Context:Addressing the UN’s general assembly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushed for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms.
Arguments in favour of a permanent seat for India in UN Security Council
Tilt of world order from west to East: Institution built on the rubble of World War II must either reform itself to face the future or risk turning into a relic of the past.
Global peace: An equal voice for India may help in improving global peace
Largest democracy: India being the largest democracy and home to every sixth individual alive
India’s role In the pandemic: India was ready to aid its efforts as a vaccine supplier.
China factor:
Reforms could raise UN prospects of relevance as China begins to exert its clout beyond its borders.
China fancies itself as a fully paid-up hegemon, ready to bend the world’s future to its will.It has violated India’s borders, muzzled Hong Kong, and glowered at Taiwan.
China is holding East’s sole veto in the Security council.
A Chinese veto has long held a Sword of Damocles over India’s quest for a weighty role in world affairs, including its nuclear policy
Widening economic gap between India and China: This will lead to Chinese voice being heard over Indian in various forums.
Failure of the UN with the existing framework:
Failed to contain war or terror
Unable to support the global fight against the COVID pandemic.
Conclusion: For the sake of peace in Asia and beyond, India must have equal authority at the high table.