Vol: 25 | No. 9 | September 2017 | R20

www.opinionexpress.in A MONTHLY NEWS MAGAZINE

Cover Story DRAGON

It may appearTAMED? a diplomatic win in Doklam, but India should be cautious Thank You BIPL %DODML,QIUD3URMHFWV/LPLWHG www.balaji.co.in www.dighiport.in editorial Confused China & Calm RNI UP–ENG 70032/92, Volume 25, No 9 EDITOR Prashant Tewari India – Doklam stand off Associate Editor Dr Rahul Misra he India, USA, Israel combination has rattled China a lot. Post Prime Minister Na- rendra Modi recent successful visits to USA and Israel, China has up the ante to Political Editor disturb India’s international progression. It has provoked Pakistan to keep Kashmir Prakhar Misra T valley hot and on the eastern front, PLA has pushed troops on various places on India BUREAU CHIEF Gopal Chopra (DELHI), Diwakar Shetty China 4000KM border to keep India engaged on military front. The way the Chinese gov- (MUMBAI), Sidhartha Sharma (KOLKATA), ernment conducted itself during the recent 72 day long Doklam stand-off it would appear Lakshmi Devi (BANGALORE ) DIvyash Bajpai that they were following this advice to the letter. There were empty threats, psychological (USA), KAPIL DUDAKIA (UNITED KINGDOM) war in the media, videos of military drills, intemperate statements Rajiv Agnihotri (MAURITIUS), Romil Raj Bhagat (DUBAI), Herman Silochan (CANADA), by official spokespersons, reminders of India’s 1962 defeat and ag- Dr Shiv Kumar (AUS/NZ) gressive bluster. Content partner On the contrary, both the Indian government and media The Pioneer showed a far more mature response by emphasising that the solu- Pratham Pravakta tion lay not in a call to arms but on the negotiating table. Main- Legal Advisors taining diplomatic dignity, MEA’s statement on 28th August Vishnu Sharma Adv announcing the agreement to pull out did not in any way show Vijai Krishna Adv the Chinese down; on the contrary, as was widely observed, India Marketing Director gave China plenty of face-saving room. The Chinese statement by Diwakar Shetty comparison was shrill emphasising that it was the “trespassing” Administrative Director Indian troops that withdrew first and that Chinese troops shall in future continue to patrol Amit Pandey the area. There was only a muted reference to making necessary adjustments in their troop Bal Mukund Gaur deployments. This probably force the MEA to come out with a second statement clarifying Corporate Communication / PR that disengagement border personnel had been almost completed under verification from Sanjay Mendiratta M M Upadhaya both the sides. It was clarified that both troops and road building equipment had been removed by China from the face-off point, implying the PLA’s construction of the road to- Graphics & Design Writeword Commuications (Studio 8) wards Jompelri wherein the genesis of the crisis lay, had been put off. Two days later MEA announced that Prime Minister Modi would be visiting China for the upcoming BRICS Photographer Ratan Shukla Summit during 3-9 September. Fake God Man and Genuine set back to religion: The Dera Sacha Sauda has Overseas Marketing OEMCL Ltd (Mauritius), OEHCL ltd (DUBAI) its roots in the Radha Soami sect. Its founder Khema Mal aka Balochistani Shah Mastana, Advertisement / Circulation: was a disciple of Baba Sawan Singh of the Radhasoami lineage. The Congress and BJP’s Delhi / NCR - Hemant Sharma: D 239 political and financial support to Dera Sacha Sauda is singularly to blame for the present Defence Colony New Delhi 110024 INDIA mess, the mere perception that Ram Rahim was larger than law has fueled the violence. Tel – 011 49060350 The motorcade of 200 cars, over 1 lakh supporters around court, hapless administration Mumbai - Vijay Kalantri – Advisor: New present an extremely sorry picture of the governance that Modi has promised in 2014. It ExcelsIor BUILDING, 6tH Floor, A.K. NAYAK is imperative that Prime Minister must take the situation under his direct control because MARG, Fort, MUMBAI - 400001 (INDIA). Phone: 91 - 22 - 22019265 / 22019160 he is a symbol of maximum governance and people of the country trust him. The com- FAX : 91-22- 22019764 / 22019760 promises in governance even at state level will hurt brand Modi simply because people The magazine is published and printed by Rajiv of Haryana had voted for BJP keeping in view Modi’s credibility and face. Lastly, people Agnihotri for Opinion Express Communications of the country must own responsibility of following quality religious leadership. India is a & Entertainments Pvt Ltd, from Kumpu Graphic land of Jagatguru Adi Shankara, Guru Nanak Dev, Ramakrishna, Vivekananda, Praram- Press 2 Ashok Nagar, Lucknow & printed at hansa Yogananda and many more. We should be careful in selection of Guru and Saints; Kumpu Graphic Press 2 Ashok Nagar, Lucknow – 226001 Tele : 91-522-4060880 & there should be strict no God Man policy to be adopted by people to discourage fraudulent Nikhil Offset An ISO 9001 : 2008 Certified conman taking over the physiological control of innocent people. Instead of blaming politi- Company 223, DSIDC Complex, Okhla Industrial cians, people must own responsibility for creating social mess and a bad name to the glori- Area Phase - I, New Delhi - 110020 Tele : 91- ous Hindu Sikh religion. 26812316, 26810097, 26810458, FAX:91 45792362 E-Mail : [email protected], Fire & Fury: The two aggressive leaders of USA and North Korea have brought the [email protected] entire world on its knees. Donald Trump narrative of fire & fury and Kim statement of hit- Registered Office: OPINION EXPRESS HOUSE ting US by ICBM has resulted in escalation of tensions in entire world. Japan and South 24-A Clyde Road, Lucknow-226001 (India) Korea are living in constant fear of missile attack but unfortunately China is proceeding Phone: 91-522-4060880 Fax: 91-522-2208242 # 24x7 with its stale strategy of promoting rouge states namely North Korea and Pakistan by mobility +91 9984437000 supporting them with funds, technology, business collaboration and nuclear technology email: [email protected] transfer resulting in making the world a deadly place to live in. KIM Jong-un may have All disputes are subject to be under jurisdiction of hidden a secret message to the United States in his blustering boast that he is now ready to courts in Delhi. All content published may be subject to copyright, lob missiles at Guam. But can President Trump understand it? Surely worlds need better seek written permission to re-produce. Opinion statesman’s to overcome this unusual stalemate. Express is trade mark brand of Opinion Express —Prashant Tewari, Editor-in-Chief Communications & Entertainment Private Limited. Opinion Express September 2017 3 A Monthly News Magazine September 2017 Cover Story How to handle resurgent India? China is confused P 6-11 Diplomatic Victory Bumrah 12 in top How Congress & BJP gear 16 funded & promoted P 47 a monster called Ram Rahim P 50 Oomph Quotient The Issue of Living happy 21 Insolvency 29 & joyous life How much water should you 34 drink in a day? Fun, offbeat things to do in 37 Norway’s capital Oslo A MAJOR CRISIS BREWING 40 IN ASIA – USA vs North Korea 4 September 2017 Opinion Express Justice Dipak Misra Sworn In As 45th Chief Justice of India

By Vishnu Sharma elevation as his successor. upload a copy of the police complaints Justice Misra was also among the registered by the police, or First Infor- New Delhi: Justice Dipak Misra, who three judges who were up all night in mation Report, on their website within led the Supreme Court bench that con- July 2015, giving a historic hearing to 24 hours so that the accused and victim firmed death to four convicts in the decide on terrorist Yakub Memon’s did not have to run around for a copy. Nirbhaya gang-rape case in May this last-minute appeal against his hanging. Back in the high court, the judge year, will succeed Chief Justice JS Khe- Memon was convicted in 1993 Mumbai was also known to entertain public in- har as the next Chief Justice of India. blasts, in which 257 people were killed. terest litigation but cracked the whip Justice Misra was sworn in as the It was Justice Misra who announced the when people tried to waste his court’s 45th Chief Justice of India at a brief court’s decision at 5 am: “Stay of death time, ruling the court wasn’t a labora- ceremony in the Darbar Hall of Rash- warrant would be a travesty of justice. tory where people could come to play at trapati Bhavan. President Ram Nath The plea is dismissed,” he said. Memon their own whim and fancy. Kovind administered the oath of office was hanged two hours later. Justice Misra, 64, assumes office to Justice Misra. Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court following the retirement of Justice JS Chief Justice Misra will hold of- before he was elevated as a Supreme Khehar as the Chief Justice of India fice for the next 13 months, till 2 Octo- Court judge in 2011, Justice Misra had yesterday. ber 2018. As per the established prac- been described as a “pro-citizen judge” tice, Chief Justice Khehar had had last by his peers. It was, for instance, Justice (AOR Supreme Court & Legal month recommended Justice Misra’s Misra who had ordered the police to Correspondent )

Opinion Express September 2017 5 Cover story How to handle resurgent India? China is confused

6 September 2017 Opinion Express The 72-day stand-off in Doklam is finally over. Showing an unprecedented grit and deft diplomacy, India has managed to confound the dragon. Now, she must show the same maturity to bolster its stand in border disputes with the powerful neighbour riting in the fifth century BC, the ancient spokespersons, reminders of India’s 1962 defeat and aggres- Chinese thinker Sun Tzu gives in his all- sive bluster. time classic on war strategy – The Art of On the contrary, both the Indian government and media War – a fundamental principle: showed a far more mature response by emphasising that the “All warfare is based on deception. solution lay not in a call to arms but on the negotiating table. W Hence, when we are able to attack, we Maintaining diplomatic dignity, MEA’s statement on 28th must seem unable; when using our forces, September announcing the agreement to pull out did not we must appear inactive; when we are in any way show the Chinese down; on the contrary, as was near, we must make the enemy believe widely observed, India gave China plenty of face-saving room. we are far away; when far away, we must The Chinese statement by comparison was shrill emphasising make him believe we are near.” that it was the “trespassing” Indian troops that withdrew first The way the Chinese government con- and that Chinese troops shall in future continue to patrol the ducted itself during the recent 72 day long area. There was only a muted reference to making necessary adjustments in their troop deployments. This probably force the MEA to come out with a second statement clarifying that The way the Chinese government disengagement border personnel had been almost completed under verification from both the sides. It was clarified that conducted itself during the recent 72 both troops and roadbuilding equipment had been removed by China from the face-off point, implying the PLA’s construc- day long Doklam stand-off it would tion of the road towards Jompelri wherein the genesis of the appear that they were following crisis lay, had been put off. Two days later MEA announced that Prime Minister Modi would be visiting China for the up- this advice to the letter. There were coming BRICS Summit during 3-9 September. empty threats, psychological war in What are we to make out of this in hindsight? The full details of what transpired on the negotiating table shall never the media, videos of military drills, be known; there are many information gaps left in the state- ments put out by the MEA. Has there been any commitment intemperate statements by official by China not to try building the road in the future? If the area spokespersons, reminders of India’s is disputed has insisted all along by the Indian side, and of course Bhutan, why has China been allowed to emphasise 1962 defeat and aggressive bluster. that its troops shall continue to patrol the area? Why was there not a corresponding assertion from the Indian or Bhu- Doklam stand-off it would appear that tanease side that the latter’s they were following this advice to the let- troops shall also patrol the ter. There were empty threats, psycho- area under dispute? logical war in the media, videos of military From the haze of diplomat- drills, intemperate statements by official ic jargon some clear aspects of

Opinion Express September 2017 7 considering Chinese entities/individu- als have been placed under sanctions by the Trump Administration over the North Korean issue. Also, US has been supportive of India’s role while formu- lating its Afghan policy. A matter of dip- lomatic concern for India was that after its initial response rebutting China’s In the crucial national conference of Communist claim over Doklam, Bhutan and as- siduously maintained a discreet silence Party of China in mid-October, Xi Jinping is expected throughout the face-off only expressing to be given a second five-year term at the helm and its hope that the matter would be re- solved peacefully. In fact Bhutan’s luke- a continuing, unresolved military face-off with India warm attitude nudged Sushma Swaraj would have been seen to be a mishandling of the into clarifying in the Indian Parliament that apart from the dispute that Bhutan situation and the show weakness against the country had with China and in which India was treaty bound to help the former, there that most Chinese believe to be significantly inferior were Indian security interests also in terms of military or economic prowess. which made it necessary for India to in- tercede in the area. It made economic sense for China the issue emerge. Militarily, for most of Internationally, China would have given its trade and investment impera- the 4000 km long LAC, India has the lost face in the event of India raising the tives vis-a-vis India’s huge market not to advantage of holding the higher ground; issue on behalf of Bhutan in the BRICS aggravate the crisis militarily and have such was the case in the Doklam area Summit or alternatively, sending a low a diplomatic resolution without losing also. In case of an armed conflict China level representative delegation instead face. In fact during the ongoing crisis would have needed to vastly outnumber of personal attendance by the Indian there were some faint murmurings on Indian forces, according to some experts Prime Minister. In fact, both India the part of the Indian government pro- by a ratio of 9 to 1 to push back Indian and Bhutan had absented themselves posing changes in the criteria for for- troops. And with snowfall expected in from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) eign suppliers of power plant equipment September it would have been difficult meeting in May 2017 much to China’s which would hit Chinese manufacturers for the Chinese despite their superior annoyance. In fact some observers had badly. In fact, the trade imbalance is roads and infrastructure to hold their even linked that to the Doklam stand- heavily tilted towards China so India can ground. off. leverage on this fact to push for course China had some domestic compul- Diplomatically, there have been re- correction. China can ill afford to disturb sions too. In the crucial national con- ports that there was Russian pressure the vast market like India that offers ference of Communist Party of China on both China and India to resolve the massive market to Chinese consumer in mid-October, Xi Jinping is expected issue. Overtly however the rest of the durable and infra companies. Make in to be given a second five-year term at world stayed away from the imbroglio India program of Modi government will the helm and a continuing, unresolved with only Japan openly supporting push Chinese manufacturing sector to military face-off with India would have India on the issue. Notwithstanding limits in the years to come, and it will been seen to be a mishandling of the sit- the US-China tensions over North Ko- offer stiff competition to Chinese manu- uation and the show weakness against rea there was no mention of the issue facturing companies soon. the country that most Chinese believe by American authorities; it could have to be significantly inferior in terms of been logically expected by India that By Dr Pradeep Bajpai – military or economic prowess. there would be some support from US [email protected]

