DEBUNKING K-SHAPED RECOVERY: WHY THE SBI’S NEW REPORT GETS IT ALL WRONG ABOUT INDIA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH

THE CONTEXT: The Economic Research Department of the State Bank of India (SBI) recently published its study Debunking K-shaped recovery.

WHAT IS K-SHAPED RECOVERY?

A K-shaped recovery occurs when, following a recession, different parts of the economy recover at different rates, times, or magnitudes. It refers to a situation where some sectors of the economy revive after slowdown or recession while others don’t. It means not all sectors/parts of the economy are recovering.
This is in contrast to an even, uniform recovery across sectors, industries, or groups of people.
A K-shaped recovery leads to changes in the structure of the economy or the broader society as economic outcomes and relations are fundamentally changed before and after the recession.
This type of recovery is called K-shaped because the path of different parts of the economy when charted together may diverge, resembling the two arms of the Roman letter “K.”

SBI REPORT’S ARGUMENTS

Positive Emerging Patterns: It highlights patterns of income, savings, consumption, expenditure and policy measures aimed at public welfare.
Parameters under Scrutiny: The report challenges traditional parameters used to assess economic well-being. It questions the use of old parameters like low two-wheeler sales or fragmented land holdings.
New Considerations: It highlights patterns in income, savings, consumption, expenditure, and policy measures designed to empower the masses through technology-driven solutions, questioning the reliance on outdated indicators like 2-wheeler sales or land holdings.
Rising Disposable Incomes in Non-Metro Areas: It cites data from Zomato as an example of rising disposable income in non-metro areas.
Decrease in Inequality: It refers to the income tax data for FY22 to note that the Gini coefficient had declined significantly from 0.472 to 0.402 between FY14 and FY22.
It highlights that 36.3% of individual tax return filers belonging to the lowest income in FY14 have left the lowest income group and shifted upwards.

A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

Not representative: The research of SBI is not representative of the Indian economy, it also brings out a newly-destined ‘narrative’. It just focuses on the “privileged” formal sector that, going by various estimates, has recorded impressive growth.
Contrasting Reports: In 2022, another report, “The State of Inequality in India,” commissioned by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, highlighted rising inequality in the country. It noted that an individual earning a monthly wage of Rs 25,000 was among the top 10% of earners, underscoring the stark income disparities.
High Welfare Spending indicated Economic distress: The government has been forced to extend the scheme of subsidized food grain to 800 million Indians.
Tax Data does not reflect Broader Economy: Only a very small minority of people pay direct income tax. Hence, it is not reasonable to draw conclusions from tax data about broader inequality. Income tax data is nominal and is affected by overall inflation, thus making it unviable for drawing conclusions.

THE WAY FORWARD:

Increase government spending: The government must spend where necessary to alleviate the concerns in the most troubled areas of the economy.
Addressing debt issues: There is a need for a credible target for the country’s consolidated debt with the setting up of an independent fiscal council to put forward on the quality of the budget would be a great step.
Include budgetary resources: Budgetary resources needs to be expanded through asset sales, including parts of government enterprises and surplus government land.
Analysing data: The shape of economic recovery is not an exact science, but the predictions help governments, investors, and consumers alike in planning monetary policies and investments.

THE CONCLUSION:

The recent SBI research provides a unique perspective on India’s economic recovery and inequality but its focus on a limited sample from the formal sector raises concerns about its representativeness. There is a need to emphasis on more comprehensive understanding of the diverse economic landscape in India.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION

Q. Do you agree that the Indian economy has recently experienced V-shaped recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer. (2021)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. ‘Recent SBI report has debunked the theory that India has experienced K-shaped economic recovery in the post-pandemic era’. Examine.

SOURCE:https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/economy/debunking-k-shaped-recovery-why-the-sbi-s-new-report-gets-it-all-wrong-about-india-s-economic-growth-94086#:~:text=The%20Economic%20Research%20Department%20of,of%20the%20economy%20are%20recovering.

