Renowned Indian academic and expert on international affairs, Professor AK Ramakrishnan, offered a nuanced perspective on the recent Hamas-Israel was, the broader dynamics of West Asia, and the state of Indian democracy.

In a recent conversation with Timeline’s Shihabudeen Kunju S, Prof Ramakrishnan delved into the complexities of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, highlighting the dangers of viewing the situation through a simplistic lens. He dismissed the notion that US President Donald Trump’s proposed “solution” – relocating Palestinians to neighbouring countries – could be successful. “Trump is in a way reminding us of the same mentality that the Palestinians will not matter,” he stated, drawing parallels to the 19th-century European Zionist movement’s disregard for the Palestinian population.

Professor Ramakrishnan argued that the Palestinians’ deep connection to their land, coupled with the century-long struggle for self-determination, makes such a plan unrealistic. He also cautioned against equating the situation with historical events like India’s partition or the dissolution of the Soviet Union, as some Israeli commentators have done. “This whole point of establishing a Palestinian entity in Jordan was an old American idea,” he explained, highlighting the US’s long-standing attempts to influence the region through financial and military aid.

While acknowledging the possibility of Arab governments making concessions to Trump, Professor Ramakrishnan stressed that the Palestinians themselves would likely resist any such arrangement. He pointed to the growing Palestinian nationalism and the emergence of independent movements like Hamas, which have challenged traditional Arab leadership.

Regarding the recent conflict, Professor Ramakrishnan offered a balanced assessment of the outcome. He acknowledged the immense suffering endured by the Palestinian people, but also highlighted the resilience of Hamas, which he believes has not been completely defeated.

Moving beyond the immediate conflict, Professor Ramakrishnan discussed the broader dynamics of West Asia, particularly the changing face of Saudi Arabia. He attributed the recent social reforms, including women’s rights advancements, to a combination of factors, including the growing assertiveness of Saudi women, the demands of a young and educated population, and the increasing pressure from the globalised world. “Saudi women have been really agitating for more freedom in their everyday life,” he stated, highlighting the significance of the women’s right to drive movement. He also acknowledged the role of social media in facilitating communication and challenging traditional power structures. “The old kind of Saudi system insulated from other kinds of world. It’s no more possible,” he said, suggesting that a new social contract is emerging between the Saudi government and its people.

Professor Ramakrishnan also addressed the pervasive tendency to view conflicts in West Asia through the lens of Islam. He argued that this approach is not only inaccurate but also dangerous, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and contributing to a climate of fear and prejudice. “One major problem and I think it is a kind of what we should call it kind of epistemic violence,” he stated, highlighting the dangers of generalising about Islam and ignoring its rich history, diverse interpretations, and significant contributions to global knowledge.

He urged a more nuanced understanding of the region, acknowledging the complex interplay of political, social, and economic factors that drive conflict.

Turning his attention to India, Professor Ramakrishnan expressed concern about the growing trend towards authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic values. He criticised the current government’s emphasis on a “strong India,” arguing that such a vision undermines the country’s diversity and its potential for a more inclusive and equitable society.

He argued that the pursuit of a strong state often leads to the suppression of dissent, the marginalisation of minorities, and the concentration of power in the hands of a few.

Professor Ramakrishnan also highlighted the dangers of the “minimum government, maximum governance” approach, which he believes has contributed to the rise of crony capitalism and the erosion of democratic institutions. He warned that this approach, often associated with neoliberal ideology, can lead to a more authoritarian and repressive state.

“This minimum government thesis has the unsaid aspect of it that is a maximum a military strong repressive government for cultural uniform with a kind of you know one dimensional culture and things,” he said, linking the pursuit of a strong state with the suppression of diversity and the erosion of democratic values.

He expressed deep concern about the future of Indian democracy, citing the rise of right-wing extremism, the increasing intolerance towards minorities, and the growing influence of authoritarian tendencies within the political system. “It’s acting is that at least in the immediate future it’s not a good prognosis that I can provide,” he said, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

Professor Ramakrishnan concluded by calling for a renewed commitment to democratic values, a more inclusive and equitable society, and a more nuanced understanding of the world. He urged intellectuals and activists to engage in critical dialogue and to challenge the prevailing narratives that perpetuate prejudice and division.

“We cannot say that we don’t want to maybe we have to say we want a different kind of What is its form? How can we prevent the emergence of dictatorship?” he asked, leaving the audience with a powerful call to action.