8 September 2017 Opinion Express

Between India and China, who won in Doklam? Both Indian and Chinese media patted the back of their respective negotiators for a ‘great victory’ in Doklam impasse. But what was the reality? The Opinion Express makes an assessment

10 September 2017 Opinion Express By Prakhar Prakash Misra The Washington Post: In the report titled ‘India s it is diplomatically said: “There are no clear winner or loser in withdraws troops from disputed Himalayan region, Aour language”. The Ministry of defusing tension with China’, Simon Denyer and External Affairs on Monday announced “expeditious disengagement of border Annie Gowen write, “India has begun withdrawing personnel” at Doklam, signalling that the months-long standoff at the disput- troops from a disputed Himalayan region on the ed India-China-Bhutan trijunction has border with China, foreign ministries from the two come to an end. In response to queries on Doklam countries announced on Monday”. disengagement, the Ministry of Ex- ternal Affairs said, “India has always maintained that it is only through dip- lomatic channels such matters can be addressed. Our principled position is that agreements and understandings reached on boundary issues must be scrupulously respected”. India’s official statement is in con- trast to the what the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Doklam, insisting that India has withdrawn troops from Doklam while Chinese troops will “re- main in the region” and exercise their “sovereignty over the region”. This difference in the stand on Doklam between India and China is also reflected by the global media which has reported extensively on the border dispute. BBC: The BBC, in its report titled ‘China claims victory over India in Hi- malayan border row’, says that “China says India has withdrawn troops from a disputed Himalayan border area, end- ing a tense stand-off lasting weeks”. The BBC report says that India’s foreign ministry confirmed troops were “disengaging” at Doklam after agree- ment between the two countries. The Washington Post: In the report titled ‘India withdraws troops from dis- puted Himalayan region, defusing ten- sion with China’, Simon Denyer and Annie Gowen write, “India has begun withdrawing troops from a disputed India Agree to Ease Tensions in Border yas, ahead of a major economic summit Himalayan region on the border with Dispute’ quotes the Ministry of Exter- involving both countries”. China, foreign ministries from the two nal Affairs (MEA) statement on both The report quotes China’s official countries announced on Monday”. countries agreeing to disengagement Xinhua news agency as saying that In- “China had repeatedly and furi- of border personnel at Doklam. The re- dia had withdrawn its personnel and ously denounced the Indian move as a port, however, states that the “Chinese equipment “that had crossed the border direct infringement of its sovereignty, Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed back to the Indian side”. demanded an immediate and uncon- the agreement on Monday, though it The CNN report titled ‘India, China ditional withdrawal, and warned that vowed to continue to patrol the disput- agree to ‘expeditious disengagement’ of conflict was a real possibility of that ed area”. Doklam border dispute’ says the stand- didn’t happen,” the The Washington The report by Javier C Hernandez off was “sparked after Bhutan accused Post report says. says that it was not immediately clear if China of constructing a road inside its The report then goes on to state that “Chinese and Indian officials had made territory in ‘direct violation’ of treaty it was “unclear if Beijing offered any progress toward a permanent solution”. obligations. China, which does not have concessions in return, such as agreeing CNN: The CNN report by James formal diplomatic relations with Bhutan, to halt the construction of the road”. Griffiths says both India and China denied the accusation, contending that The New York Times: The New York have “agreed to deescalate a months- Doklam is part of Chinese territory”. Times, in its report titled ‘China and long territorial standoff in the Himala- (The writer is political editor)

Opinion Express September 2017 11 Diplomatic Victory The Summit declaration names Pak-based Lashkar, Jaish as terror concerns

arendra Modi visit to China for BRICS Summit has been a as- Ntounding success from an In- dian prospective. It is surely a victory for Indian diplomacy that have scripted outstanding victory to include terror in the joint declaration of BRICS SUM- MIT 2017. An end to Doka La standoff saved Xi Jinping from an embarrassing face-to-face meeting with Prime Min- ister Narendra Modi. The resolution will have offered relief to the BRICS organisers too, as there was hardly any logic in talking peace and cooperation among the grouping when two of its key constituents are engaged in a military face-off. Both Xi and Modi have set the stage for talks on peace and cooperation BRICS Summit 2017 by agreeing to move past Doka La and work on the larger BRICS agenda on co- operation. But all is still far from well. For India and China, the next point of contention is developing, perhaps not in the form of a military conflict, but something that has all the making of a grand start to a prolonged diplomatic standoff — India’s approach to the Chi- na Pakistan Economic corridor (CPEC) and One Belt, One Road (OBOR) initia- tive. China has bet big on CPEC, which it wants to use as a tool to assert signifi- cant political and economic influence on Pakistani soil and achieve its long-term goal of regional dominance operating from that base. CPEC is also integral to the OBOR initiative anchored by China.

12 September 2017 Opinion Express It wants to grow as a world leader with India’s approach to the China Pakistan Economic its economic power and military might. corridor (CPEC) and One Belt, One Road (OBOR) For both CPEC and OBOR, India’s co- operation will be crucial for China since initiative. China has bet big on CPEC, which it wants no power in Asia can ignore Asia’s third largest economy. to use as a tool to assert significant political and But, China may have a tough time in economic influence on Pakistani soil and achieve taking India into confidence since the CPEC corridor passes through the con- its long-term goal of regional dominance operating tentious part of Kashmir, which is occu- from that base. CPEC is also integral to the OBOR pied by Pakistan and claimed by India. India has the backing of others. For in- initiative anchored by China. stance, Sri Lanka has spoken in favour

Opinion Express September 2017 13 of India on this issue saying it is diffi- cult for India to accept the CPEC since In a recent report, the Economic and Social it passes through the ‘heart of Indian interests’. China would have further Commission for Asia Pacific (ESCAP), the UN’s risked the fate of CPEC and OBOR if it escalated tensions, as India can create regional development arm, had warned that the hurdles in the path of OBOR. It was one CPEC running through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir of the major economic reasons it had to put an end to the Doka La conflict as could create tensions with India and lead to ‘further pointed out earlier. political instability’ in the region. India has so far In a recent report, the Economic and Social Commission for Asia Pacific distanced itself from the OBOR initiative on account (ESCAP), the UN’s regional develop- ment arm, had warned that the CPEC of this reason. running through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir could create tensions with The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor 24 hour video recordings on roads and India and lead to ‘further political in- (CPEC) passing through Pakistan-occu- busy marketplaces for law and order. stability’ in the region. India has so far pied Kashmir (PoK) challenges India’s A national fibre optic backbone will be distanced itself from the OBOR initia- sovereignty,” Rawat had said. China, built for the country not only for internet tive on account of this reason. It did not on the other hand, has maintained that traffic, but also terrestrial distribution send a delegation to attend the OBOR CPEC has no direct links to Kashmir, a of broadcast TV, which will cooperate meet convened by China early this year. claim India has not agreed to. There are with Chinese media in the ‘dissemina- This point of contention is likely to es- good reasons for China to bat for CPEC. tion of Chinese culture’.” All this will calate further. China has invested at least $50 billion eventually make Pakistan nothing short Just recently, army chief General so far in the CPEC, and has also prom- of a Chinese colony and a surveillance Bipin Rawat had said that the CPEC ised further investments. base, which is a threat to India. passing through PoK challenges India’s Besides, it also plans to deeply influ- The 2017 BRICS Summit may not sovereignty. “It is doing so by increasing ence the Pakistan region with its power have much to offer beyond the usual defence and economic partnerships in and culture, establishing “a full system rhetoric and general statements on the neighbourhood, especially in Paki- of monitoring and surveillance ... built promise of member cooperation. Par- stan, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. in cities from Peshawar to Karachi, with ticularly for India and China, although

14 September 2017 Opinion Express the Doka La problem is off for now, ban that have targeted Afghanistan and the damage inflicted by the standoff on The Brics grouping China. bilateral trade and economic relations “We deplore all terrorist attacks will linger on for a while. Even if Modi on Monday bracketed worldwide, including attacks in Brics and Xi move past the Doka La episode countries, and condemn terrorism in and shake hands in front of cameras, Pakistan-based Lashkar- all its forms...,” said the declaration the CPEC issue will loom over the e-Taiba and Jaish-e- released after the plenary session of meet. the 9th Brics summit. “We...express The Brics grouping on Monday Mohammed with global concern on the security situation in bracketed Pakistan-based Lashkar-e- terror groups Islamic the region and violence caused by the Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed with Taliban, ISIL/DAISH, Al-Qaida and its global terror groups Islamic State and State and al-Qaeda, affiliates including Eastern Turkistan al-Qaeda, marking a significant diplo- Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement matic win in India’s efforts to counter marking a significant of Uzbekistan, the Haqqani Network, cross-border terrorism. Prime Minister diplomatic win in India’s Laskar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, Narendra Modi joined Chinese Presi- TTP and Hizb-ut-Tahrir,” it said. dent Xi Jinping, Russian President efforts to counter cross- The document did not specify which Vladimir Putin, Brazilian President Mi- border terrorism. region it was referring to but added: chael Temer and South African Presi- “We reaffirm that those responsible dent Jacob Zuma condemned terror for committing, organizing or support- attacks worldwide and said those “com- ally Pakistan would not be an appropri- ing terrorist acts must be held ac- mitting, organising or supporting” such ate topic for discussion. countable.” Monday’s statement was acts must be held accountable. The 43-page Xiamen declaration, a marked departure from earlier Brics This is the first time anti-India with 17 references to terrorism, made statements - the declaration issued af- groups such as LeT and JeM have been it clear that India had been able to ter last year’s summit in Goa referred to named in a Brics declaration though the convince others in the grouping about terrorism several times but only named five-country grouping has denounced the threat posed by Pakistan-based or- one group, the Islamic State. terror in the past. In the run-up to the ganisations as the document also con- summit in Xiamen, China’s foreign tained references to groups such as the Report filed by Prakhar ministry had even suggested the coun- Haqqani Network, Eastern Turkistan Misra, inputs from ter-terror efforts of its “iron brother” Islamic Movement and Pakistani Tali- mainstream media.

Opinion Express September 2017 15 How Congress & BJP funded & promoted a monster called Gurmeet Ram Rahim 16 September 2017 Opinion Express If Gurmeet Singh turned into a monstrous head of a dera, blame it on the subsequent political dispensations

By Dr Rahul Misra

T is a matter of great concern that in today’s well connected world, large Iscale violence broke out in parts of Haryana and Punjab soon after a CBI court in Panchkula convicted Dera Sa- cha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh of rape. Over 40 people had been killed in Haryana in the violence at the time of writing this story. The BJP gov- ernment in Haryana stands accused of gross administrative failure. On the eve of the verdict, it allowed lakhs of Dera supporters, or Premis as they are called, to gather at Panchkula. Dera supporters also mobilised themselves at Sirsa, the Dera’s bastion. The administrative fail- ure of the Manohar Lal Khattar govern- ment stems from its political compul- sions. The BJP in Haryana enjoys close ties with Dera Sacha Sauda and this seems to have impaired it from crack- ing down on Dera goons on time.

Ram Rahim’s Congress rela- tionship In the past, Congress leader Capt Am- rinder Singh has used the might of Dera Empire to win elections. Akali Dal and SGPC is bitterly opposing Dera religious overtone due to Ram Rahim’s direct chal- lenge to the authority of Sikh panth. In fact, Badal was regularly pushing for Ram Rahim prosecution on several cases but Ram Rahim was always one up to over- come Badal’s challenge. And Capt capital- ized the situation by tacitly seeking Dera support and winning previous 2002 as- sembly elections and in recent concluded Punjab assembly election. In the adjourn- ing state of Haryana, BS Hooda was coor- dinating political management with Ram Rahim Dera cult to secure two successive victories in the two previous elections. However, Baba shifted his loyalty to BJP post 2014 General Election victory result- ing in BJP’s huge electoral gains in 2014 Haryana assembly elections. Surely, Ram Rahim Dera is having large following in Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, Himanchal Pradesh and West UP but it reflects the weakness of the political system that is de- pendent on GOD man for easy vote bank to win elections. Modern day politicians are looking for swift and quick results by engaging money and muscle power and God-Man style of quasi politics suits ’s modern day politicians.

