Latest Stories from Sahil
India’s electoral landscape is marred by political interference
In India, where democracy is touted as the bedrock of its governance, recent revelations surrounding the fate of opposition leaders facing corruption charges paint a concerning picture. A comprehensive investigation by The Indian Express has uncovered a troubling pattern - a staggering 23 out of 25 key opposition politicians who faced action from central agencies were let off the hook after joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or its...
Ladakh’s fight for identity and autonomy in India
The people of Ladakh, a remote and ecologically fragile region in India, have been taking to the streets to protest against the central government's policies, which they believe threaten their tribal identity and the delicate balance of their environment. As the region's demands for greater autonomy and constitutional protections remain unmet, the standoff between the locals and the authorities threatens to escalate. Losing political representation and facing environmental concerns In 2019,...
What is the controversy with electoral bonds?
India's electoral bond scheme intended to bring more transparency to political funding. It has since become engulfed in allegations of cronyism, as corporations try to buy influence from parties through anonymous cash donations. Electoral bonds allow individuals and companies to donate unlimited amounts of money to political parties through interest-free bearer bonds, issued by the State Bank of India. However, the identity of the donor is kept anonymous to all except...
Opinion – Queer community in India rightfully questions elections
As India's 2024 general elections approach, the country's vast and vibrant queer community is mobilizing to demand greater representation and rights from political parties vying for power. As the world's largest democracy gears up for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the queer community in India is closely scrutinizing the promises and commitments made by political parties. With an estimated population of over 100 million – equivalent to the entire population of...
Bangladesh’s first transgender mosque is a big inclusive victory
In a groundbreaking move, Bangladesh has opened its first mosque specifically for the hijra, or transgender, community, offering a sanctuary where they can practice their faith without fear of discrimination. The Dakshin Char Kalibari Masjid, located in the northern city of Mymensingh, stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the hijra community. Funded through community donations and built on government-provided land, the single-room mosque with a tin roof...
Everest’s towering trash has become a serious problem
Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain, and is now the highest garbage dump on Earth. As the climbing craze continues, this environmental problem demands urgent attention and action. Mount Everest, a natural wonder that has captured the world's imagination, has become a victim of its own popularity. With an estimated 140,000 tons of waste from climbers, the mountain has transformed into a towering garbage dump. Discarded tents, food containers, and even...
Does Arvind Kerjriwal’s arrest signal strained democracy in India?
The dramatic late-night arrest of Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Delhi and chief of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21st has sent shockwaves across India's political landscape. Despite the ED seeking a 10-day remand, Kejriwal was remanded to their custody for 6 days until March 28th after being presented before a Delhi court on March 22nd. It marks the first time in the nation's...
A deep dive into the fight to end whale captivity
The SWIMS Act, introduced in January of this year, may finally come into force in the US, ensuring a better life for captive cetaceans and pulling a plug on any such in future. For decades, the cruelty of confining some of the world's most intelligent creatures to tiny tanks for human amusement has raged as one of the most controversial animal welfare debates. Haunting footage of whales smashing their bodies against...
Opinion – sexual assault remains a blight on India’s conscience
The recent gang assault of a Spanish vlogger in Jharkhand, India, is an alarming wake up call. India can no longer deny its sexual violence issue and must collectively work towards a solution. TW: This article contains detailed descriptions of sexual assault and violence. Reader discretion is advised. Earlier this month, a Spanish travel vlogger's dream of exploring India turned into an unimaginable nightmare. In Jharkhand's Dumka district, seven men...
Explaining Bangalore’s severe water crisis
Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is grappling with an unprecedented water crisis that has exposed an underbelly of unchecked urbanization and environmental neglect. As summer looms, Bangalore’s water crisis is expected to worsen. Sharaschandra, a resident of Uttarahalli in Bengaluru, paints a grim picture. ‘We are a family of six members. A tanker of water lasts for five days even if we use it judiciously. It means we need six-tankers...
