Same-Sex-Marriage of America Vs 377 IPC in India

                Homosexuality And 377 IPC

                A judicious, situational and factual analysis

In a long-sought victory for the gay rights movement, the Supreme Court ruled by a 5-to-4 vote on 25^thJune 2015 that the Constitution guarantees a right to same-sex marriage

Justice Kennedy was the author of all three of the Supreme Court’s previous gay rights landmarks. The latest decision came exactly two years after his majority opinion in United States v. Windsor, which struck down a federal law denying benefits to married same-sex couples, and exactly 12 years after his majority opinion in Lawrence v. Texas, which struck down laws making gay sex a crime.

Resent USA  Supreme Court judgment has brought 377 IPC again in light. The Supreme Court of India turned down high court (HC) judgment on consented homosexuality. Hence, article 377 was in limelight. Supreme Court (SC) judgment gave a big space for debate on this issue. Indian conditions support SC judgment under current situation.  In future, it may, but situation is not ripe for any change in 377 at present. Health, social, cultural and natural facts, and situations don’t permit any interference in it as of now. Article 377 protects our culture, moral, natural sexual habit, and keeps generation going.

Naz Foundation, a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) in a Public Interest Litigation, challenged  the constitutional validity of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC), which criminally penalizes what is described as “unnatural offences”, to the extent that the said provision criminalizes consensual sexual acts between adults in private.  

The challenge is founded on the plea that Section 377 IPC, on account of it covering sexual acts between consenting adults in private infringes the fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14, 15, 19 & 21 of the Constitution of India. Limiting their plea, the petitioners submit that Section 377 IPC should apply only to non-consensual penile non-vaginal sex and penile non- vaginal sex involving minors

Article 377 says Unnatural Offences - Whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.

The Delhi High Court passed a landmark judgment holding Section 377 to be violative of Articles 21, 14 and 15 of the Constitution, insofar as it criminalised consensual sexual acts of adults in private. Hence writ petition was allowed on July 7, 2009.

In an appeal, SC in its judgment on December 11, 2013 allowed appeal and set aside the HC judgement. This pronouncement brought 377 into debate. This issue affects and associates with our social, cultural, biological (medical) and political sentiments. Hence, both supporters and opponents are giving their own logic to prove their cases.

Political classes are divided.  Congress supports it. Congress president Sonia Gandhi said in a statement, in a rare reaction to a court order “I am disappointed that the Supreme Court has reversed the previous High Court ruling on the issue of gay rights. The High Court had wisely removed an archaic, repressive and unjust law that infringed on the basic human rights enshrined in our constitution”.

After keeping mum on the issue for some time, BJP cleared its stand on it. In an interview to The Telegraph, BJP President Rajnath Singh said, "We will state (at an all-party meeting if it is called) that we support Section 377 because we believe that homosexuality is an unnatural act and cannot be supported."

Newly formed Aam Admi Party has opposed the SC judgement. The Samajwadi Party has made it clear that it will oppose any amendments to Section 377 if it comes in Parliament for discussion. Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav said, "Homosexuality is unethical and immoral, it is against the culture of the country and we will fight it."

A blog “The spark and the blame” has given medical and moral reasons against same-sex practice. There is substantial evidence that homosexual practice is harmful. A few are summarised below. 

Promiscuity and short-short term relationship: homosexual behaviour involves what a writer called “an almost compulsive promiscuity.” 75 % of homosexual men have had more than 100 partners in their lifetime, most of them strangers. A Los Angeles study found that male homo averaged over 20 partners a year. Lastly, only 7-8% of homosexual men and women have ever had relationships lasting more than three years. This differs vastly from heterosexual practice. As Schmidt writes “Promiscuity among homo is not a mere stereotype, and it is not merely the majority experience- it is virtually the only experience.”

Increase incidence of drug use: researchers report higher rates for drug and alcohol abuse among same-sex practicing.  They are more likely to use marijuana (89% vs 2% of hetero), cocaine (50% vs6% of hetero), and poppers (72% vs 2% of hetero). Another Boston study from 1985-88 supports above facts.