Opinion Express September 2017 17 chief. On the other hand, the 2014 Harya- na election was also the first time when Dera Ram Rahim chief openly voiced his preference for a political party – the BJP. Before this, Ram Rahim’s diktat to vote for one party or the other was com- municated through more secretive ways to his followers, mostly through the po- litical wing of the Dera. According to a report, the deal with Ram Rahim was sealed by none other than BJP president Amit Shah. The re- port said that Shah met Ram Rahim in the first week of October and “sought his blessings” for the Assembly elec- tions in Haryana and Maharashtra. The report said that six days after the meet- ing with Shah, BJP general Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya took 44 BJP can- didates for the Haryana polls to meet the Dera chief. Apparently, Ram Rahim showered his blessings on the BJP can- didates during the meeting. The Modi Ram Rahim’s BJP links government also used Ram Rahim to Nothing embodies this failure more The other major backer push its Swachh Bharat initiative. BJP than Haryana education minister Ram of Ram Rahim in the insiders say that Ram Rahim is a valu- Bilas Sharma’s comment that the Sec- able political ally for the party, as he tion 144 imposed in Panchkula “did not Haryana BJP is health commands the loyalty of over 1 crore apply to Dera supporters”. He even went minister Anil Vij. Vij followers across the country, particu- to the extent of defending the people larly in Haryana and Punjab. who had gathered at Panchkula. He re- donated Rs 50 lakh from “Dera commands a large voter base portedly described the Dera supporters of over a crore, with a large percentage as “simple, peace-loving people” who Haryana government of Dalits. They vote en bloc. BJP leaders wouldn’t “harm even a plant”. Sharma’s funds to the Dera’s have been in regular touch with Ram links with the Dera are well known. He Rahim and expected him to play a ma- is reported to have recently donated Rs sports project. Another jor role in bringing votes the party’s way 51 lakh to the Dera as a mark of his sup- minister, Manish Grover, in Haryana and Punjab in the 2019 Lok port for the cult. Sabha elections,” a senior BJP leader But it isn’t just Sharma. A number of who holds the portfolios told Catch on the condition of anonym- leaders in the Haryana BJP have deep of printing, stationery ity. The leader admitted that the Khat- ties with the Dera and this close rela- tar government had no choice but to tionship has the blessings of the party’s and urban local bodies, go soft on the Dera supporters and let top leadership. The other major backer them have their way. “Dera followers of Ram Rahim in the Haryana BJP is also donated Rs 11 lakh are not small in number, in fact they are health minister Anil Vij. Vij donated to the Dera from his huge. We have to move very, very cau- Rs 50 lakh from Haryana government tiously. Patience is the need of the hour. funds to the Dera’s sports project. An- discretionary fund A wrong move and things can go out of other minister, Manish Grover, who control. We have already seen that in holds the portfolios of printing, statio- Minister Narendra Modi as well as BJP the 2016 Jat agitation,” the leader said. nery and urban local bodies, also do- president Amit Shah – were active par- nated Rs 11 lakh to the Dera from his ticipants in this cosy relationship of the Dera and the rss gameplan discretionary fund. The support for the party with Dera. During the campaign For the BJP, the Dera’s significance Dera extended even to the Central gov- for the Haryana Assembly elections in isn’t just related to elections. It is said to ernment, with Union minister for sports 2014, PM Modi reportedly showered occupy a key place in the broader game- Vijay Goel also promising to support praise on the rape-accused godman plan of the BJP’s parent organisation the Dera with Central funds. Between while addressing a rally in Sirsa. Appar- – the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. the three BJP leaders – Sharma, Vij and ently, this was the first time that a ma- “Sangh’s aims are not always associ- Grover – the Dera was given over Rs 1 jor political leader had openly invoked ated with the BJP. The BJP is focused crore. This is despite the fact that even the Dera during an election campaign. on elections, Sangh works for society. at the time of the donations, Ram Ra- The Congress and Akali Dal leaders, Sangh has been cultivating various De- him faced charges of rape and murder. who often sought support of the Dera in ras – Radha Soami Satsang, Dera Sa- What is even more sinister is that the past, made it a point not to publi- cha Sauda etc – for some years now,” the BJP’s Central leadership – Prime cally name the Dera or its controversial a Sangh functionary based in Amritsar

18 September 2017 Opinion Express had told Catch during the Punjab elec- ma Mal aka Balochistani Shah Mastana, ised in 2014. It is imperative that Prime tions earlier this year. “The Deras work was a disciple of Baba Sawan Singh of Minister must take the situation under with the Dalit community, particularly the Radhasoami lineage. It is clear that his direct control because he is a symbol Dalit Sikhs, who are ill-treated by Pan- in Punjab’s socio-political landscape, of maximum governance and people of thic Sikhs. The Deras help in bringing RSS and the Deras are on the same side. the country trust him. The compromis- them back into the Hindu fold,” the Even Panthic outfits, mainstream as es in governance even at state level will functionary added. well as radical ones, realise that such hurt brand Modi simply because people The functionary was extremely cat- an alliance has taken place. According of Haryana had voted for BJP keep- egorical in saying that the interests of to Punjab police, the same radical group ing in view Modi’s credibility and face. the Sangh were at odds with Panthic is said to have been behind the killings Lastly, people of the country must own politics. “They (Panthic Sikhs) empha- of RSS leader Jagdish Gagneja last responsibility of following quality reli- sise on the minority nature of Sikhs. We year and Dera Sacha Sauda supporters gious leadership. India is a land of Jag- don’t see them in that way. Often even earlier this year. The violence by Dera atguru Adi Shankara, Guru Nanak Dev, mainstream Sikh leaders take radical supporters is likely to increase social Ramakrishna, Vivekanand, Praram- positions or appease radical elements. tensions in Haryana and Punjab. The hansa Yoganand and many more. We The Deras can help us counter this,” he BJP’s political and financial support to should be careful in selection of Guru added. Apparently to pursue this agen- Dera Sacha Sauda is singularly to blame and Saints, there should be strictly no da, RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhag- for the present mess, the mere percep- God Man policy to be adopted by people wat spent some time at Mansa in South tion that Ram Rahim was larger than to discourage fraudulent conman tak- Punjab in 2014. During his visit, he re- law has fuled the violence, The motor ing over the physiological control of in- portedly met the head of the Radhasoa- cade of 200 cars, over 1 lakh support- nocent people. mi sect Baba Gurinder Singh Dhillon. ers around court, hapless administra- The Dera Sacha Sauda has its roots in tion present an extremely sorry picture (The writer is Associate the Radha Soami sect. Its founder Khe- of the governance that Modi has prom- Editor, The Opinion Express)

Opinion Express September 2017 19 Promoting India in America Photo: Deval Parikh By Ruchi Vaishnav

t a high-profile reception for In- dia’s newly-arrived diplomats, ADr. Sudhir Parikh, publisher and philanthropist, launched a think-tank that would advocate for India’s devel- opment policies. Dr. Sudhir Parikh, publisher of Desi Talk and recipient of India’s Padma Shri award, held a reception in Watc- hung, New Jersey Aug. 25, to welcome the new Consul General of India in New York Sandeep Chakravorty and Deputy Chief Mission in the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C., Ambassador Santosh Jha. On the occasion, he also announced the launch of a think tank, Parikh Foun- dation for India’s Global Development, that will advocate for India’s policies Assemblyman Jamel Holley, Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty, Deputy Chief Mission San- and initiatives as an emerging global tosh Jha, Assemblyman Jon Bramnick, Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Speaker of the New Jersey Assembly player. He urged policymakers, elected Sheila Oliver, Assemblywoman Nancy Pinkin. officials and Indian-Americans to step- up efforts on this front, and to educate Hill in 1990, the formation of the Wash- with this initiative so India can be un- American counterparts and the public. ington Leadership Council and then the derstood better by all. Among the invited guests were passage of the India-U.S. nuclear deal, Sheila Oliver, former Speaker of members of the New Jersey state Sen- it’s all gone a long way to ensure that the the New Jersey Assembly, who is in the ate and Assembly, Indian diplomats, U.S. and India see eye to eye on the issues running for the next Lieutenant Gov- as well as Indian-American politicos, that matter the most,” he continued. ernor of New Jersey with Democratic entrepreneurs and specialists in differ- Dr. Parikh said Indian-Americans gubernatorial candidate Phil Murphy, ent fields of endeavor.“Welcome to my cannot sit on their laurels and must said she was astonished by the work home, it’s a very good feeling to have do more to enable the rest of America of Indian-Americans adding that she all of you today to meet and greet our to understand India better. The ques- has been a fan of Deepak Chopra ever ambassadors (from India) … and also tion also arises as to what else can the since she was a teenager. For many our elected officers of the New Jersey Indian diaspora do here to put a spot- years on my night table I had a book government,” said Dr. Parikh. “As you light on India and its initiatives,” he that a friend gave me and it was called all know the bilateral relations between said. Over the years many Indian and ‘The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success’ the United States and India are very vi- Indian American organizations have and as I watched this video I thought; brant and strong, business between the done their bit to push the image of In- that is why the Indian community is countries is booming. It is a key aspect dia in America, and many Americans successful, it is why it is philanthropic of the growing friendship acknowledged today recognize the contributions of the and it is why it has a global view of the by both Prime Minister Modi and Presi- Indian Americans, Parikh noted. “But world,” Oliver said. “I believe that one dent Trump. Today, I am confident that more needs to be done on their percep- of the strongest characteristics of Indi- despite of change of elections in the fu- tions of the Indian government’s initia- an-Americans and of people in India is ture, may it be in New Delhi or Wash- tives, and its efforts to expand bilateral their connection to spirituality and ac- ington, close ties between India and the ties,” Parikh noted. “Perhaps, the first cepting the fact that there is something U.S. will be a defining relationship in thing would be to start a dialogue, to greater than themselves,” she said. the 21st century,” he added. ensure the initiatives of the Indian gov- Assemblyman Jon Bramnick Despite India being a “natural and ernment, its efforts to expand bilateral thanked Dr. Parikh for the services dependable ally,” Dr. Parikh said, “It ties, is put in perspective,” he said. “The that he has provided for the State and has not been easy to reach where we are only way perhaps to achieve this would the community. At the event, Bramnick today. We have worked hard towards be with firm commitment on a regular presented a Joint Legislative Resolu- this goal,” he said thanking all the elect- basis; To have top experts – policymak- tion welcoming and honoring Consul ed officials in the room without whom it ers, politicians, intellectuals, to partici- General Chakravorty. and Deputy Chief would have been impossible to achieve pate in this endeavor,” he stressed. “So, of Mission Jha, praising their contribu- such a goal, he said. I am announcing today my keen inter- tions to the U.S.-India bilateral relation- “I have personally been striving to est in launching a think tank focused on ship and global diplomacy, and lauding achieve closer bilateral ties for the last the issues, challenges and opportunities the Indian-American community’s con- four decades; from the time we managed of the Indian polity,” he said, urging the tributions to the diversity of the state. to help launch India Caucus on Capitol Indian diaspora to contribute in helping Courtesy Desi Talk Headlines

20 September 2017 Opinion Express the Issue of Insolvency The first part of the debate of the topic : “Are proceedings under insolvency and bankruptcy code, 2016 governed by the provisions of limitation act, 1963”

By Dr UK Chaudhary

ecently, in the case of Neel- kanth Township and Con- struction Pvt. Ltd. Vs. Urban Infrastructure Trustees Lim- ited,R it has been held by Hon’ble Na- tional Company Law Tribunal (NCLAT) that Limitation Act, 1963 is not appli- cable to the proceedings under Insol- vency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016. In the words of Hon’ble NCLAT, “The next ground taken on behalf of the appellant is that claim of the respondent is barred by limitation, as the debenture were matured between the year 2011-2103, is not based on Law. There is nothing on the record that Limitation Act, 2013 is applicable to I & B Code. Learned Counsel for the appellant also failed to lay hand on any provisions of I & B Code to suggest that the Law of Limi- tation Act, 1963 is applicable. The I & B Code, 2016 is not an Act for recovery of money claim, it relates to initiation of Corporate Insolvency Resolution Pro- cess. If there is a debt which includes interest and there is default of debt and having continuous course of ac- tion, the argument that claim of money by Respondent is barred by Limitation cannot be accepted.” This judgement passed by Hon’ble NCLAT has raised an interesting question of law for extensive debate and discussion. The question is whether Law of Limitation Act, 1963 is applicable to the proceedings under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, particularly in view of the order dated 23.08.2017, passed by the Hon’ble Su- preme Court in civil Appeal No. 10711 of 2017, titled as ‘Neelkanth Township and Construction Pvt. Ltd. vs. Urban Infrastructure Ltd, as under:

Opinion Express September 2017 21 “Heard the learned Senior Counsel appearing for the parties. We do not find any reason to interfere with the or- der dated 11.8.2017 passed by National Company Law Appellate Tribunal, New Delhi. In view of this, we find no merit in the Appeal. Accordingly, the appeal is dismissed, keeping the question of law viz ‘whether Limitation Act would apply to this proceeding’ open.” This Article is an attempt to analyse the judgements passed by the Hon’ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and Hon’ble National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) and judgements of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and reach some conclusion in this regard. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (“IBC” or “The Code”) has

However, like another enactments, the Code has also given rise to many issues which need to be finally settled by the Hon’ble Supreme Court at the earliest. One of such issue which is dealt with herein is ‘whether the proceedings under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 are governed by the provisions of Limitation Act, 1963’? been enacted by the Parliament in or- der to consolidate and amend the laws relating to insolvency and bankruptcy of corporates and individuals. IBC has re- pealed the Presidency-Town Insolvency Act, 1909 and Provincial Insolvency Act, ment dues, and for matters connected tion 4 of IBC, matters relating to the 1920 and amended several enactments therewith or incidental thereto. insolvency and liquidation of corpo- including Companies Act, 2013. The However, like another enactments, rate debtors shall be covered under Code aims to reorganisation and insol- the Code has also given rise to many is- IBC where the minimum amount of the vency resolution of corporate persons, sues which need to be finally settled by default of debt occurred by corporate partnership firms and individuals in a the Hon’ble Supreme Court at the ear- debtor is rupees one lakh. However, the time bound manner for maximisation liest. One of such issue which is dealt central government may, by notifica- of value of assets of such persons, to with herein is ‘whether the proceedings tion, specify the minimum amount of promote entrepreneurship, availability under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, default of higher value which shall not of credit and balance the interests of all 2016 are governed by the provisions of be more than rupees one crores. Fur- the stakeholders including alteration in Limitation Act, 1963’? ther pursuant to the provisions of sec- order of priority of payment of Govern- Pursuant to the provisions of sec- tion 6 of the IBC, where any corporate

