by his Chela's Guru Bhakti/devotion and the power of his name and thus plunged into the river chanting his own name! No marks for guessing, he was consumed by the spiralling waves!  

WHAT'S COMMON BETWEEN CHINA, INDIAN SICKULAR GANG AND PARTIES LIKE CONGRESS AND COMMUNISTS OUTFITS?

They have two similarities - first they hate Narendra Modi and secondly they can MIS-INTERPRET ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING TO SUIT THEIR AGENDA! 

This came to light yet again when Prime Minister's remarks at all-party meet was given a typical Maoists-variety of spin and yes, Indian 'spin doctors' worked past mid-night BURNING MIDNIGHT OIL TO BLAME MODI ABOUT THE so called 'confusion' that Chinese army did or did not cross the Line of Actual Control.

PMO's clarification should now settle the dispute till the SICKULAR-LIBERALS FIND ANOTHER ISSUE !

Letter from a Kargil War Hero: 1999

This year's International Day of Yoga coincides with multiple challenges for the world, for India as a country and specially for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

But it would go without stating that Modi deserves all the credit for convincing the UN leadership to designate June 21 every year as the International Day of Yoga.

Rightly did someone say - Yoga was once the preserve of Hindu holy men!

“Since coming to power in 2014, the Hindu nationalist leader has led efforts to promote yoga, which he practises daily, as an important part of India's history and culture,” said BBC in its piece applauding Prime Minister’s stellar role in getting an ‘international day’ every year on Calendar to the cause of Yoga.

 But the focus in 2020 is around twin issues - Coronavirus and escalation of tension and violence faceoff at the Line of Control. Both these issues are inspired by Chinese designs. President Xi Jinping is seemingly focused on his part to divert global attention from Corona which is also called Wuhan virus. China hs reasons to come out of this turmoil and perhaps that is why it has stirred its row with China.
It other wise faces problems in Hong Kong and Taiwan and recently intensified its controversies and confrontation with the US and other western countries.

For his part, Modi is certainly aware of Xi Jinping's intentions and specially due to the latter's communist party background!

Before we delve with other issues related to the dispute at the Line of Actual Control, one must talk about the 1999 letter from the Kargil war hero of 1999.
This letter penned to his father by Major P Acharya of 2 Raj Rifles has its own significance as the confrontation has reached new heights at the LAC with China and June 15 evening clashes have already claimed 20 lives.

A portion of the missive runs: ..."Please do not worry about the casualties. Its a professional hazard which is beyond our control, so why worry ? At least its for a good cause" (of course the reference is to the fight for the honour of tri-colour)

Thus, these only speak about the valour of Indian soldiers and their officers. But given the situation, there is no time to ponder why should one refer to a 1999 letter of a soldier! The officer's message in 1999 is important as it says that there is no use thinking about 'casualties' among the forces guarding the borders as these are only part of occupational hazards.

Of course - this piece pays tributes to 20 martyred of June 15-16 skirmishes with Chinese army. 

The letter actually displays India's spirit and the strength to make supreme sacrifice for the country.

This in turn will prove effective and it will educate youngsters to develop LOVE for their motherland.

This is Modi's asset as he leads the nation of 130 crore people in fight against Covid19 and also Chinese aggressive and expansionist designs.

Of course the question comes, can he handle the situation?

Page 2 of the Letter of Kargil Hero 

It goes without stating that Modi's challenges have mounted manifold as the LAC row has claimed as many as 20 lives. There is Covid19 around and of course the economic doldrums too!

But it is important to have faith in the government of the day on issues of national security and boundary issues with another country. At the all-party meeting of June 19, the Congress broke out with the opposition parties except of course the communist outfits.

On June 20, Saturday - came in a series of clarification from the PMO!

Focus of PM's remarks at all-party meeting was events of June 15 at Galwan that led to loss of lives of 20 soldiers. PM was clear that India would respond firmly to any attempts to transgress Line of Actual Control (LAC)

---- PMO statement: clarification 

Attempts are being made in some quarters to give a mischievous interpretation to remarks by the Prime Minister at the All-Party Meeting (APM) yesterday.

Prime Minister was clear that India would respond firmly to any attempts to transgress the Line of Actual Control (LAC). In fact, he specifically emphasized that in contrast to the past neglect of such challenges, Indian forces now decisively counter any violations of LAC (“unhe rokte hain, unhe tokte hain”).

