Liberal Hypocrisy

A revealing test of liberalism is whether it can condemn an idea when it comes from someone it considers politically useful. A recent interview given by controversial former student activist Sharjeel Imam to a supposedly progressive portal has put sections of India’s self-proclaimed liberal establishment in a right quandary. In his interview, Imam outrageously questioned the democratic framework as a means of securing Muslim political rights, portrayed secularism as a majoritarian stratagem...

min read

A revealing test of liberalism is whether it can condemn an idea when it comes from someone it considers politically useful. A recent interview given by controversial former student activist Sharjeel Imam to a supposedly progressive portal has put sections of India’s self-proclaimed liberal establishment in a right quandary. In his interview, Imam outrageously questioned the democratic framework as a means of securing Muslim political rights, portrayed secularism as a majoritarian stratagem and challenged the idea of a unified Indian nation while going so far as to label the Constitution a trap and denouncing parliamentary democracy itself The point is not what Imam believes; radical fundamentalism has always worn its extremism on its sleeve. The real issue is why his pronouncements have not provoked the kind of hysterical moral outrage routinely directed at Hindu nationalism. Imam, who became a prominent face of the anti-Citizenship Amendment Act protests of 2019–20, faces serious charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the Delhi riots conspiracy case and remains in judicial custody without conviction. The point is why are the voices, that routinely lecture the country on secularism, pluralism and constitutional morality, so conspicuously silent after Imam’s brazen statements. Figures like Imam have never existed in an ideological vacuum. Sections of the activist, academic and media elite gave the anti-CAA movement considerable moral and political support, and some commentators treated its more radical voices primarily through the prism of resistance to the Modi government, while wilfully sanitizing bigotry as 'dissent' and dressing up open sedition as mere political grievance When Hindu nationalist figures speak, their statements are meticulously dissected, parsed, and condemned for their threat to minority rights and secularism. Yet, when comparable or worse challenges to national cohesion, territorial integrity, and democratic principles emanate from minority or Islamist quarters, the same commentators suddenly discover the virtues of nuance, context and restraint. They retreat into a cowardly fence-sitting, desperate to avoid alienating a vocal constituency in their anti-regime coalition. Anything less than equal scrutiny turns universal principles into mere instruments of partisan convenience. This reveals a deeper, more embarrassing pathology among sections of the liberal establishment to conflate opposition to the government with absolute moral virtue. It exposes an unseemly willingness to forge Faustian bargains with extremist elements, operating on the crude and dangerous logic that the enemy of my enemy must be my ideological ally. An individual does not become a defender of democracy merely by opposing Narendra Modi, just as criticism of Islamist politics does not automatically make someone a Hindu nationalist. Ideological arguments must be judged by consistent standards rather than convenient labels. Liberalism that cannot confront illiberalism among its own ideological fellow-travellers is not principled liberalism. It then devolves into mere partisan hypocrisy and a hollow exercise in selective outrage that ultimately destroys the very democratic values it claims to defend.

Beyond “No Screens”: Building Healthier Digital Habits

Manasee Bankar

Aug 28

2 min read

The real skill we must teach our children is not screen avoidance but mindful screen usage.

In today’s digital world, screens have become a part of everyday life. From online classes and educational videos to communication and creativity, technology is no longer just entertainment—it is also a necessity. As parents, teachers, and carers, perhaps the question is no longer, “How do we completely stop screen time?” but rather, “How do we create a healthy relationship with screens?”

Not all screen time is harmful. Children today use devices to study, learn new skills, attend virtual classes, connect with loved ones, and explore their creativity. Many educational platforms offer excellent learning opportunities that were not available a decade ago. Completely restricting screens may not always be practical or beneficial.

At the same time, it is important to understand that children today are growing up in a world very different from previous generations. Their social interactions, learning methods, entertainment, and even hobbies are often connected to technology. Instead of creating fear around screens, parents can focus on helping children develop awareness, balance, and healthy digital habits from an early age.

However, balance is important.

The concern begins when screens replace physical activity, family conversations, outdoor play, hobbies, sleep, or emotional connection. Instead of approaching children with fear-based labels like "addicted", "lazy", or “always on the phone", parents can shift towards a more solution-focused approach.

The words we use matter.

Instead of saying, “You never listen,” we can say, “Let’s create a routine that works for both of us.”

Instead of “Stop using your phone", we can try, “How about taking a short break and doing something together?”

Children often respond better to connection than control. When children feel constantly criticised, they may become defensive or secretive about their screen habits. But when they feel heard and included in decision-making, they are more likely to cooperate and understand boundaries better.

Leading by example is equally important. If adults are constantly scrolling during meals or family conversations, children naturally absorb the same habits. Healthy digital behaviour begins at home. Simple practices like screen-free meals, family walks, reading time, or shared hobbies can create stronger emotional bonds while reducing unnecessary screen use.

The goal is not to eliminate screens but to teach children balance, awareness, and self-regulation. When children feel understood rather than judged, they are more likely to cooperate and build healthier habits.

In a world driven by technology, perhaps the real skill we must teach our children is not screen avoidance but mindful screen usage.

Healthy Screen Habits

For parents, healthy screen habits can begin with a few simple practices: keeping meals and bedtime screen-free, encouraging outdoor play and creative hobbies, and setting realistic limits together with children. Most importantly, focus on connection before correction. And remember that children learn by watching us too. When adults put their own phones away during meals and family conversations, they show children that technology is something we use—not something that should constantly demand our attention.

(The writer is a counselor, therapist and founder of Raya Heal.Views personal.)

Liberal Hypocrisy

Beyond “No Screens”: Building Healthier Digital Habits

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