            Physical damage and complications: men and women bodies are designed for sexual intercourse with each other in a way that men bodies are simply not designed for sex with other men and the consequences are often physically traumatic. As a result, practising homosexuals are at greater risk of prostate damage, ulcers and ruptures, and chronic incontinence (Schimidt118)

Sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS: Besides physical trauma, many viral and non-viral infections trouble the homosexual populations. Non AIDS diseases include amebiasis, syphilis and hepatitis B (65% of homo men) affects badly.  The 75% STD incidents rate among homo is remarkable. This is to say little of the AIDS epidemic to which homo men are especially vulnerable. A Canadian study found that half of people living with AIDS are homosexual men.

Lower life expectancy: As a consequence of these medial issues especially the AIDS epidemic, homo men have a life expectancy that is significantly lower than heterosexual men. One Canadian study acknowledges it.

Increased incidence of mental illness, depression and suicide: homosexuals suffer from a severely higher incidence of some types of mental illness, especially depression and suicide. Schmidt finds that 40% of homo men have a history of major depressive disorder compared to 3% of men generally.

Dr. John R Diggs, Jr. in his write-up ‘The Health Risks of Gay Sex’ has cautioned the youth. He says it is clear that there are serious medical consequences to same-sex behaviour. Identification with a gay, lesbian and bisexual community appears to lead to an increase in promiscuity, which in turn leads to a myriad of STD and even early death.

 Social impacts of homosexuality are not good.  Domestic violence, child molestation are more common in homosexuals than in heterosexuals, even children of lesbian or gay parents are also sensitive to complex sexual behaviour . On academic ground too they are not at par with their heterosexual counterparts.

One can say that this problem is due to their discrimination with heterosexuals in society but these facts are reported from places where gay marriages are legal like in Netherland and Sanfransisco. Most important thing is that it disturbs the basic building block of society i.e. family. Homosexuality has become a major force that tears down society and harms our culture.

There is a misconception that being gay is an innate characteristic which cannot be changed but researches shown that there are abundant cases where this sexual orientation is changed by appropriate psychological treatment and also with the support and ethical guidance. If something affirm their homosexual behaviour, there are few chances that they could ever overcome from there complex sexual orientations.

It is also important to mention the fact that everything is not permitted in the name of freedom of rights. Youth should be warned of the undeniable health risks associated with a homosexual lifestyle. Worldwide scenario reveals that  while fifteen countries have legalized gay marriage and another three allow it in some areas, homosexuals remain persecuted in many parts of the world.

India is well cherished democratic country. Most of the decisions are taken on majority basis. Roughly a gay population is estimated about 25 lakh. Amending law 377 IPC for a big minority is against the concept of democratic wishes. If it is done, then it will disquiet the majority 99 %. It will infringe in their moral, social, political and bio- medical sentiments and ethics directly or indirectly.

            The highest Indian Court has favoured status quo. This complex issue is getting fast favour to amending it. It is assisted by the spill over effects of the developments worldwide on this. Inspite of all supportive progress on this matter, our SC sees that all ground realities are not favouring it in current Indian situations.

 Therefore, it maintained the originality of 377. Social, political, moral, physical and medical grounds are not ripe for any change in judicious evaluation. Hence, now it is left to our public leaders to assess the situation and act accordingly by a legislative step.

Heera Lal(Views are personal and based on different sources )

  Ref:

1.     http://lobis.nic.in/dhc/APS/judgement/02-07-2009/APS02072009CW74552001.pdf

2.     http://thesparkandtheflame.blogspot.in/2012/05/harm-of-homosexual-practice-medical-and.html 

3.     http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Not-contempt-of-court-Ministers-statements-against-SCs-Section-377-verdict-are-a-legitimate-part-of-public-debate/articleshow/28482298.cms

4.     http://www.youthkiawaaz.com/2013/12/delhi-hc-judgement-377-progressive-sc-dragged-us-back-man-explains/

5.     http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/stoi/deep-focus/Intolerance-then-and-now/articleshow/28420101.cms

6.     http://judis.nic.in/supremecourt/imgs1.aspx?filename=41070

7.     http://www.lawyerscollective.org/vulnerable-communities/lgbt/section-377.html

8.     http://judis.nic.in/supremecourt/imgs1.aspx?filename=41070

9.     http://www.livemint.com/Politics/vgdczDHug33Pj0CfmSV69O/Disappointed-with-SC-verdict-on-Section-377-says-Sonia-Gand.html

10.  http://www.firstpost.com/politics/bjp-will-not-support-unnatural-homosexuality-rajnath-singh-1286933.html

11.  http://www.firstpost.com/politics/supreme-court-verdict-on-377-violates-human-rights-says-aap-1284283.html