The APM was also informed that this time, Chinese forces have come in much larger strength to the LAC and that the Indian response is commensurate. As regards transgression of LAC, it was clearly stated that the violence in Galwan on 15 June arose because Chinese side was seeking to erect structures just across the LAC and refused to desist from such actions.

The focus of the PM’s remarks in the APM discussions were the events of 15 June at Galwan that led to the loss of lives of 20 Indian military personnel. Prime Minister paid glowing tributes to the valour and patriotism of our armed forces who repulsed the designs of the Chinese there. The Prime Minister’s observations that there was no Chinese presence on our side of the LAC pertained to the situation as a consequence of the bravery of our armed forces. The sacrifices of the soldiers of the 16 Bihar Regiment foiled the attempt of the Chinese side to erect structures and also cleared the attempted transgression at this point of the LAC on that day.

The words of Prime Minister “Those who tried to transgress our land were taught a befitting lesson by our brave sons of soil”, succinctly summed up the ethos and the values of our armed forces. The Prime Minister further emphasised, “I want to assure you, that our armed forces will leave no stone unturned to protect our borders”.

What is Indian territory is clear from the map of India. This Government is strongly and resolutely committed to that. Insofar as there is some illegal occupation, the APM was briefed in great detail how over the last 60 years, more than 43,000 sq.km has been yielded under circumstances with which this country is well aware. It was also made clear that this Government will not allow any unilateral change of the LAC.

George Fernandes: Who once said China is 'Enemy No. 1'

At a time when our brave soldiers are defending our borders, it is unfortunate that an unnecessary controversy is being created to lower their morale. However, the predominant sentiment at the All Party Meeting was of unequivocal support to the Government and the armed forces at a time of national crisis. We are confident that the unity of the Indian people will not be undermined by motivated propaganda.

Statement from PM and other leaders at the all-party meet

Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackeray said that 'we are all one'. "This is the feeling. We are with you, PM. We are with our forces and their families," said. "India wants peace but that doesn’t mean we are weak. China’s nature is betrayal. India is 'Mazboot' not 'Majboor'. Our government has the ability to Aankhien Nikalkar haath me de dena," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday said that those who dared Bharat Mata were taught a lesson. During an all-party meeting on the ongoing standoff at Galwan, PM Mosi said that while India wants peace and friendship, upholding sovereignty is foremost. The virtual meeting was held from PM Modi's residence - 7, Lok Kalyan Marg and 20 parties attended the meeting. While Congress leader Sonia Gandhi raised questions over the government's move, all other political parties extended solidarity with the central government. 

"Neither have they intruded into our border nor has any post been taken over by them (China). 20 of our jawans were martyred, but those who dared Bharat Mata, they were taught a lesson," PM Narendra Modi said at the all-party meet. "Whether it is deployment, action, counter-action...air, land or sea, whatever our armed forces have to do to protect our country they will do," PM Modi said during the meeting that lasted for over four-and-a-half hours.

"Till now, those who were never questioned or stopped, now our jawans stop them and warn them at multiple sectors: PM Modi at all party-meeting today... In the past few years, to protect our borders, we have given importance to infrastructure development to protect our borders. The requirements of our armed forces, be it fighter planes, advanced helicopters, missile defence systems, that too is being given importance," he added.

"I assure you all that our security forces are fully capable of protecting our borders... We have given our armed forces full freedom for taking any appropriate action necessary... India has never come under external pressure. Whatever is necessary for country’s protection will be expedited," PM said. Modi also added that India wants peace and friendship, but upholding sovereignty is foremost.

Who said what

During the meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that "there was no intelligence failure" in case of Galwan violence.

According to agency reports citing sources, NCP Chief and Former Defence Minister Sharad Pawar said that issues of whether soldiers carried arms or not are decided by international agreements and we need to respect such sensitive matters. Congress President Sonia Gandhi said, "all-party meeting should have happened much earlier. Even at this late stage, we are in the dark. Congress has specific questions..."

'India will win, China will lose, speak with unity', says Mamata Banerjee in all party meet
"What date did Chinese troops intrude? When did the Govt find out about the transgressions? Does govt not get satellite pics? Did intelligence not report about the unusual activity?" she asked, adding, "Nation needs assurance that the status quo ante restored. What is the current status of Mountain strike corps? Opposition parties should be briefed regularly"

Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackeray said that 'we are all one'. "This is the feeling. We are with you, PM. We are with our forces and their families," said. "India wants peace but that doesn’t mean we are weak. China’s nature is betrayal. India is 'Mazboot' not 'Majboor'. Our government has the ability to Aankhien Nikalkar haath me de dena," he said.

