Mumbai stands as a beacon of India's aspirations, yet beneath its bustling surface lies a pressing issue: the need for affordable housing and public healthcare. Former Supreme Court judge A.S. Oka recently emphasized that the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat'—or developed India—cannot be realized without these foundational elements. Speaking at the Trialogue on 'Sustainable Development and the Idea of India Therein', Oka highlighted that development transcends mere infrastructure like flyovers and airports. It must fundamentally address the living conditions of citizens.
Oka critically pointed out the flaws in the current developmental paradigm employed by the government and various agencies. He stated, "There can't be a Viksit Bharat, where in our cities we are not providing affordable accommodation." This stark reality raises critical questions about the last 25 years of urban planning: Have we genuinely created housing options that the lower middle class can afford? The answer, according to Oka, is a resounding no. The lack of affordable housing undermines the very essence of what a developed nation should provide to its citizens.
Furthermore, he addressed the issue of public healthcare, urging that a developed India cannot exist without accessible medical services for all citizens. The absence of public hospitals and affordable healthcare solutions is a significant gap in the current framework of development. Oka reinforced that a successful 'Viksit Bharat' demands more than mere grand infrastructure; it requires a commitment to the well-being and health of its people.
In addition to housing and healthcare, Oka emphasized the importance of environmental conservation as part of the 'Idea of India'. He discussed the citizens' right to clean air and a pollution-free environment, asserting that the government's failure to uphold this right is alarming. Oka lamented, "Do you find the government or governmental agencies really thinking of protecting the environment?" This raises an essential dialogue about the collective responsibility we share in ensuring a sustainable future.
The call to action is clear: as citizens, we must advocate for affordable housing, robust public healthcare, and a sustainable environment. The vision of a developed India hinges on addressing these critical areas. The time has come for all stakeholders to unite in the quest for a truly inclusive and developed nation, where every citizen can thrive in dignity and health.