What to Read in Indian Express Editorial (Topic and Syllabus wise)

Editorial 1 : US and Iran should return to negotiations. A nuclear deal is good for West Asia and the world

Introduction

The volatile dynamics between the United States and Iran have long shaped the geopolitical landscape of West Asia. The assassination of Iran’s top military commander, Qasem Soleimani, in 2020 marked a turning point, effectively derailing any prospects of renewed negotiations over the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal. This event, coupled with the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018 under President Donald Trump, has led to heightened tensions, with both nations now engaged in a dangerous standoff that threatens regional stability. Amid escalating conflicts in the region, including wars in Yemen and Gaza, the potential for a broader conflict looms large.

Key Notes

1. Assassination of Qasem Soleimani (2020):
   1. Soleimani’s killing by a U.S. airstrike under Trump’s orders ended hopes of reviving JCPOA talks.
   2. The event marked a significant escalation in U.S.-Iran tensions, with Iran vowing retaliation.
2. U.S. Withdrawal from the JCPOA (2018):
   1. Trump pulled the U.S. out of the nuclear deal, citing Iran’s failure to curb its nuclear program.
   2. This led Iran to ignore JCPOA limitations, increasing concerns over its nuclear ambitions.
3. Trump’s Recent Diplomatic Shift (2023):
   1. Surprisingly, Trump wrote to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, seeking renegotiations.
   2. However, he later issued a stark warning of potential “bombing the likes of which they have never seen before” if Iran doesn’t agree to terms.
4. Iran’s Response and Regional Tensions:
   1. Iran rejected direct negotiations with the U.S. and placed its missile arsenal on high alert.
   2. Tensions are exacerbated by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and recent U.S.-Houthi clashes in Yemen.
5. Risks of a Nuclear-Armed Iran:
   1. A functional JCPOA ensures Iran’s nuclear program remains peaceful and under international oversight.
   2. A nuclear-armed Iran could destabilize West Asia, potentially triggering a nuclear arms race involving Saudi Arabia and other regional powers.
6. The Need for Diplomatic Engagement:
   1. Given Iran’s reluctance for direct talks, the U.S. could involve Gulf allies like Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi to mediate.
   2. Threats of bombing or secondary sanctions are unlikely to foster productive negotiations.
7. Economic and Global Stability Implications:
   1. Lifting sanctions could allow Iran to boost its oil and gas exports, benefiting its economy and global oil markets.
   2. India, heavily reliant on imported oil, is particularly vulnerable to price volatility resulting from regional conflicts.

Conclusion

The escalating U.S.-Iran standoff poses a dire threat to regional and global stability. The JCPOA remains a crucial framework to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, which could trigger a catastrophic arms race in West Asia. Diplomatic engagement, rather than threats and sanctions, is the only viable path to de-escalation. Both Washington and Tehran, along with regional stakeholders, must prioritize dialogue to avert a conflict that could destabilize the entire region and disrupt global oil markets, with far-reaching economic consequences for countries like India.

Editorial 2 : Express View: ‘Empuraan’ makers’ voluntary modifications sets a

disquieting precedent

 

Introduction

The recent controversy surrounding L2: Empuraan, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, highlights a troubling trend in India’s cinematic landscape—one marked by the increasing influence of political sensitivities on artistic expression. Despite having passed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) process, the film’s release sparked outrage, particularly over its depiction of the 2002 Gujarat communal violence. In the face of backlash, the filmmakers chose to make “voluntary modifications,” effectively engaging in self-censorship. This response not only reflects the growing pressures on creative freedom but also raises critical questions about the shrinking space for artistic expression in the country.