Akali Dal's Sukhbir Singh Badal said that this is not the right time to question the handling of the situation. "India is with the PM. Let’s give the message to China that we are with the PM," he said.

Jagan Mohan Reddy of YSRCP said, "Thanks to PM, India’s reputation has risen globally. He has built key strategic partnerships across the world. You are our strength, Prime Minister. India has gained envy of many. They (China) are trying to destabilise India."

CPI's D Raja said that India should "resist US efforts to drag us into their alliance" even as CPI(M)'s Sitaram Yechuri stressed on the principles of Panchsheel. TRS Chief and Telangana CM KCR said that PM's clarity on Kashmir has angered China. "PM's emphasis on Kashmir's development has also angered China. PM's call of Atmanirbhar Bharat has rattled China," he said.

TMC leader and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said that the meeting is a good message for the nation. "Shows that we are united behind our Jawans. TMC strongly in solidarity with the government... Don’t let China enter telecom, railway and aviation sectors. We will face some problems but we won’t allow the Chinese to enter," she said.

"China is not a democracy. They are a dictatorship. They can do what they feel. We, on the other hand, have to work together. India will win, China will lose. Speak with unity. Think with unity. Work with unity. We are with the government," she added.

China feels 'heat' perhaps first time from India: Delhi calls spade a spade

But if provoked, in any situation, India will give a decisive response - PM Narendra Modi

Jaishankar urges China to 'reassess' its actions, take "corrective steps"

TaiwanNews.com, a Taiwan based English news portal has carried a interesting photo created digitally showing Rama poised to slay a dragon. The news item on the portal titled 'Photo of the Day: India's Rama takes on China's dragon' has the subtitle 'India's Rama poised to slay China's dragon over Ladakh border dispute'.  The photo has caught attention of Indian netizens and supporters of Indian Army.

The TaiwanNews take on the stand-off between India and China shows popular support for India in Taiwan. The news item with the photo of Rama slaying the dragon with the caption 'Rama fighting dragon' has been viewed more than 1.5K times on the portal. The image was reportedly posted on a Hong Kong social media site 'LIHKG'.

The image is also culturally significant as it has Rama representing India whereas uses the same old dragon to represent China. India in international media has been represented mostly with a tiger or a elephant vis-a-vis dragon for China and hence this new representation is culturally significant, many netizens observed.

"As nationalism on both sides of the border reached a fever pitch that day, an illustration showing Rama, the seventh avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu, drawing a bow and preparing to shoot a huge arrow into a Chinese dragon beside the words "We Conquer. We kill." was posted on the Hong Kong social media site LIHKG", says the news item. "Hong Kong Twitter user HoSaiLei soon shared it and wrote "An Indian friend has already finished this exquisite Sino-Indian war poster." Within 21 hours, the post had gained 861 likes, 300 retweets, and 34 comments", says the report on TaiwanNews.com.tw.

The Hong Kong user who posted the photo 'HoSaiLei' responded to gratitude from Indian users and wrote 'Please know this, we support you!'.

Google source: Not authenticated

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on June 17, Wednesday held telephonic talks with his
Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and asserted that the need of the hour was for the Chinese side
"to reassess its actions and take corrective steps".

In a candid talk, the Minister underlined that unprecedented development (Chinese actions at LAC) will have "a serious impact on the bilateral relationship".

"EAM (Jaishankar) conveyed the protest of the Government of India in the strongest terms on the violent face-off in Galwan Valley on 15 June 2020. He recalled that at the meeting of senior Military Commanders held on 6th June, an agreement was reached on de-escalation and disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)," an MEA statement said. 

Jaishankar said that the ground commanders were meeting regularly to implement this consensus throughout the last week.

"While there was some progress, the Chinese side sought to erect a structure in Galwan valley on our side of the LAC. While this became a source of dispute, the Chinese side took premeditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties. It reflected an intent to change the facts on ground in violation of all our agreements to not change the status quo," the statement said.

Dr Jaishankar underlined that the two sides should scrupulously and sincerely implement the understanding that
was reached by the Senior Commanders on 6th June.

"Troops of both sides should also abide by the bilateral agreements and protocols. They should strictly respect and
observe the Line of Actual Control and should not take any unilateral action to alter it. The State Councillor and
Foreign Minister of China, on his part, conveyed the Chinese position on recent developments."