12.  http://www.telegraphindia.com/1131219/jsp/opinion/story_17694228.jsp#.UsutgNIW2f0

13.  http://ibnlive.in.com/news/sp-says-it-will-oppose-any-amendments-to-section-377/439247-37.html?classic

14.  http://carm.org/is-homosexuality-dangerous

15.  http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/homosexuality/ho0075.html

16.  http://www.buddhanet.net/homosexu.htm

17.  http://history-of-hinduism.blogspot.in/p/homosexuality-and-hinduism.html

18.  http://history-of-hinduism.blogspot.in/p/homosexuality-and-hinduism.html

19.  http://www.biblebelievers.com/Cameron2.html

20.  http://factsaboutyouth.com/posts/health-risks-of-the-homosexual-lifestyle/

21.  http://www.familyresearchinst.org/2009/02/medical-consequences-of-what-homosexuals-do/

22.  http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-12-13/people/45161406_1_population-6-reasons-pope-francis

23.  http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/gay-population-25-lakh-7-per-cent-hiv-infected-govt/1/177647.html

24.  http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Gay-sex-remains-illegal-as-Supreme-Court-refuses-to-review-ruling/articleshow/29515452.cms
15http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/Gay-couples-marry-for-first-time-in-England-and-Wales/articleshow/32912562.cms
16http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/stoi/all-that-matters/Indian-men-are-having-a-tough-time-dealing-with-the-sexual-revolution/articleshow/32939321.cms

25. http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/toi-edit-page/plaint-of-a-gay-husband-we-long-for-the-day-when-rashtrapati-bhavan-will-bathe-in-a-rangoli-of-rainbows-2/?utm_source=TOInewHP_TILwidget&utm_campaign=TOInewHP&utm_medium=Widget_Stry

26. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/27/us/supreme-court-same-sex-marriage.html?_r=0

27.

Same-Sex-Marriage of America Vs 377 IPC in India

                Homosexuality And 377 IPC

                A judicious, situational and factual analysis

In a long-sought victory for the gay rights movement, the Supreme Court ruled by a 5-to-4 vote on 25^th June 2015 that the Constitution guarantees a right to same-sex marriage

Justice Kennedy was the author of all three of the Supreme Court’s previous gay rights landmarks. The latest decision came exactly two years after his majority opinion in United States v. Windsor, which struck down a federal law denying benefits to married same-sex couples, and exactly 12 years after his majority opinion in Lawrence v. Texas, which struck down laws making gay sex a crime.

Resent USA  Supreme Court judgment has brought 377 IPC again in light. The Supreme Court of India turned down high court (HC) judgment on consented homosexuality. Hence, article 377 was in limelight. Supreme Court (SC) judgment gave a big space for debate on this issue. Indian conditions support SC judgment under current situation.  In future, it may, but situation is not ripe for any change in 377 at present. Health, social, cultural and natural facts, and situations don’t permit any interference in it as of now. Article 377 protects our culture, moral, natural sexual habit, and keeps generation going.

Naz Foundation, a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) in a Public Interest Litigation, challenged  the constitutional validity of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC), which criminally penalizes what is described as “unnatural offences”, to the extent that the said provision criminalizes consensual sexual acts between adults in private.  

The challenge is founded on the plea that Section 377 IPC, on account of it covering sexual acts between consenting adults in private infringes the fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14, 15, 19 & 21 of the Constitution of India. Limiting their plea, the petitioners submit that Section 377 IPC should apply only to non-consensual penile non-vaginal sex and penile non- vaginal sex involving minors

Article 377 says Unnatural Offences - Whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.

The Delhi High Court passed a landmark judgment holding Section 377 to be violative of Articles 21, 14 and 15 of the Constitution, insofar as it criminalised consensual sexual acts of adults in private. Hence writ petition was allowed on July 7, 2009.

In an appeal, SC in its judgment on December 11, 2013 allowed appeal and set aside the HC judgement. This pronouncement brought 377 into debate. This issue affects and associates with our social, cultural, biological (medical) and political sentiments. Hence, both supporters and opponents are giving their own logic to prove their cases.

Political classes are divided.  Congress supports it. Congress president Sonia Gandhi said in a statement, in a rare reaction to a court order “I am disappointed that the Supreme Court has reversed the previous High Court ruling on the issue of gay rights. The High Court had wisely removed an archaic, repressive and unjust law that infringed on the basic human rights enshrined in our constitution”.

