The BJYM and ABVP once again invoked the bogeyman of an 'enemy within'. Fear mongering is a psychological tactic often used by political players like Donald Trump, especially when on the back foot. In America, it was the Red Scare of communism. In India, time and again, groups that speak truth to power are branded as "anti-nationals" to consolidate votes around majoritarianism. Umar Khalid is a PhD scholar from JNU. Albeit problematic, he has never been convicted, yet remains in judicial custody awaiting trial. The new education minister Pralhad Joshi, meanwhile, has defended the release of the 11 Bilkis Bano rape convicts. BJYM and ABVP have stayed silent on the NEET paper leak, the Ram Mandir donation scam, the E20 issue, and Section 39A in Goa. As youth, BJYM’s selective activism appears to be a brainwash attempt instead. Embarrassing as it may be, the BJYM's arguments are as hollow as their concern for the youth. The ever so arrogant BJP leaders now seem less confident, yet provocative as ever. A party in power protesting is unheard of. If their complaints are genuine.
ERROL MORAES, Cuncolim