22 September 2017 Opinion Express debtor commits a default, a financial creditor, an operational creditor or the Pursuant to the provisions of section 7, 8, 9 and corporate debtor itself may initiate cor- porate insolvency resolution process in 10 of the Code, an application for initiation of respect of such corporate debtor in the manner as provided under the IBC. corporate insolvency resolution process can be Pursuant to the provisions of section filed by the financial creditor, operational creditor 7, 8, 9 and 10 of the Code, an applica- tion for initiation of corporate insolven- and corporate debtor, as the case may be, before cy resolution process can be filed by the the Adjudicating Authority in case of default in financial creditor, operational creditor and corporate debtor, as the case may payment of debt. Opinion Express September 2017 23 and Appellate Tribunal (1) The Tribunal and the Appellate Tribunal shall not, while disposing of any proceeding before it or, as the case may be, an appeal before it, be bound by the procedure laid down in the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, but shall be guided by the principles of natural jus- tice, and, subject to the other provi- sions of this Act or of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016 and of any rules made thereunder, the Tribunal and the Appellate Tribunal shall have power to regulate their own procedure. (2) The Tribunal and the Appellate Tribunal shall have, for the purposes of discharging their functions under this Act or under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016, the same pow- ers as are vested in a civil court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 while trying a suit in respect of the following matters, namely: - (a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examin- The provisions of section 7, 8, 9 and 10 of the IBC ing him on oath; (b) requiring the discovery and pro- read with Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Application duction of documents; (c) receiving evidence on affidavits; to Adjudicating Authority) Rules, 2016, provide (d) subject to the provisions of sec- the process for filing of application for initiation of tions 123 and 124 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, requisitioning any public re- corporate insolvency resolution process and matter cord or document or a copy of such re- incidental and necessary thereto. cord or document from any office; (e) issuing commissions for the examina- tion of witnesses or documents; be, before the Adjudicating Authority in other law for the time being in force. (f) dismissing a representation for case of default in payment of debt. Pur- However, such power is, again, subject default or deciding it ex parte; suant to section 5(1) of IBC, adjudicating to the other provisions of the IBC and (g) setting aside any order of dis- authority for the purpose of insolvency the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules missal of any representation for default resolution and liquidation for corporate made thereunder. or any order passed by it exparte; and persons means National Company Law It is evident from the definition of (h) any other matter which may be Tribunal (NCLT) constituted under sec- ‘adjudicating authority’ NCLT is the prescribed. tion 408 of the Companies Act, 2013. creation of Companies Act, 2013 as the (3) Any order made by the Tribu- The provisions of section 7, 8, 9 and same is constituted under Chapter XX- nal or the Appellate Tribunal may be 10 of the IBC read with Insolvency and VII, section 408 of the Companies Act, enforced by that Tribunal in the same Bankruptcy (Application to Adjudicat- 2013. Accordingly, NCLT is bound by manner as if it were a decree made by ing Authority) Rules, 2016, provide the the provisions of Chapter XXVII, sec- a court in a suit pending therein, and it process for filing of application for ini- tion 408 to 434 of the Companies Act, shall be lawful for the Tribunal or the tiation of corporate insolvency resolu- 2013, to the extent the same are not in Appellate Tribunal to send for execu- tion process and matter incidental and contradiction of the provisions of IBC. tion of its orders to the court within the necessary thereto. However, the IBC is Even section 424 of the Companies Act, local limits of whose jurisdiction, - silent on applicability of Limitation Act, 2013, as amended by the provisions of (a) in the case of an order against 1963 on the proceeding under IBC be- Eleventh Schedule read with section a company, the registered office of the fore the NCLT and various such other 255 of IBC, provides that the Hon’ble company is situate; or issues. Section 60(5)(c) of IBC confers NCLT and NCLAT shall have, for the (b) in the case of an order against power upon NCLT to entertain or dis- purpose of discharging its function un- any other person, the person concerned pose of any question of priorities or any der the Companies Act, 2013 or under voluntarily resides or carries on busi- question of law or facts, arising out of the provisions of IBC, the same powers ness or personally works for gain. or in relation to the insolvency resolu- as are vested in a civil court while try- (4) All proceedings before the Tri- tion or liquidation proceedings of the ing a suit in respect of certain matter. bunal or the Appellate Tribunal shall be corporate debtor or corporate person The text of amended section 424 of the deemed to be judicial proceedings with- under the code notwithstanding any- Companies Act, 2013 is as follows: in the meaning of sections 193 and 228, thing to the contrary contained in any “424. Procedure before Tribunal and for the purposes of section 196 of

24 September 2017 Opinion Express the Indian Penal Code, and the Tribu- nal and the Appellate Tribunal shall be Accordingly, NCLT is bound by the provisions deemed to be civil court for the purpos- es of section 195 and Chapter XXVI of of Chapter XXVII, section 408 to 434 of the the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.” From the above provisions it is clear Companies Act, 2013, to the extent the same are that the Hon’ble NCLT and NCLAT, not in contradiction of the provisions of IBC. while dealing with any proceeding un- der Companies Act, 2013 or the IBC, is Even section 424 of the Companies Act, 2013, as bound by the other provisions of IBC amended by the provisions of Eleventh Schedule and even of the Companies Act, 2013 and the Rules framed thereunder as read with section 255 of IBC, provides that the accepted by the Hon’ble NCLAT in the Hon’ble NCLT and NCLAT shall have, for the case of ‘Innoventive Industries Ltd. vs. ICICI Bank and Anr and held that “As purpose of discharging its function under the amended Section 424 of the Companies Act, 2013 is applicable to the proceed- Companies Act, 2013 or under the provisions of ing under the I & B Code, 2016, it is IBC, the same powers as are vested in a civil court mandatory for the adjudicating author- ity to follow the Principles of rules of while trying a suit in respect of certain matter. natural justice while passing an order under I&B Code, 2016. Further, as Sec- tion 424 mandates the ‘Tribunal’ and ‘Appellate Tribunal’, to dispose of cases or/appeal before it subject to other pro- visions of the Companies Act, 2013 or I & B Code 2016 such as, Section 420 of the Companies Act 2013 was applicable and to be followed by the Adjudicating Authority.” The above order/judgement of the Hon’ble NCLAT is affirmed by Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Civil Appeal Nos. 8337-8338, titled as M/s Innoven- tive Industries Ltd. vs. ICICI Bank and Anr. In view of the above facts and cir- cumstances, though the IBC is silent on the aspects of limitation, section 433 of the Companies Act, 2013 provides that the provisions of the Limitation Act, 1963 shall, as far as may be, apply to the proceedings or appeals before the NCLT or the NCLAT, as the case may be. The above fact has correctly been noticed by the Hon’ble NCLT, Principal Bench, in the matter of Deem Roll-Tech Lim- limitation period under the Limitation measured. The Court may consider the ited vs. R.L. Steel & Energy Ltd. While Act, 1963 which demonstrate beyond delay unreasonable even if it is less than dealing with the question of limitation, doubt that parliament never intended the period of limitation prescribed for it has been held by Hon’ble NCLT that to exclude the provisions of IBC or pro- a civil action for the remedy but where in the absence of any specific bar in the ceedings therein from the applicability the delay is more than this period, it will IBC to the application of Limitation of the said Act in certain circumstances almost always be proper for the court to Act, 1963 coupled with the provisions of and facts of a given case. hold that it is unreasonable. section 433 of the Act as contained in Further in the case of State of M.P. v. the Companies Act, 2013 which makes Bhailal Bhai & Ors., the Hon’ble Supreme The relevant para of the Limitation Act applicable to the NCLT, Court of India has noted that though the aforesaid judgement is as the debt as claimed by the petitioner is provisions of Limitation Act, 1963 do follows barred by limitation and hence cannot not apply to granting of relief under Ar- “The learned Judges appear to have be the basis of for invoking IBC before ticle 226, the maximum period fixed by failed to notice that the delay in these the NCLT. In this regard, provisions of legislature as the time within which the petitions was more than the delay in the section 60(6) of IBC may also be not- relief by a suit in a civil court must be petition made in Bhailal Bhai’s case out ed, where reference is made to Limita- brought in may ordinarily be taken to be of which Civil Appeal No. 362 of 1962 tion Act for the purpose of exclusion of reasonable standard by which delay in has arisen. On behalf of the respon- moratorium period for calculating the seeking remedy under Article 226 can be dents petitioners in these appeals (C.A.

Opinion Express September 2017 25 Nos. 861 to 867 of 1962) Mr. Andley has argued that the delay in these cases even is not such as would justify refusal The Court may consider the delay unreasonable of the order for refund. He argued that even if it is less than the period of limitation assuming that the remedy of recovery by action in a civil court stood barred prescribed for a civil action for the remedy but on the date these applications were where the delay is more than this period, it will made that would be no reason to refuse relief under Art. 226 of the Constitution. almost always be proper for the court to hold that it Learned counsel is right in his submis- sion that the provisions of the Limita- is unreasonable. The period of limitation prescribed tion Act do not as such apply to the for recovery of money paid by mistake under the granting of relief under Art. 226. It ap- pears to us however that the maximum Limitation Act is three years from the date when the period fixed by the legislature as the mistake is known. time within which the relief by a suit in a civil court must be brought 134--159 S.C. 18 may ordinarily be taken to be a shortly after January 17, 1956 the delay more appropriate to take a view that pro- reasonable standard by which delay in in making these applications should visions of Limitation Act, 1963 shall apply seeking remedy under Art. 226 can be be considered unreasonable. If, on the to the proceeding under IBC by virtue of measured. The Court may consider the other hand, as Mr. Andley seems to ar- section 433 of the Companies Act, 2013, delay unreasonable even if it is less than gue, the mistake was discovered much since NCLT and NCLAT are the creation the period of limitation prescribed for a later, this would be a controversial fact of the Companies Act, 2013 and hence civil action for the remedy but where which cannot conveniently be decided will be governed by the relevant provi- the delay is more than this period, it will in writ proceedings. In either view of sions of the Companies Act, 2013, to the almost always be proper for the court to the matter we are of opinion the orders extent the same are not in inconsistence hold that it is unreasonable. The period for refund made by the High Court in (section 238) with the provisions of IBC, of limitation prescribed for recovery these seven cases cannot be sustained.” particularly since the IBC is not silent on of money paid by mistake under the In view of the above discussion and the aspects of limitation. Limitation Act is three years from the analysis, the judgements passed by the (The writer is senior advocate date when the mistake is known. If the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India and the & President, NCLT Bar Associa- mistake was known in these cases on or Hon’ble NCLT, Principal Bench, it will be tion New Delhi)

26 September 2017 Opinion Express India - No country for women? Sadly, Yes! By Deana Uppal

he Chandigarh Molestations and incidents of groping have too stalking incident vi- risen meteorically. 1,387 women were interviewed Tciously repeats the same grim tale of women across the capital and about 40% of the surveyed security in the cosmo- confessed to have been sexually harassed in a public politans of our country. It shows us that we have place, with most crimes occurring during daytime. learnt nothing from our disastrous past and we are yet to challenge the concept of 277% from 572 in 2011 to 2,155 in One that arises from the cultural per- of toxic masculinity that flourishes un- 2016, as per the data released recently spective, in which the feminine is overtly der muscle, money and political pow- by the Delhi Police. glorified as ‘Mother’, ‘Goddess’, ‘Shakti’ er. Four and a half years have passed Molestations and incidents of grop- etc. This side advocates an absurd solu- since the gruesome rape and murder ing have too risen meteorically. 1,387 tion- one which scuttles the freedom of of young Nirbhaya, a barbaric incident women were interviewed across the cap- women, preaching medieval methods that shook the foundations of this coun- ital and about 40% of the surveyed con- of restrictions on her conduct, behav- try. A wave of protests spread across the fessed to have been sexually harassed in ior, life style even on what she wears, or nation, catapulting the civil society into a public place, with most crimes occur- who she chooses to accompany. This ap- action from its slumber. But has the ring during daytime. Further 33% had proach has been pivotal in causing life- scene of women security really changed quit venturing out at night, while 17% long social trauma to victims, further in India? The answer is in a grim nega- had gone to the extent of quitting their victimization of the already oppressed tive, in fact it has abjectly worsened. jobs, rather than face harassment in the and marginalized, and stigmatization of The number of rapes reported each year public. gender discourses. in Delhi has catastrophically increased When it comes to women security, On the contrary, there is another so post the protests, and the Justice Verma the country tries to follow a lacuna filled called modern perspective which apes reforms, registering a diabolic increase linear approach, divided into two sides. the west for most of its curative solu-

Opinion Express September 2017 27 tions. They advocate similar lifestyle for sible for breeding and brewing such di- tion of women and men, girls and boys. the fair sex as in western nations, com- abolic demons. A migration from man We need to assert in the young minds pletely turning a blind eye to the predic- centered society to an equitable envi- that Love will never exist in a relation- aments encountered there. These same ronment where empowerment sensiti- ship that is based on domination and people though also advocate a point of zation and awareness go hand in hand. coercion. Men cannot love themselves view that differs completely from the A patriarchal society can never be a in patriarchal culture if their very self- west- amongst them are those who gender just society. definition relies on submission to pa- campaign for stringent laws, harsher We need to teach the young men of triarchal rules. And only when they punishments and state of the art secu- our nation that, patriarchy has no gen- embrace true feminist thinking and rity and surveillance in the Indian cos- der- It has in fact oppressed as many practice, which emphasizes the value mopolitans. In fact the punishments men as women. The power of patriarchy of mutual growth and self-actualization for rape, molestations and other crime has been to make maleness feared and in all relationships, will their own emo- against women lack teeth in the West. to make men feel that it is better to be tional well-being be enhanced. For example, in UK a rapist can be let feared that to be loved. Emotional ne- Secondly instead of merely con- out in 2.5 years from the correctional glect lays the groundwork for the emo- centrating on barbaric and exemplary facility with good behavior. tional numbing that helps boys feel bet- punishments- which too undoubtedly What this side completely ignores is ter about being cut off. Eruptions of rage act as a deterrent by putting fear in the that when it comes to women security, in boys are most often deemed normal, oppressors’ mind- we should also focus the west has failed miserably too. As per sometimes even glorified, and it this on reforming our police and adminis- a report of YouGov.uk- A third of Brit- this rage that is then manifested as not tration, who currently mired by their ish women have been groped, and the only in acts of violence against women, social stigmas increase the trauma of situation is worse in other European but in violence of all kinds. This cultural the victims. The police system espe- nations too. ‘End of Violence Against patriarchy has to be condemned and cially, needs an overhauling with mass Women Coalition’ took out a survey in crusaded against at all levels within our gender sensitization drives. Due to the 2016 which showed that 64% of women society, with intense focus on our family insensitivity in the police system, sev- of all ages have experienced sexual ha- and educational systems. eral cases of gender violence aren’t even rassment in the public, which increased Also, the ‘imperialist white su- reported, which further emboldens the to a threatening 85% when the age premacist’ patriarchal culture needs to perpetrators. And that is where we must group was between 18-25. In2016 there be critiqued too along with the cultural take cue from a city like Mumbai, which were 2 million female victims of domes- patriarchy embedded in our society, be- has become a beacon of modernisation tic violence, while shockingly 2 women cause it is normalized by mass media and women security due to its attitude. every week were being murdered by ex- and rendered unproblematic. The only It is a city which is used to see women partners or relatives. way forward is adopting the ethos and on streets, and in public transports for The solution here cannot be only values of ‘spiritual-feminism’ which is a a long time and that is what causes this legal, but cultural- in a systematic and wise and loving way of life. It is rooted attitudinal shift. Exposure and not ex- relentless crusade against patriarchy, in the love of male and female being, pulsion of women in the public spaces insecurity, commoditization and domi- refusing to privilege one over the other. is the answer. nation. What we need is a paradigm The soul of feminist politics is the com- (Writer is Indo- British Model shift in our patriarchal mindset respon- mitment to ending patriarchal domina- & Entrepreneur)

28 September 2017 Opinion Express Living happy and joyous life Learning from the lives of Swami Vivekanand and Swami Paramahansa Yogananda

By Prashant Tewari

oth Swami Vivekanand and Paramanhansa Yogananda Bwere great masters of human- ity. No ordinary man, surely is worthy of this spiritual title. But now and then, there appears on earth one of the noble lineages of God-realized souls to carry out the plans of Divinity and establish righteousness on earth.

