Countercurrents.org @Countercurrents

Listen Leninist by Michael Albert countercurrents.org/2026/07/listen… Michael Albert revisits a critique of Leninist strategy first developed in the 1970s, arguing that the debate remains relevant for contemporary movements seeking social transformation. Drawing on the writings of Lenin, Rosa Luxemburg, and other revolutionary thinkers, he examines questions of party organization, hierarchy, democracy, and political practice. The article contends that the structures adopted during struggles for change shape the outcomes they produce, and calls for a critical reassessment of Marxism-Leninism in light of historical experience. It invites readers to reflect on strategy, organization, and the pursuit of democratic and emancipatory politics today.

India’s Infrastructure Gamble: When Concrete Crowds Out Care: A Critical Policy Evaluation of India’s Capital Expenditure Push and Its Human Costs by Dr Divyashree and Dr Anuradha P S countercurrents.org/2026/07/indias… India’s rapid expansion of public infrastructure has driven economic growth and improved connectivity, but questions remain about its social costs. This article examines whether rising capital expenditure has come at the expense of investments in health, education, nutrition, and rural employment. Drawing on economic evidence and welfare indicators, the authors argue that long-term development depends not only on roads, railways, and digital infrastructure but also on strengthening human capabilities. They propose a more balanced fiscal approach that treats human development as productive investment, making the case for growth that is both economically sustainable and socially inclusive.

The tech princes threaten our democracy by Jørn Uz Ruby countercurrents.org/2026/07/the-te… Tech companies are no longer shaping markets alone; they are increasingly influencing politics, governance and global power. This article examines how leading technology executives and billionaires have gained unprecedented political influence, from international summits to ambitious projects proposing privately governed cities and autonomous economic zones. Drawing on the work of investigative journalist Carole Cadwalladr, it explores the links between Silicon Valley, emerging political ideologies and challenges to democratic institutions. It argues that the growing concentration of technological, economic and political power in a handful of private actors raises urgent questions about national sovereignty, democratic accountability and the future of self-government worldwide.

From Strongman to Meme: Is Gen Z Becoming Modi’s Toughest Political Challenger? by Mohd Ziyaullah Khan countercurrents.org/2026/07/from-s… The article examines how Generation Z is reshaping political communication in India through memes, short videos, satire, and viral social media content. It argues that decentralized online expression is challenging carefully managed political branding and forcing established parties to adapt to a new digital landscape. Tracing the shift from issue-based student protests to broader debates about leadership, governance, and free expression, the article explores how internet culture is influencing public narratives. It suggests that the future of politics will depend not only on electoral strength but also on the ability to engage a generation that communicates differently.

High Costs and Complexities of Covert Regime Change Operations for Global South by Bharat Dogra countercurrents.org/2026/07/high-c… This article examines the history and consequences of covert regime change operations, arguing that they have often destabilised countries across the Global South while undermining democracy and peace. Drawing on historical examples, academic research, and recent developments in regions including West Asia and South Asia, Bharat Dogra explores the political, humanitarian, and geopolitical costs of such interventions. The article also discusses the difficult balance between protecting democratic freedoms and addressing external interference, urging greater awareness of how covert operations can shape domestic political crises and their long-term consequences for developing countries.

Trump’s…energy policy, and what it’s going to cost us all by Bill McKibben countercurrents.org/2026/07/trumps… Bill McKibben examines how the Trump administration’s energy policies reinforce long-standing fossil fuel interests, particularly the expansion of natural gas. Drawing on recent research, he argues that the industry’s claims of cheapness and climate benefits have relied on decades of public relations rather than evidence. The article links increased dependence on gas to higher future energy costs, continued greenhouse gas emissions, and public health risks, while highlighting how renewable energy offers a more affordable and resilient path. It is a detailed critique of policies that could shape energy prices, climate action, and public well-being for decades.

The (Dis)United States (Or Do I Mean World?) of President Donald J. Trump by Tom Engelhardt countercurrents.org/2026/07/the-di… Tom Engelhardt examines how accelerating climate change is colliding with contemporary geopolitics and the policies of President Donald Trump. The article argues that rising temperatures, extreme weather, wars, and political priorities are reshaping both environmental and global power dynamics. It also explores the implications of US climate policy, the growing influence of China in renewable energy, and the limited political attention given to the climate crisis despite mounting scientific evidence. Placing these developments in a broader historical and international context, the essay reflects on the interconnected challenges facing the United States and the wider world in an era of accelerating change.

