The Hindu: Published on 28th March 2025:
Why in News?
Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, continues to be a subject of intense political and academic debate. Over the past decade, his legacy has been scrutinized, often with criticism from the ruling dispensation. The recent publication of Aditya Mukherjee’s book, Nehru’s India, attempts to counter widespread myths and present a balanced view of Nehru’s contributions. The debate on Nehru’s legacy has resurfaced in light of India’s shifting political and ideological landscape.
How is Nehru’s Legacy Being Reassessed?
Nehru’s contributions to India’s secularism, socialist economic policies, and institution-building are being re-evaluated in contemporary discourse. Some historians argue that Nehru’s vision for India—marked by scientific temper, secular values, and democratic consolidation—has been largely abandoned in favor of a majoritarian and culturally rooted nationalism. Critics hold Nehru responsible for multiple modern-day issues, while supporters stress that his decisions must be viewed in the context of post-Independence challenges.
What Are the Key Criticisms Against Nehru?
Partition and Kashmir Issue – Some critics argue that Nehru mishandled the Partition process and the Kashmir conflict, leading to long-term tensions with Pakistan.
Socialist Economic Policies – Nehru’s emphasis on centralized planning and public sector dominance is blamed for India’s slow economic growth in the early decades.
Secularism and Minority Appeasement – Nehru’s approach to secularism has been criticized as leaning towards appeasement of minorities.
China Policy and 1962 War – His foreign policy, particularly in dealing with China, is often blamed for India’s defeat in the 1962 war.
Education and Institutional Flaws – Some argue that Nehru’s policies laid the groundwork for inefficiencies in the education and bureaucracy sectors.
What Are the Counterarguments in Favor of Nehru?
Institution-Building – Nehru played a key role in establishing democratic institutions, ensuring a robust parliamentary system, and safeguarding free speech.
Scientific Temper and Modernization – He championed the cause of scientific research, higher education, and technological progress.
Foreign Policy and Non-Alignment – Nehru’s foreign policy helped India maintain its strategic autonomy during the Cold War.
Economic Foundation – While his socialist model had flaws, it provided a foundation for industrial and scientific advancements.
Secularism and Pluralism – His commitment to secularism ensured that India did not become a theocratic state and remained inclusive.
How Does Mukherjee’s Book Defend Nehru?
Mukherjee refutes many of the criticisms against Nehru and highlights his efforts to uphold democratic values. He underscores Nehru’s commitment to secularism, his warnings against communalism, and his advocacy for scientific progress. The book also critiques contemporary attempts to rewrite history by diminishing Nehru’s contributions while exaggerating his mistakes.
Is Nehru Being Unduly Blamed?
Critics argue that successive governments have held Nehru responsible for nearly every contemporary problem, from political conflicts to economic stagnation. Mukherjee points out that political propaganda has led to a selective portrayal of Nehru’s tenure, often ignoring the immense challenges he faced as a leader of a newly independent nation.
Should There Be a More Balanced Perspective?
Historians and scholars emphasize the need for objective analysis, free from political biases. While Nehru made mistakes, his role in shaping modern India cannot be dismissed. A nuanced approach is essential to appreciate both his strengths and limitations. Rather than reducing Nehru’s legacy to a mere political debate, academic engagement and research should continue to explore his contributions in their entirety.
Conclusion:
The ongoing reassessment of Nehru’s legacy reflects broader ideological battles in India’s political and intellectual space. While criticisms of his policies are valid, a balanced perspective is necessary to acknowledge his role in shaping modern India. As Irfan Habib aptly states, ‘Petty jealousies of petty men might now remove his name from institutions and buildings, but so long as truth and reason still find an audience among his people, Nehru and his work can never be forgotten.’