Why Saints? Saints and sages occupy a central place in the Indian spiritual tradi- tion. The saints and sages are an integral part of what is called Hindu Spiritual opinion or Sanatan Dharma. Their elevated souls exemplify beliefs and their lives in totality. These elevated souls exemplify the essence of the spiri- tual treasure trove that is continued in the vast and varied spiritual lit- erature in Sanskrit and in the other languages.. From among the exalted and emancipated souls, first Swami Vivekanand and then Paramhansa Yogananda appeared on the Indian scene to bring solace to the people in the Indian continent and the world at large. Both these masters worked un- tiringly throughout the period they lived on earth and helped to awaken people from their long slumber of centuries. Their contribution to the cause of uplifting human conscious- ness is no less than those of great in- carnation of God who took birth on earth only under divine command.

Opinion Express September 2017 29 How to live? It is not our fate that decides where your life is going. It is all about how you take life and where you take it to. All Swami Vivekanand of us are born in this world like beauti- teachings mainly ful clay models ready to learn all talk- ing, walking, eating, drinking and so centered on the many other lessons and habits. We go back from the earth saying good bye to following ideals: life as hardened solid figure. During the course of life, through experiences Preach unto mankind their gained by growth in the years, we start divinity and how to make it seeing the world according to our own perceptions. We create meaning, we manifest in every moment of life create friends and enemies. We create our own truth – right or wrong. Education is the manifestation The nature of life is to grow towards of perfection already inmman. an ever perfect and joyous expression of itself. Each living cell has a nervous Education through which system, no matter how rudimentary. character is formed, strength of The more develop the nervous system, mind is increased, the intellect is the more it will express the qualities of the pure consciousness – intelligence, expanded and by which one can creativity and bliss. Life, its substance stand on own feet and purpose, is an enigma, difficult yet not unknowable. Whatever you think you will be Presently, the humanity is passing through a very critical phase of transi-  tion from old values to new values get- We want strength and more ting developed through moving forward strength in life. With weakness in the field of information technology. comes ignorance and with Being in its initial stages of develop- ment, the information technology is ignorance comes misery however, having its adverse effects on the young minds. The family way of life, Purity, patience and peace and understanding are getting af- perseverance are the three fected. Technology is being misused by anti social elements bearing far reach- essentials to success ing effect on how we live today. , Religion is realization not talk Way of Life? nor doctrine nor theories Hinduism is not a religion common- ly understood terms comprising set of  dogmas and belief but it is proven way Religion is manifestation of of life which has helped mankind from divinity already in man. millennium to know its true nature that of the infinite which is its source. Hin- They alone live who live for duism is the most tolerant religion in the world because its one transcendent others. God includes all possible goals The gist of all worship is – to Why Guru’s guidance? be pure and do good to others Swami Vivekanand had handsome face, magnetic presence and wonder- It is love and love alone that I ful oratory. Never before did an oriental make such an impression on the global preach. I base my teachings on society. According to him, nothing else the great Vedantic truth of the is necessary except love, sincerity and sameness and omnipresence of patience. Life is only growth i.e. expan- sion, love. All love is life, it is the only the soul of the Universe. law of life: all selfishness is death and this is true here or hereafter. For more than 100 years the work has continued and Ramakrishna Mission is now a well

30 September 2017 Opinion Express Opinion Express September 2017 31 32 September 2017 Opinion Express established institution helping every- one to work for One’s own liberalization Paramahansa and for welfare of the world. The mis- sion has rendered yeoman service in all Yogananda teachings fields for upliftment of masses fulfill- ing the dream of great Master-Mystic, mainly centered on Prophet, Disciple, Lover of humanity, Patriot, friend, beloved Swami Viveka- the following ideals: nand.

Life here on earth appears futile Swami Paramahansa Yo- and chaotic until we are anchored in gananda – Paramahansa Yogananda used to the Divine. Do not concentrate upon explain: Knowing God is not only a ephemeral worldly goals and human privilege and a divine duty but a practi- cal necessity. The guru is the awakened attachments. God awakening the sleeping God in Make your inner self a temple of the disciple. He gives us all we need to rouse the divine image within: methods God; Make it a temple of the mystic that take us beyond the restless mind life of the universe. Then you are king to touch the infinite consciousness that sustains us: timeless truths for spiritual of everything and not attached to living amongst the ever shifting values anything. of this world. Swami said – Education must provide life building, man mak- A man of realization sees God in ing, and character making assimilation all. of ideas. Meditation is strictly prescribed by Yoga is the scientific process by Yogananda ji to delay cell decay, regu- late blood circulation and improvement which every and reunites with Spirits. of heart function. The lungs gets extra oxygen, senses get subdued. Perfect Yoga/Meditation is the highest state of meditation being human’s true form of activity that man can nature, sooner or later; humanity has to perform, and it is the most balanced learn this lesson to remain on the path to progress. The path of a human life way to find God. can be identified by - 1 Man’s Eternal Quest Make religion real by scientific 2 Divine Romance methods. When you do you will see 3 Journey of Self Realisation that religion is no longer a myth but a Why Meditation? scientific certainty. The joy felt in meditation reveals the presence of Eternal joy spread over No matter what religion you follow, all creations. The light seen in medita- ask yourself? Am I happy? What is tion is the astral light from which our tangible creation is made. – Para- my highest duty? How can I find mahansa Yogananda Sprituaity for a peace and bliss>? common man may best be termed as science of the soul. It is reaching be- Plain living and high thinking yond all sciences. The soul keeps as alive and guides our live on earth and should be your goal. Your ever is a part/reflection of the infinite con- readiness to help others without sciousness pulsating through whole distinction of sex, creed or caste creation, commonly understood as God. Knowledge of this science can will make your heart big enough help us lead happy, contented, joy- tom receive all humility. Break the ful and purposeful lives on earth. The greatest help to a spiritual life is medi- boundaries of selfishness and include tation ( Dhyana ) – Meditation is a in- in it all living beings and universes – strument of spirituality. everything. (Writer is Editor-in-Chief on The Opinion Express)

Opinion Express September 2017 33 How much water should you drink in a day? Water is the most important ingredient of our daily intake. But, there are varied views about how much should one consume. Here goes a ready reckoner

By Dr Shiv Kumar make up for this.” Green tea has also been shown to speed up metabolism and aid weight loss. In theory, fruit juice and he most basic necessity of life is clean water yet there fizzy drinks do count towards your water intake, but some of is a lot of ignorance regarding the basic information them have lots of sugar and calories, which can reduce the about water. It’s something we all know we should health benefits of their extra fluid. do, but often fall short of - drinking water. Experts recommendT two litres of water a day, but do we actually know What the scientists have to say what that means? And do we ever really achieve it? There are  What water does for us - First up, why is everyone so ob- a lot of rumours and myths around how much water we need sessed by water. It allows you to digest your food; it lubri- to consume in a day, so we’ve taken a look once and for all at cates everything from your joints to your eyes to your mouth what we really need to be doing. (1.2 litres) or six glasses a day to more intimate parts. Sweating helps the body regulate its is the minimum quantity that a normal human being must temperature. At a cellular level, pretty much every part of the consume but remember you get some of this from food. body is essentially suspended in water – it’s also the key to the body’s moving things around. It provides the medium for Do tea, coffee, juice count? the body to get rid of toxins and things it doesn’t need. In Normal tea and coffee - Yes they do! Despite their caffeine short, if you don’t drink water, everything stops, overheats content they do in fact count towards your water tally. They and you die. also have health benefits so don’t feel like you have to rule  The myths debunked - In an article for The New York them out. They’re dehydrating because they’re both diuretic Times, Aaron E. Carroll, Professor of Paediatrics and As- – i.e. they make you a lot – but they contain enough water to sistant Dean for Research Mentoring at Indiana University

34 September 2017 Opinion Express How much water should you drink in a day?

Opinion Express September 2017 35 School of Medicine, writes: “If there is one health myth that will not die, it is this: You should drink eight glasses of water a day. It’s just not true. There is no science behind it.” Eating vegetables counts! He says the original advice was people needed the equivalent of eight glasses of water a day. However, sci- entists included the amount of fluid ingested through other food and veg- etables, and never intended for people to drink eight glasses of water on top of their daily food and drink. Don’t go over the top - Spero Tsindos, at La Trobe University in Melbourne, sparked controversy by claiming that eight glasses of water a day ‘is over the top’ and instead of hydrating our body’s cells, we just pee most of it out.

The best way to tell if you’re drinking enough water Your pee! ‘The best way to tell if you’re drinking enough water is to look at the colour of your pee,’ says Dr Sar- ah Brewer. “A pale straw colour shows you’re drinking enough – if it’s darker ‘The best way to tell if you’re drinking enough water than this, you should aim to drink is to look at the colour of your pee,’ says Dr Sarah more. Don’t count the first wee of the day as it’s naturally darker as you’ve Brewer. “A pale straw colour shows you’re drinking been asleep. enough – if it’s darker than this, you should aim to Tiredness! There are also other symp- toms that should let you know you’re drink more. Don’t count the first wee of the day as dehydrated. Fatigue and tiredness, headaches and poor concentration are it’s naturally darker as you’ve been asleep. earlier signs. stances, because they slavishly followed How much is too much? these recommendations and drank far Can you lose weight drink- It’s known as water intoxication. It’s in excess of need.” ing water? where a person drinks so much it dilutes One of the simplest ways to lose the salt in their blood. It can leave you How to up your WATER weight is to drink water before eating, lethargic, light-headed and in extreme drinking - tips according to research carried out in cases, it can be fatal. But, this happens Add flavour to your pitcher of water 2010. A 12-week study, reported to the very rarely and only tends to occur when Infuse your drinks if you’re not a fan American Chemical Society, involved people are dehydrated through exercise of water, try lemon or fresh fruit fla- 48 people aged 55-75. One group drank and they suddenly drink two or three vours. You can also get bottles that do two cups of water before each meal and litres in a short space of time. this for you. the other didn’t. Water drinkers lost A new study has highlighted the Drink a glass after every toilet break 15.5lbs on average, the others 11lbs. danger of drinking too much water. Re- Take a sip before every meal Dr Brenda Davy, senior author of searcher Dr Michael Farrell, from Mo- Use an app to track your water con- the survey, said: “We found in earlier nash University in Melbourne said: “If sumption studies that middle-aged and older peo- we just do what our body demands us You can get a high tech water bottle ple who drank two cups of water right to we’ll probably get it right - just drink Dilute sugary drinks with water and before eating a meal ate between 75 and according to thirst rather than an elabo- ice 90 fewer calories during that meal.”In rate schedule. “Here for the first time we Keep a jug next to you this recent study, dieters who drank found effort-full swallowing after drink- Invest in a filter water before meals, three times per day, ing excess water which meant they had Choose sparkling or mineral water lost about 5lbs more than dieters who to overcome some sort of resistance. over soda drinks did not increase water intake.” “People “This was compatible with our notion Eat water-rich foods should drink more water and less sug- that the swallowing reflex becomes in- Drinking alcohol? Stick to the one-to- ary, high-calorie drinks. It’s a simple hibited once enough water has been one rule way to manage weight.” drunk. There have been cases when ath- Mark how much you need to drink letes in marathons were told to load up on the side of your bottle - set yourself (With Inputs from Jo-Anne with water and died, in certain circum- targets Rowney of ‘Mirrror’)

36 September 2017 Opinion Express Fun, offbeat things to do in Norway’s capital Oslo By Mithila Mehta truly ‘Norwegian’ experiences. the opportunity to visit The King’s Mine Adventures on a fjord: If you’re in (located 500 meters below the ground) tunning and dramatic scenery and Oslo on a bright summer day, you will near Kongsberg, Oslo, I was sold. The landscape is found throughout notice that the city’s waterfronts are King’s Mine was closed in 1958 and has SNorway. The west coast of south- buzzing with activity. Aker Bryggae is been preserved since. Holmenkollen is ern Norway and the coast of northern Oslo’s hip waterfront located on the home to an eponymous ski jumping hill Norway present some of the most visu- Oslo Fjord, home to an eclectic bunch which has been hosting competitions ally impressive coastal sceneries in the of eateries and watering holes. At one for over a century. Inside the ski jump world. National Geographic has listed end of Aker Bryggae stands Akershus is the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, the the Norwegian fjords as the world’s top Festning, a medieval stone castle and oldest of its kind in the world. The ob- tourist attraction. The country is also fortress dating back to the 13th century. servation deck on top of the jump tower home to the natural phenomena of the Don’t miss the fjord cruise around the offers panoramic views of Oslo. Midnight sun (during summer) as well Oslo Fjord. It offers a stunning experi- Visit the Christmas House: The as the Aurora borealis know also as the ence, being enveloped by the vastness quaint town of Drobak is located just Northern lights. of nature. 40 kilometers from Oslo – a perfect day The 2014 Environmental Perfor- Ships in museums: I’m not really trip! Drobak is straight out of a fairytale mance Index put Norway in tenth a fan of museums, but enjoyed my time with charming wooden houses painted place, based on the environmental in Oslo’s museums. Maybe it’s because in bright colours lined up against the performance of the country’s policies. Norwegians seem to love putting giant picturesque coast. Vintage cars were Peace and My first impression of Nor- ships into museums—each of the three parked by the sidewalks and every way’s beautiful capital was rather accu- museums we visited boasted of a life- house had a perfectly manicured rose rate. Oslo is a charming, laid-back city. sized ship exhibit! garden. Dozens of sailboats bobbed in There’s plenty to see and do, but out and A silver mine and a ski jump: I’m the shallow port (it seems that everyone out tourist spots are few. Instead, en- always looking for unlikely experiences here owns a boat!) Drobak is packed joying Oslo is about taking in all those on my travels. So when I heard about with scores of tiny eateries, cafes, bak-