The Laboratory of Suppression: How Israel’s Security Model Shapes India’s Crackdown on Gen Z Protesters by Feroze Mithiborwala countercurrents.org/2026/07/the-la… Feroze Mithiborwala examines the growing influence of Israel’s security model on India’s policing of student dissent. It argues that surveillance technologies, crowd-control methods, and counterinsurgency practices developed through the occupation of Palestine are increasingly reflected in the treatment of Gen Z protesters in India. The article situates recent student demonstrations within a wider global trend of militarised governance and shrinking democratic space, while exploring the political, ethical, and international dimensions of these developments.

Gen Z vs. the Education Minister: Is Resignation Enough to Fix the Education System? by Arunabha Bhattacharyya countercurrents.org/2026/07/gen-z-… Student protests over the 2026 NEET paper leak grew into a wider movement demanding accountability in India's education system. This article traces how repeated examination irregularities, allegations of institutional failure, and public anger culminated in nationwide demonstrations, calls for the Education Minister's resignation, and debate over deeper structural reforms. It argues that while a minister's resignation may signal political responsibility, lasting change depends on improving examination security, transparency, and governance. The article also examines the role of Gen Z mobilisation, emerging protest networks, and the government's subsequent announcement of technology-driven measures aimed at preventing future paper leaks.

When ‘Jai Bhim’ No Longer Felt Like the Other by Shruthy Harilal countercurrents.org/2026/07/when-j… This personal reflection traces the changing public meaning of “Jai Bhim,” from a slogan once viewed with suspicion to one increasingly embraced in wider democratic movements. Drawing on memories of student activism and recent protests, the article argues that this shift reflects decades of work by Ambedkarite activists, scholars, writers, and ordinary citizens who kept Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s ideas alive in public life. It also examines the unequal visibility of Dalit leadership in mainstream media and contends that conversations about democracy, equality, and social justice are increasingly inseparable from Ambedkar’s enduring critique of caste and vision for a more just society.

A new war of assertion is awaiting Rahul Gandhi in Indraprastha, with Modi-Shah ready to launch a serious attack by Arun Srivastava countercurrents.org/2026/07/a-new-… A new political confrontation is unfolding in New Delhi as Rahul Gandhi steps up his campaign against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah following the student protests over the NEET controversy. The article argues that the ruling establishment is preparing a strong political and parliamentary response to counter the opposition leader’s growing activism. It examines the fallout from the protests, the government's handling of the agitation, the debate over examination reforms, and the broader struggle between the opposition and the BJP over accountability, democratic rights, and political power.

Amit Shah lands Modi in trouble repeating Britisher’s mistake by Ch Narendra countercurrents.org/2026/07/amit-s… The article argues that the Modi government’s handling of recent student protests echoes a historical pattern in which state repression strengthens rather than weakens popular movements. Drawing parallels with the Salt Satyagraha and the British response to civil disobedience, it examines the political consequences of police action, the resignation of a Union minister, and the growing mobilisation of students and young people. It also explores the social and political forces shaping a generation marked by economic insecurity, unemployment, and institutional distrust, and considers how these developments could reshape India’s political landscape in the months ahead.

Why The Odyssey? by Edward Curtin countercurrents.org/2026/07/why-th… Edward Curtin reflects on why Homer’s The Odyssey continues to matter, weaving together memories of studying the epic, reflections on Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation, and a critique of war, power, and political deception. He argues that Odysseus remains a compelling figure because he embodies both brilliance and brutality, exposing enduring patterns of violence, manipulation, and moral ambiguity. Moving between classical literature and contemporary history, Curtin examines how stories shape public memory and challenge comforting myths. The essay presents The Odyssey as more than an ancient tale, but as a lens for understanding power, truth, and the modern world.

