A single man brought the Govt. on its knees

The debate in the Lok Sabha on Anna Hazare's Lokpal Bill saw many interesting features and and points of view projected by the Members. Hon. Pranab Mukerjee who is a seasoned parliamentarian and trouble shooter gave a poor reflection of himself when he echoed the words of Rahul Gandhi that " A single , however strong and empowered it may be cannot eradicate corruption" On the contrary he had seen the extra-ordinary strength of a powerless single individual who brought the powerful Government to its knees for his honest and just demand. Pranab DA should have quoted him rather than Rahul who is no match to his knowledge, experience and wisdom. The mere fact that a coterie of dynastic supporters are projecting Rahul Gandhi as the future Prime Minister does not in any way mitigates the popular aspirations of the people to see him on the Prime Minister's seat.

A Historic Non-violent Movement

It is for the first time in the history of independent India that a mass movement on an unprecedented scale against corruption was conducted by a social worker Anna Hazare throughout the country in a non-violent Gandhian style. Not a single case of violence was reported from any part of the country where large scale demonstrations were held and participated by young and old persons voluntarily. The other remarkable feature of this public crusade was apolitical nature. In fact the politicians who wanted to take advantage of the situation were kept at bay and in some cases shooed away. The result of this agitation is for every body to see that public might is greater than the power of politics. This has set an example to emulate before the world that people can bend the mightiest force without violent means.

2. The Government has agreed in principle to consider the suggestions made for the institution of Lokpal which will undergo procedural scrutiny within the framework of democratic constitution of the country. There are expressions of doubts and apprehensions in some quarters whether such procedural dilatory tactics will allow the Bill to emerge for enactment has happened in previous 9 attempts. It should, however, be clear to the legislatures that times have changed and people are now determined to seek effective measures against the cancer of corruption.







    

Breach of Trust

The entire nation has been virtually at standstill for the last two weeks following the spat between team Anna Hazare and the Government on the question of Jan Lokkpal Bill to combat the menace of corruption in the country. The entire nation has been backing this movement irrespective of their political affiliation, caste or creed because all are victims of this scourge in their day to day life. Since 16th August when Anna underwent fast there have been series of parleys between the Anna's team and the government emissaries about the fine prints of the proposed Bill as Government publicly accepted all the suggestions made by Anna Hazare about the contents and the structure of Lokpal. Even the Prime Minister conceded in Lok Sabha about the need for a strong and effective institution in this regard and assured about the introduction of Jan Lok pal Bill in the current session of Parliament.

2. Strangely, when the entire nation was anxiously awaiting the introduction of the proposed Bill and breaking the fast by Anna Hazare, Rahul Gandhi made a complete somersault in his speech in Parliament which obviously had the approval of the Government and Congress party. This action has completely shattered the hopes of people and lowered the image and credibility of the Government. Why Rahul Gandhi was in a silent mode when the establishment was daily engaged in discussions on the issue. The suggestion for a statutory body could have been made right in the beginning and ground work started or it could follow after the present problem had been solved. It is a belated and unwise attempt which will not go down well.

Let us not play politics with Sports

It is but natural that when a country's sports team is defeated in an international match there is a cause for disappointment and some times anger. The same is true for our team's performance in England. It is,however, unfortunate that we have started taking Cricket game as a business or a battle squad rather than as a sport. In every game one side wins and the other looses. The euphoria generated following the performance in U.K. is unwanted and unfair. It was the same team that had won the World Cup a few months ago creating a history of sorts in Cricket world . The entire nations celebrated the event in an unprecedented scale. One should not expect the same results in the game every time and we should shun jingoism from sports. It is for the sportsmen and concerned authorities to go into the causes for winning and losing. The public should enjoy the games and not demoralise the players.

