Inspiring patriotism isn’t a tankless task

That the vice-chancellor of New Delhi’s Jawaharlal University ( JNU) reportedly wants to put a huge tank smack in the middle of the campus is entirely appropriate. There is nothing like a tank to inspire positive thoughts about the nation and, indeed, life in general. For, the overweening presence of those dark, looming behemoths is not that rare a sight in India, contrary to popular perception. There is scarcely a habitation that is bereft of their silent but undeniable presence.

They lurk in places that are often unexpected but never can it be said that they are unwanted. And thanks to certain initiatives of the current government, there are more of them about than ever before. These tanks serve to remind us all — not merely the more obstreperous elements of JNU’s student and academic bodies — that the price of conscientious objection (in this case, at least) is eternal waterlessness.

The VC has reportedly decided to ask for an “army tank”, which presumably would be sturdier than plastic civilian constructs. If JNU decides to opt for an Indian company’s tank named after an American general whose moniker is also used for a famous series of armoured military vehicles, then all sides may emerge happy, even if the VC meant another kind of tank altogether. And other universities may be inspired to follow suit.