A Decade-Long Analysis of Post-Independence Decisions and Their Impact on India

Since India's independence, the country has faced numerous challenges that have affected its trajectory in different ways. Among the various decisions made by the government, one issue that continues to trouble India deeply is the Kashmir 'issue'. This analysis delves into the impact of this and other significant decisions taken after independence, exploring their long-term consequences on Indian society.

The Kashmir Issue: A Persistent Problem

In my opinion, the most harrowing decision made by the government post-independence is the Kashmir issue. This controversial topic has plagued India ever since and continues to do so to this day. The issue stems from the fact that it has not been resolved, and one of the main reasons for this is the large number of jobs and livelihoods it has generated, such as those in the political and media sectors. For instance, politicians and media outlets use this issue to boost their ratings, a practice that has perpetuated the problem for decades.

From a political perspective, Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, made a massive blunder when he opted not to utilize the Indian Army's offensive against Pakistan. Instead, he insisted on conducting a plebiscite to decide the future of Kashmir. This decision proved disastrous, leading to the prolonged festerment of the issue. The loss of countless civilians and army personnel, along with precious resources, are direct consequences of this unwise choice. This situation has deeply influenced the way the nation thinks today, solidifying its status as the most impactful issue that has hurt India.

Key Decisions Post-Independence

Several crucial decisions were made in the years following India's independence, each with its own set of implications. Here is a detailed analysis of these decisions:

Integration of Disputed Territories

Under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, certain disputed territories, including JK and Nizam's Hyderabad, were integrated into India. Despite the eventual well-received integration, Patel had to promote a large integration strategy to ensure the smooth union. This decision, while initially successful, led to significant political and social tensions in the years to follow.

Secularism as a National Policy

Another decision that garnered significant attention was the adoption of secularism. The country could have easily chosen to align itself with a specific religion, similar to Pakistan. However, both Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi vehemently opposed this idea. The decision to maintain a secular framework was a critical choice, one that helped prevent further divisions and instilled a sense of national unity. But the question arises: was it the right choice in the long run? With the current political climate divided along religious lines, the outcome of this decision is now open to debate.

Choice of Constitution Type

The decision to adopt a parliamentary system with a president as the titular head was another significant choice. This move was influenced by the prevalent literacy levels and hero worship culture in India. Although popular, Nehru's personality became increasingly influential, overshadowing the party. This shift has had lasting impacts on the governance structure and political landscape, leading to concerns about the concentration of power in individual leaders.

Election System: Winner-Takes-All

The winner-takes-all election system has been a controversial choice for India. It often results in a party winning despite having a minority of the votes. This system can lead to a significant gap between the ruling party and the populace, fostering resentment and a sense of exclusion. A more proportional representation system would have better served the interests of all sections of the population.

State Division Based on Language and Ethnicity

The method of dividing states primarily on language and ethnicity was a well-thought-out strategy. This division helped to preserve linguistic and cultural identities, leading to a more inclusive approach to nation-building. This decision has remained relevant and is still followed today, indicating its long-term benefits.

Reservations for SC/ST

The implementation of reservations for Scheduled Castes and Tribes (SC/ST) was intended to address social inequalities. However, the decision to make reservations a long-term policy rather than a temporary measure has proven to be a mistake. The policy has become a contentious issue, with competent individuals being denied opportunities in education, government jobs, and promotions. A more equitable approach based on economic backwardness would have been more effective.

Socialism and Public Sector Establishment

Nehru's commitment to socialism, driven by the establishment of public sectors, had significant economic implications. While this policy was necessary given the limited resources and the global landscape at the time, it has since become a drain on the economy. The inefficiencies of public sectors have become a persistent issue in the era of privatization, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among citizens.

After evaluating these critical decisions, it becomes evident that the choice of socialism and the proliferation of public sectors seems to be the worst decision the country has not fully recovered from. The consequences of this decision are still felt in the current economic climate, with calls for reform being more urgent than ever.