THE ISSUE OF GENOCIDE AND THE WORLD COURT

THE CONTEXT: There are ongoing proceedings in the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where the Republic of South Africa has instituted proceedings against Israel. South Africa argues that Israel’s military operations in Gaza violate the International Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. The case has generated debate and divided countries, with some supporting South Africa’s application and others opposing it.

ISSUES:

South Africa’s application against Israel in the ICJ: The Republic of South Africa has brought a case against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ), alleging violations of the Genocide Convention due to Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
International legal context: Genocide is considered a serious international crime, and every state should prevent genocide from occurring. South Africa argues that it has standing to bring the case to the ICJ based on this obligation.
Plausibility of genocide: Demonstrating the existence of genocide requires specific intent, which can be challenging. South Africa’s request for provisional measures aims to show a plausible case for genocide by highlighting Palestinian suffering, deaths, destruction, and genocidal statements made by Israeli politicians and soldiers.
Israel’s defense: Israel argues that there is no dispute between the parties and that the statements made are open to interpretation. It claims its military operation is limited to targeting Hamas in response to their attacks.
Potential provisional measures: If the ICJ finds South Africa’s case plausible, it may issue provisional measures to protect the parties’ rights. Suggestions for such measures include an immediate cessation of hostilities, allowing the entry of food and resources into Gaza, a humanitarian ceasefire, or directing Israeli leaders to refrain from making genocidal statements.
The role of the ICC: While the ICJ proceedings focus on Israel, Hamas officials can be proceeded against at the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is a separate body. The ICC’s involvement requires the situation in Palestine/Israel to be referred for investigation, which has already been done.
International division: The split between countries supporting or opposing South Africa’s application appears to follow a divide between former colonial or imperial powers and other countries, questioning the legitimacy of international law and the rules-based international order.
Impact on the rules-based international order: The ICJ’s decision in this case will address the situation in Gaza and test the effectiveness and legitimacy of the rules-based international order. How nation-states respond to the ICJ’s actions will determine the strength of this order?

THE WAY FORWARD:

Addressing the Plausibility of Genocide: The ICJ should carefully evaluate the evidence presented by South Africa and Israel to determine whether a plausible case for genocide exists. Upholding the credibility and integrity of the Genocide Convention is crucial.
Consideration of Provisional Measures: The ICJ should assess the potential impact of provisional measures on protecting the rights of both parties. While a complete cessation of military hostilities may be challenging to order, alternative measures such as facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid and enforcing a ceasefire can help alleviate the suffering in Gaza.
Inclusiveness and Accountability: The international community should ensure that both Israeli and Hamas officials are held accountable for any potential violations of international law. The ICC should continue its investigation into the situation in Palestine/Israel, providing an avenue for accountability and justice for all parties involved.
Addressing the Divide between Nations: Nations with differing perspectives, particularly formerly colonial or imperial powers, should engage in constructive dialogue to bridge the gap and find common ground. Moving beyond historical divisions and working towards a just and inclusive global legal framework is essential.
Legitimacy of International Law: The outcome of the ICJ proceedings will have far-reaching implications for the legitimacy of international law. The ICJ must uphold the rule of law, ensure fairness, and demonstrate the effectiveness of the international legal system in addressing serious crimes such as genocide.
Strengthening the Rules-Based International Order: The ICJ’s actions and the response of nation-states will determine the strength of the rules-based international order. Countries must respect and abide by international law, support multilateral institutions, and cooperate to resolve disputes and achieve lasting peace.
Promoting Dialogue and Diplomacy States should prioritize diplomatic efforts and dialogue to de-escalate tensions and reach a peaceful resolution. International mediation and negotiation processes can provide a platform for constructive discussions, fostering understanding, and finding mutually acceptable solutions.
Humanitarian Aid and Reconstruction Efforts: The international community should support and actively participate in humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. This includes providing financial assistance, resources, and expertise to help rebuild infrastructure, facilitate access to necessities, and promote long-term development.
Promoting Human Rights and Respect for International Law: Nations must uphold their obligations under international human rights law, including protecting civilians and safeguarding fundamental rights. International cooperation and collaboration are vital in promoting and enforcing human rights principles.

