How do you solve a problem like .... India?

Barbara Crossette over at Foreign Policy has an interesting argument:

On crucial matters of global concern, from climate change to multilateral trade, India all too often just says no. India, first and foremost, believes that the world's rules don't apply to it.

Yes, indeed.  I agree with her bottom line. 

India gets a free pass most of the time because of its democracy.  But, otherwise, it is often a cantankerous global participant.  The examples Crossette gives are right on--from nuclear weapons, to international trade agreements, to, of course, climate change.  Yes, India does have some valid reasons--the country's stance is not as irrational as North Korea's can be.  But, while India is great at mouthing impressive rhetoric, well, those rules are for the rest of the world :-)

It is simply a fascinating country to observe from the outside.  Academics have a continuous supply of issues to write about, and I suppose we ought to be thankful for that!  Earlier today in a conversation with a colleague, we observed that people rush around in India making money from every possible capitalist venture, while simultaneously talking about Bapuji (Gandhi), and various gurujis.  It is one crazy place.  But, you know what, that persona is also why India gets all the free passes it does, which is how then the country walks around with a "what? me?" look that then generates even more sympathy for the country. 

"There's a certain style of Indian diplomacy that alienates debating partners, allies, and opponents."

Well said :-)