After keeping mum on the issue for some time, BJP cleared its stand on it. In an interview to The Telegraph, BJP President Rajnath Singh said, "We will state (at an all-party meeting if it is called) that we support Section 377 because we believe that homosexuality is an unnatural act and cannot be supported."

Newly formed Aam Admi Party has opposed the SC judgement. The Samajwadi Party has made it clear that it will oppose any amendments to Section 377 if it comes in Parliament for discussion. Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav said, "Homosexuality is unethical and immoral, it is against the culture of the country and we will fight it."

A blog “The spark and the blame” has given medical and moral reasons against same-sex practice. There is substantial evidence that homosexual practice is harmful. A few are summarised below. 

Promiscuity and short-short term relationship: homosexual behaviour involves what a writer called “an almost compulsive promiscuity.” 75 % of homosexual men have had more than 100 partners in their lifetime, most of them strangers. A Los Angeles study found that male homo averaged over 20 partners a year. Lastly, only 7-8% of homosexual men and women have ever had relationships lasting more than three years. This differs vastly from heterosexual practice. As Schmidt writes “Promiscuity among homo is not a mere stereotype, and it is not merely the majority experience- it is virtually the only experience.”

Increase incidence of drug use: researchers report higher rates for drug and alcohol abuse among same-sex practicing.  They are more likely to use marijuana (89% vs 2% of hetero), cocaine (50% vs6% of hetero), and poppers (72% vs 2% of hetero). Another Boston study from 1985-88 supports above facts.

            Physical damage and complications: men and women bodies are designed for sexual intercourse with each other in a way that men bodies are simply not designed for sex with other men and the consequences are often physically traumatic. As a result, practising homosexuals are at greater risk of prostate damage, ulcers and ruptures, and chronic incontinence (Schimidt118)

Sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS: Besides physical trauma, many viral and non-viral infections trouble the homosexual populations. Non AIDS diseases include amebiasis, syphilis and hepatitis B (65% of homo men) affects badly.  The 75% STD incidents rate among homo is remarkable. This is to say little of the AIDS epidemic to which homo men are especially vulnerable. A Canadian study found that half of people living with AIDS are homosexual men.

Lower life expectancy: As a consequence of these medial issues especially the AIDS epidemic, homo men have a life expectancy that is significantly lower than heterosexual men. One Canadian study acknowledges it.

Increased incidence of mental illness, depression and suicide: homosexuals suffer from a severely higher incidence of some types of mental illness, especially depression and suicide. Schmidt finds that 40% of homo men have a history of major depressive disorder compared to 3% of men generally.

Dr. John R Diggs, Jr. in his write-up ‘The Health Risks of Gay Sex’ has cautioned the youth. He says it is clear that there are serious medical consequences to same-sex behaviour. Identification with a gay, lesbian and bisexual community appears to lead to an increase in promiscuity, which in turn leads to a myriad of STD and even early death.

 Social impacts of homosexuality are not good.  Domestic violence, child molestation are more common in homosexuals than in heterosexuals, even children of lesbian or gay parents are also sensitive to complex sexual behaviour . On academic ground too they are not at par with their heterosexual counterparts.

One can say that this problem is due to their discrimination with heterosexuals in society but these facts are reported from places where gay marriages are legal like in Netherland and Sanfransisco. Most important thing is that it disturbs the basic building block of society i.e. family. Homosexuality has become a major force that tears down society and harms our culture.

There is a misconception that being gay is an innate characteristic which cannot be changed but researches shown that there are abundant cases where this sexual orientation is changed by appropriate psychological treatment and also with the support and ethical guidance. If something affirm their homosexual behaviour, there are few chances that they could ever overcome from there complex sexual orientations.

It is also important to mention the fact that everything is not permitted in the name of freedom of rights. Youth should be warned of the undeniable health risks associated with a homosexual lifestyle. Worldwide scenario reveals that  while fifteen countries have legalized gay marriage and another three allow it in some areas, homosexuals remain persecuted in many parts of the world.

India is well cherished democratic country. Most of the decisions are taken on majority basis. Roughly a gay population is estimated about 25 lakh. Amending law 377 IPC for a big minority is against the concept of democratic wishes. If it is done, then it will disquiet the majority 99 %. It will infringe in their moral, social, political and bio- medical sentiments and ethics directly or indirectly.