Corruption & Politics

The civil society's project which began on a limited issue of drafting a Bill for setting an institution to contain all pervasive corruption in the country has assumed diverse dimensions. Neither the Government nor the Civil rights activist had in their wildest dreams imagined that it will assume the form of an unprecedented mass national movement. It is indicative of the extent of public anguish and frustration with the prevailing corruption in the country. People of all walks of life rich, poor,workers,professionals ,politicians of all hues and intellectuals have come out voluntarily to support the cause. Most of the people have little concern or knowledge about the drafts for Lokpal bills proposed by Anna Hazare or Government but they want corruption to be wiped out. That is the crux of the matter for the public at large and they want early solutions.

2. When this mass movement is at its zenith and hopefully some concrete measures are likely to emerge, political parties are flexing their muscles to weaken it by adopting divisive strategies. Udit Narayan is bringing in Cast politics on the grounds that Scheduled Caste groups were not associated while drafting the proposed Bill. One may ask the ask the question whether scheduled caste people are not affected by the prevailing corruption. Similarly, Zafar Jilani is giving a divisive communal colour to the agitation by objecting to slogans "Bharat Mata-ki-Jai" and national anthem "Bande Matram". This anti national stance is condemnable in secular India. Tomorrow some unsound fanatic will object to "Allah-h0-Akbar". Let us keep this movement apolitical, secular and meaningful.

A confused Govt. & determined Anna Hazare

The flip flop actions and provocative statements made by the members of UPA Government and spokes persons of the ruling party while dealing with Anna Hazare has not only lowered its image world wide but also lost the confidence of masses in the country. The surge of public sentiment against the Government and in favour of Anna movement has largely been contributed by the Government itself. First the Government gave a VIP treatment to the members of Civil Society and spent a number of days in confabulations for drafting the proposed Lokpal Bill and when there were differences of opinion, they began a tirade of personal invectives and uncivilised mouthfuls against Anna and his team members. At that time they did not consider is necessary to involve the opposition in the drafting of the proposed Bill which is a democratic process.

2. Now they are in a reverse gear mode. Anna was corrupt yesterday and he is Gandhian today. He was arrested in the morning and released in the evening. A number of conditions were imposed upon him for holding his rally which have now been withdrawn. This indicates the indecisiveness and nervousness in the Government which appears to have lost the right to rule. The spontaneous mass upsurge of population in favour of Anna is a reminder of JP movement of 1977 which galvanised the people against misrule of Indira Gandhi. Are we heading in the same directions? It is also pertinent to point out that majority of the people who have joined this agitation do not know about Lokpal Bill. They consider it to be a movement against prevailing corruption at all levels in the country by which every citizen is adversely affected in his day to day life. The claim of Government that Lokpal will not be able to end corruption is an honest statement. How can you route out the wild hedges that you have been irrigating for the past 64 years.

Riots in U.K. more an economic issue than a Law & Order situation

There is criticism in U.K. about the soft approach of the authorities in dealing with the rioters in London and else where.No doubt It is the duty of the Government to maintain law and order and to punish the guilty.However,no amount of state force can control the underlying and simmering discontent of a deprived society for long although it may temporarily appear to have curbed it. The main cause of this sudden outburst leading to looting and arson is the huge economic disparities between the haves and have nots. Unfortunately, the gap is growing at enormous pace in all the free economies of the world and India is no exception.

2. We have to view this situation from national perspective and take urgent steps to review the required social and economic steps. In fact we are already facing this situation in the Mao infested States where we have not been able to nip this menace through the use of force. The spate of criminal activities in the form of kidnappings for ransom, extortions and robberies etc. are indicators of economic mis-match between the rich and poor. To add fuel to the fire the ever soaring inflation and high cost of essential food articles is contributing to the social divide.

Afzal Guru deserves quick hanging- Not publicity

The publicity being given to the Ministry of Home's recommendation on Afzal Guru's mercy petition both by print and electronic media is uncalled for and detrimental to the judicial process. It had already assumed political connotations and a shuttle cock match between the Government and Opposition and had been lingering for years. Are we trying to make hero of a criminal who has been sentenced to death by the due process of law of a democratic country? The separatists and terrorist organisations in J&K have openly challenged the judgement and decisions on mercy petition and are threatening to disturb peace and tranquility in the State. These anti national people cannot be allowed to challenge our democratic institutions and procedures. Will they also behave in the same manner in the case of Kasab who has also been sentenced to death for similar offence? They should be made to imagine the type of fate these terrorists would have met in the countries who follow the Sharia laws. In any case the Media should exercise restraint in this case as they do so for many condemned convicts.

