Understanding the Roots of Naxalism: Insights from Sam Pitroda

Washington, April 2: Sam Pitroda, the head of the Indian Overseas Congress, welcomed the claim by the BJP-led NDA government that Naxalism in India is nearly eradicated. However, he emphasized the importance of understanding the “roots” of Naxalism.

In an interview, Pitroda expressed his concerns about the current electoral process in India, citing a “trust deficit.” He suggested that future voting could utilize blockchain and artificial intelligence through mobile phones. During the conversation, he addressed several questions.

Question: The Indian government claims that Naxalism is almost over. What is your perspective?
Answer: I believe in dialogue, not in the use of force. These issues are complex and have persisted for nearly 50 years. I studied Naxalism in my youth. To understand it, we must explore why people felt compelled to take up arms. While I do not justify it, it’s essential to consider all aspects. We must think from others’ perspectives, as Mahatma Gandhi advised. I am glad that violence and fear have diminished, but we must also understand the cost of this change. It is a very complex issue.

Question: Assembly elections are taking place in Kerala and West Bengal. What are your expectations?
Answer: I am concerned about the integrity of free and fair elections in India. There are issues throughout the process—whether it’s EVMs, VVPATs, software, voter lists, or video recording. Many points in the process allow for manipulation, and I believe it is happening to some extent. It is difficult to pinpoint how much and where. Therefore, I lack trust in the electoral process. This trust deficit is particularly troubling.

Question: If the ruling party wins in these elections, how will you substantiate your claims?
Answer: This is not just about winning or losing. Results can be influenced in various ways. For instance, in a small state, you might allow a win, but not in larger, more significant states. This is just an example; I am not claiming that this has occurred. Until this trust deficit is resolved, it is challenging to make clear statements.

Question: As an engineer, what technological solutions do you foresee?
Answer: Until I receive a paper receipt and have the opportunity to place it in a separate box, I will not have confidence.

Question: But someone will still have to count those receipts?
Answer: Yes, but at least verification can be done through recounting. Currently, I have no method for verification.

Question: Is a technological solution possible with the advent of artificial intelligence and blockchain?
Answer: Absolutely. I believe that in the future, secure voting based on blockchain will be conducted via mobile phones. There may be a small error margin (0.1%), but that is acceptable. This would eliminate the need for people to go to polling booths, reduce waiting times, and simplify the entire process.

Question: What changes do you see in areas like e-governance and education?
Answer: If given the chance, I would completely redesign India’s current e-governance system to better utilize AI. AI can help streamline government operations, but discussing this openly is challenging. I also question the necessity of degrees in today’s world. With all information at our fingertips, we need to think differently. The role of teachers should evolve; I need mentors, not just teachers. My dream is to eliminate hunger and poverty through AI. This is possible, but it requires political will. AI presents a significant opportunity to address major challenges in India.

– D.S.C.