RIGHT-WING POPULISM IN INDIA: EFFECTS ON INDIA PAKISTAN RELATIONS

Abstract

The rise of right-wing populism in India has transformed politics and foreign relations since 2014. By seeing right-wing populism as a social construct, we can better figure out how it affects the relationship between India and Pakistan, two nuclear-armed neighbors who have a history of animosity and tensions. Using social constructivism, we argue that the rise of right-wing populism in India has transformed India's national identity. This has brought change in India's foreign policy priorities and made tensions with Pakistan worse. This study takes a qualitative approach by looking at political speeches, news stories, and policy documents to show how right-wing populism has intensified nationalist sentiments. As result, India's relationship with Pakistan has become more confrontational and less cooperative. The study also discusses the far-reaching effects of right-wing populism in India, including greater polarization and divisiveness, a politics of hate towards Muslims, an increase in nationalist sentiments, and the erosion of social and democratic norms. The article contends that the ascent of populism in India has had severe effects on human rights, academia, cultural identity, and the media. It is crucial to develop strategies to enhance regional stability and security. To improve understanding and cooperation between India and Pakistan, policymakers and other interested parties can take several approaches, such as promoting dialogue and engagement, engaging in multi-track diplomacy, enabling people-to-people contacts, highlighting common social norms, and inspiring a constructive and cooperative foreign policy. Also, the international community must actively play role in promoting regional stability and collaboration.

Key words: Social Constructivism, Right-wing Populism, Hindu Nationalism, Hindutva Ideology.