Modi Honoured Amidst Nation-Wide Riots: France’s Bastille Day in the Shadow

Modi honoured for France‘s Bastille Day in shadow of nationwide riots

Introduction

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of honor for France‘s Bastille Day celebrations on Friday, amidst ongoing nationwide riots. The celebrations are set to take place under tight security, with 45,000 police deployed across the country. The choice to honor Modi reflects the deepening ties between France and India, who are celebrating 25 years of “strategic partnership.” Despite differences on various issues, Western democracies are increasingly courting India as a military and economic counterweight to China.

France-India Ties

The honoring of Modi on Bastille Day signifies the strengthening relationship between France and India. The Indian defense ministry recently announced plans to procure more French-made Rafale fighter jets and submarines, solidifying the defense ties between the two countries. Both France and India see each other as important strategic partners and are keen to further enhance their cooperation.

India’s Rising Profile

India, under Modi‘s leadership, has seen significant economic growth and is playing an increasingly influential role on the global stage. Macron, in his remarks, referred to India as “a giant of world history” that will play a decisive role in the future. Modi, in his speech to Indians living in France, highlighted India’s democratic values and diversity as its strengths. However, India’s rise on the international stage has not come without criticism.

Riots and Security Measures

The Bastille Day celebrations are taking place in the backdrop of nationwide riots in France. The riots were triggered by the fatal police shooting of a teenager in Paris, resulting in intense clashes and widespread violence. The French government has taken preventive measures to ensure the safety of the event, with firework sales banned and an increased deployment of police forces across the country. Some towns have even canceled their traditional firework displays due to fear of violence.

Political Response

The government’s security measures and cancellations have drawn criticism from the far-right opposition leader Marine Le Pen who sees it as a loss of confidence in the state. Le Pen argues that giving up on the national day celebrations due to fear of potential violence or riots is an admission of failure by the government.

Criticism of Modi

While being honored on Bastille Day, Modi‘s Hindu nationalist agenda has faced criticism both at home and abroad. The European Parliament passed a resolution urging India to end violence in Manipur state and to protect minorities, criticizing the nationalist rhetoric of Modi‘s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Critics argue that Modi is undermining India’s democratic institutions and deconstructing the diversity of the country.

Editorial and Advice

The choice to honor Modi on Bastille Day raises questions about the values and principles that should be celebrated on such occasions. While strengthening bilateral ties is important, it is crucial for France and other democracies to remain vigilant in upholding democratic values and human rights. Engaging with leaders like Modi should be accompanied by constructive criticism and pressure to address concerns regarding democratic institutions and protection of minority rights.

In light of the ongoing riots in France, it is imperative for the government to prioritize public safety and security. However, it is equally important to strike a balance between preventive measures and maintaining the spirit of national celebrations. Canceling traditional firework displays and limiting public transportation may be seen as a temporary solution, but it also reflects a wider issue of social unrest and dissatisfaction that needs to be addressed.

Conclusion

Modi being honored on France‘s Bastille Day comes at a time of ongoing riots in the country. It highlights the growing strategic partnership between France and India, as well as India’s rising influence on the global stage. However, the choice to honor Modi also invites criticism and discussion about the values and principles that should be celebrated. It is essential for democracies to engage with world leaders while also holding them accountable for upholding democratic institutions and protecting minority rights.