A hindu philosophy perspective on the temporal nature of energy justice in Odisha, India

Abstract

This chapter draws upon Amartya Sen's interpretation of the Hindu Bhagavad Gita to discuss temporal justice implications underlying energy transitions observed in much of the Global South. In particular, it applies this Hindu-based philosophy to unpack the energy policy dichotomy currently facing policymakers in the Indian state of Odisha: the conflict between achieving sustainable development whilst also rapidly decarbonising by transitioning away from a strong industrialisation-driven model of economic development. Drawing from the Gita-inspired notions of a focus on duty in the here-and-now versus a sensitivity towards future consequences of present actions, this chapter introduces Nyaya, a Sanskrit term for justice. We argue that Nyaya's focus on 'realised' justice is far more comprehensive and inclusive in that it allows policymakers to move beyond Niti, which limits, instead, policy to follow the trappings of bounded institutions, rules, and regulations.