Introduction

This introduction is not intended as yet another scholarly analysis of the series events that occurred in India in 1999. That task has been remarkably done by many and a selected number of articles discussing some of these issues are put together in this dossier. It is our intention to introduce to the reader the rationale for this collection of articles, which discuss fully one or several of the events, whether they are of a political, social, economic, or of a religious nature. In that respect all these articles are conclusive in their arguments. This collection is grouped under four sub-headings, namely the ‘Sangh Parivar’, ‘the National Democratic Alliance’ which then is followed by ‘Women’, ‘NGOs and the Minorities’. We consider the last three groups to be the most marginalized in the current set up.

It is our argument that in the euphoria of a stable National Democratic Alliance, the hidden agenda of the Sangh Parivar (Sangh family) should not be missed. The Sangh Parivar has once again managed to capture political power with support from a wide range of political parties in India, having made some compromises for the immediate future. Many scholars have warned against deception from Sangh Parivar. The warning from K N Panikar cannot be more direct, "(F)or those who are prepared to learn from the tactics of the fascists else where, it would be clear that these crutches are only temporary and would be discarded once the transitional phase is over."

Some may argue that with the present order of things the stock market indices are climbing, and simplistically conclude that ‘growth’ and ‘development’ is at hand. But what about other indices such as freedom of expression, women’s empowerment, respect for minorities, community organizing etc?

The recent natural disaster in Orissa caused misery and death to many thousands of people. It would be extremely irresponsible for anyone to consider it a vindication from God. People, irrespective of their caste, colour or creed, rose to the occasion and generously contributed food, medicine, clothes and money to those in need. The relief work is still continuing. It is this generous and open attitude, innate among Indians that makes India a nation of great people. It is our hope for the future.

Our special thanks go to Saji Thomas of Vigil India and Maria Dass of BUILD for helping to source many of the articles.