India’s Unity: A Historical Perspective on Balkanisation
India, a vast and diverse country, has often been compared to a jigsaw puzzle of various states, kingdoms, and empires. The question of whether India is prone to balkanisation is a complex one that has intrigued political and social thinkers throughout history. Let's delve into the historical roots and the current landscape of India's unity.
Historical Balkanisation and Unification
India's history is marked by periods of both unification and balkanisation. Throughout its vast history, the subcontinent was divided into numerous kingdoms, empires, and regional states that often fought each other, looted territories, and annexed regions. In contrast, instances of unified India have been rare. However, the Puranas mention the concept of Chakravarthy, or emperor, who would rule over territories from the Himalayas in the north to the oceans in the south, from Sindh in the west to Odisha in the east. This highlights the historical aspiration for unification.
Revisiting Unity during British Rule
It was not until after the British rule that efforts were made to bring India closer as a single entity. Vallabhbhai Patel, the Deputy Prime Minister of India, played a significant role in unifying the country. As the nation was drafting its constitution, emphasis was placed on unity with the first 4 articles of the constitution focusing on the union. The principles of unity have been central in shaping India's political ethos and are evident in phrases such as "India shall be a union of states" and "an indestructible union with destructible states."
Challenges to Unity in Modern India
In its early years as an independent nation, India faced significant challenges to its unity. South India demanded a separate federation, Punjab called for a Sikh state, and the northeast saw various separatist movements. However, the architects of the Indian constitution recognized the need for a strong central government to counter these divisive forces. The Indian state has always been committed to crushing calls for dividing the nation.
Although the nation has moved on from the phase where unity was most jeopardized, the idea of balkanisation still lingers in the minds of old, retired individuals or those deeply entrenched in historical thinking. In today’s context, balkanisation remains a distant thought, if it even enters one's mind at all.
Comparative Analysis with European Union
The ease of movement, employment, education, and the flexibility of a dual passport that the European Union offers envokes a sense of unity and freedom among its citizens. The borders are more accessible, and citizens can travel within the region with relative ease. The feeling of belonging to a larger union yet having the autonomy to maintain cultural and legal differences is a desirable concept for many.
As an Indian who now resides in the UK, one can appreciate the unique blend of “One Nation, One Anything/Everything” and the opposite. The Indian experience of unified identity coexisting with regional diversity is something that many outside observers admire and envy. The notion of a larger union for economics and security, while maintaining distinct identities, is a concept that continues to evolve in India.
Conclusion
The question of whether India is prone to balkanisation is multifaceted, with historical, political, and social dimensions. Despite the diverse and complex cultural and regional makeup, India’s unity remains a cornerstone of its identity. As India continues to grow and evolve, the emphasis on maintaining unity while allowing for regional diversity is crucial. The principles of cooperative federalism and the resilience of the central government in the face of internal aggressions ensure that India remains a cohesive and forward-looking nation.