Key Notes

1. The Standard Film Certification Process:
   1. Films in India are typically submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for scrutiny before release.
   2. The CBFC’s role is to issue a certificate that makes the film eligible for public viewing.
2. Controversy Over L2: Empuraan:
   1. The film faced backlash, primarily from social media users and sections of the Sangh Parivar, over its portrayal of the 2002 Gujarat communal violence.
   2. Critics accused the film of attempting to “malign Hinduism,” sparking a heated debate about its political agenda.
3. BJP’s Stance on the Controversy:
   1. Interestingly, the BJP distanced itself from the controversy, with Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar describing it as “manufactured.”
   2. He emphasized that “cinema should be seen as cinema, and not history,” suggesting a more nuanced approach to politically sensitive films.
4. Filmmakers’ Response and Self-Censorship:
   1. Star Mohanlal and producer Gokulam Gopalan issued apologies and indicated willingness to alter scenes or dialogues that may have “pained anyone.”
   2. This move reflects a broader trend of self-censorship in the Indian film industry, where filmmakers preemptively modify their work to avoid potential controversies.
5. The Broader Implications of Self-Censorship:
   1. The tendency to modify films out of fear of backlash undermines artistic freedom and encourages a culture where creative expression is stifled.
   2. The influence of “hurt sentiments” and the noisy fringe groups increasingly shapes the content of mainstream media.
6. Historical Context of Censorship in Indian Cinema:
   1. The controversy over Empuraan is part of a larger pattern, including the stalled release of Emergency by Kangana Ranaut and the controversies surrounding films like Padmaavat and PK.
   2. These instances highlight a recurring theme where films with politically sensitive content face threats, vandalism, and demands for censorship.
7. The Danger of Narrowing Artistic Space:
   1. The trend of self-censorship reflects a shift where the artist’s voice is subordinated to the perceived sensitivities of the public or political groups.
   2. This erosion of creative freedom limits the ability of artists to challenge narratives, provoke thought, and reflect complex realities.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding L2: Empuraan underscores a disturbing reality for Indian filmmakers: the growing pressure to self-censor in the face of potential backlash. While the CBFC’s certification process is designed to uphold standards of content regulation, the influence of political and social sensitivities has created an environment where artistic expression is increasingly compromised. This not only hampers creative freedom but also threatens the cultural and intellectual vibrancy of Indian cinema. To preserve the integrity of art and storytelling, it is imperative to defend the space for fearless, unrestrained artistic expression, even when it challenges prevailing narratives or confronts uncomfortable truths.

Editorial 3 : The Third Edit: Table tennis needs a champion like Achanta Sharath Kamal

Introduction

Achanta Sharath Kamal’s retirement from competitive table tennis marks the end of an era in Indian sports. Over two decades, Sharath not only redefined the benchmarks for table tennis in India but also became a symbol of dedication, resilience, and excellence. His career, which spanned 30 years, is a testament to his unwavering passion for the sport and his relentless pursuit of greatness, even when the game itself remained in the shadows compared to mainstream sports in India. As he transitions towards administrative roles, his legacy offers a blueprint for the future of Indian table tennis.

Key Notes

1. Distinguished Career and Achievements:
   1. Sharath Kamal’s career began with the prestigious Arjuna Award, setting the stage for his remarkable journey in table tennis.
   2. He won his 7th Commonwealth Games gold at the age of 40, showcasing his enduring commitment to the sport.
   3. His 13 CWG medals, including men’s singles golds 16 years apart (2006 and 2022), stand as an astonishing record in Indian sports.
2. Impact on Indian Table Tennis:
   1. Sharath’s achievements pushed Indian table tennis into the international spotlight, inspiring a new generation of players.
   2. His two bronze medals at the 2018 Asian Games encouraged other Indian athletes to aim higher, fostering a competitive spirit.
3. Relentless Pursuit of Excellence:
   1. Sharath never rested on his laurels; he consistently sought to improve his game using the latest technological innovations.
   2. He even offered to let Chinese coaches study his playstyle, seeking to learn and adapt from one of the most dominant table tennis nations.
4. Role in Mentoring Young Players:
   1. Despite his limited visibility during regular events, Sharath played a crucial role in mentoring Indian juniors, especially during multi-disciplinary Games.
   2. His guidance helped young athletes overcome nerves and perform at their best on big stages.
5. Legacy and Influence:
   1. Sharath’s highest world ranking of 30 reflects his standing among the best in the world, a remarkable feat considering the global competition in table tennis.
   2. He followed in the footsteps of legends like Chetan Baboor and S Raman, surpassing their medal counts and setting new standards.
6. Uncontroversial and Dignified Persona:
   1. Known for his humility and professionalism, Sharath remained uncontroversial throughout his career, focusing solely on his sport.
   2. His dedication to table tennis, even when it wasn’t in the limelight, speaks volumes about his love for the game.
7. Future in Table Tennis Administration:
   1. As he moves towards administrative roles, Sharath is expected to elevate Indian table tennis to new heights.
   2. His leadership could serve as the catalyst for the sport’s growth, much like Pullela Gopichand’s impact on Indian badminton.

Conclusion

Achanta Sharath Kamal’s retirement is not just the end of a legendary career but also the beginning of a new chapter for Indian table tennis. His unwavering dedication, exceptional achievements, and role as a mentor have left an indelible mark on the sport. As he steps into administrative roles, there is hope that Sharath will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of Indian table tennis players, pushing the sport to greater heights and securing a legacy that will endure for years to come.