Select the right persons in political set ups

The sordid drama enacted by disgraced B S Yeddyurappa the out going Chief Minister of Karnatak following his indictment by Lokayukta for corruption and land grabbing is a matter of concern for all political parties in the country. Despite directives from his Party High Command to step away from Office, he has been trying all tricks like astrology, majority support cast considerations and unreasonable conditions to cling to power either in the party or in government. It indicates the levels to which the politicians can stoop low in their greed for power and money. BJP has taken the right decision to reject all his frivolous conditions to save its image in the public eye. It also realises that the allegations against Yeddyurappa will ultimately find place in public prosecution and it will greatly undermine the image of the party.

2. This is not the only case of its kind that has happened in the country where a Chief Minister has defied the orders of its party high command when asked to relinquish office on charges of corruption or misgovernment. Political parties of all hues in the country have faced almost similar situations. One of the reason for this malady is the wrong choice of the leader who secure their nomination on the basis of money power. This all around corruption leads to chain reactions of corrupt practices by those who crown themselves through corruption. All political parties should conduct introspection and make proper selection of candidates to save the democratic norms.

Scam a Day

Our country has assumed the reputation of "Scam a Day" country.. Hardly a day passes when we do not learn about one Scam or the other in the print and visual media. The latest revelations about mining scam involving the Chief Minister , his colleagues and a former Chief Minister in the sordid corruption saga should make all the political parties hang their heads in shame as they are sullying the name of the largest democracy in the world by including the known corrupt persons in the States and Centre Governments. This is not the type of democracy people want where a common man rots in jail for years for a minor offence but the Scamsters accused of defrauding the nation for millions/trillions of rupees come out unscathed. The investigating agencies are threatened by the powerful offenders as the Lokayukat of Karnataka is being harassed through phone tapings etc. In the face of all these one wonders what will be achieved by having a Lok Pal who will face the same type of problems.

2. It is time now that the nation should unite to route out this menace by evolving a mechanism through all party meeting and to bring suitable amendments in the electoral laws where the tainted and accused persons holding public Offices are immediately unseated and dealt with sternly and immediately.

Look After yourself- Hillary Clinton

The present visit of Hillary Clinton, U.S. Secretary of State to India has been a non-event as it has belied all expectations both political as well as economic. Although the Government of India was under illusions of securing support particularly in taming Pakistan and its terrorism workshops, Hillarly was blunt in conveying that it is your problem and you are supposed to look after it. She also did not mince words saying that Pakistan is a greater victim of terrorism. In other words. India should only expect statements of condemnations whenever any terror activity takes place on its soil. Thi position was clear from day one Barack Obama took over as President of USA. We should not forget the treatment meted out to our investigated team in the case of David Headly, a major player in Mumbai'26/11 carnage.

2. The present visit has solely been motivated by promotion of unilateral trade involving U.S. Interests and not bilateral trade. They have also cheated us in the case of Nuclear Civil Treaty and want to water down the proposed Nuclear Liability Bill to suit the interests of American suppliers of equipments. Should we not take adequate measures to keep a distance from such a unreliable and undependable so called ally?

Let us look after victims of Mumbai attack first

The dastardly serial blasts in Mumbai by terror groups on Wednesday have brought untold misery and tragedy to the families of more than twenty who Lost their lives and about 140 seriously injured besides huge damage to the state and private property.Mumbai is unfortunate to have been a repeated victim of similar disasters in the past. While the investigating agencies are still engaged in their task of piecing the required threads to identify the suspects behind this sinister attack and the victims are fighting for their lives in various hospitals, politicians of various hues are busy in rubbing salt on the wounds of victims by issuing uncalled for and irresponsible statements.

