GUWAHATI, May 27 - Congress MP and former United Nations diplomat Dr Shashi Tharoor today said it is absolutely vital for the North-east India to further open up its economic ties with the South East Asian nations, which in turn would automatically strengthen India�s growth.
Dr Tharoor opined that infrastructure development in the North-east and linking it with the South East Asia through road and railways are very important for the region�s growth.
Tharoor, who is also the Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, stated that the region never got the attention it deserved, despite its tremendous potential.
The former Under Secretary General at the United Nations was delivering the foundation day lecture of the North East Institute of Advanced Studies (NE-IAS) on the subject � �New India: Blueprint for the Progressive Indian� � here today.
Taking a potshot at the BJP-led government at the Centre, Dr Tharoor alleged that the country is at the receiving end of narrow-minded �majoritarianism� where people from minority groups and Dalits are being victimised.
�The present government, instead of celebrating the commonality of major differences that India possesses, is continuously challenging the ground rules of vibrant democracy,� he pointed out.
�Acceptance is a much stronger basis of nationalism than anything else. Accepting and respecting each other�s views is our basic essence,� he said, while referring to controversies over eating beef and cow vigilante groups. �They believe in conformity but we believe in consensus,� the former Union Minister said.
He further said the government in �New India� must ensure that the benefits of growth are enjoyed by people irrespective of caste, creed and status, and should not promote fear whatsoever. �We must have an inclusive vision complemented by inclusive development,� he stated, adding, �democratic pluralism is India's greatest strength.�
Dr Tharoor criticised the Modi-led government for its �wrong� financial policies, including demonetisation and the introduction of GST regime. �While demonetisation was all about a bad idea complemented by bad implementation, the GST was about a good idea marred by poor implementation,� he said.
He also slammed the government for its failure to create new jobs and for not being able to pilot the investment upsurge.
Keshav Das and Sankar Ray of the NE-IAS were also present on the occasion among other noted personalities.