At the conclusion of the discussion, the MEA statement said it was agreed that the overall situation would be
handled in a responsible manner, and "both sides would implement" the disengagement understanding of 6 June
sincerely.

"Neither side would take any action to escalate matters and instead, ensure peace and tranquillity as per bilateral agreements and protocols," the statement said.

On Tuesday (June 16) also, the Modi government took an assertive diplomatic posture and decided to expose
Chinese double standards by calling spade a spade.

Hours after "a violent face-off" between Chinese and Indian soldiers that resulted in casualties on both sides,
MEA spokesman Anurag Srivastava said: "Both sides suffered casualties that could have been avoided had the
agreement at the higher level been scrupulously followed by the Chinese side".

In a clear message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the "supreme sacrifice of our Soldiers will not go in vain".

"Whatever be the situation and condition, India will firmly defend it's self-respect and fight for every inch of land which rightfully belongs to us", Modi said at the meeting with Chief Ministers convened to discuss Covid19 situation.

Def Minister Rajnath Sngh

In the 'violent face off' 20 Indian soldiers including a commanding officer were martyred, but sources also maintained that Chinese side also suffered casualties of its soldiers numbering around 50.

India calls spade a spade: Says casualties on both sides could have been avoided had China respected 'consensus'

New Delhi: The Modi government took an assertive diplomatic posture on Tuesday and decided to expose Chinese double standards by calling spade a spade.
Hours after "a violent face-off" between Chinese and Indian soldiers that resulted in casualties on both sides, India on Tuesday slammed Beijing for "departing" from the consensus approach agreed upon by both sides to respect the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Galwan Valley. 

"While it was our expectation that this (parleys between two sides) would unfold smoothly, the Chinese side departed from the consensus to respect the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Galwan Valley," MEA spokesman Anurag Srivastava said in reply to media queries.

"Both sides suffered casualties that could have been avoided had the agreement at the higher level been scrupulously followed by the Chinese side," he said.  

According to reports, three Indian soldiers, including the commanding officer of an Army unit attained

martyrdom in the action. 

"India and China have been discussing through military and diplomatic channels the de-escalation of the situation in the border area in Eastern Ladakh," Srivastava said adding senior Commanders had a productive meeting on 6th June 2020 and agreed on a process for such de-escalation. Subsequently, ground commanders had a series of meetings to implement the consensus reached at a higher level.

He stated that on the late-evening and night of 15th June, 2020 a violent face-off happened as a result of an attempt by the Chinese side to unilaterally change the status quo there. "Given its responsible approach to border management, India is very clear that all its activities are always within the Indian side of the LAC. We expect the same of the Chinese side," the spokesman

asserted.

"We remain firmly convinced of the need for the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas and the resolution of differences through dialogue. At the same time, we are also strongly committed to ensuring India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity," he added.

The statement comes after a series of meetings held by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and top military officials.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had a separate meeting with top officials of ITBP and other civil officials.

A high level meeting also was held by Defence Minister Singh along with Army Chief Gen M M Naravane, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar also reportedly met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and briefed him

about the developments.

During the day, a statement emerged from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also wherein he criticised Indian side.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is slated to participate in a virtual meet with his counterparts from

China and Russia under tri-lateral RIC arrangement June 22.

This will also be the maiden such high-level interaction involving India and China since the escalation of tensions at the LAC.

Deaths and infections continue to surge in South Asia: Has India lost its hyped battle against Covid19

(This article was used in 'The Phoenix Post' published from Port Blair
... thanks
to my Guru - Asheem Poddar !!
 

South Asia is heading towards utter chaos.

With some 3,09,603 cases and about 8,8900 deaths as of Saturday, June 13, India has become the world's fourth most infected country after the United States, Brazil and Russia. In fact, India's tally positive corona cases moved ahead of the United Kingdom and Spain pretty fast in a few days.

India's neighbours are no better today. Deaths and infections continue to surge in South Asia and countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal have eased nationwide lockdowns. Many say Lockdown was the only viable alternative to pause the rise of Covid-19 patients somewhat managed to tame the deadly virus.  There are multiple challenges. One hard reality is economic doldrum.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, a former BJP president and someone known for close proximity to the RSS, has painted a very gloomy picture. "The crisis faced by the government of India has also grown. Some of our state governments don't have money to pay salaries next month," he says.