Digvijay Singh the advocate of corrupt and scamsters

The Congress General Secretary Digvijay Singh is trying his best to gain his position in the Guiness Book of Records for his foot in the mouth controversial statements on all subjects and against all persons around him. His recent statement declaring Suresh Kalamadi and Ashok Chavan as innocents indicates his proximity to these persons which in the normal course would have invoked investigation proceedings against him. Both the accused persons have been charged of corruption of unprecedented level and Kalamadi is cooling his heels in Prison and even denied bail by the Judicial Court. The statement of Digvijay Singh although claimed to be his personal opinion cannot be accepted as personal so long he holds the office of General Secretary of the ruling Party. That the said Party has been tolerating his foul language against Baba Ram Dev, Anna Hazare and even his co-party member P. Chidambaram indicates some behind the scene moves supporting his uncalled for outbursts. This is neither in the interest of the Party nor the country. The sooner he is tamed better it will be for the both.

Who is ruling this country?

The news about the audacious and irresponsible behaviour of Mukul Roy the Minister of State for Railways in brazen insensitivity towards the victims of two tragic rail accidents in the country is most despicable and inhuman. While the whole country was grieving for the unfortunate victims and residents of the surrounding villages, truck drivers and cyclists came out in drones to render voluntarily to help the victims of accident the dis-honourable Minister(he has forfeited his title for being addressed as Honourable) refused to visit the site of accidents despite Prime Minister's orders. This further strengthens the common man's growing aversion towards politicians. His argument that he is not the Railway Minister and Prime Minister is further indicates the perversity of his mind even in a national disaster.

2. This incident cannot be treated as a casual stubbornness of a disgruntled individual but needs serious review about the existing governance pattern. The opposition charge about dysfunctional and powerless Prime Minister gains strength and credibility. This is not Coalition Dharma but Adharma. What was expected was a strong rebuke to the Minister from her Party Chief but she chose to remain silent and in all probability will seek his elevation in the Cabinet. How proud will be the nation to have such insensitive self seekers to rule over them?

Lok Pal Bill and Politicians

The all party meeting convened by the Government to discuss Lok Pal Bill was more as a tea party gathering as neither the Government was transparent about the contents of the proposed Bill nor the political parties were sincere to make their stands clear. If the parties wanted to discuss the Bill while it was introduced in the Parliament one wonders about the objective of convening this meeting. The only ostensible purpose appeared to unite against the emergence of Civil rights movements which is perceived to be a potential threat to the political parties.


It should not be forgotten that it was the Civil Right groups that galvanised the nation against the mounting corruption in the country and the political parties did precious little all these years to combat the menace of cancerous corruption spreading the entire system of governance. In fact most of the culprits belonged to the political class.

The ruse of elected representatives absolute right to decide about social reforms, managing the corrupt and corruption cannot be accepted by the people at large who feel crushed and frustrated by the political parties whom they voted in power in good faith and belief. That majority of these political parties cheated the nation needs no elaboration. There have been unprecedented number of scams and frauds of huge magnitude and the initial reluctance of the Government to shield the guilty has completely shaken the faith of the people. It is in this context that the civil right movements evolve amongst the people and play corrective role. We are witnessing this in the Middle East and it should act as a wake up call for us also. It is the high time now that an effective mechanism be set up to meet the challenge to restore the confidence of the people in the institutions of democracy which includes the fundamental rights of speech and expression of all citizens. If the government is now challenging the Civil Right Group's authority, then why they have been holding official meetings with them.

Let there be firm action against corruption now

It is a matter of great relief and happiness that Baba Ram Dev has broken his fast. This fast followed the high handed and detestable action of the Police at midnight on peaceful demonstrators gathered at Ramlila Grounds protesting against Corruption in the country and demands to bring back black money stashed abroad. It is expected that the Government has now learnt its lessons for its shoddy action and shall make immediate moves against corruption. Similarly, Baba Ram Dev should help and co-operate with the Government to achieve this goal in a peaceful and orderly manner in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. The frame work for suitable provisions in law should be evolved on the pattern of Joint Committee of Civil Society and Government preferably keeping away the political parties. Further, there should not be acrimonious statements from either side so that this serious matter is handled in a harmonious and effective manner in national interest.

