Anand Ranganathan On Ethanol, Ram Mandir Theft, RSS-BJP-Modi & Much More | Ajeet Bharti Podcast

Anand Ranganathan and Ajeet Bharti begin by discussing the nature of current political discourse and media, highlighting concerns about 'strong man' arguments used to deflect critical questions and the lack of counter-questioning from journalists. Ranganathan expresses his frustration with media complicity and the selective outrage of certain groups.

The discussion shifts to the E20 ethanol blending policy. Ranganathan argues against the policy, citing scientific reasons for reduced mileage (5-7%), engine damage in non-compatible vehicles, and the hygroscopic nature of ethanol. He criticizes the government for relying on non-peer-reviewed studies and for pushing the policy without considering its environmental and economic costs, including the water-intensive nature of sugarcane cultivation from which ethanol is derived.

Ranganathan elaborates on the devastating environmental impact of growing sugarcane for ethanol production in India, a water-scarce country. He highlights the excessive water consumption, reliance on fertilizers, and emission of nitrous oxide, which is a potent greenhouse gas. He also questions the economic benefits, pointing out that improving road infrastructure and traffic management could save significantly more fuel than ethanol blending, without the associated costs to consumers.

Ranganathan suggests that the government's confident and seemingly unconcerned approach to criticism, such as the E20 policy being an 'experiment,' stems from Prime Minister Modi's consistent electoral victories. He argues that public feedback is primarily measured by election results, leading to a disregard for logical arguments. He contrasts this with his own experiences and observations of public sentiment.

Ajeet Bharti and Anand Ranganathan discuss the absence of a credible opposition in India. Ranganathan asserts that the opposition is '100 times worse than Modi,' citing instances of alleged misconduct and an inability to provide a superior alternative. He reflects on how this dynamic encourages critical voices like his own to speak out freely, despite potential repercussions.

The conversation turns to the alleged corruption surrounding the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Ranganathan emphasizes the symbolic importance of the temple and the public's emotional investment in it. He criticizes the lack of transparency, the dubious nature of the SIT investigation, and the silence of top political leaders. He suggests that digitizing donations and ensuring proper auditing could prevent such financial irregularities.

Ranganathan laments the state's slow and inadequate response to the Ram Mandir corruption, contrasting it with how a bank would handle similar financial malpractices. He also questions the role and response of the RSS, particularly the statements made by Dattatreya Hosabale, which he perceives as deflecting criticism and labeling critics as 'anti-Hindu forces.' He finds the silence of top BJP leaders to be problematic.

The discussion shifts to the Kashmir issue, specifically the reopening of cases related to the Kashmiri Pandit exodus. Ranganathan questions the timing and the perceived negligence of the central government over 12 years. He highlights the Supreme Court's past reluctance to reopen cases and the ongoing suffering of the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community. He expresses skepticism about the possibility of true justice for the victims.

The conversation touches upon the political situation in Bengal following the elections. Ranganathan expresses surprise at the extent of the TMC's victory and criticizes the hypocrisy of certain media personalities who were silent during alleged police atrocities during TMC rule but became vocal after the power shift. He also notes the general similarity and self-serving nature of politicians across party lines.

Concluding the discussion, Ranganathan raises concerns about the future of Indian politics, particularly the weakening opposition and the BJP's growing dominance. He challenges the notion that the BJP is a genuinely 'pro-Hindu' party, arguing that their actions often contradict this image. He suggests a potential 'break away' from the BJP to form a truly right-wing, pro-Hindu party, but also acknowledges the significant influence of the RSS in preventing such a split.

Ranganathan shares his evolving perspective on the RSS, moving from a position of dislike to appreciation, noting its diverse viewpoints internally. He criticizes the current RSS leadership for not fully exercising its significant power and influence, particularly in holding the government accountable on critical issues like the Ram Mandir corruption and the plight of Hindus in neighboring countries. He concludes by emphasizing the ongoing struggle for truth and accountability.