- Let’s cut to the chase. If the subject line doesn’t evoke strong emotions, rebuttal, debate, and undivided attention to correct the glaring anomaly, there is something fundamentally wrong about our priorities in asserting that all Indians are one. Yes, the Indian Constitution unequivocally protects our fundamental rights in the form of Articles assiduously guarded/upheld by the Supreme Court. As we know, the Indian Constitution guarantees equal rights to all citizens, regardless of class, creed, or caste. Of course, people familiar with the country’s political landscape would have noticed how leaders representing different ideologies/philosophies tenaciously safeguard vote banks built on the labyrinthine caste equations.
PC: Al Jazeera
- Undoubtedly, parochial considerations are par for the course for the political class in the country. However, discrimination of any nature, racial profiling, abuses on caste lines, name-calling, and condescending disposition towards people from a particular region are simply unacceptable and unfathomable in an aspirational society like India, aiming for greater heights sooner than later. One of the most disturbing aspects that keeps repeating often is the way certain parts of the country treat our fellow citizens from the Northeast. Mind you, the seven states of the Northeast are considered as jewels for a reason and are extremely critical for the nation’s sovereignty, security, and safety. Are we doing enough to further strengthen this aspect? Let’s dwelve.
PC: The Citizen
- Over the decades, since independence, the Northeast continued to be neglected by the successive central governments. Thankfully, the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre laid tremendous emphasis on the Northeastern states by leaving no stone unturned in guiding them into the national mainstream through a slew of economic-socio-welfare measures over the last 10 plus years. Nonetheless, what has not changed for the people from the region is the migration, which continues to be in lakhs in search of better opportunities elsewhere. Despite several initiatives, unemployment continues to be the bane of the Northeastern youths who are forced to move out in search of livelihood and better opportunities elsewhere.
PC: The Caravan
- Sadly, the way our fellow citizens from the region are treated is despicable. Calling them names in a derogatory manner is not only inhuman but also defeats the very tenet of the Constitution, offering equality for every bona fide citizen. Every major metro city of India’s economy is greatly dependent on our brothers/sisters from the Northeast need no further elaboration. Name the sector – infrastructure, realty, hospitality, security, utilities, and some such day-to-day necessities – are embellished by Northeasterners whose contribution to the Indian economy is enormous. Why can’t we extend simple courtesies like humane treatment, acceptance, and extend a friendly hand to our fellow citizens to make them feel comfortable and wanted? Let’s do it diligently.