            The highest Indian Court has favoured status quo. This complex issue is getting fast favour to amending it. It is assisted by the spill over effects of the developments worldwide on this. Inspite of all supportive progress on this matter, our SC sees that all ground realities are not favouring it in current Indian situations.

 Therefore, it maintained the originality of 377. Social, political, moral, physical and medical grounds are not ripe for any change in judicious evaluation. Hence, now it is left to our public leaders to assess the situation and act accordingly by a legislative step.

Heera Lal(Views are personal and based on different sources )

  Ref:

1.     http://lobis.nic.in/dhc/APS/judgement/02-07-2009/APS02072009CW74552001.pdf

2.     http://thesparkandtheflame.blogspot.in/2012/05/harm-of-homosexual-practice-medical-and.html 

3.     http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Not-contempt-of-court-Ministers-statements-against-SCs-Section-377-verdict-are-a-legitimate-part-of-public-debate/articleshow/28482298.cms

4.     http://www.youthkiawaaz.com/2013/12/delhi-hc-judgement-377-progressive-sc-dragged-us-back-man-explains/

5.     http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/stoi/deep-focus/Intolerance-then-and-now/articleshow/28420101.cms

6.     http://judis.nic.in/supremecourt/imgs1.aspx?filename=41070

7.     http://www.lawyerscollective.org/vulnerable-communities/lgbt/section-377.html

8.     http://judis.nic.in/supremecourt/imgs1.aspx?filename=41070

9.     http://www.livemint.com/Politics/vgdczDHug33Pj0CfmSV69O/Disappointed-with-SC-verdict-on-Section-377-says-Sonia-Gand.html

10.  http://www.firstpost.com/politics/bjp-will-not-support-unnatural-homosexuality-rajnath-singh-1286933.html

11.  http://www.firstpost.com/politics/supreme-court-verdict-on-377-violates-human-rights-says-aap-1284283.html

12.  http://www.telegraphindia.com/1131219/jsp/opinion/story_17694228.jsp#.UsutgNIW2f0

13.  http://ibnlive.in.com/news/sp-says-it-will-oppose-any-amendments-to-section-377/439247-37.html?classic

14.  http://carm.org/is-homosexuality-dangerous

15.  http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/homosexuality/ho0075.html

16.  http://www.buddhanet.net/homosexu.htm

17.  http://history-of-hinduism.blogspot.in/p/homosexuality-and-hinduism.html

18.  http://history-of-hinduism.blogspot.in/p/homosexuality-and-hinduism.html

19.  http://www.biblebelievers.com/Cameron2.html

20.  http://factsaboutyouth.com/posts/health-risks-of-the-homosexual-lifestyle/

21.  http://www.familyresearchinst.org/2009/02/medical-consequences-of-what-homosexuals-do/

22.  http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-12-13/people/45161406_1_population-6-reasons-pope-francis

23.  http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/gay-population-25-lakh-7-per-cent-hiv-infected-govt/1/177647.html

24.  http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Gay-sex-remains-illegal-as-Supreme-Court-refuses-to-review-ruling/articleshow/29515452.cms
15http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/Gay-couples-marry-for-first-time-in-England-and-Wales/articleshow/32912562.cms
16http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/stoi/all-that-matters/Indian-men-are-having-a-tough-time-dealing-with-the-sexual-revolution/articleshow/32939321.cms

25. http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/toi-edit-page/plaint-of-a-gay-husband-we-long-for-the-day-when-rashtrapati-bhavan-will-bathe-in-a-rangoli-of-rainbows-2/?utm_source=TOInewHP_TILwidget&utm_campaign=TOInewHP&utm_medium=Widget_Stry

26. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/27/us/supreme-court-same-sex-marriage.html?_r=0

27.

PM David Cameron Re-elected by Selling Fears

                                                    New Political Tool: Fear

It is not just in India that pollsters periodically fall flat. UK election, defying predictions of a hung parliament, the Conservative Party surged to an outright  majority in British elections. The result announced on May 9, 2015, It won 331 seats out of 650, more than the magic number of 326. What are the two most effective factors which proved most of the predictions false.

Fear is a fierce force in politics. In the end fear told. It was the basis of David Cameron's election campaign and he was entirely vindicated as he swept to a second term as British prime minister.

The fear Cameron instilled in voters was twofold.

 The first element consisted in saying that the substantial economic progress made by Britain over the past five years — gains that have turned it into the fastest-growing major advanced economy — would be reversed by a Labour victory.