THE CONCLUSION:

The focus on the alleged violation of the Genocide Convention in Israel’s military operations in Gaza raises important legal and humanitarian questions. The outcome of this case will not only impact the situation in Gaza but also test the credibility and effectiveness of the international legal system. The ICJ’s ruling on provisional measures and its eventual decision will provide valuable insights into the legitimacy of the rules-based international order and the pursuit of justice on a global scale.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 The Russia and Ukraine war has been going on for the last seven months. Different countries have taken independent stands and actions, keeping in view their own national interests. We are all aware that war has its own impact on the different aspects of society, including human tragedy. What ethical issues are crucial to consider while launching the war and its continuation so far? Illustrate with justification the ethical issues involved in the given situation. (2022)

Q.2 Refugees should not be turned back to the country where they would face prosecution or human rights violation.” Examine the statement about the ethical dimension violated by the nation claiming to be democratic with an open society. (2021)

Q.3 The will to power exits, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty.’ Examine this statement in the context of international relations. (2020)

Q.4 Strength, peace, and security are considered pillars of international relations. Elucidate. (2017)

MAINS QUESTION FRAMED:

Q.1 Does the split between countries, particularly between former colonial powers and non-colonial powers, reflect a disregard for ethical considerations in international relations? Discuss with relevant examples.

THE SOURCE:

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-issue-of-genocide-and-the-world-court/article67773539.ece

AS MODI MEETS MACRON, THE CHALLENGES THAT THEY WILL NEED TO REFLECT ON

THE CONTEXT: French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India aims to strengthen bilateral ties, with the focus not just on ceremonial aspects but on concrete geopolitical and security discussions amidst changing global dynamics, such as the Ukraine conflict, Middle East tensions, and anticipation of potential policy shifts with the possible return of Donald Trump to U.S. presidency. The visit seeks progress on previously established agreements, especially ‘Horizon 2047’ and France’s support to India in Asian deterrence capabilities.

ISSUES:

Broader implications for regional security: India’s role in European security and France’s support for Indian defense capabilities. Protecting maritime trade in West Asia considering potential changes to US military commitment.
Regional and International Challenges: The stalled Ukrainian counter-offensive and the renewed debate on European security. Increasing tensions in the Middle East, including the Israel-Hamas conflict and attacks on Red Sea shipping by Houthis, impact the global economy. The potential return of Donald Trump to the White House is causing unease due to his America First policies and implications for international alliances, climate change, and global trade policies.
US Politics and its global role: The impact of Trump’s possible second term on NATO and European security. India needs to manage the consequences of Trump’s regional and global policies. Reassessment of commitments to climate change and renegotiation terms with allies under Trump’s governance.
Ideological and Strategic autonomy: The relevance of a multipolar world in the event of American retrenchment from international affairs. The concept of strategic autonomy for India and France in maintaining an independent foreign policy.
Security and Stability Concerns: There are concerns of bringing peace to Ukraine and establishing a stable security order in Central Europe and India’s contribution to European security amid changing US dynamics. At the same time, there are concerns over France’s role in enhancing India’s defense capabilities to deter war in Asia and strategies to protect Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) in West Asian waters if the US reduces its presence.

THE WAY FORWARD:

