India’s Stellar Achievements
India Lands on the Moon: Chandrayaan-3
A momentous occasion unfolded on August 23 when India achieved a historic milestone by entering the elite space club. Chandrayaan-3’s successful landing on the moon marked a significant leap in India’s space exploration endeavors. Becoming the fourth country to accomplish a moon landing and the first to land a spacecraft on the lunar south pole, this achievement resonated across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed it as “one of the most inspiring moments of this century,” sparking nationwide celebrations and reinforcing India’s prowess in space technology.
India Hosts G20 Summit
Delhi was bedecked in its finest for the grandeur of the G20 summit on September 9-10. This global congregation witnessed leaders from across the world converging in India’s capital city. Roads underwent refurbishments, fountains adorned the landscape, and pavements received a facelift as the city prepared to host dignitaries. The summit’s outcomes were significant, including the inclusion of the African Union in the grouping and the launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance. Notably, India secured the agreement on an economic corridor linking India, Gulf countries, and Europe, signaling a move towards sustainable biofuels and enhanced international cooperation.
New Parliament Building Inauguration
Another monumental event transpired in May as India unveiled its new Parliament building, adjacent to the old one. This new architectural marvel was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi, addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges posed by limited space in the previous building. The Lok Sabha chamber with 888 seats and the Rajya Sabha with 384 seats showcased modernized facilities and architectural brilliance, symbolizing India’s commitment to progress.
Turbulence and Controversies
Wrestlers’ Protest at Jantar Mantar
At the onset of the year, prominent wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, and Sakshi Malik led a protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Accusing Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, then-chief of the national wrestling federation and a BJP MP, of sexual harassment of women wrestlers, their allegations ignited a storm. Subsequently, the government initiated a probe against the ruling party MP. Despite the protests, the Asian Wrestling Championships scheduled in India were relocated to Kazakhstan. The issue persisted until June, when the wrestlers called off their protest following discussions with the government. Singh, facing serious charges, vehemently denied the allegations.
Political Arrests and Disqualification
The year witnessed political upheavals with the arrest of Manish Sisodia, Delhi’s former Deputy Chief Minister, in connection with a corruption case related to the city’s defunct liquor policy. His arrest, along with the earlier apprehension of AAP leader Satyendra Jain and later of AAP MP Sanjay Singh, dealt a blow to the Arvind Kejriwal government. Sisodia vehemently denied the allegations, attributing them to political motives and continually sought bail through legal channels.
In March, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi faced disqualification as an MP following a Gujarat court’s verdict in a defamation case concerning his remarks on the ‘Modi’ surname. The Congress and opposition vehemently protested the decision, and relief came when the Supreme Court stayed his conviction in August, reinstating him as an MP.
Gangster Atiq Ahmed’s Murder On Camera
The chilling daylight murder of witness Umesh Pal, involved in a former MLA’s murder case where Atiq Ahmed was an accused, made headlines in February. The shocking shooting, caught on camera, implicated several of Ahmed’s relatives. Subsequently, on April 15, Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were killed by individuals posing as journalists during a police-escorted medical check-up, raising questions about the efficacy of Uttar Pradesh police and the breach of security.
Khalistani Terrorist Amritpal Singh’s Arrest
Khalistani separatist leader Amritpal Singh, notorious for incendiary remarks, stormed a Punjab police station in February following the arrest of one of his associates. This prompted a Punjab police crackdown against the radical preacher, who presented himself akin to Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Allegedly propped up by Khalistani terror groups with the support of Pakistan’s ISI, Amritpal surrendered in April, facing serious charges under the National Security Act.
Manipur Violence and Ethnic Unrest
Ethnic tensions erupted in Manipur following a protest rally by a tribal students’ organization in hill districts. The catalyst was the Manipur High Court directive to the state government concerning the Meitie community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status. This directive triggered strong protests from tribal communities, culminating in ongoing unrest. Violent clashes between the Meities and Kuki-Zo communities resulted in over 180 casualties, highlighting the deep-rooted socio-cultural challenges in the region.
BJP’s Assembly Poll Sweep
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In a political development, the BJP clinched victories in heartland states Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh during the beginning of December. This electoral sweep served as a significant indicator preceding the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, setting the stage for a fierce political battleground.
Parliament Security Breach
The sanctity of Parliament was breached on December 13, when two intruders disrupted proceedings within Lok Sabha, deploying colored smoke canisters and jumping from desk to desk. The ensuing chaos led to their arrest, along with two associates who used colored smoke outside. Charged under the stringent anti-terror law, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, these events sought attention towards issues including the Manipur unrest, unemployment, and farmer concerns. However, a comprehensive investigation was underway to delve deeper into the matter.
In conclusion, India’s 2023 was a year of contrasting narratives—filled with stellar achievements in space and diplomacy alongside political controversies, distressing incidents, and unforeseen disruptions. These events have indelibly shaped the country’s trajectory, presenting a mosaic of triumphs, turmoil, and transformations, setting the stage for further societal introspection and political reckonings.
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