Washington, April 2 (NationPress) Satyanarayan Pitroda, the head of the Indian Overseas Congress, known as 'Sam', emphasized the necessity for universal access to education and healthcare during a recent interview with IANS. He expressed concerns that both sectors have become commercialized and called on leaders, including Lok Sabha's opposition chief Rahul Gandhi, to embrace a vision for a more equitable India.

Here are key excerpts from the discussion:

IANS: There's ongoing discourse in India regarding reservations for Muslims within the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. What is your perspective?

Pitroda: It's essential to recognize that everyone at the bottom tier needs assistance. As someone from an OBC background, I didn't realize the implications in my youth. I received a Master's in Physics in India at a fraction of today's costs. Education has become prohibitively expensive now.

I believe that education and healthcare should be nearly free for all citizens. We've turned these necessities into a lucrative industry following a Western model. We require a system that guarantees free health and education for everyone.

IANS: The Delhi government under Arvind Kejriwal attempted such initiatives.

Pitroda: This isn't merely a state issue; it demands political will on a national scale. You can't implement comprehensive reforms in isolated pockets. A unified national vision is essential to ensure every child receives nearly free education.

Consider the plight of children in India whose families pay exorbitant fees, often reaching Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 monthly. It's unreasonable. I firmly assert that health and education should not be privatized to the extent we see today. While private options are valid, the state must uphold its responsibilities. Currently, we are neglecting our national duties.

IANS: What are your views on India's stance regarding the West Asia conflict?

Pitroda: We have not positioned ourselves with moral integrity; instead, we've aligned with a wealthy aggressor. My stance is not aligned with any specific party but rather with what is just.

IANS: Recently, countries like Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have sought to mediate between the USA and Iran. What do you think of Pakistan's involvement?

Pitroda: Everyone has the right to pursue peace; the more, the better. Each nation should explore avenues for reconciliation.

IANS: Should India play a mediating role similar to Pakistan's?

Pitroda: This isn't about India versus Pakistan. Each country has its responsibilities. We must transcend communal divisions and promote unity rather than hate.

IANS: With Pakistan's Foreign Minister recently in China, advocating for peace, should India align with Pakistan and China rather than the USA and Israel?

Pitroda: It's not about choosing sides; it's about championing what is right. We must prioritize peace urgently, as innocent lives are at stake across all sides. Our duty extends to protecting all children, regardless of nationality.

IANS: There's speculation that if Rahul Gandhi were Prime Minister, he could have influenced the US to cease hostilities. What are your thoughts?

Pitroda: Rahul Gandhi embodies a vision for India, a custodian of the principles handed down by our founding leaders—truth, democracy, diversity, and respect for all. His approach would not pit one nation against another but would stand for universal values.

IANS: Would Rahul Gandhi's foreign policy differ significantly from the current one?

Pitroda: It would prioritize India's and the global community's interests over short-term gains, grounded in moral integrity and a long-term vision.

IANS: In West Bengal and Assam, the BJP has called for the expulsion of Bangladeshi and Rohingya migrants. Is this justified, or does it violate human rights?

Pitroda: I lack sufficient knowledge to comment definitively. My perspective is humanitarian, focusing on what benefits everyone. This requires a commitment to high moral standards, which often entails sacrifice.