For Political Purpose

The United Nations Special Rapporteur on Occupied Palestinian Territories has blamed India for its moral irresponsibility towards Palestinians and their conditions. It’s quite an off-the-cuff remark which does not suit the given political conditions. India holds no responsibility towards Palestinians apart from what the moral sense dictates to Indians. Blaming India is worrisome as it puts pressure on Delhi. Delhi is not quite influential in Palestinian circles and rarely is given attention that it should have in the first place. The conflict is between Israel and Palestinians, and which includes other Muslim countries. India, being a country based in South Asia, has no advantage towards Palestinians or their claims. India must stand with Israel, as it has the full right to exist. India must reassure its allies of its formidable friendship. Israel cannot be threatened by Palestine or any other Muslim country in the Middle-East. Peace must prevail in the region, and its right to exist must be given the fair share of integration that it must have in the twenty-first century.

Blaming India’s leadership is almost tantamount to irresponsible behaviour. India must clarify its position vis-à-vis Palestine and make sure that United Nations is not used blatantly for political purposes. India has a multicultural past which cannot be abrogated. India’s diversity has given it an international standing; it protects its citizens and promises equal rights to all. Using United Nations to browbeat India or its leadership should be taken in the heartfelt spirit. The United Nations would be well-advised to target Palestinian officials who are full of graft and do not look upon their population with mercy. The benevolence that they must exhibit cannot come from India. India has its role to play, but seldom has it had the opportunity to call for peace. India’s government has been adamant enough on peace between Israel and Palestine, and it cannot do more under the political circumstances. Blaming India is not the right step at the United Nations. The countries as India should be extolled for its pluralism rather than be browbeaten for its multicultural and tolerant ethos. On the other hand, India must fulfil its geopolitical responsibilities towards Israel and safeguard its interests in the region. Israel has been a tragic target of hate from Islamist terrorism. It has the right to exist on its own which cannot be condoned by the international community. India must stand by its stated principles towards Israel rather than be attentive to remarks by the UN official. The United Nations must exercise caution in future.

Yuvraj Saharan

Capital Report