The second was to suggest that if Ed Miliband, the Labour Party leader, did reach Downing Street he would be hostage to a surging Scottish National Party whose objective is to break up Britain.

Both proved effective. The British voted for economic consolidation. They shunned risk and they shunned Miliband, whom in the end they did not trust. Miliband, who gained the Labour leadership five years ago in a bitter fight with his brother David, resigned on Friday

PM David Cameron developed two political products in the form of Ideas Of Fear (IOF). He marketed it to voters. He also assessed the demand. Every voter wish to go up on economic trajectory. Its reversal would harm everyone. One this issue, he created a fear among voters and in turn sold his political product to them and took voters' mandate.

Nationalism is above everything for citizens. Cameron played this and hit emotional cards of voters. Division of the country affect all. Hence, it is a mass appealing issue. Cameron developed another political product  based on concept of fear generation. He convinced voters "If Labour party will get power, it may break up Britain under the pressure of surging Scottish National Party."

No gain without pain. The astonishing result is associated with big challenges ahead. The result could also lead for two referendums, with great existential import for Britain's future. The interests of Scottish and Britons are just opposite. Managing these opposite interests are formidable task for Cameron to fulfil his poll promises. Hopefully, he would manage, as politics is the art of managing contradictions, which he has proved by getting majority.

Cameron has promised a referendum, by 2017,on  whether UK should quit the European Union. If majority of Britons say yes, that result could influence the holding of another referendum.

The Scottish National Party, which stands for Scotland breaking away from the  UK, has swept 56 of Scotland's 59 seats. Since Scots favour staying in the EU a Brexit- or British exit from EU- could well trigger a Scottish exit from UK.

By selling simple IOF among voters, PM Cameron came out with flying colours. All forecasts of neck-to-neck fight predicted by most of the pollsters are negated.  He proved  best political acumen and it is an example for adoption to other political actors worldwide to win election.

Indian politicians  too abused and used  IOF to gain votes.  PM Modi's secular credentials are questioned by his critics, who accuse him of being divisive and of not doing enough to prevent the riots of 2002 in Gujarat, in which hundreds of Muslims were killed under his watch.

In 2014 Parliament Indian election, political parties tried to gain votes by showing fear of PM Modi. In its reaction, Maulana Mahmood Madani, who heads the Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind, said in a TV interview , "In the next election, political parties should not try to seek our votes by showing fear of someone, on a negative plank." Parties, he said, must instead outline their plans to ensure "equal opportunity" for the community.

Same political products marketed brought different results. It give victory to Cameron in UK. While in India, it disappointed who applied this tactics. And Modi got landslide mandate like Cameron.

Heera Lal ( views are personal and based on different resources.)  

Ref:

1. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/09/opinion/roger-cohen-british-election-david-cameron-cruises-home.html?action=click&contentCollection=Europe&module=RelatedCoverage&region=Marginalia&pgtype=article

2. http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/toi-editorials/david-cameron-phir-ek-baar-but-he-could-just-be-the-last-prime-minister-of-the-united-kingdom/?utm_source=TOInewHP_TILwidget&utm_campaign=TOInewHP&utm_medium=NavLi_Stry

3. http://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/standpoint-arab-media-reactions-on-indian-elections-hopes-scepticism-and-fear-1986595

4. http://www.firstpost.com/politics/what-modi-must-do-to-end-fear-politics-among-indias-muslims-1594401.html

5. http://www.dawn.com/news/1096901

6. http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/didnt-say-congress-fanning-fears-about-narendra-modi-to-secure-muslim-votes-jamiat-chief-mahmood-mad-537810

6. http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/congress-using-narendra-modis-name-for-political-gains-jamiat-chief_883240.html

 This blog was Published in Hindustan Times Lucknow Edition.

PM David Cameron Re-elected by Selling Fears

                                                    New Political Tool: Fear

It is not just in India that pollsters periodically fall flat. UK election, defying predictions of a hung parliament, the Conservative Party surged to an outright  majority in British elections. The result announced on May 9, 2015, It won 331 seats out of 650, more than the magic number of 326. What are the two most effective factors which proved most of the predictions false.

Fear is a fierce force in politics. In the end fear told. It was the basis of David Cameron's election campaign and he was entirely vindicated as he swept to a second term as British prime minister.

The fear Cameron instilled in voters was twofold.