Opinion Express September 2017 37 eries, galleries and shops run by the locals. The town’s Christmas House Oslo’s fabulous opera House was special simply (Julehuset) piled high with festive sou- venirs. In here, it feels like Christmas all because it let visitors like us simply walk onto the through the year. There is an adorable roof of the building and enjoy the view! We saw traditional-style bakery on the center square called Handverksbakeriet. We dozens of locals sunbathing on the roof, while had some delicious apple and plum cake, with dessert wine for the Christ- others jumped off the roof into the adjoining mas feels! water body. Walk atop the Opera House: Oslo’s fabulous opera House was spe- cial simply because it let visitors like us The most tourist area of the Oslo Oslo. simply walk onto the roof of the build- and the core of the city, with the main You can hop on and off as many ing and enjoy the view! We saw dozens street Karl Johan in the middle, have times as you like aboard this City Sight- of locals sunbathing on the roof, while a wide variety of different pubs, bars seeing open-top, double-decker bus. others jumped off the roof into the ad- and nightclubs that attract all kinds of There are 17 stops, and the entire route joining water body. people. The west-side of the city centre, takes approximately 90 minutes. The Hiking and more: What is a Nor- Majorstuen, Vika and Frogner, is char- bus departs every 30 minutes from wegian’s favourite weekend activity? acterized by its fashionable, flashy and each stop. Tickets are valid for 24 hours Without a doubt, it is hiking and tenting beautiful guests that want to see and only. in the great outdoors! Norway’s ‘Right be seen. In the Grünerlokka district the Oslo, the oldest and sunniest of the of Access’ law means that everyone can atmosphere is more relaxed and low- Scandinavian capitals, was founded freely camp anywhere in the open coun- maintained; the guests are still trendy, by Harald Hadrade in the 11th century tryside. This translates into Norwegians but more laid-back and carefree. Boat and is surrounded by mountains at literally pitching a tent anywhere that parties are hugely popular in Oslo (why the head of a 70-mile (100 kilometer) catches their fancy! For a true taste of not, given how gorgeous the fjords are). fjord. You can visit Akershus Fortress, the land, go out tenting in the Norwe- Explore the sunniest capital of Scan- or feel like a real Viking at the Viking gian countryside around Oslo. dinavia with this 24-hour ticket aboard Ship Museum. Oslo Nightlife: Norway has a rela- a City Sightseeing open-top double- A single trip to Norway during life tively strict alcohol policy and regula- decker bus. See all the main sights of time is highly recommended to Indian tions; hence the price-level of alcoholic Oslo as you hop on and hop off at 17 globe trotter to broaden experience beverages is high. As a result, the Nor- conveniently located stops around the of realizing how beautiful the world wegians tend to have a few (or a lot!) city. is constructed by super natural pow- of drinks at home before they go out. With great views from the top of the er. A lot of credit must go to the na- Norwegians arrange the infamous “vor- bus, strategically placed stops and an tive people of Norway for adhering to spiel” (pre-parties) with friends before interesting commentary, this truly is strict environment policy resulting in they go out. the best way to see the main sights of impeccable clean country.

38 September 2017 Opinion Express Piaggio to update Vespa range with new colours iaggio is gearing up to update the Vespa range for the ginally more than the standard models. upcoming festive season. The updation will come in the Vespa no longer sells its 125cc versions, the SXL125 and Pform of new colours and revised instrument cluster. the VXL125 in India. The Italian manufacturer wants to cre- The Vespa SXL 150 and the Vespa VXL 150 will get new ate a premium space for its Vespa brand. So Vespa will be bright colours in the next few weeks. The addition of bright present only in 150cc space and above. This makes us be- colours is to add a bit more fun and freshness to the brand. lieve that the Piaggio will fill the void with the introduction Other than this, the instrumentation of the scooters will get of Aprilia SR125, which is bound to get more numbers for the a revised design. The digital instrumentation cluster on both company. the Vespa scooters is already quite good. With the revised in- strumentation, the scooters might look more appealing. The Sanjay Mendirutta pricing of these new paint schemes are expected to be mar- – Corporate Communication Head

© BikeWale Piaggio to update Vespa range with new colours

Opinion Express September 2017 39 A MAJOR CRISIS BREWING IN ASIA – USA vs North Korea The recent aggression shown by USA and North Korea may jeopardise world securit

he two aggressive leaders of USA and North Korea have brought Tthe entire world on its knees. Donald Trump narrative of & fury and Kim statement of hitting US by ICBM have resulted in escalation of tensions in entire world. Japan and South Ko- rea are living in constant fear of mis- sile attack but unfortunately China is proceeding with its stale strategy of promoting rouge states namely North Korea and Pakistan by supporting them with funds, technology, business collab- oration and nuclear technology transfer resulting in making the world a deadly place to live in. KIM Jong-un may have hidden a secret message to the United as we expect him to behave.” “We’ve States in his blustering boast that he is actually been expecting something like now ready to lob missiles at Guam. But “The US Imperialists this,” she says. “Today’s quite an impor- can President Trump understand it? caught the noose around tant day in North Korea (celebrations Recently North Korean media stat- marking the liberation of Korea at the ed Kim had been briefed by his Missile their necks due to end of World War II). The North Ko- Command on completed plans to test reans usually do something in terms of launch missiles and ‘bracket’ the US Pa- their reckless military military development to coincide with cific territory of Guam. But Kim stated confrontation racket ... such events.” he would watch the “foolish and stupid conduct of the Yankees” a little more (but) he would watch a DIPLOMATIC CRISIS before deciding whether to give an or- little more the foolish Officials have told US media that der for the missile test. The US has stat- satellites have observed DPRK mobile ed any missiles lobbed toward Guam and stupid conduct of missile launcher movement, indicating would be seen as a deeply provocative an intermediate-ballistic missile may be act. US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis the Yankees spending being prepared as part of North Korea’s said the United States would “take out” a hard time of every holiday celebrations. The move comes any such missile and declared such a as the United States and South Korea launch could lead to war. minute of their miserable plan to start annual defensive military Kim’s comments, however, come lot,” the Pyongyang drills that the North asserts are a severe with an almost hidden tone of modera- provocation and a possible preparation tion. He appears to hold out the offer to statement reads. for invasion. But South Kora’s Yonhap defuse the growing crisis — if the Unit- News Agency says President Moon told ed States made a conciliatory gesture. everybody who needs to understand a gathering he will prevent war in Korea “The US Imperialists caught the noose that understands that. “The problem “at all costs”. around their necks due to their reckless is that Kim Jon-un is largely the same No US military action on the trou- military confrontation racket ... (but) personality type as Trump — both are bled peninsula was possible without he would watch a little more the fool- paranoid, narcissistic and have huge Seoul’s consent, he said. US President ish and stupid conduct of the Yankees egos,” Dr Hohnen says. “We’ve never Donald Trump, who today returned to spending a hard time of every minute really had leaders like that on both his residence in New York for the first of their miserable lot,” the Pyongyang sides before. time since becoming President in Janu- statement reads. “The unknown factor in this is not ary, has phoned regional leaders — in- But the question is whether or not Kim, its Trump. Kim Jong-un is acting cluding Japan’s Shinzo Abe.

40 September 2017 Opinion Express “We agreed that Japan, the U.S. and fore call on the Democratic People’s trial nations. South Korea will coordinate closely, co- Republic of Korea (DPRK) to refrain America is preparing mili- operating with Russia, China and other from any further provocative action tary options in case sanc- members of the international commu- that can only increase regional and tions fail, says most senior nity to, above all else, prevent North global tensions.” US general Korea from launching missiles,” Mr USA is building strategic level of co- Joint Chief of Staffs chairman says Abe said about the call with President ordination with another world power US ready to use ‘full range’ of military Trump. US Secretary of Defence James namely India to play an active role in capabilities to defend itself against Mattis warned any further escalation taming rouge states like North Korea Pyongyang. The Independent US South could rapidly lead to war: “Yes that and Pakistan. So far, India has followed Korean army soldiers walk by a mock means for a lot of young troops they’re normal diplomatic language of restrain Scud-B missile of North Korea AP going to be in a wartime situation.” but the ambitious leadership of Naren- America is preparing military op- President Kim Jong-un being pre- dra Modi is likely to take more active tions in case sanctions imposed on sented with plans to launch ballistic role in the global affairs to push for per- North Korea fail, the most senior gen- missiles towards the US territory of manent t UN Security Council seat. eral in the US armed forces has warned. Guam. The map in front of him details Joseph Dunford said a “full range” of the flight path of a missile over south- DUBIOUS ROLE OF CHINA contingency plans had been drawn up ern Japan, while the photo on the back People Republic of China is gradu- in case diplomatic and economic sanc- wall shows Guam’s Andersen Air Force ally perceived to be the villain of the tions did not deter Pyongyang’s devel- Base. new world. China have build satellite opment of nuclear weapons. The Joint ‘DELIGHTFUL HISTORIC Chiefs of Staff chairman told South Ko- MOMENT’ rean President Moon Jae-in of the prep- Pyongyang’s state media has this USA is building strategic arations during a 50-minute meeting morning reported President Kim Jong- on Monday, according to a US military un as “praising” his Strategic Force level of coordination spokesman. It comes amid heightened for drawing up a “careful” plan for a with another world tensions over fears Pyongyang is close “power demonstration” to “envelop” to achieving its goal of putting mainland Guam in fire. “The nuclear force of the power namely India US within range of a nuclear weapon. DPRK is strong in its guts and no one The two nations exchanged mili- can guess its muscle as the flight trajec- to play an active role tary threats last week, with North Ko- tory of medium-to-long ballistic rocket in taming rouge states rea warning it has developed a plan to Hwasong-12, firing data and the correct strike the US Pacific territory of Guam. hitting-point are made public at home like North Korea and Donald Trump said military solutions and abroad.” Pakistan. to the crisis were “locked and loaded”, This North Korean supplied image days after vowing to unleash “fire and purports to show Kim Jong-un being rouge states namely North Korea and fury” if Pyongyang continued to threat- briefed at the KPA Strategic Force HQ Pakistan, funded and armed them with en the US. on plans to launch ballistic missiles to- clandestine nuclear weapon technology Mr Dunford is visiting Seoul to wards the US territory of Guam. to serve its power balance in the new discuss the rising tensions in the re- world order. Pakistan is pitted against gion with President Moon Jae-in and INTERNATIONAL India by China to curb India’s global Defence Minister Song Young-moo CONCERN emergence and North Korea is pit- ahead of major joint US-South Korean The European Union’s foreign pol- ted against South Korea to check USA military drills scheduled for later this icy chief has called for “peaceful, not knocking its border. In the process, two month. “He conveyed America’s readi- military” means to resolve the Korean rouge states with failed governance have ness to use the full range of military peninsula crisis, urging Pyongyang to ensured that world is no longer a safe capabilities to defend our allies and the avoid any “further provocative action” place. There is highly likely that nukes US homeland,” said US military spokes- that could stoke tensions. “At such a may land up in wrong hands namely man Darryn James. Mr Dunford, who critical juncture, the European Union jihadi’s or terror groups that can exten- will also meet with leaders in Japan supports diplomatic work with our part- sively damage the humanity in any part and China, “stressed that North Korea’s ners aimed at the de-escalation of the of the world. ballistic missile and nuclear weapons situation and achieving the complete, The unfair trade practices by PRC programmes threaten the entire global verifiable and irreversible denucleariza- and reckless low cost manufacturing, community,” the spokesman added. Mr tion of the Korean Peninsula through dumping cheap goods in the global Dunford had earlier told reporters he peaceful, not military, means,” Federica market have damaged many economies aimed to “sense what the temperature is Mogherini said in a statement. in the world. IPR violation and clone in the region” and discuss military op- The statement was issued after a design are standard practice in China tions in the event the “diplomatic and meeting of a key EU panel which agreed that has hurt many thriving multina- economic pressurisation campaign” the bloc would reach out to North and tional companies globally. fails. “We’re all looking to get out of this South Korea, the United States, China, Recently US President has or- situation without a war,” he added. Mr Russia and Japan. “There is an urgent dered probe against China for IPR vi- Moon separately called for a peaceful need for a de-escalation of tensions olation. The world must unite against solution to the nuclear stand-off, urg- on the situation on the Korean Penin- the Chinese unfair trade practices to ing that “there must not be another war sula,” Mogherini said. “(...) We there- secure sovereign right of many indus- on the Korean Peninsula”. It comes as