Strategic Bilateral Cooperation: Enhance defense cooperation by finalizing pending deals on Rafale Marine aircraft, Scorpene submarines, and technology transfers. Progressively implement the ‘Horizon 2047’ framework with clear benchmarks and timelines to measure advancements.
Regional Stability and Crisis Management: Engage in diplomatic efforts for conflict resolution in Ukraine, exploring avenues for peaceful negotiation and stabilization in Central Europe. Increase maritime security collaboration between India and France to safeguard critical Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs).
Adapting to Global Power Shifts: Assess the impact of potential shifts in US foreign policy and recalibrate India-France strategic priorities accordingly. Foster cooperation between regional powers to form a coordinated approach towards maintaining stability in Eurasia.
Multilateral Engagement and Climate Action: Strengthen multilateral institutions to ensure a collective response to global challenges such as climate change. Uphold commitments to international climate agreements and initiatives irrespective of changes in US policies.
Enhancing Economic and Trade Relations: Diversify trade partnerships to mitigate risks from unilateral tariffs and promote open markets. Facilitate technology exchanges and collaborations in emerging green energy and digital innovation sectors.
Reinforcing Strategic Autonomy: Cultivate independent foreign policies that align with national interests, balancing relations with major powers like the US, Russia, and China. Work towards a multipolar world order that acknowledges various nations’ sovereignty and distinct strategic perspectives.
Long-term Regional Power Dynamics: Regional powers must address current crises and develop strategies for stabilizing Eurasia and its waters, where the US might reduce its traditional role of ensuring Eurasian security. Protecting maritime trade in West Asia consider potential changes to US military commitment.

THE CONCLUSION:

India and France’s collaboration is crucial for tackling geopolitical challenges in today’s changing global landscape. Strategic discussions and agreements between Delhi and Paris can counter shifts in American foreign policy. It can reinforce the vision of a multipolar world order and ensure regional strength in the face of global uncertainties.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q 1) ‘The time has come for India and Japan to build a strong contemporary relationship involving global and strategic partnerships that will have great significance for Asia and the world.’ Comment. (2019)

Q 2) What introduces friction in the ties between India and the United States is that Washington can still not find a position in its global strategy for India that would satisfy India’s national self-esteem and ambitions. Explain with suitable examples. (2019)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q 1) Discuss the evolving regional and international context and its implications for India and France regarding their foreign policy priorities and strategic partnerships.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/narendra-modi-emmanuel-macron-meeting-india-france-challenges-9123612/

LIMITS AND BORDERS: ON THE TERRITORIAL JURISDICTION OF THE BORDER SECURITY FORCE

THE CONTEXT: Punjab has filed a suit against the Union government under Article 131 of the Constitution, challenging the decision to increase the operational jurisdiction of the Border Security Force (BSF). The Supreme Court is set to hear the dispute over the expansion of the BSF jurisdiction in Punjab.

MORE ON THE NEWS:

In October 2021, the Ministry of Home Affairs had issued a notification under the provisions of the BSF Act, standardising the area over which the BSF would have jurisdiction to operate. In Punjab, West Bengal and Assam, the distance was raised from within 15 km from the border to 50 km, while it was reduced from 80 km to 50 km in Gujarat. For Rajasthan, it was kept unchanged at 50 km.
The Union government said in a reply in the Rajya Sabha in December 2021 that the extension of the BSF’s jurisdiction will help it discharge its border patrol duty more effectively.
The notification states that, within this larger 50-kilometre jurisdiction, the BSF can only exercise powers under the Criminal Procedure Code, the Passport (Entry into India) Act and the Passports Act. For other central legislations, the 15-km limit remains.
It was claimed that the notification makes the BSF jurisdiction uniform across states, as the 50-kilometre limit was already in place in Rajasthan. The same notification reduced the jurisdiction in Gujarat from 80 km to 50 km.

What are the issues that the Supreme Court will consider?

The state of Punjab filed an ‘original suit’ against the central government in the Supreme Court in December 2021.
The Supreme Court has ‘original jurisdiction’ in disputes between the central government and states under Article 131 of the Constitution, which means cases of this kind can only be heard for the first time at the SC “to the exclusion of any other court”.
The court will decide if the notification expanding the jurisdiction of the BSF was arbitrary or backed by legitimate reasons.
Further, the court will determine if this notification interferes with the powers of the local police and encroaches upon states powers under the Constitution.
The SC will also decide what factors have to be considered when deciding which areas are “within the local limits of such area adjoining the borders of India” and whether all states must be treated alike when determining these local limits.
Finally, the court will decide if the notification can be challenged through an original suit under Article 131 of the Constitution.

