1493 Bull's Legacy: Goa, Colonialism, and Global Compromises
By Prabhudas Bechardas Parekh
Summary
The text discusses India's position regarding the 1493 Bull, a historical document linked to colonial claims, particularly in the context of Goa. It argues that India should recognize the Bull to resolve disputes with Portugal, as other nations, including the U.N., implicitly endorse it. The author criticizes India's delay in compromising with Portugal, suggesting it hinders global progress and reinforces materialistic systems favoring White nations. The text also touches on the census, questioning the expansion of data collection beyond mere headcounts to include age, religion, and education, and alleging hidden motives to strengthen White dominance. Additionally, it critiques the ignorance of educated Indians regarding the British monarchy's role in the Commonwealth, clarifying that the British monarch's title as head of the Commonwealth is symbolic and that real power lies with member nations' governments. The text asserts that European diplomats use such titles to maintain control and influence over non-White nations under the guise of cooperation and development.
Conclusion
The document argues that India's reluctance to recognize the 1493 Bull, which underpins colonial claims like Portugal's stake in Goa, creates a paradox. While India advocates decolonization and independence for territories like Goa, its stance implicitly endorses the Bull's legitimacy, aligning with global powers like the U.N., Britain, and Portugal that still recognize its authority. This contradiction delays justice for Goa and undermines India's moral standing, as non-white nations face systemic marginalization through mechanisms like census data collection and the Commonwealth, designed to reinforce white dominance. India's compliance with such systems perpetuates global inequities, raising questions about its commitment to true liberation and equity.