Reflections of a Typical Communist on Nationalism: Addressing Divides and Promoting Unity

As a communist, my view on the idea of nationalism is rooted in the understanding that while nationalism has played a crucial role in historical struggles, it must be revisited and redefined through a lens of anti-imperialism and unity.

Origins of Nationalism and Its Evolution

Nationalism, as it grew in Europe, was a response to the feudal system and a struggle for democracy. In colonial, semi-colonial, or neo-colonial countries, such as India, the idea of nationalism evolved as a reaction against imperialist domination and exploitation. In India, the spirit of nationalism and patriotism was born and strengthened by the resistance against British rulers and their feudal and communal allies, including kings, sultans, landlords, and communal organizations like the Muslim League, Hindu Mahasabha, and RSS. A prominent icon of this anti-imperialist nationalism is Shaheed Bhagat Singh.

Nacionalism in the Modern Era

By the 1960s, India had achieved significant milestones in its freedom movement, including the establishment of democracy, secularism, self-reliance, and a welfare state. The public sector played a vital role in these achievements. However, in recent decades, the gains from the freedom movement are under threat due to neoliberal globalization. This process can be seen as a new form of enslavement, led by Multinational Corporations (MNCs) and the dominant US-led global exploiters. MNCs are capturing markets and economies in developing countries, and countries like India are being transformed into neo-colonies.

The new economic reforms aim to divide the common people, creating enmities based on religious, caste-wise, linguistic, and ethnic lines. The goal is to prevent a united struggle against these new forms of exploitation. This divide-and-rule strategy is implemented with the support of various divisivist forces, such as the Sangh Parivar, Islamist groups, and Zionists.

Redefining Nationalism for the 21st Century

The idea of India is currently under attack from neoliberal economic reforms and fascist political elements. Both these attacks are funded and led by corporate-MNC lobbies. A new freedom movement is needed to counter this new enslavement process. The common people of India must unite not only with each other but also with common people in other countries to fight against all forms of oppression and exploitation.

Communists advocate for the unity of all patriotic, democratic, and socialist forces into a nationwide people's movement to build a new India that is free from all forms of enslavement. Genuine nationalism and patriotism must be anti-imperialistic and inclusive. This vision is a continuation of the dreams of great martyrs like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, who fought for freedom and justice.

Addressing Divisions and Promoting Solidarity

However, there is another form of nationalist pretension that seeks to divide the common people of various exploited and oppressed countries rather than unite them against US control and its agents. The Sangh Parivar not only divides the people of India but also encourages enmity among common people in different countries. This is jingoism and serves the policy of "Divide and Loot," which aims to hide the true anti-national economic policies that are destroying the country's freedom and turning it into a neocolony.

The communist view therefore emphasizes the importance of consolidating national and international unity against these divisive policies, promoting a genuine form of nationalism that is inclusive and anti-imperialistic.