These are the questions I asked Meta this morning;
What would India be today if it had not attained Independence in 1947 ?
If India hadn’t gained independence in 1947, it would likely be a vastly different country today. For starters, it would probably still be a *Dominion of India*, with the British monarch as its head of state, and a governor-general representing the monarch in India. The country would have continued to be part of the British Commonwealth, with the British government maintaining a significant amount of control over its affairs.
India’s economy would likely be very different, with the British still exploiting its resources and controlling its trade. The country might not have experienced the same level of industrialization and economic growth that it did after independence. The *Indian National Congress*, which played a significant role in the country’s independence movement, might not have become the dominant political force that it is today.
The partition of India and Pakistan might not have occurred, or at least not in the same way, which means that the *Kashmir conflict* might not have arisen. The country’s demographics and cultural landscape would likely be very different, with potentially fewer tensions between Hindus and Muslims.
It’s also possible that India would not have become the *republic* that it is today, with a president as its head of state, and a constitution that guarantees certain fundamental rights to its citizens. The country’s foreign policy and international relations might also be very different, with potentially closer ties to the UK and other Western countries.
Overall, an India without independence in 1947 would be a country with a very different history, politics, economy, and culture. ¹
Would the world then have had the same respect for India as it does today if India had remained a British dominion state ?
No, the world’s respect for India would likely be different. As a British dominion state, India would be seen as a subordinate entity, lacking sovereignty and autonomy. Its global influence and reputation would be diminished, and it would likely be viewed as a junior partner to the UK.
What gives India the respect it deserves today from the world ?
India’s respect today comes from its independence, economic growth, cultural heritage, and global contributions, such as its role in the UN, space exploration, and IT industry.
What does India possess that the world doesn’t ?
India possesses a unique blend of ancient culture, spiritual heritage, and diverse traditions, as well as a thriving democracy, a large and growing economy, and a highly skilled and educated workforce.
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A friend of mine and I exchanged notes on the above.
Fascinating output given how these media outlets (that provide the data for AI) never stop pouring shit on India.
👍Yes… to me also the AI responses sounded so imperialistically and imperiously patronising . 🙏
Do you think I should’ve phrased my questions differently ?
You can try giving the question a negative spin asking why the world media hates India.
So , I continued talking to Meta .
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Why does the Western media hate India ?
I wouldn’t say the Western media “hates” India, but it often portrays India through a biased or stereotypical lens, focusing on poverty, corruption, and social issues, rather than its achievements and progress.
Why such portrayal ? What is gained ?
The biased portrayal is often due to a mix of historical prejudices, cultural misunderstandings, and a desire to perpetuate a narrative of Western superiority. It can also be driven by ratings and clicks, as sensationalized stories about India’s challenges can be more attention-grabbing than nuanced, balanced reporting.
Why doesn’t the media do the same to China ?
China’s economic and military power, as well as its diplomatic influence, make it a more sensitive topic for Western media to criticize. Additionally, China’s strict control over information and limited press freedom can make it more difficult for Western media to report critically on the country.
So India is easy prey for the western media ?
India’s open democracy and free press make it more vulnerable to criticism and scrutiny from Western media, which can sometimes be unfair or biased. India’s willingness to engage with the world and its relatively open society can make it an easier target for criticism.
Should India become more like China to be less vulnerable ?
No, India should not compromise its democratic values and freedoms to avoid criticism. Its openness and diversity are strengths, and it should continue to engage with the world while promoting a more nuanced understanding of its culture and achievements.
And continue tolerating the Western media’s onslaught on it ?
India should promote its own narrative and perspectives, and support independent media outlets to counterbalance biased reporting, rather than tolerating or restricting free speech.
So, in effect, the Western nations will have their cake and eat it too when it comes to India ?
Western nations often expect India to maintain its democratic values and open society, while also tolerating criticism and bias from their media, without reciprocal accountability or scrutiny.
But Western nations do not have similar expectations of China ? Why ? Scared of China ?
Yes, Western nations are more cautious in their criticism of China due to its economic and military power, as well as its willingness to assert its interests and push back against criticism.
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The bottom line for me is that India must now emulate China in its relations with the western nations .
Sudarshan Madabushi