 The first element consisted in saying that the substantial economic progress made by Britain over the past five years — gains that have turned it into the fastest-growing major advanced economy — would be reversed by a Labour victory.

The second was to suggest that if Ed Miliband, the Labour Party leader, did reach Downing Street he would be hostage to a surging Scottish National Party whose objective is to break up Britain.

Both proved effective. The British voted for economic consolidation. They shunned risk and they shunned Miliband, whom in the end they did not trust. Miliband, who gained the Labour leadership five years ago in a bitter fight with his brother David, resigned on Friday

PM David Cameron developed two political products in the form of Ideas Of Fear (IOF). He marketed it to voters. He also assessed the demand. Every voter wish to go up on economic trajectory. Its reversal would harm everyone. One this issue, he created a fear among voters and in turn sold his political product to them and took voters' mandate.

Nationalism is above everything for citizens. Cameron played this and hit emotional cards of voters. Division of the country affect all. Hence, it is a mass appealing issue. Cameron developed another political product  based on concept of fear generation. He convinced voters "If Labour party will get power, it may break up Britain under the pressure of surging Scottish National Party."

No gain without pain. The astonishing result is associated with big challenges ahead. The result could also lead for two referendums, with great existential import for Britain's future. The interests of Scottish and Britons are just opposite. Managing these opposite interests are formidable task for Cameron to fulfil his poll promises. Hopefully, he would manage, as politics is the art of managing contradictions, which he has proved by getting majority.

Cameron has promised a referendum, by 2017,on  whether UK should quit the European Union. If majority of Britons say yes, that result could influence the holding of another referendum.

The Scottish National Party, which stands for Scotland breaking away from the  UK, has swept 56 of Scotland's 59 seats. Since Scots favour staying in the EU a Brexit- or British exit from EU- could well trigger a Scottish exit from UK.

By selling simple IOF among voters, PM Cameron came out with flying colours. All forecasts of neck-to-neck fight predicted by most of the pollsters are negated.  He proved  best political acumen and it is an example for adoption to other political actors worldwide to win election.

Indian politicians  too abused and used  IOF to gain votes.  PM Modi's secular credentials are questioned by his critics, who accuse him of being divisive and of not doing enough to prevent the riots of 2002 in Gujarat, in which hundreds of Muslims were killed under his watch.

In 2014 Parliament Indian election, political parties tried to gain votes by showing fear of PM Modi. In its reaction, Maulana Mahmood Madani, who heads the Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind, said in a TV interview , "In the next election, political parties should not try to seek our votes by showing fear of someone, on a negative plank." Parties, he said, must instead outline their plans to ensure "equal opportunity" for the community.

Same political products marketed brought different results. It give victory to Cameron in UK. While in India, it disappointed who applied this tactics. And Modi got landslide mandate like Cameron.

Heera Lal ( views are personal and based on different resources.)  

Ref:

1. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/09/opinion/roger-cohen-british-election-david-cameron-cruises-home.html?action=click&contentCollection=Europe&module=RelatedCoverage&region=Marginalia&pgtype=article

2. http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/toi-editorials/david-cameron-phir-ek-baar-but-he-could-just-be-the-last-prime-minister-of-the-united-kingdom/?utm_source=TOInewHP_TILwidget&utm_campaign=TOInewHP&utm_medium=NavLi_Stry

3. http://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/standpoint-arab-media-reactions-on-indian-elections-hopes-scepticism-and-fear-1986595

4. http://www.firstpost.com/politics/what-modi-must-do-to-end-fear-politics-among-indias-muslims-1594401.html

5. http://www.dawn.com/news/1096901

6. http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/didnt-say-congress-fanning-fears-about-narendra-modi-to-secure-muslim-votes-jamiat-chief-mahmood-mad-537810

6. http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/congress-using-narendra-modis-name-for-political-gains-jamiat-chief_883240.html

 This blog was Published in Hindustan Times Lucknow Edition.

What is Personal Social Responsibility (PSR)?

Personal social responsibility may appear to be a new concept in relation to corporate social responsibility, but it is a concept as old as The Golden Rule -- do unto others as you would have done to you. PSR expands on this by promoting a proactive stance towards positively influencing and affecting the people and environments around you

How Does an Individual Become Socially Responsible

Being socially responsible in one's personal life everyday can be as difficult as sticking to a diet. To be a truly socially responsible individual not only requires participating in socially responsible activities like recycling, volunteering and mentoring, but to actually make it a lifestyle. Only through a commitment to embrace and embed social responsibility into your personal value and belief system can you truly become socially responsible in all you do.

