Jeffrey Sachs: 'India Should Leave The Quad, Period'

A special panel discussion at the Aaj Tak India Today Global conclave examined the evolving role of the expanding 11-member BRICS bloc amid global geopolitical volatility. Former Rajya Sabha MP Vinay Sahasrabuddhe and seasoned diplomat Muktesh Pardeshi highlighted the rejection of hegemonic global structures and monopolistic currency control, pointing to bilateral trades conducted in rupees and rubles as evidence of economic democratisation. The session focused on the significance of people-to-people connectivity, cultural diplomacy, and digital networks across member nations representing nearly half of the global population. The speakers discussed the retrieval of stolen cultural artefacts, creative economies, and cartographic democratisation. Addressing regional conflicts in West Asia and Eastern Europe, the panel underscored India's diplomatic capacity to navigate complex global equations through dialogue, shared heritage, and consensus-building.

A gathering addressed concerns regarding a recent incident, questioning the government and the administration over the actions that took place. The discussion highlighted that violence, hatred, and arrogance were present in the act, irrespective of earlier statements or specific outcomes. It was observed that a pattern has emerged where individuals holding power display arrogance and act violently without accountability. The administration faces scrutiny over its handling of the matter and the conduct of those in authority.

A memorial gathering was held in the national capital to pay tribute to a Manipuri musician who died following a mob attack. Attendees and family members gathered in solidarity to remember the artist and condemned the incident as a hate crime. Concerns were raised regarding growing violence, mob brutality, and prejudice faced by people from the Northeast, highlighting ongoing struggles and tragedies. The incident has triggered widespread outrage and renewed focus on administration accountability, safety concerns, and addressing targeted violence in the capital.

In an interview, economist Jeffrey Sachs discussed the shifting global order, relations between India and China, and the role of BRICS in international affairs. Sachs stated, "India and China together can really make a multilateral world," arguing that China has a significant interest in India's success and in creating a multipolar system. He characterized the United States, Russia, India, and China as four major superpowers and argued that multipolarity is an established reality. Sachs criticized United States foreign policy and unilateral actions, asserting that BRICS represents half of the global population and economic output. He maintained that BRICS acts as a counterweight against unilateralist measures, tariffs, and military interventions. Addressing questions regarding Russia and Iran within BRICS, Sachs attributed prolonged geopolitical tensions to long-term American policies aimed at global primacy and NATO expansion rather than multilateral cooperation among leading world powers.