BORDER SECURITY FORCES AND THEIR MANDATE

The BSF was created after the enactment of the Border Security Force Act in September 1968. The BSF mainly focuses on preventing trans-border crimes, especially unauthorised entry into or exit from Indian territory.
The BSF is empowered to arrest, search and seize under a number of laws, such as the Criminal Procedure Code, the Passports Act, the Passport (Entry into India) Act, and the NDPS Act etc.
Section 139(1) of the BSF Act allows the central government, through an order, to designate an area “within the local limits of such area adjoining the borders of India” where members of the BSF can exercise powers to prevent offenses under any Acts that the central government may specify.
It does not have the power to investigate or prosecute offenders but has to hand over those arrested, and the contraband seized from them to the local police.

ISSUES

Breach of federal principles: This attempt of centre is being seen as a breach of federal principles and an encroachment into the law and order powers of the state police. Therefore, states have got resolutions passed in their Assemblies against the expansion and here, Supreme Court’s decision to examine the questions that arise from the expansion of the BSF’s area of operations acquires significance.
Not proper consultation: Litigation concerning the territorial jurisdiction of the Border Security Force (BSF) in the states seems to be the result of the lack of effective consultation between the central and State governments.
Issue of public order: The state government claimed that expanding the jurisdiction of the BSF would compromise the state’s exclusive powers to legislate on matters involving the police and public order. These powers are provided in Entries 1 and 2 of the State List under Article 246 of the Constitution.
Issue specific to Punjab: The notification has specific concerns related to Punjab. It is claimed that in Punjab, a large number of cities and towns would fall within this 50-kilometre jurisdiction, whereas in Gujarat and Rajasthan, most areas along the international border are sparsely populated.
Affecting Functioning of BSF:Policing in the hinterland is not the role of a border guarding force, rather it would weaken the capacity of the BSF in discharging its primary duty of guarding the international border.

THE WAY FORWARD:

Consultation with state: Centre must consult states before making decisions that affects their powers, given the security condition in India’s neighbourhood. Before the Union Government deploys its armed forces, it is desirable that the State Government should be consulted, wherever feasible.
Ensuring federal principles: Whether or not the Union government have valid reasons for its move, it should not encroach into the domain of the State governments.
Adequate reasons for expansion: It is being argued that the expanded jurisdiction merely authorises the BSF to conduct more searches and seizures, especially in cases in which the offenders manage to enter deep into the country’s territory. However, there needs to be adequate and strong reasons for the expansion of the jurisdiction of any central force.
Regional Arrangement: A regional arrangement can be ensured for the use of Armed forces in neighbouring states in case of need. The Zonal Council would be the best forum for achieving consensus of the States within a zone for devising such an arrangement.
Complementing local police: This move can help in complementing the efforts of the local police as an enabling provision. As, the state police have better knowledge of the ground, hence, BSF and local Police can act in cooperation.

THE CONCLUSION:

Though enhanced presence and powers of Border Security Forces aims to strengthen India’s security in border areas, cautious attempts need to be taken to ensure that nation’s security and territorial integrity is upheld by both Centre and the States while upholding the federal principles at the same time.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q. Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management. (2016)

Q. Analyse internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also, discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (2020)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Keeping in view the recent decision to increase the operational jurisdiction of the Border Security Forces (BSF), analyse its implications with regard to federal principles and internal security of the country.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/limits-and-borders-on-the-territorial-jurisdiction-of-the-border-security-force/article67769125.ece

FCRA SHOULD BE AN INSTRUMENT OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY NOT OF SECURITY

THE CONTEXT: The cancellation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license of Centre for Policy Research (CPR), one of the country’s famed think tanks, on the charges of multiple violations raises several critical questions.

CENTRE FOR POLICY RESEARCH (CPR)

It is founded in 1973 and is a “non-profit, non-partisan, independent institution dedicated to conducting research that contributes to high quality scholarship, better policies, and a more robust public discourse about the issues that impact life in India”.
It is a member of the Indian Council of Social Science Research and is recognised by the Department of Science and Technology.
Its funders have included the government of India, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Ford Foundation, among many others in India and abroad.
An FCRA registration is necessary to obtain foreign funding. The CPR used to raise more than 75% of its funds from outside India. By suspending its FCRA licence, the government had effectively crippled its finances.