Embracing PSR means doing your part to help the environment, volunteering your time to those in need, mentoring our youth, and being conscientious and courteous in all you do. Each of the speakers below is a champion for the one of these aspects of personal social responsibility.

Drawing from a unique set of experiences, each of APB's speakers on PSR are passionate about helping individuals realize the importance of living responsibly. Whether you need a speaker to inspire you to take the next step, or to help you motivate your community, we have a speaker who can provide you with the resources and tools you will need to have an open and honest discussion about what steps you need to take to be considered socially responsible.

Ref:
1. http://www.apbspeakers.com/personal-social-responsibility-speakers.html
2, 

What is Personal Social Responsibility (PSR)?

Personal social responsibility may appear to be a new concept in relation to corporate social responsibility, but it is a concept as old as The Golden Rule -- do unto others as you would have done to you. PSR expands on this by promoting a proactive stance towards positively influencing and affecting the people and environments around you

How Does an Individual Become Socially Responsible

Being socially responsible in one's personal life everyday can be as difficult as sticking to a diet. To be a truly socially responsible individual not only requires participating in socially responsible activities like recycling, volunteering and mentoring, but to actually make it a lifestyle. Only through a commitment to embrace and embed social responsibility into your personal value and belief system can you truly become socially responsible in all you do.

Embracing PSR means doing your part to help the environment, volunteering your time to those in need, mentoring our youth, and being conscientious and courteous in all you do. Each of the speakers below is a champion for the one of these aspects of personal social responsibility.

Drawing from a unique set of experiences, each of APB's speakers on PSR are passionate about helping individuals realize the importance of living responsibly. Whether you need a speaker to inspire you to take the next step, or to help you motivate your community, we have a speaker who can provide you with the resources and tools you will need to have an open and honest discussion about what steps you need to take to be considered socially responsible.

Ref:
1. http://www.apbspeakers.com/personal-social-responsibility-speakers.html
2, 

Tracking BlacK Money Systematically

            In its first decision after taking charge, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government on announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe black money, mostly stashed abroad. The decision was taken in the first meeting of the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Modi. Addressing a media conference after the Cabinet meeting law and telecom minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the SIT will have retired Supreme Court judge MB Shah as its head. 

          The government is working on a plan to provide a one-time opportunity to those who have black money abroad to pay taxes and repatriate their stash even as finance minister Arun Jaitley unveiled a raft of stringent measures in the Budget to crack down on offenders. He is likely to announce this facility when he introduces a comprehensive legislation to curb black money in this session of Parliament. The severity of punishments proposed may prompt those with unaccounted money to come clean. Inadequate disclosure or evasion related to foreign assets will be punishable by jail terms up to 10 years.

          Violation of the Foreign Exchange Management Act may result in imprisonment up to five years. In addition to jail time, penalty will be levied at 300% of the tax due for concealing income and assets. Black money in foreign accounts will be non-compoundable and offenders will not be permitted to approach the Settlement Commission.
              "Tracking down and bringing back the wealth which legitimately belongs to the country is our abiding commitment," Jaitley said. His tough talk will give help blunt criticism that the government has been dragging its feet on the issue of black money. A separate bill will be brought to deal with domestic black money, primarily through benami transactions in real estate. It will allow for confiscation of benami property and provide for prosecution, blocking a major avenue for generation of black money. The Finance Bill also includes a proposal to prohibit payment or receipt of cash advances of Rs 20,000 or more for purchase of immovable property.
             Formation of SIT at the very outset and budget proposals for curbing national and international black money is indicating the intentions of the government. Government is committed and adhering to fight blackmoney issue as promised in Loksabha election. This is a good sign for our country. This proved our country is moving in right direction to treat this cancereous diseases as expected.





Ref:
1.http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/SIT-formed-to-unearth-black-money-Narendra-Modi-Cabinets-first-decision/articleshow/35636667.cms
2.http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/budget-2015/union-budget-2015/Budget-2015-One-time-chance-on-black-money-or-10-yrs-in-jail/articleshow/46416425.cms
3. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/budget-2015/union-budget-2015/Budget-2015-One-time-chance-on-black-money-or-10-yrs-in-jail/articleshow/46416425.cms