India’s Shifting Role in Global Politics: The Ukraine Conflict and Domestic Control

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s recent actions have drawn widespread criticism globally. Its involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, increasing authoritarian tendencies, and interference in regional matters have caused the country to lose significant global trust. India’s foreign and domestic policies are increasingly viewed as contradictory and self-serving, exposing the country to growing condemnation both at home and abroad.

India’s Contradictory Stance on the Ukraine Conflict

India has long claimed neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine war, calling for dialogue and peace. However, recent findings have revealed Indian-made components in Russian drones used to attack Ukrainian civilians. This direct involvement exposes the contradiction in India’s claims. Despite its public stance of neutrality, India’s actions suggest indirect support for Russia’s military operations. This involvement not only contradicts India’s neutral position but also raises questions about its commitment to global peace and humanitarian values.

Economic Interests Behind India’s Position

India’s relationship with Russia, particularly in defense and energy, plays a major role in shaping its stance on the Ukraine conflict. Russia has been a key supplier of military equipment and energy to India for years. This dependency explains India’s reluctance to criticize Russia openly. By prioritizing economic ties over moral responsibility, India risks losing credibility in the international community. Its silence on Russia’s aggression further complicates its position and raises doubts about its commitment to global peace.

India’s Covert Role: A Dangerous Deviation from Neutrality

India’s covert involvement in Russia’s military actions highlights its shifting role in international diplomacy. The discovery of Indian-made parts in Russian military drones makes it clear that India’s support for Russia goes beyond mere economic relations. While India may not be directly involved in the conflict, its actions reveal a deeper complicity. India’s failure to take a firm stand against Russia shows its willingness to prioritize strategic ties over its moral responsibility on the global stage.

Modi’s Growing Control Over the Judiciary

Domestically, the rise of authoritarianism under Modi’s leadership is becoming more evident. The increasing control of the judiciary by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has sparked concerns about the independence of India’s legal system. The appointment of politically aligned individuals to key judicial positions is undermining the impartiality of the courts. This trend of politicizing the judiciary erodes the fundamental principles of justice, which are essential for a functioning democracy. The growing control over the judiciary is not only harming the legal system but also reducing public trust in the institutions that are supposed to protect the rights of citizens.

The Politicization of Justice: A Threat to Democracy

The increasing politicization of the judiciary is a major threat to India’s democracy. By placing loyalists of the ruling party in key judicial roles, the BJP is undermining the judiciary’s independence. This politicization compromises the fairness of legal proceedings and weakens the separation of powers. As the judiciary becomes more closely tied to political interests, the fundamental principle of impartial justice is at risk. The erosion of judicial independence is a sign of growing authoritarianism in India and a threat to the democratic system.

India’s Authoritarian Shift: Concentration of Power

India is increasingly becoming an authoritarian state under Modi’s rule. The concentration of power within the BJP has weakened key democratic institutions, including the media and civil society. The growing centralization of authority threatens the checks and balances that are essential for a healthy democracy. This shift towards authoritarianism is further weakening the political system and stifling political opposition. The rise of a one-party system reduces space for dissent and weakens the foundation of democratic governance in India.

Regional Isolation: Strained Relations with Neighbors

India’s foreign policy under Modi has strained its relationships with regional neighbors. Tensions with China remain unresolved, particularly over territorial disputes. Similarly, relations with Pakistan continue to be characterized by hostility and lack of progress. Modi’s hardline stance on Kashmir and his failure to resolve long-standing regional issues have further isolated India in South Asia. This aggressive foreign policy approach, combined with its increasing authoritarianism, has left India diplomatically isolated in the region.

India’s Declining Global Influence

India’s global influence is rapidly declining due to its foreign policy and internal political shifts. Modi’s refusal to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, combined with growing authoritarian tendencies at home, is alienating India from key global allies. India’s reluctance to take a decisive stand on Russia’s actions is raising doubts about its commitment to international peace. The failure to engage constructively with regional neighbors and the international community is reducing India’s influence on global affairs.

India’s Weakening Democratic Norms

India’s internal political developments are undermining its democratic system. The increasing concentration of power in the hands of the ruling party and the politicization of key institutions are eroding democratic norms. The independence of the judiciary, media, and civil society is being increasingly compromised by the BJP’s control. These shifts signal a move away from democratic principles, threatening the foundation of India’s political system. As democratic freedoms are suppressed, India’s political system is becoming less transparent and more authoritarian.

The International Impact of India’s Actions

India’s actions, both domestically and internationally, are beginning to have serious consequences for its global standing. Its indirect support for Russia’s military operations, growing authoritarianism, and strained regional relations are isolating the country from its allies. India’s failure to uphold democratic values and engage constructively in global issues is diminishing its influence and reputation. The international community must take note of India’s actions and ensure it adheres to international norms and human rights.

India’s Economic Future at Risk

India’s economic prospects are increasingly at risk due to its foreign policy and internal political developments. The growing diplomatic isolation, combined with the erosion of democratic institutions, is likely to deter international investment and hinder economic growth. As India becomes more isolated, it risks losing vital trade partners and economic opportunities. The concentration of power under the BJP and the failure to address key issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict are creating an uncertain economic future for India.

Conclusion: Time for Accountability

India’s actions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, its growing authoritarian tendencies, and its disregard for democratic norms are exposing the country to increasing global criticism. It is time for the international community to hold India accountable for its actions. India must be made to answer for its role in human rights violations, regional conflicts, and its failure to live up to international standards of peace and democracy. Only through accountability can India restore its credibility and ensure that it adheres to the values of democracy and peace that are fundamental to the international community.