Fundamental Rights of Vulnerable Sections and Locus Standi: Does the Telangana SHRC’s Argument Hold Water? by Jabali countercurrents.org/2026/07/fundam… This article examines the Telangana State Human Rights Commission’s decision to close a complaint concerning the treatment of political prisoners in Cherlapally Central Jail. It argues that the Commission blurred the distinction between locus standi and the merits of the complaint by declining to take cognizance while appearing to reach factual conclusions without an inquiry. Drawing on constitutional jurisprudence and the Protection of Human Rights Act, the author contends that human rights institutions must prioritize credible allegations of rights violations over procedural technicalities, particularly when vulnerable groups such as prisoners face barriers to accessing justice.

Who Will Be Held Accountable for the Catastrophic Deluge in Upper Assam? by Kishor Kumar Kalita countercurrents.org/2026/07/who-wi… The devastating floods in Upper Assam have left widespread destruction, displaced lakhs of people, and exposed serious concerns about disaster preparedness and response. Kishor Kumar Kalita examines the scale of the catastrophe, the reported failures of early warning systems, and the gap between official promises and ground realities. Drawing on government statements, policy commitments, and accounts from affected communities, the article argues for accountability, a scientific investigation into the causes of the disaster, and a comprehensive rehabilitation package to help rebuild lives and livelihoods in the worst-affected districts.

The Hidden Environmental Cost of AI: Can Visakhapatnam Afford Giant Data Centres? by Raja Rama Mohan Roy countercurrents.org/2026/07/the-hi… The rapid expansion of AI depends on massive data centres that consume vast amounts of electricity, water and land, raising questions about their environmental footprint. Focusing on proposed AI infrastructure in Visakhapatnam, this article examines the potential impact on freshwater resources, biodiversity, energy demand and local ecosystems. Drawing on international experience, it argues that technological progress should be guided by rigorous environmental assessment, transparency and public participation. As India seeks to expand its AI capacity, the author contends that long-term sustainability, ecological protection and the well-being of local communities must remain central to decisions on large-scale AI investments.

Women’s Liberation, the Family, and the Contradictions of Peripheral Capitalism by Majid Maleki Meighani countercurrents.org/2026/07/womens… Women’s liberation and the changing role of the family are often presented as opposing forces. This article argues that the real source of tension lies elsewhere: in the contradictions of neoliberal capitalism, especially in semi-peripheral societies where expanding educational opportunities and women’s participation in public life have not been matched by stable employment, welfare systems, or public care services. Examining class, social reproduction, and the unequal burden of care work, it contends that genuine gender equality requires more than market participation. Lasting liberation depends on combining women’s rights with economic justice, collective support, and a reorganization of care and work.

What belongs in an ecofeminist world? by Ivy Helman countercurrents.org/2026/07/what-b… This thoughtful essay explores how students imagine an ecofeminist world rooted in care, equality, community, and ecological responsibility while rejecting systems of domination such as patriarchy, racism, colonialism, and war. It also examines the difficult questions that remain contested, including violence, religion, and humanity’s relationship with animals. Moving beyond ideals, the article reflects on the challenge of transforming deeply entrenched political, economic, and social structures. By connecting classroom debate with broader ecological and feminist concerns, it invites readers to consider what meaningful change requires and how a more just and sustainable future might be built together.

Israel’s violence engulfs the occupied West Bank by Jean Shaoul countercurrents.org/2026/07/israel… Israel has sharply intensified military operations and settler-backed violence across the occupied West Bank, deepening a humanitarian and political crisis. This article examines the rising death toll, expanding settlements, economic collapse, mounting restrictions on Palestinian life, and the weakening of the Palestinian Authority. It also places these developments within the broader context of Israel’s regional military actions and its strategic relationship with the United States. Jean Shaoul argues that the escalating violence in the West Bank cannot be understood in isolation, but as part of a wider regional conflict with profound consequences for Palestinians and the Middle East.

West Bank: A Gun-barrel Waits to Explode by Ismail Al Sharif countercurrents.org/2026/07/west-b… The occupied West Bank is witnessing an accelerating cycle of settlement expansion, land seizures, home demolitions, and rising violence that is reshaping daily life for Palestinians. In this article, Ismail Al Sharif argues that these developments are steadily eroding prospects for a political settlement while deepening anger and insecurity across the territory. He contends that continued military operations, displacement, and the expansion of settlements are creating conditions that could trigger a far wider confrontation, with consequences extending beyond the West Bank to Jerusalem, neighbouring countries, and the broader Middle East.