Opinion Express September 2017 41 senior US officials attempted to provide assurances with that conflict with North Korea not imminent. The American military is ready with 8 million dead - a plan to strike North Korean missile sites in a pre-emptive attack if Donald Trump decides to do so. The plan in- what nuclear war volves flying a B-1B heavy bomber from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam ac- companied by satellites, drones, higher with North Korea jets, and aerial refuelling warplanes. Training for the mission has been on- going, and there have been 11 practice runs for a similar mission since May could look like when the training was accelerated. “Of the military options … [Presi- By Harry J. Kazianis die or become the victims of radioac- dent Trump] could consider, this would tive fallout, whose injuries could lay be one of the two or three that would at issiles are dormant for years. It would be, per one least have the possibility of not escalat- driven past senior Pentagon official I spoke to last ing the situation,” retired Admiral James Mthe stand with week, “as if Lucifer opened the gates of Stavridis, the former Supreme Allied North Korean leader Kim hell.” Commander Europe, told NBC.There are Jong Un and other high Gaming out nuclear war scenari- six B-1B bombers positioned in Guam, ranking officials during a military pa- os—as horrific as they are—is part of about 2,100 miles by air to North Korea. rade marking the 105th birth anniver- my job working for a D.C. foreign poli- The bombers have been heavily used in sary of North Korea’s founding father, cy think tank. Back in 2013, I took part both Afghanistan and Iraq, and have Kim Il Sung, in Pyongyang, April 15, in a series of wargames to consider been updated since then. 2017. The American public once again what would happen if North Korea and The news of the potential operations has to learn history all over again. America become entangled in a nuclear comes as the relationship between the When it comes to North Korea, Ameri- US and North Korea has become very cans are having to face the prospect of strained. North Korean leader Kim a rogue nation—a human rights abuser The collective shock and Jong Un and Mr Trump have engaged on par with Nazi Germany—that is in a heated back and forth of threats. now armed with nuclear weapons that panic you see when it Recently, Mr Trump promised “fire and can strike our homeland. comes to North Korea— fury” if Mr Kim didn’t stop threaten- History reminds us we have been ing the United States. In response, Mr down this road before—whether it was and the nightmare Kim’s government signalled they were with the Soviet Union building a deadly reality that they can hit considering an attack on Guam if Mr nuclear arsenal in the 1950s or China Trump didn’t cool his tough talk. Both doing the same in the 1960s.The col- the U.S. with nuclear countries appear to be more than will- lective shock and panic you see when it ing to push the other further and fur- comes to North Korea—and the night- weapons—is our ther with the threats, however, in spite mare reality that they can hit the U.S. generation’s ‘Sputnik’ of assurance from US Secretary of State with nuclear weapons—is our genera- Rex Tillerson, who has said that Ameri- tion’s “Sputnik” moment. While some moment. cans have no reason to worry about an are still in denial, the simple facts are impending war. now inescapable. conflict. No matter how we approached US administration has finally real- The collective shock and panic you such an atomic conflict the results were ized that China is the base of North Ko- see when it comes to North Korea—and the same. There was no question mil- rea and Pakistan problem. It is China the nightmare reality that they can hit lions of people would die—it was just a that has clandestinely exported nuclear the U.S. with nuclear weapons—is our question of how many. Over the course weapon technology to North Korea and generation’s ‘Sputnik’ moment. of several days, experts, journalists, Pakistan and at the same time, they have So, the next question seems ob- academics and retired Pentagon staff- invested heavily in respective countries vious: Would Kim Jong Un use his ers played out three scenarios of what to keep the economy rolling ahead de- nuclear weapons under the right con- a war with North Korea would look spite sanctions and international curbs. ditions, say if he felt his survival was like – focusing on nuclear weapons The world has realized that China is the threatened? The answer is a resound- use, and concluding one war per day in backbone of unofficial terro and their ir- ing yes. Know this: if Pyongyang de- a sped-up fashion. We started with a responsible actions can lead to a major cided to launch a salvo of nuclear scenario that involved atomic weapons nuclear proliferation that is extremely armed missiles towards Seoul, Tokyo, release on a small scale and in the next dangerous to the civil societies glob- U.S. military bases or the homeland, two sessions raised the stakes dramati- ally. It is high time that the global com- the carnage unleashed would be unlike cally. munity must put pressure on China to anything we have seen since the days The first wargame—the smallest mend its way or get out of the new world of World War II. In such a scenario, and least lethal of the bunch—imag- order. millions upon millions of people could ined a conflict in 2020 where U.S. and

42 September 2017 Opinion Express allied forces on the Korean Peninsula were attacked by surprise with conven- tional weapons only by North Korea, responding to intelligence that Wash- ington was considering building forces in the region for a possible attack. Kim decides to open this imag- ined Second Korean War by launching a massive artillery barrage on Seoul while raining down 250 or so small- and medium-range missiles on targets all around South Korea and Japan. Al- lied forces then counter attack, focus- ing mostly on Kim’s weapons of mass destruction, the biggest threat of all, eliminating what they think is all of them. Eventually, allied forces battle their way up the peninsula and close in on Pyongyang, the capitol of North Korea. But Kim, even with his forces battered and bloody, kept four nuclear weapons hidden from U.S. strikes and decides to attack Seoul and Tokyo. While the al- lies do win the war, the casualties from the nuclear attacks—with one warhead life. We assume a similar scenario in What can we take away from all of each making it past allied missiles de- 2020 with allied forces getting ready this? fenses detonating in each city—results for a possible invasion, but this time While military options for remov- in over one million people dead and Kim decides to launch a pre-emptive ing Kim’s nuclear weapons, as you can millions more wounded. Add that to attack on the U.S. homeland. We as- see above, could result in the death of the likely staggering body count totals sume he strikes the target cities in the millions, we still have time to make from what would be a bloody conven- second scenario, but add on successful sure North Korea can’t keep adding tional campaign, and you would see a nuclear attacks on Los Angeles, San more and more advanced capabilities death toll that seems unthinkable to- Francisco, Seattle and Portland. We to its atomic arsenal. The most impor- day. were shocked to discover we ended up tant thing we can do now is stop the As if the above wasn’t bad enough, with a combined body count of over amount of resources flowing into North a second scenario involved Kim start- three million people between losses in Korea and enforce the recently passed ing a conflict using nuclear weapons in Asia and America. Oh, and by the way, UN Security Council resolutions—and a sort of atomic “Pearl Harbor.” In this this is before America’s nuclear coun- that means China must finally join the exercise, we assume that in 2020 U.S. terattack, which would add millions international communities’ efforts. If forces are building in the Asia-Pacific more to the total. not, North Korea could get its hands on in preparation for a regime change op- By the time this wargame ended, a hydrogen bomb or even more long- eration, responding to a demand from North Korea went all in with every range missiles—something we did not the international community for North weapon it had, launching more nuclear consider in our wargames. If that day Korea to give up its nuclear weapons— attacks along with chemical and biolog- comes to pass, the above scenarios, just like the Second Gulf War. ical weapons strikes. When it was over played out with smaller atomic weap- But Kim Jong Un is a student of and North Korea was finally defeated, ons, will seem downright optimistic. history. He knows once U.S. forces are eight million people were killed. Now, And that should send a chill up every- in place they will try to take out his to be fair, a wargame does not predict one’s spine. weapons of mass destruction and move the future and is nowhere near per- across the 38th parallel. He decides to fect in its analysis. However, experts ( Harry J. Kazianis (@grecianformula) attack first. In this wargame, we as- conduct such exercises many times is director of defense studies at the Center sumed Kim launched successful nu- to game out worst-case scenarios and for the National Interest, founded by former clear strikes on Seoul, Pusan, Incheon, consider unconventional strategies for President Richard M. Nixon. Tokyo, Sendai and Nagoya, with one dealing with the threats of the future. Associate Editor Dr Rahul Misra com- nuclear weapon hitting each city and But one thing we assumed in this sce- prehensively studied the international and getting past allied missile defenses—he nario is quite haunting: we believed by national press on USA North Korea standoff fires more, but this is what actually hits 2020 Kim would have nuclear weapons and he has compiled a report taking out best the target. Before the allies can even that could be mounted on a warhead of reports, coverage, interviews to highlight spring into action, over two million and could target all northeast Asia and the perception and the reality of the current people perish in the atomic fire. hit the U.S. homeland, something some build up. Inputs from CNN, BBC, Indepen- The final wargame was the most in the simulation thought was fantasy. dent and prominent Indian media are incor- dramatic and led to the most loss of Now it is a chilling reality—in 2017. porated to offer a broader prospective. )

Opinion Express September 2017 43 More gift packages on way to US, warns North Korea Despite worldwide criticism for its nuclear misadventure, the rogue nation is unrepenting mid international uproar over rating. Despite having a larger fleet, most of North Korea’s latest and biggest Military measures being taken by the North Korean tanks date back to the Anuclear weapons test, one of its North Korea were “an exercise of re- Soviet era. On the other hand, a major top diplomats said on Tuesday it was straint and justified self-defence right” chunk of South Korea’s 2,414 tanks are ready to send “more gift packages” to to counter “the ever-growing and de- supplied by the U.S., fitted with modern the United States. cade-long U.S. nuclear threat and hos- weaponry, and much more efficient. Han Tae Song, ambassador of the tile policy aimed at isolating my coun- Democratic People’s Republic of Korea try”. “Pressure or sanctions will never Artillery pieces (DPRK) to the U.N. in Geneva, was ad- work on my country,” Han declared, In terms of artillery, the North Kore- dressing the U.N.-sponsored Confer- adding: “The DPRK will never under an army is in possession of over 21,000 ence on Disarmament two days after any circumstances put its nuclear de- pieces of equipment. It is believed that his country detonated its sixth nuclear terrence on the negotiating table.” out of the total artillery equipment, test explosion. many are targeted at Seoul, the South “I am proud of saying that just two Army Korean capital city. days ago on the 3rd of September, North Korea has one of the world’s DPRK succcessfully carried out a hydro- largest standing armies, with at least Submarines gen bomb test for intercontinental bal- 1,000,000 soldiers. However, although North Korea boasts of a fleet of at listic rocket under its plan for building the secretive state does not release full least 72 submarines — the highest in the a strategic nuclear force,” Han told the details about its armed forces to the rest world. The nation’s nuclear weapons Geneva forum. “The recent self-defence of the world, their weapons and equip- could become immune from destruc- measures by my country, DPRK, are a ment are believed to be largely obsolete tion in case of an pre-emptive attack, if ‘gift package’ addressed to none other when compared to major Western na- hidden on board these submarines. In than the U.S.,” Han said. tions. fact, North Korea is reportedly learn- “The U.S. will receive more ‘gift ing the technique of launching nuclear packages’ from my country as long Tanks warheads from submarines which, if as its relies on reckless provocations The nation’s 3,500-odd tanks out- becomes successful, would allow the and futile attempts to put pressure on number its arch-rival South Korea’s country to strike any nation easily. the DPRK,” he added without elabo- fleet by over 1000. South Korean marine corps search a

44 September 2017 Opinion Express Military measures being taken by North Korea were “an exercise of restraint and justified self-defence right” to counter “the ever- growing and decade- long U.S. nuclear threat and hostile policy aimed at isolating my country”.

North Korean combat-class submarine after its discovery on the north-east coast of South Korea, some .62 mile (1 km) south of the demilitarized zone on Sept. 18, 1998.

Frigates The nation has three frigates (sev- eral types of warship) as part of its mili- tary possessions. Conversely, the small- er-sized South Korean army boasts of 14 frigates currently. Digital satellite imagery of a Soho-class missile frigate at Singyo-ri patrol base in North Korea.

Combat aircraft The Korean People’s Air Force has a fleet of 563 combat-capable aircraft. However, in 2014, each of those planes were grounded for a short period due to low maintenance and poor service. In June 2015, a North Korean scien- the massive Sony hack that occurred in tist defected to Finland. He carried with December 2014. U.S. disarmament am- Aggressive military posturing him 15 gigabytes of information that bassador Robert Wood said that North North Korea have always maintained showcased how the country’s regime Korea had defied the international com- an aggressive military posturing against used humans to test its biological and munity once again with its test. countries it considers “unfriendly,” es- chemical weapons. “We look forward to working with pecially next-door neighbor South Ko- Biological weapons our partners in the (Security) Council rea. Most recently, tension escalated Around the same time, the country with regard to a new resolution that will between the two countries in August released photos showing Kim Jong-un put some of the strongest sanctions pos- 2015 when a North Korean landmine touring a pesticide factory, called Pyong- sible on the DPRK,” he told the confer- injured two South Korean soldiers. It yang Bio-technical Institute. However, ence. “Advances in the regime’s nuclear resulted in the two countries engaging many experts believe that it could be a and missile programame are a threat in artillery firing along the demilita- facility producing massive amounts of to us all ... now is the time to say tests, rized zone, and North Korea beefing up anthrax to be used in weapons. threats and destabilising actions will its front-line troop strength overnight. no longer be tolerated,” Wood said. It The standoff eased after the two coun- Chemical weapons can no longer be business as usual with tries reached an agreement following According to Nuclear Threat Ini- this regime.” The White House said on discussions, and North Korea expressed tiative, North Korea is believed to be Monday President Donald Trump had regret over the landmine incident. the third largest possessor of chemical agreed “in principle” to scrap a warhead Military guard posts of South Korea weapons. weight limit on South Korea’s mis- (bottom) and North Korea (top) stand siles in the wake of the North’s latest opposite each other as seen from the Cyber-army test. The United States accused North border city of Paju, South Korea, on Finally, North Korea’s cybermilitary Korea’s trading partners of aiding its Aug. 21, 2015. abilities are yet to be fully discovered. nuclear ambitions and said Pyongyang It’s worth noting that the nation’s cyber- was “begging for war”. Human testing for weapons army has been blamed by the U.S. for Courtesy Reuters

