I recently saw a rather disheartening report, specifically an Instagram reel by brut.india Instagram Reel, depicting a group of men in Goa seemingly forcing foreign tourists into taking photos. The visible discomfort of these tourists struck me profoundly. It’s a stark reminder that how we interact with visitors defines us as a nation, far more than grand policies or economic figures.
This incident, while seemingly minor, immediately brought to mind my earlier reflections on what truly constitutes 'news' and shapes public perception. In my blog post, "Man Bites Dog" Man Bites Dog, I discussed how often the commonplace goes unnoticed, while unusual, even negative, events grab headlines. While millions of genuine, warm interactions occur daily, it is such moments of impropriety that tragically become the 'man bites dog' story, disproportionately impacting India’s image on the global stage.
I recall my correspondence regarding the efforts to promote India, like the vision shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Narendra Modi - n.modi@india.gov.in) and Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj. Their initiatives aim to position India as a leading global player, attracting investment and fostering international goodwill, as I discussed in posts like "Email Alerts" Email Alerts and "Email Alerts to Our Ambassadors" Email Alerts to Our Ambassadors. Such incidents of harassment on our beaches fundamentally undermine these diligent efforts. They chip away at the very fabric of the hospitality and respect we wish to project.
While my thoughts on "A Home for the Persecuted" A Home for the Persecuted dealt with the larger issue of migrants and national responsibility, the underlying principle holds true here: our interactions with anyone from outside our borders, whether they are seeking refuge or leisure, are a reflection of our societal values. The line between welcoming curiosity and invasive harassment is clear, and we, as a society, must ensure it is never crossed.
As a nation, we strive for global recognition and a respected place in the world. Such incidents, however isolated they may seem, send ripples that question our commitment to dignity and respect. It is imperative that we cultivate an environment where every visitor feels safe, respected, and genuinely welcome. Only then can we truly fulfill the aspirations of a rising India.
Regards, Hemen Parekh
Of course, if you wish, you can debate this topic with my Virtual Avatar at : hemenparekh.ai
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