1. India: Domestic Situation
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP)-sponsored Dharam Sansad (a congregation of sadhus and sants) has announced plans for a nation-wide agitation in support of the construction of a Ram temple at Ayodhya where the 16th century Babri Masjid was destroyed by Hindu fundamentalists about ten years ago. Purinmas Tripathi (Frontline) writes that with another round of elections, "the Sangh Parivar queers the pitch on Ayodhya yet again." Prime Minister Vajpayee recently stated that "we want to build the Ram Temple at Ayodhya. We are confident that it will be proved by historical evidence that there existed a temple." The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the dispute in March. Essays by Rajeev Dhavan (Hindu) and Manoj Mitta (Indian Express) examine the legal battles and issues around Ayodhya.
"Dharam Sansad plans agitation for Ram temple"
"The Ayodhya game, again"
"We are for temple, says PM "
"SC fixes March 6 for hearing on Ayodhya"
"Auctioning Ayodhya"
"Confronting a distorted judgment"
Amid much controversy, A portrait of Veer Sarvarkar - an ideologue of the right wing Hindu Mahasabha and sometimes accused of complicity in the murder of Mahatma Gandhi - was installed in Indian Parliament's Central Hall.
"BJP crows as Savarkar moves into House"
Harsh Mander (Hindustan Times) writes about continuing episodes of anti-minority violence in Gujarat. Rohit Bhan (Indian Express) reports that there are still no clear answers as to who set fire to the train that killed 59 people and led to the killing of thousands of Muslims in Gujarat.
"Shattered peace"
"No answers, only questions"
K.K. Katyal (Hindu) believes that "the Opposition is in for the long haul if it is to pose an effective challenge to the ruling coalition, both in regard to the agenda and the tactical approach." Senior political leaders, social activists and some NGOs have formed the People's Integration Council, a citizens' body that aims at fighting the divisive elements in the country.
"Strategy for change"
"Politicians, NGOs form citizens' council"
The daily News (Pakistan) reported that Lockheed Martin has offered India F-16 fighter jets to replace its fleet of Soviet-built MiG-21.
"India offered F-16s, transport aircraft"