Opinion Express September 2017 45 Digital Dash India’s digital future is bright, despite cynics’ prediction to the contrary By Ambikanand Sahay

orget the naysayers, prophets of doom and preachers of pessimism Fwho love to find fault, day in and day out, with everything which they see -- even when most others notice a shin- ing silverline in the sky. But they don’t matter. India is moving ahead. In spite of them. How many of us know, for instance, that India happened to be the earliest issuers of coins in the world along with China and Lydia as far back as in circa 6th century BC? How many of us are aware of the fact that India holds the second largest market of smartphones in the world? And how many of us can feel it at this point in time that we might be one of the leaders on Earth’s Digital cable lines have already been laid con- the direct benefit transfer mode in as Economy in not too distant a future? necting villages and gram panchayats in many as 267 schemes. Probably, sooner than later. the country? This figure stood at a mere Other schemes including e-NAM, Indeed, we have made the move. 358 kilometres in 2014. Digital Tourism, Jeevan Pranam, Start And we are progressing at a rapid speed. The e-commerce sector too has reg- UP India, Skill India, Swachh Bharat Don’t be surprised if history repeats it- istered a rapid rise – from a business etc are gathering momentum. self after a gap of 2600 years! And yes, in worth Rs. 1.26 lakh crores in 2015 to What’s important in all these figures the backdrop of what all are happening Rs. 2.11 lakh crores in 2016. And if you is that the Indians are beginning to ac- in the digital sphere, we might lead the can go by KPMG estimates, this figure cept the change. And remember what way even in money matters. Indications is expected to shoot up to Rs. 7.78 lakh Harold Wilson, former British Prime are very much there for all to see. Here crores by the end of 2020. Minister, used to say: “He who rejects is what Prime Minister Narendra Modi In the field of IT/Technology, change is the architect of decay. The says in this context: “The entire Nation about 4000 new start-ups are seen to only human institution which rejects has joined hands to make the dream of be coming up every year. During the progress is the cemetery.” a Digital India into a reality. Youngsters past three years, more than 2000 deals Rest assured, we are not going to the are enthusiastic, industry is supportive worth a sum of Rs. 1.14 lakh crores were cemetery. The nation is alive and kick- and the government is proactive. India clinched. ing. is yearning for a digital revolution.” The show on e-Governance front Union Minister Ravishankar Prasad Modi’s words aren’t mere rheto- looks equally bright with the per day says: “India is well set to become US$ ric. Looking at what we have already transactions shooting up like never be- 1 Trillion Digital Economy in next 7 achieved, India has gone digital to a fore. The daily transactions have now years …… It rather looks an easy target great extent. Already. If you have time gone up substantially from Rs. 66.25 ….. However, the challenge would be to and patience to get yourself acquainted lakhs to several crores in 2016. reach this target in 3-4 years…… I ap- with facts and figures regarding the digi- It’s interesting to note that more peal to the industry to join hands with tal revolution, you would find that a lot and more people are now doing their the Government which firmly believes many things are happening in this field: transactions through digital payments, in openness, supportive and proactive The number of mobile phone users particularly since demonetization on approach……. India is committed to has shot up from 90 lakhs in 2014 to November 8, 2016. Per day transac- take the lead in the ongoing digital rev- 1.08 crores in mid-2017. Likewise, the tions through BHIM has registered an olution in the world, and I would appre- number smart phone users have gone 8803% rise in the past few months! ciate industry’s participation and sup- up from 22 to 40 crores during the same Payments through other apps have also port in this mission…… Through such period. This apart, there has been a rap- gone up – Mobile wallets (104%), Ru- discussion, we aim to seek contribution id increase in the number of internet Pay (270%), Aadhaar Enabled Payment and participation of the private sector users – from 24.3 crores in June 2014 System (390%) and IMPS (52%). It’s as we stride forward to make India a to 50 crores in May 2017. Do you know equally interesting to note that the Gov- truly global Digital economy.” that 2.5 lakh kilometers of optical fibre ernment now makes payments through (Writer is a veteran journalist)

46 September 2017 Opinion Express Bumrah in top gear Thanks to his feat in the Island country, the Indian pace bowler has jumped 27 places to grab fourth position in ICC ODI player ranking

ndia pace bowler Jas- prit Bumrah has made Ihandsome gains in the latest MRF Tyres ICC ODI Player Rankings after play- ing a big role in the team’s 5-0 series whitewash over Sri Lanka. Bumrah has moved up 27 ranks to a career- best fourth position in a list led by Australia pace bowler Josh Hazlewood with South Africa spinner Imran Tahir and Austra- lia pace bowler Mitchell Starc the other two bowl- ers ahead of him. The 23-year-old Bum- rah, whose previous best was 24th position in June this year, has moved up the table with his player of the series effort of 15 wickets, the best by any bowler in a bilateral ODI series in Sri Lanka. His performances included a career-best five for 27 in the third ODI at Palekelle. Also gaining in the rankings is India’s left- arm spinner Akshar Patel, who has moved up from 20th to 10th position after finishing with six wick- ets in four matches. Patel has thus closed in on his career-high rank of ninth in October last year. Hardik Pandya (up two places to 61st), Kuldeep Yadav (up 21 places to 89th) and Yuzvendra Cha- hal (up 55 places to 99th) are other India bowlers to gain in the rankings. Captain Virat Kohli has consolidated his position at the top of the rankings for batsmen after his 330 runs in the series, which

Opinion Express September 2017 47 MRF Tyres ICC ODI Kohli, who is also top-ranked in T20Is, has Team Rankings (as increased his lead over Australia’s David Warner on 4 September, from 12 to 26 points and is now on 887 points – after the India v Sri equaling the highest ODI rating points by Lanka series): an India batsman, recorded by Sachin Tendulkar Rank Team Points in 1998. 1 South Africa 119 2 Australia 117 3 India 117 (+3) 4 England 113 5 New Zealand 111 6 Pakistan 95 7 Bangladesh 94 8 Sri Lanka 86 (-2) 9 West Indies 78 10 Afghanistan 54 11 Zimbabwe 52 12 Ireland 41 (Developed by David Kendix)

spinner Akila Dananjaya has gained 21 places to reach 80th position. Mathews has also gained one position to be fourth among all-rounders. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has been un- able to seal a direct qualification place in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, which it could have done by winning two matches in the series. Though it is in a strong position to make the grade, the Windies can over- take it by beating Ireland in an upcom- ing match on 13 September and winning either all five matches against England or the last four matches for a 4-1 win in the series from 19 to 29 September. The top seven ODI sides apart from host England as on 30 September qual- ify directly. Teams not getting direct included an unbeaten 110 in the last Virat Kohli is now on 887 points – places will get another shot through a match in Colombo on Sunday, his sec- equaling the highest ODI rating points Qualifying tournament. ond century of the series. by an India batsman, recorded by Sa- The ICC Cricket World Cup Quali- Kohli, who is also top-ranked in chin Tendulkar in 1998. Virat Kohli is fier 2018 will feature the bottom four T20Is, has increased his lead over now on 887 points – equaling the high- sides from the MRF Tyres ICC ODI Australia’s David Warner from 12 to est ODI rating points by an India bats- Team Rankings, the top four sides from 26 points and is now on 887 points – man, recorded by Sachin Tendulkar in the ICC World Cricket League Champi- equaling the highest ODI rating points 1998. onship and the top two sides from the by an India batsman, recorded by Sa- For Sri Lanka, all-rounder Angelo ICC World Cricket League. The top two chin Tendulkar in 1998. Mathews’s 192 runs in the series have sides from the World Cup Qualifier will Rohit Sharma, the second highest helped him gain four slots to reach 23rd complete the 10-team line-up for the run-maker in the series with 302 runs, position while Niroshan Dickwella (up ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. and former captain Mahendra Singh two places to 36th), Upul Tharanga (up India remains in third position but Dhoni are both back in the top 10. one place to 63rd) and Milinda Siriwar- has gained three points to close in on Sharma, who struck two centuries in dana (up 35 places to 89th) are the oth- Australia, which is also on 117 points Sri Lanka, has gained five slots to reach ers to gain. but remains ahead on decimal points. ninth place while Dhoni’s 162 runs have Mathews has gained one slot among The ODI rankings predictor func- lifted him two places to 10th position. bowlers to reach 52nd position while tion is available here

48 September 2017 Opinion Express MRF Tyres ICC ODI Player Rankings (as on 4 Sep, after the India v Sri Lanka series) BATTING (top 10) Rank (+/-) Player Team Points Avge Highest Rating 1 ( - ) Virat Kohli Ind 887 55.75 887 v SL at Colombo (RPS) 2017 2 ( - ) David Warner Aus 861 44.72 880 v Pak at Adelaide 2017 3 ( - ) AB de Villiers SA 847 53.55 902 v NZ at Auckland 2015 4 ( - ) Joe Root Eng 799 49.37 806 v NZ at Cardiff 2017 5 ( - ) Babar Azam Pak 786 53.88 786 v Ind at The Oval 2017 6 ( - ) Kane Williamson NZ 779 46.98 798 v SA at Centurion 2015 7 ( - ) Quinton de Kock SA 769 43.44 803 v NZ at Wellington 2017 8 ( - ) Faf du Plessis SA 768 43.41 791 v SL at Cape Town 2017 9 (+5) Rohit Sharma Ind 764 43.46 773 v SL at Colombo (RPS) 2017 10 (+2) MS Dhoni Ind 749 52.20 836 v Aus at Delhi 2009 OTHER SELECTED RANKINGS Rank (+/-) Player Team Points Avge Highest Rating 23 (+4) Angelo Mathews SL 625 40.93 707 v Eng at Colombo (RPS) 2014 36 (+2) N. Dickwella SL 571* 38.73 605 v Ind at Pallekele 2017 63 (+1) Upul Tharanga SL 502 33.25 663 v NZ at Napier 2006 89 (+35) M. Siriwardana SL 431*! 28.76 431 v Ind at Colombo (RPS) 2017 102 (+21) Manish Pandey Ind 404*! 49.57 404 v SL at Colombo (RPS) 2017 BOWLING (top 10) Rank (+/-) Player Team Points Avge Eco. Highest Rating 1 ( - ) Josh Hazlewood Aus 732! 23.85 4.69 732 v Eng at Edgbaston 2017 2 ( - ) Imran Tahir SA 718 23.87 4.66 786 v SL at Johannesburg 2017 3 ( - ) Mitchell Starc Aus 701 20.13 4.81 783 v NZ at Melbourne 2015 4 (+27) Jasprit Bumrah Ind 687*! 20.87 4.68 687 v SL at Colombo (RPS) 2017 5 (-1) Kagiso Rabada SA 685 26.30 5.11 724 v Eng at Lord’s 2017 6 (-1) Trent Boult NZ 665 25.48 5.00 766 v Ind at Delhi 2016 7 (-1) Hasan Ali Pak 663*! 22.66 5.47 663 v Ind at The Oval 2017 8 (-1) Sunil Narine WI 662 26.46 4.12 791 v SL at Jamaica 2013 9 (-1) Rashid Khan Afg 647*! 14.74 3.97 647 v WI at St Lucia 2017 10 (+10) Akshar Patel Ind 645* 29.53 4.30 648 v SL at Colombo (RPS) 2017 OTHER SELECTED RANKINGS Rank (+/-) Player Team Points Avge Eco. Highest Rating 52 (+1) Angelo Mathews SL 487 34.10 4.62 649 v Ind at Trinidad 2013 61 (+2) Hardik Pandya Ind 456* 35.26 5.46 458 v SL at Colombo (RPS) 2017 80 (+21) Akila Dananjaya SL 411* 22.64 5.28 438 v Ind at Colombo (RPS) 2017 89 (+21) Kuldeep Yadav Ind 389*! 20.81 3.97 389 v SL at Colombo (RPS) 2017 99 (+55) Y. Chahal Ind 364*! 24.09 4.14 364 v SL at Colombo (RPS) 2017 ALL-ROUNDERS (top five) Rank (+/-) Player Team Points Highest Rating 1 ( - ) Shakib Al Hasan Ban 353 453 v Zim at Chittagong 2009 2 ( - ) M. Hafeez Pak 339 438 v Ind at Kolkata 2013 3 ( - ) M. Nabi Afg 329 349 v Ire at Greater Noida 2017 4 (+1) Angelo Mathews SL 304 427 v Eng at Colombo (RPS) 2014 5 (-1) James Faulkner Aus 299 361 v NZ at Melbourne 2015

Opinion Express September 2017 49 Oomph Quotient Glamour girl Piya Sharma is a rock star of showbiz in India

iya Sharma is a very charming and confident anchor, actress Pand model and human being. The emcee star was born in Patna, Bihar but is a true blue Punjabi from her roots and larger-than-life spirit, attitude and persona. Piya bravely fought all odds and pursued the path of modeling and anchoring, a field of work that may look all easy and glamorous from the face of it, on the outside, but requires tons of hard work. With dedication and com- mitment exerted by her in 8+ years of her event hosting and modeling career, she is one inspiring self-made woman. Ms. Super Sharma has done all kinds of print advertisement assignments and marketing campaigns being the face of various product lines and generously endorsing brands. This stunning lady, who loves to add her magic to any event with her alluring presence and work; has walked the ramp and hosted main- stream events like product launches, fashion shows, dealer meets, business meets, conferences and seminars etc for reputed brands like Vodafone, MTS, RBS, Accenture, Max Life, Apolo Mu- nich only to name a few. She has been a successful ambas- sador for top notch companies creating brand value and positioning, playing a significant role in several corporate films and brand shoots. You may be surprised and well impressed to know that she has graciously done more than 1000 PR, business and Social events as a lead anchor, model and performer for noted firms including Valvoline, HT Media Ltd., Johnson Tiles, Kargil India etc. 2017 Silver Screen drama – ‘Zindagi Saiworx Entertainment, JR Events and Piya was first getting hands on job ki mahek‘ on the popular TV Channel many more. experience before realizing that she is Zee TV. Apart from shows, promotional With her Glitz and Charisma she has meant for something bigger and more print projects and shoots, she has been also handled a versatile range of events impactful. She was the marketing head an integral part of a Music video called like Press meets, exhibitions, seminar in an event management company and ‘ladki selfie queen’ with singer rapper etc. She has also taken in the lead in cor- then one thing led to another, mak- Abhinniks. porate HR activities like employee day, ing her one of the most sought after When a lavish gathering like grand family day celebrations and large scale name in the media industry, nationally birthday parties or big fat Indian wed- team building gatherings, off sites trips, and internationally. Yes, she has given dings comes in mind, you need a con- R & D events etc. organized by who’s smashing performances as a host not fident, mature and beautiful energy to who of the market. In the Pipeline, she only on the Indian Soil for Indian and take over and get the show going; and has 2 music videos, a few Punjabi and expat companies, but also been an el- Sharma has been a favorite among Bollywood movies, along with current egant and attractive anchor and over- known event organizing brands like media, brand product shoot and social all element for events and productions Katalyst, Akshara Communications, assignment commitments. overseas. Moksh AEPL Plan my shaadi, Creative Inputs from Mumbai Bureau Sharma was a part of acclaimed Star events, Musical Dream Events, & fashion desk of OECEL.

50 September 2017 Opinion Express