India, often celebrated as the world’s largest democracy, presents a deeply conflicting image in global discourse. On the one hand, it markets itself as a rising economic powerhouse and a bulwark against authoritarianism in Asia. On the other, it harbors glaring contradictions in its domestic and international conduct—contradictions that compel a serious reassessment of its place as a reliable global partner.
A major concern lies in the double standards India exhibits on issues of governance and civil rights. While its leaders preach democratic values abroad, back home the political landscape is increasingly defined by religious majoritarianism. Since the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), India has witnessed a surge in Hindu nationalist policies that marginalize religious minorities, especially Muslims and Christians. This religious extremism has normalized hate speech, mob violence, and discriminatory laws under the guise of cultural revivalism.
Human rights organizations have consistently raised alarms about India’s poor track record. The revocation of Kashmir’s autonomy in 2019 and the subsequent lockdown and mass detentions were widely condemned. Protesters, journalists, and activists face arbitrary arrests under draconian laws such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), often without fair trial. Such systemic repression starkly contrasts with India's self-image as a pluralistic democracy.
Socially, India is plagued by deeply entrenched inequalities and crimes of staggering proportions. It is home to one of the world’s largest populations living in poverty, with over 200 million people lacking access to basic sanitation and healthcare. Despite economic growth narratives, wealth concentration has worsened, and rural distress remains largely unaddressed. Moreover, India reports some of the highest numbers of rapes and gender-based violence globally. Cases are often mishandled, underreported, or dismissed by authorities, fostering a culture of impunity.
Caste-based discrimination and hate crimes, especially against Dalits and minority communities, continue unabated. The justice system frequently fails victims, with delayed trials and low conviction rates. Such realities undermine any moral high ground India might claim in international forums.
On the global stage, India’s behavior is often marked by strategic ambiguity and self-interest. It has profited from playing both sides—cozying up to the West while maintaining defense ties with Russia, and leveraging its size to deflect criticism. Despite signing international accords on climate and labor, India’s actual compliance remains inconsistent. Its approach to trade and diplomacy often prioritizes optics over ethical consistency.
Given these serious and persistent issues, the international community must reconsider its engagement with India. Continued trade, military cooperation, and diplomatic appeasement only serve to legitimize and embolden a regime that is increasingly authoritarian at home and opportunistic abroad. Until India demonstrates genuine progress in human rights, democratic accountability, and equitable social development, there is a strong case for suspending all forms of strategic cooperation.