Thursday, August 30, 2007

123 Agreement Boon or Bane

The 123 agreement between the United States of America and INDIA is said to be a monumental landmark. But not surprisingly the idiosyncrasies of Indian politics have got the better of it. The left (CPI[m] & CPI ) seem to oppose it because they just have too. As they are anti American and not because the deal is detrimental to the interests of the country, in its present state. It is true that the legislative intent of the Hyde act has been cleverly side stepped by careful wording in the 123 agreement. Which was brought to light by presidential democratic candidate Barrack Obama. Thus arises the question as to will the Americans live up to their end of the bargain?

This is Definitely up for debate as the, agreement would still has to be passed by the congress. The very same body that approved the hyde act. So the "run around as headless chickens" statement by Ronan Sen may be a little premature at this point of time. There is also the question, will this be passed before the change of government in the United States? Also who will come to power? On the question as to, if we are giving up 2 much?I feel we are being asked to give very little in return if the deal goes through. Look at what china had to offer in return, in their nuclear agreement. A better human rights record, continuous inspections by US and so on.

Basically I feel one shud make hay while the sun shines. With respect to the Indian political scene who better to trust than the man. Who saved us from economic disaster. He has put himself behind the deal and for once it seems the government is looking to the future. The term "political consensus" is a need of the hour and to hold the government hostage, is an act of immaturity. At the end of the day the discussions with the IAEA and NSG have to happen. Till then all one can hope is that the elderly statesman use their wisdom and common sense prevails.