His words came out to be prophetic when doctors in at least government/municipal run hospitals in Delhi said they have not been paid salaries since March and now they have no other option than to tender mass resignation.

Does it need any expertise or rocket science to observe that South Asia's massive population, poverty, weak human resources and poor health systems, absence of sanitation are perfect conditions for a humanitarian disaster? In Mumbai, people protested for days and ran from pillars to posts to get hold of bodies of near and dear ones.

West Bengal - run by a mercurial Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and a PM-aspirant, showed the worse when decomposed human bodies were pushed into garbage vans. The video has gone viral and now the state Governor Jagdeep Dhankar has pulled up the state administration.

"Response from @HomeSecretaryWB has come. Virtual admission about callous handling of dead bodies promising procedure will be streamlined. Rather than booking those responsible for such inhuman criminality, police is being misused to ‘teach a lesson’ to those who exposed it," the Governor tweeted.

At the national level, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had imposed a nationwide lockdown from midnight on March 24 when positive cases were less than 100. More than 70 days later, the economic and social situation compelled him to ease lockdown rules. But cases are spiraling up.

It is true, the central government always faced a Catch-22 situation. The economic situation was grim and if the lockdown continued, things could have turned worse but relaxation also could mean a pandemic explosion.

And that explosion is perhaps happening!

Health workers report a shortage of health infrastructure in cities, including commercial hub
Mumbai and national capital New Delhi.

The national capital region of Delhi had 19 million people and its publicity-hungry Chief Minister
Arvind Kejriwal has said the administration was short of hospital beds. Delhi reported some 31,000 plus cases. Taking cognizance of his complaint the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has served a notice to the city government and also the federal regime led by PM Modi and asked both entities to file comprehensive reports.

NHRC officials said more than the 'shortage' of hospital beds for Covid19 patients, the issue is more of management issues and absence of a common and effective command structure.

The capital New Delhi also has a significant presence of Central government Hospitals also but it is painful to see that only 12 percent of the Delhi Government, 8 percent of the Central Government institutions and 7 percent of the Private Hospital beds are presently occupied and are being used to treat Covid patients, the NHRC statement said.

Shortage of beds as a major handicap vis-a-vis treating Covid19 patients has been experienced in other metropolis like Mumbai and Chennai also.

In general many observers say more than the shortage of hospital beds, there is apparently an acute shortage of  caring health care staff, absence of testing kits, basic required infrastructures in hospitals and no centralised 'management structure' to fight the crisis.

Thus, has India's courageous and hyped battle against Covid19 already lost ?

Many say things went haywire as lockdown enforcement from March 25 did not seem to have made much of a difference. "In India Lockdown did not stop or fight Covid-19, it rather brought in immense hardships for millions of migrant workers and daily wagers and also hit the economy hard. Lockdown was withdrawn from June and now we have abnormal increase in the number of positive cases...Something went wrong somewhere," says Ahmedabad-based Congress leader Ilyas Qureshi.

Peak may be in July:

In the words of a Bangladesh-based writer Rock Ronald Rozario: "Fears are running extremely high that at the current pace of infection with the number of cases and fatalities doubling every two weeks, the pandemic is headed for a peak by the end of July. By that time, the number of confirmed cases might reach five million and the death toll could surpass 150,000 given that population density in South Asia is among the highest in the world".

It goes without stating that besides the failing healthcare systems, a closer look at the actions of governments in Pakistan and Bangladesh and of course India to deal with Covid-19 only expose sheer ill-preparedness if not
gross incompetence. Shortage of beds during a pandemic in the national capital only displays the chaotic health scenario in
world's 'largest democracy' !

Take the case of West Bengal and the pathetic manner bodies were disposed off - it only shows callousness.

Now, some more questions emanate.

What was the provocation or the hurry and necessity of releasing those bodies from the Morgue at this stage?

Do some people feel closer to the corridors of power in Kolkata and presume they are all protected?
Some heads should roll.

Was there a space crunch related to the high number of Corona positive cases and deaths which are not being
reported in the State’s Health Bulletin just because it does not suit the whims of a mercurial lady?

Or should we say, the worst is yet to come?

Coming back to the South Asian context, it is a matter of serious concern that the World Bank estimates that regional growth in South Asia will fall to a range of between 1.8 and 2.8 percent in 2020.

No doubt, statistics also show this will be the worst economic performance in four decades. 

ends