Topic: Jagjivan Ram

Even though Kharge has not been big on capitalising on his caste identity, his elevation within the party comes at a time when space for Dalit politics is opening up in India.

Both images show the then service chiefs, but the former PM and defence minister is removed from them.

Sam Manekshaw was the hero of the 1971 war, and Jagjivan Ram could do little if the General had put his foot down.

The railways ministry, which oversees a lifeline millions of Indians rely on daily, has changed hands at a dizzying pace since 1947.

Jagjivam Ram, was an 8-time MP from Sasaram who served as a Union minister for almost over three decades.

As an Indian and a democrat – and as an opposition politician also facing a seemingly unvanquishable foe in power, and looking to unity and popular support to bring about change – I can only wish the new coalition government in Malaysia well.