The saying “a man is known by his enemy” suggests that an individual’s enemies can reveal important information about their character, values, and beliefs. It implies that the person’s enemies can reveal something about their personality, as well as their position or standing in society. For example, if a person’s enemies are powerful or influential figures, it suggests that the person may also be powerful or influential. Similarly, if a person’s enemies are those who stand for certain values or beliefs, it suggests that the person may also hold similar values or beliefs.
In terms of countries, this phrase can also be applied as a nation is known by its enemies and friends, and through the relationships it cultivates with other countries. The alliances and enmities of a country can reveal its foreign policy priorities, strategic interests, and its role in the global system.
The transformation of Indian politics over the past few decades can be characterized by a shift from regional political parties and leaders to national political parties and leaders with a greater emphasis on a global significance. This shift has been driven by a number of factors, including economic growth, increasing connectivity and globalisation, and the rise of new technologies such as social media. As a result, Indian politics has become more competitive and dynamic, with a greater emphasis on issues such as national security, economic development, and international relations. This has also led to a greater focus on the role of India in the global political and economic landscape, with Indian leaders and politicians increasingly positioning the country as a major player on the global stage.
Before the 2014 general elections in India, the Indian National Congress (INC) was the dominant political party and had been in power for much of the country’s independent history. However, in 2014 the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led by Narendra Modi swept to power in a landslide victory, winning 282 out of 543 seats in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the Indian parliament). This marked a significant shift in Indian politics, as the BJP, a right-wing, Hindu nationalist party, had previously been a relatively minor player on the national stage.
The election of the BJP in 2014 marked the beginning of a new era in Indian politics, characterized by a more assertive and nationalist approach to domestic and foreign policy. The Modi government has focused on economic development and job creation, as well as on issues such as national security and the promotion of Hindu cultural values. The government has also taken a more assertive stance on foreign policy, particularly with regard to its relations with Pakistan and China.
In 2019, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government led by Modi returned to power for a second term by winning a comfortable majority in the Lok Sabha. The political scenario changed again with the rise of regional parties and their alliances. The opposition parties formed alliances and alliances of regional parties to counter the BJP.
Overall, the Indian politics has undergone a significant transformation since 2014, with the rise of the BJP and the emergence of a more assertive and nationalistic approach to domestic and foreign policy. The political landscape of the country has also become more competitive and dynamic as a result of this shift.
Before the 2014 general elections, Indian politics was often compared to Pakistan’s politics, as the two countries have a complex and contentious history, with ongoing disputes over issues such as Kashmir and cross-border terrorism. The focus of Indian politics was primarily on domestic issues, such as economic development, poverty reduction, and social welfare, as well as on resolving the disputes with Pakistan.
However, since the 2014 elections and the rise of the BJP, Indian politics has taken on a more global perspective. The Modi government has emphasized the need for India to play a greater role on the world stage and to be seen as a major power in the region and beyond. The government has focused on improving relations with other countries and building strategic partnerships, particularly with the United States and China.
In addition, the Indian government has also been actively promoting the country’s soft power through cultural and economic diplomacy, with a focus on expanding its influence in the region and beyond. India has been actively participating in various multilateral forums like BRICS, G20 and the UN.
India’s political approach towards China and Pakistan post-2014 has been shaped by a combination of historical tensions, territorial disputes, and economic and military considerations. India has sought to maintain a cautious and pragmatic approach towards China, recognizing the importance of economic ties and managing territorial disputes, while also strengthening its military capabilities to counter any potential Chinese aggression. India has traditionally taken a more confrontational approach towards Pakistan due to ongoing tensions over Kashmir and the longstanding history of hostility between the two countries. However, post-2014 India has been focusing more on its economic and military development and strengthening its ties with other regional powers such as Japan and the United States to balance against China and Pakistan’s growing influence. Additionally, India has been trying to increase its regional and global influence through its “Act East Policy.”
Overall, Indian politics has moved beyond just being compared to Pakistan’s politics and has taken on a more global perspective, with a focus on building strategic partnerships, expanding its influence in the region and beyond, and promoting the country’s soft power.
In conclusion, Indian politics has undergone a significant transformation over the past few decades, moving from a regional focus to a more global perspective. The rise of the BJP and the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been a major driving force behind this shift, with a more assertive and nationalist approach to domestic and foreign policy.
The government has focused on economic development and job creation, as well as on issues such as national security and the promotion of Hindu cultural values. The political landscape of the country has become more competitive and dynamic, with a greater emphasis on issues such as national security, economic development, and international relations. India has been actively participating in various multilateral forums like BRICS, G20 and the UN. India is now seen as a major player on the global stage and is increasingly positioning itself as a global power.