Recall the Governor of Karnataka

The unprecedented and unprincipled action of Shri Hans Raj Bhardwaj, Governor of Karnataka recommending imposition of Presidential rule in the State has raised many questions of misuse of constitutional authority. Ever since his appointment as Governor of the State Mr. Bhardwaj has not been acting as representative of the President which he is supposed to be under the Constitution of India but as a representative of the political party to which he belonged. This is most unfortunate and undignified. He was a former law Minister of the country and is supposed to know the constitutional provisions and the procedure to be adopted while making such a recommendation.

2. Without going into details of the happenings in the State Assembly and the decision of the Supreme Court, the fact remains that the state legislature is in position and there is no law and order situation, the grounds under which such a recommendation is made. The Governor could have directed the Government to prove its majority in the House which he deliberately avoided. The prejudicial acts of Mr. Bhardwaj against the State Government have not only lowered is image in the eyes of public as well as raised questions about his competence to hold this Office.He should, therefore, be recalled by the President
In case we want to preserve our democratic traditions, no political person should be appointed as Governor. Only apolitical persons of eminence from various walks of life who command respect should be considered for appoint.

End of Obama the Master Terrorist

The post Osama Bin Laden scenario of Pak-American - Afghanistan relationships will undergo a spectucular change. It is correct that with his elimination the symbol of terrorism may have disappeared but the substance remains. A few facts about Pakistan's role in running the giant hatchery of terrorism which were viewed with skepticism by some countries are now confirmed and proved beyond doubt. The shelter provided to the terror czar within its highest security zone leaves nothing more to imagine for the hypocritical role Pakistan has been playing so far. Whatever statements President Obama may make about co-operation with Pakistan the loss of confidence and trust is too wide and beyond repair.

The Pakistan's ambition of supremacy in Afhgan affairs is never going to materalise as it should now prepare itself to face internal strife and public wrath for compromising their national sovereignty. India has also to learn a lesson or two from this episode viz. never to trust U.S.A. And not to hesitate for taking firm action against the enemy of State wherever they may be located.

Employing Domestic Helps without verification

The rescue of kidnapped Delhi toddler Ishaan by Delhi Police in record time of two days merits kudos for Delhi police for the great job done. Normally, Delhi Police is the target of public criticism for their various acts of omissions and commissions and insensitive towards people's grievances. We should,therefore, be graceful by expressing appreciation and gratitude which they richly deserve in the present case.

2. The present incident of employing Maids for house hold chores without verifying their antecedents through the Police authorities despite repeated campaigns by the Police is not isolated one. The common argument advanced by the employers is that the verification process takes unduly long time and by that time they lose the prospective employee. This is not a sustainable argument as personal safety and property is more important than than an unverified employee. There have have been numerous cases of murders, burglaries,kidnappings in Delhi committed by the domestic helps who were employed at random. People should realise the amount of public money involved in tracing the culprits through a number of teams formed by the Police who are sent to various parts of the country. It will, perhaps, not be inappropriate if the amount involved is recovered from the concerned family in case they had employed a person without verifying his/her antecedents.

Let us be compassionate toArunima

It is most disgusting to find controversies being created by unscrupulous railway authorities about the cause and circumstances of Arunima's injuries in the rail accident. Here is a young and promising girl who is maimed for life and her dreams of future have crashed and who has lost her leg and is still lying in hospital. The entire nation has expressed sympathy and given liberal financial support for treatment etc. This would have been the response of the people in any other similar case and it should be so. But the insensitive Railway Police at this hour of her personal grief and healing process is rubbing salt on her wounds as well as causing mental trauma by countering her claims of travel and her qualifications. This is inhuman and unethical. At this point of time she needs rest and mental peace which is paramount for her recovery. The crime rate in Railways is so diverse and of such high dimension that no amount of detergent can wash its Police force clean. So some one should restrain it from making untimely and iressponsible public statements in the present case.