The rise of right-wing conservatism across many parts of the world can largely be attributed to widespread frustration with liberal immigration policies and a perceived tolerance for socio-cultural breakdowns. This discontent has catalyzed a significant political shift, propelling many voters toward right-wing parties. At its core, this movement is driven by concerns over social cohesion, economic stability, and the preservation of national identity. In India, for instance, the recent surge of right-wing politics, led predominantly by parties like the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), reflects a pushback against what many see as Westernized or secular liberal values-values that often guarantee rights even to groups espousing violence, which many feel do not align with traditional Indian cultural and religious identities. This trend mirrors similar patterns observed in countries across the globe, where right-wing conservatism has re-emerged as a reaction against perceived overreach of liberalism. While liberalism seeks to uphold principles of inclusivity and human rights, these ideals have sometimes faced resistance from citizens who believe their own economic security, cultural heritage, and sovereignty are under threat. Escalating incidents, such as terrorist attacks involving individuals from immigrant backgrounds, have further fueled these fears. Such events intensify anxieties about security and identity, prompting many to favor more restrictive immigration controls. Liberalism, fundamentally rooted in values of individual freedom, equality, and embracing diverse perspectives, is not without internal contradictions. Many religious communities claim to support liberal ideals but find themselves unable to endorse certain laws-such as those promoting same-sex marriage-when these conflict with their religious doctrines. Simultaneously, liberals themselves are divided over issues like transgender rights, which challenge deep-seated societal norms about gender. The phenomenon of “woke culture” in the West serves as a cautionary tale. Critics argue that it dangerously erodes essential boundaries, distorting core rights and fueling extreme tendencies rather than fostering genuine inclusivity. Instead of uniting society, it risks polarization and undermines the very principles it seeks to uphold. In response, right-wing parties often advocate for more stringent vetting processes and reduced immigration from certain regions to address these fears. To many native citizens, the large-scale presence of immigrant populations signifies a shift in long-standing cultural practices, languages, and social norms. When societal traditions seem to be in flux, conservative leaders appeal to the electorate by emphasizing a return to core values and emphasizing the importance of preserving national identity. This resurgence of conservative ideologies underscores a broader tension-a constant balancing act between embracing inclusivity and respecting cultural and national boundaries. When fears about change, insecurity, and loss of identity dominate public discourse, right-wing narratives often gain momentum by appealing to a collective yearning for order, tradition, and pride in national heritage. For liberalism to continue thriving in India and serve as a genuine force for unity, it must address these complex challenges thoughtfully. It requires adopting a pragmatic stance-striking a delicate balance between safeguarding individual rights and respecting the sensibilities of communities. This balanced approach could serve as a vital bridge, one that moderates extremes and fosters a society rooted in mutual respect and understanding. Recognizing and embracing this nuanced path might be the key to strengthening India’s democratic fabric amid ideological diversity.
Thursday, July 3, 2025