THE FCRA SINCE 1976

The FCRA was brought during the Emergency in 1976 in a bid to create surveillance regime for the NGOs and put it under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
For all such entities receiving foreign funds through foundations, corporate grants and so on, the FCRA license administered by the MHA became obligatory.
It has not only continued thereafter but has also become a permanent feature for the scrutiny of foreign funds for such entities. The FCRA has been amended four times since then.
In 2010, the government tightened the FCRA in the wake of anti-nuclear protests driven by some human rights bodies in Tamil Nadu’s Kudankulam that were receiving foreign funds.
Since the accountability of the voluntary sector in financial matters was questioned, the P.V. Narasimha Rao (1991-96) government had provided a window to them to explain, interact and cooperate with the government.

ISSUES

Hindering the work of civil societies: Recent charges on CPR such as ‘hurting India’s economic interests’ by alleged ‘mis-utilisation of funds received from foreign sources for organising protests’ are serious. The state surveillance of its activities has been on since 2014. On September 7, 2022 it was subjected to an Income Tax survey and its IT exemption was cancelled on 30 June 2023. It eventually got redressal, both, from the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court. It is now left with just the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) grant since it is one of the 24 ICSSR funded institutes.
Ambiguities: Entities such as CPR are created by societies registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. It permits a group of desirous persons to register a society for literary, scientific and charitable purposes, framing a memorandum of associations and rules for its functioning. A very broad spectrum of societies is registered under this Act, that creates anomalies at times which is used by government for charging NGOs for violating the terms of registration and memorandum of association.
Funding administration: The concerns regarding the transfer and use of the funds, including administrative heads, are more contentious. Rigid categorisation often does not work with such bodies as they do not generate a separate administrative grant. When some related expenses are adjusted against foreign grants, it gives the political dispensation an opportunity to ask uncomfortable questions and cancel the FCRA license.
Increase in foreign funding in India: There has been proliferation of NGOs for varied objectives in recent years. By the 1990s there were efforts to redefine NGOs as voluntary or civil society organisations. However, there are very few funding sources within India and corporate philanthropy has been limited in India. Thus, foreign funding of such entities became routine in India.
Distrust against the voluntary sector: The love-hate relationship between the government and the NGOs has continued in India with each regime. CPR and such institutions have been under scrutiny for years, irrespective of their emergence as an important segment of international developmental initiatives.

THE WAY FORWARD

Transparent mechanism: Since the civil societies are a significant part of international and the Indian social life, they must function within the structures of accountability created by the government, which must also be uniform and transparent.
Free civic space: A free civic space without undue interference from the state or other actors is the need of the hour to enable the citizen to participate in public affairs, express their views, and hold the government accountable.
Financial accountability: Amending the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) with some relevant clauses for the social sector could maintain financial accountability without bringing in security considerations for organisations.
Strengthen oversight mechanism: There is a need for strengthen the oversight mechanisms to prevent any potential misuse of foreign contributions. NGOs should as well be encouraged to provide clear and detailed reports on the utilization of foreign funds, ensuring that purposes and beneficiaries are explicitly disclosed.

THE CONCLUSION:

Advocating for the protection of constitutional freedoms and reviewing stringent laws impacting NGOs is the need of the hour. At the same time, there is a need for raising awareness about the importance of civic space in preserving India’s democracy.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION

Q. Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organisations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative model. (2022)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. The constitutional freedom of India’s diverse and vibrant civil society is under challenge. Analyse this statement with regard to recent cancellation of Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license of civil societies.

Q. Government wielding of Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA)as a blunt instrument shrinks vital space for NGOs, civil society. Comment.

SOURCE: https://thewire.in/law/fcra-should-be-an-instrument-of-financial-accountability-not-of-security#:~:text=FCRA%20Should%20Be%20an%20Instrument%20of%20Financial%20Accountability%20Not%20of%20Security,-law&text=Amending%20the%20Foreign%20Exchange%20Management,in%20security%20considerations%20for%20organisations.