An Indian crewed ship in the Strait of Hormuz was struck by an American missile. Three Indian sailors lost their lives. Let that sink in for a moment.
For decades, India has dealt with hostile neighbours, cross border terrorism and regional conflicts. Yet an Indian crewed commercial vessel being hit by an American military strike is something most of us never imagined we would witness.
This comes after years of chest thumping slogans about a “New India”, about teaching adversaries a lesson and striking back harder than ever before.
But when Indian lives are lost because of the actions of the world’s most powerful nation, where is that same language? Where is the outrage? Where are the warnings? Where is the resolve?
As a student, I remember reading an old saying: bravery is not about confronting the weak. Bravery is about standing up to the bully.
What is even more surprising is the silence. Many of the usual television warriors, self proclaimed nationalists and jingoistic commentators who never hesitate to demand retaliation over every issue seem to have misplaced their voices this time.
India has lodged a diplomatic protest with the United States.
And while we are on the subject of leadership, congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 12 years in office, becoming India’s longest serving elected Prime Minister. A remarkable political achievement.
But I am reminded of another old saying. History does not judge leaders by how long they serve. History judges them by how well they serve.
The question is not whether a leader remains in power for 4,400 days.
The question is whether the nation stood taller, safer and more respected on the 4,400th day than it did on the first.
As an independent media platform, we do not take advertisements from governments and corporate houses. It is you, our readers, who have supported us on our journey to do honest and unbiased journalism. Please contribute, so that we can continue to do the same in future.
