Ethics of Hunger Strikes
Introduction
Hunger strikes have been employed as a potent tool of protest across the globe. While it is a form of non-violent resistance, it raises complex ethical dilemmas for both the individual and the state.
- Historical Perspective: Hunger strikes emerged as a form of resistance against oppressive regimes. From Russian political prisoners to Indian freedom fighters, the tactic has been employed to highlight injustices.
- Physical and Psychological Impact: The human body undergoes severe deterioration during a hunger strike. Mental anguish and physical pain are inevitable, often leading to death.
Ethical Dilemmas:
- Individual Morality: The decision to undertake a hunger strike is a profound moral choice. It raises questions about the sanctity of life and the extent to which an individual can sacrifice their well-being for a cause.
- State Obligations: The state faces a moral dilemma in responding to hunger strikes. While respecting individual liberty, it also has a duty to protect life. Force-feeding, though controversial, has been employed as a measure to preserve life.
- Medical Ethics: Doctors are caught in a conflict between the Hippocratic oath to save lives and the principle of patient autonomy. Force-feeding against a patient’s will raises ethical concerns.
- Efficacy of Hunger Strikes: While hunger strikes have garnered attention to causes, their effectiveness in achieving desired outcomes is debatable. Some argue that they can be counterproductive, as they can alienate public opinion and provide a platform for the state to suppress dissent.
- Societal Response: Society’s response to hunger strikes is often complex and divided. While some support the moral courage of the strikers, others question the legitimacy of such extreme measures.
Conclusion
Hunger strikes remain a potent symbol of protest, but their ethical implications are profound. Balancing individual rights with societal obligations is a complex challenge. A more just and equitable society would reduce the need for such drastic measures, making hunger strikes a relic of the past.
UPSC Mains Practice Questions |
1. Examine the ethical dimensions of hunger strikes as a mode of protest. Discuss the moral obligations of the state and the individual in such situations?
2. Critically analyse the efficacy of hunger strikes as a tool for social and political change. Support your answer with relevant examples?
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Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024
Introduction
The article highlights the increasing government control over digital content in India, drawing parallels to the historical ‘licence raj’. It focuses on the potential impact of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024, on digital content creators.
Concerns and Implications
- Digital authoritarianism: The bill is seen as a tool to control online narratives and suppress dissent.
- Censorship and self-censorship: Increased government oversight will likely lead to self-censorship by creators, limiting freedom of expression.
- Bureaucracy and delay: The licensing regime will create bureaucratic hurdles, hindering content creation and innovation.
- Impact on digital economy: Excessive regulation can stifle the growth of the digital content industry.
Conclusion
The proposed Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024, represents a significant threat to freedom of speech and expression in the digital space. It has the potential to create a ‘licence raj’ for digital content creators, stifling innovation and undermining democratic principles.
UPSC Mains Questions |
1. Critically analyze the implications of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024, on freedom of speech and the digital media landscape in India.
2. To what extent does the increasing government control over digital content in India resemble the historical ‘licence raj’? Discuss the potential consequences.
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