Content:
1. Pakistan at the UNSC, the points of its compass
2. The missing spotlight on urban local government polls
Pakistan at the UNSC, The Points of Its Compass
Context : On January 1, 2025, Pakistan will enter the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as an elected non-permanent member for a two-year term, marking its eighth term on the Council.
Relevance: GS 2( International Relations)
Practice Question: Discuss the implications of Pakistan elected as non permanent member at UNSC on India.(150 Words)
- Elected Member: Pakistan joins the UNSC as a non-permanent member for the 8th time.
- OIC Representation: Half of the 10 elected members belong to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
- Focus on Afghanistan: Likely to prioritize relations with the Taliban, with support from Russia and China.
- Gaza Conflict: OIC bloc may push for a ceasefire and stabilization in the Gaza region.
- Peacekeeping Role: Pakistan emphasizes its contributions as a major troop-contributing country.
- India-Focused Stance: Significant attention will likely be directed toward anti-India activities.
Anti-India Agenda
- Default Mode: Pakistan will attempt to label India as a state sponsor of terrorism while evading its own reputation as a “terrorist state.”
- UNSC Resolution 1267: India’s success in listing Abdul Rehman Makki as a terrorist was a setback for Pakistan.
- Kashmir Narrative: Pakistan will push discussions on Jammu & Kashmir, leveraging closed-door consultations with China.
- Counter-Moves: India effectively counters Pakistan’s initiatives, supported by most P-5 members.
Islamophobia as a Tactic
- Dilution of Terrorism Fight: Pakistan attempts to use Islamophobia to justify terrorism.
- UN Actions: India successfully resisted Pakistan’s attempts to link Islamophobia to terrorism at the UNSC in 2021 and 2023.
Misuse of UNSC
- Indus Waters Treaty: Pakistan raised a bilateral issue in the UNSC for domestic political purposes.
- Arria Formula Misuse: Pakistan may exploit informal mechanisms for anti-India rhetoric.
Multilateral Synergies Ignored
- Similar Interests Ignored: Despite shared interests in peacekeeping, climate change, and debt relief, Pakistan avoids cooperation with India.
- Internal Issues: Political instability and economic challenges hinder Pakistan’s constructive multilateral engagement.
India’s Response Strategy
- Robust Role: During its 2021-22 UNSC term, India maintained a positive focus on international peace and security.
- Countering Propaganda: India must anticipate Pakistan’s anti-India drafts and mobilize support from friendly nations.
- Preparedness on Kashmir: India should remain vigilant against Pakistan’s attempts to bring Kashmir into UNSC discussions.
China’s Role in Pakistan’s UNSC Term
- Strategic Support: China, Pakistan’s “iron brother,” is likely to back Pakistan’s anti-India agenda.
- J&K Advocacy: China has previously acted as Pakistan’s ally in pushing for UNSC discussions on Jammu & Kashmir, though with limited success.
- PoK Connection: China occupies a part of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and will support Pakistan to maintain influence in the region.
- Geopolitical Alignment: Both nations leverage their alliance to counterbalance India’s influence in multilateral forums.
- Global Power Dynamics: China’s permanent member status allows it to shield Pakistan from unfavorable UNSC outcomes, such as vetoing anti-terrorism designations.
- Expanding Influence: China supports Pakistan to align its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) interests, some of which pass through disputed PoK territory.
The Missing Spotlight On Urban Local Government Polls
Context : Objectives of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act remain unrealized even after 30 years.
Relevance: GS 2(Local Governance)
Practice Question:Discuss the significance of Urban Local Governments (ULGs) in the context of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act. Highlight the challenges they face and suggest measures (250 Words)
Role of Urban Local Governments (ULGs):
- ULGs ensure decentralized governance and deliver civic services.
- Mandated by the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) to strengthen local democracy.
Neglect in Simultaneous Elections (ONOE) Discussions:
- 2015 Parliament Standing Committee Report on simultaneous elections excluded ULGs.
- 2017 NITI Aayog Discussion Paper cited “State subject” status and logistical impracticality.
- 2018 Law Commission Report upheld similar reasoning.
- 2024 High-Level Committee (HLC) recommended ULG elections within 100 days of Lok Sabha/State Assembly elections, marking a shift.
Importance of ULGs:
- India has over 4,800 ULGs, serving nearly 40% of the population (expected to exceed 50% by 2050).
- Cities contribute 60%+ to India’s GDP, underscoring their economic and social significance.
- Regular elections are essential for effective governance and representation.
Issues with ULG Elections:
Delays in Elections:
- Constitutional mandate for elections every 5 years often violated.
- CAG (2024) reports delays in over 60% of ULGs across India.
- Direct State government control undermines decentralization and accountability.
Post-Election Delays:
- Delays in operationalizing elected councils.
- Karnataka example: 11-month delay in council formation after results.
Disempowerment of State Election Commissions (SECs):
- SECs face challenges in ward delimitation and reservation processes.
- Only 4 of 15 States assessed have empowered SECs for ward delimitation (CAG, 2024).
- Delays often due to State government actions or legal disputes.
Recommendations and Reforms:
- Build on the HLC’s recommendations to synchronize ULG elections.
- Empower SECs for independent ward delimitation and reservation processes.
- Ensure regular and timely elections to strengthen local democracy.
- Government of India to consult stakeholders and implement reforms through an action plan.
Way Forward:
- ONOE discourse offers an opportunity to address gaps in ULG elections.
- Ensuring vibrant local democracy is crucial for the nation’s growth and urban governance.
