Drought and crop failures in recent years in Maharastra, one of the largest agricultural Indian states, have resulted in the suicide of 2500 farmers in 2016, according to the official figures.
The Maratha community, who make up around 30 percent of the state's 110 million people, has been agitating for quotas (reservations) to ensure that they get jobs in the government and educaton.
One of the activists jumped to his death from a bridge on Monday, July 23, 2018. The next day, that is on Tuesday, another protester poisoned himself, while one police officer died in clashes, according to reports that emerged on Wednesday.
Schools and colleges have been closed, trains have been delayed, 30,000 police forces – who are armed with batons and tear gas – have been deployed, and at least 450 people have been detained.
Conclusion
India is likely to see more of such drought and climate change induced public disturbances in the coming years. Is the country prepared? The country's future lies in combating climate change, ensuring water availability, reducing income inequality, and overcoming the problem of lynching or cow vigilantism. Batons and tear gas alone will not be able to sustain the country's 1.3 billions.
Voting for religion is not the answer. Choosing the right people for leadership is advisable in readying for the challenges of the times.
References
Up to 450 detained following deadly caste violence in India