INDIA bloc formed to counter PM Modi's popularity, says MoS SP Singh Baghel (IANS Interview)
Chandigarh, June 1
On the sidelines of the closing ceremony of the 'Khelo Chandigarh Games', Union Minister of State SP Singh Baghel spoke withduring an interaction covering sports, politics and examination-related issues. Attending the event organised by the Chandigarh Sports Cell, the Minister expressed his gratitude to the organisers and the thousands of children who enthusiastically participated.
During the interaction, MoS Baghel touched upon the transformative social impact of sports under the current administration, the volatile nature of opposition coalitions and the government's stance on examination malpractices.
Excerpts:
IANS: The 'Khelo Chandigarh Games' saw an overwhelming response today with thousands of young participants. How do you view the significance of organising such mega sporting events at the grassroots level?
SP Singh Baghel: Sports is a unique and deeply transformative phenomenon. Historically, it has been one of the most powerful tools in helping society combat deep-rooted evils such as untouchability. If we look back 50 years, when untouchability was rampant across communities, the playing field was one of the few spaces where people from different castes broke barriers, drank water from the same bucket and shared common facilities.
Our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, is the first leader in the country's history to champion sports as a national priority through the Khelo India initiative. We all grew up hearing the old adage that education alone was the route to social mobility and recognition. Today, that narrative has evolved. We are witnessing an era where those who dedicate themselves to sports and athletics can attain similar status, respect and national distinction.
Furthermore, there is a direct social benefit -- wherever sports flourish, local crime rates and drug abuse tend to decline. Sports are vital for the holistic well-being of the nation. When the youth of a country shed their sweat on the playing fields today, the citizens of that country will not have to shed tears of disappointment tomorrow during elite international competitions such as the Olympics, the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games.
IANS: Shifting to the political landscape, how do you read the strategies of the opposition's INDIA alliance and Rahul Gandhi's political roadmap ahead of upcoming challenges?
SP Singh Baghel: Many centuries ago, the great strategist Chanakya remarked that when a ruler becomes immensely popular, rival alliances inevitably emerge against him, driven by the principle that "the enemy of my enemy is my friend".
This is precisely what the INDIA alliance represents. It is not an alliance of shared ideology; it is a temporary coalition stitched together to withstand what I describe as the electoral flood of Prime Minister Modi's popularity. History shows that once such political floodwaters recede, the constituent parties return to their separate political paths.
IANS: There has been severe political friction and public outrage regarding the recent physical attack on Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee. What is your stand on this?
SP Singh Baghel: I firmly believe that there is no place for violence in a civilised and functioning democracy. Democratic systems have historically punished those who resort to violence.
While political violence should have zero tolerance in our system, the state's Chief Minister has taken strict administrative action in this specific case. Those found guilty of the assault have been swiftly arrested and brought to justice, which is exactly how the law must operate.
IANS: The country is currently grappling with anxieties surrounding national competitive examinations and paper leaks. What is the Union government doing to restore student confidence?
SP Singh Baghel: Let me be unequivocally clear -- national examinations must be conducted with complete transparency. The hard work of students and the integrity of examination results must not be compromised under any circumstances, and we will ensure that they are not.
The government is fully committed to conducting all future examinations with integrity, fairness and systemic transparency. Strict and exemplary action will be taken against any individual, official or organised entity found to be involved in such malpractices.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The part about exam paper leaks hits home. My cousin spent two years preparing for NEET and the anxiety during exam season is real. Government needs to be more proactive, not just talk after leaks happen. But at least they're acknowledging the problem now. Hope we see concrete action, not just statements.
As someone who follows Indian politics from abroad, it's interesting to see the Chanakya reference. The INDIA alliance does seem fragile - like Congress, TMC, SP, they're all rivals normally. But Baghel ji's criticism seems selective. The NDA also has parties with different ideologies. Pot calling kettle black? 🤔
Great to see sports getting priority. I remember when playing sports was seen as "wasting time" by parents. Now kids have role models like Neeraj Chopra. But the political talk is just typical pre-election noise. Every party claims they're the only real choice. Let's focus on what matters - transparent exams and better sports infrastructure.
The violence comment is important. No matter which party, attacking political workers is wrong. But Baghel ji should also condemn violence against opposition workers in BJP-ruled states if he's serious about zero tolerance. Selective condemnation undermines the message. Still, glad he took a clear stand on paper leaks - students deserve fair exams.
Baghel ji's point about sports reducing crime and drugs is actually backed by research. In my locality, kids who play regular sports are less likely to get into trouble. Khelo India is a solid initiative
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.