Thendi-Thendi, the new Indian Prime Time League, is my brainchild and there are so many teams vying for the top spot already, it looks like. This year's edition will have 8 teams and I invite bids for the same, along with suggested team names. Seriously, looks like the Premier League 20-20 edition is turning into a tightly contested "Thendi-Thendi" match, with all the exchanges of love and affection on television, twitter and internet. The chap who started it didnt probably think it will boomerang and burn his own chair. Anyway, the point is, without the concerted efforts of the people behind it, Team IPL Kerala would never have materialized. That Kerala won over the "high" and "mighty" others is obviously a shock and matter of jealousy for many. So kudos to our MP and we simply need to stand behind him as United Kerala.
IPL itself is a money spinner and crores are spent, exchanged, transacted on several aspects of the sport. The teams were picked in a closed envelope bidding. So where is the question of power, beyond that of the council and league heads? Are they worried the power is leaking out? As the MP rightly said, mainstream cricket has been so far been a fort of power, money and charm, and cornered and abused by a select few. We have all heard how team members get selected and how much our netas fought for getting into the councils. Take a look at who governs these cricket councils and its evident.
Getting a team for Kerala was a hard fought battle, it looks like obviously, and what is wrong with a person passionate about cricket coordinating the efforts? If the team went to another state, would we have ever heard of these issues, irrespective of the people and money involved? It is so unfair to target the MP who probably worked with the best of intentions. If money was the intention, he is smart enough to do it better and much differently! It is heartening to see the party is going to stand behind him, and take on the powerful coterie.
Bringing up a person's personal life or saying his proxy friend, who is a person of the opposite sex adding to their convenience, benefitted sweat equity (and how in the world did this 70 crore figure come!?, and is it not natural that anyone who floats and executes an idea will obviously be a shareholder) is shortsighted, and typically the usual cheap politics and the convoluted mindset of our frustrated lot. And the fact that the person is a female and good looking must be good fuel. But then, does this mean all the friends of ministers should stay away from anything worthwhile, profitable or beneficial? Are we then going to examine all the friends of the owners of all the other teams? Are we sure we wont find any other ministers or politicians? If yes, then we should probably examine the mighty cricket council itself and the people who operate it. Where do all the billions go every year?
And most importantly, we should then extend this suddenly discovered and conveniently adopted concept of transparency and corruptionless governance, by both our politicians and the media, to mainstream politics as well. Will we be able to examine all our politicians and their friends, and the way deals are done in this country?
If yes, then we can say the match is won. By the people of India.
Read more!
THE 'SAVE KERALA' INITIATIVE
Showing posts with label India. Show all posts
Showing posts with label India. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Kerala This Week Ver 5.03, 2010
Our state got 9 new trains, got itself included in several new train routes, and a sanction for a new coach factory. Yet, there was no stopping the usual protests, and crying for sympathy on being ignored. Wonder if we can really accommodate more trains? But no harm in asking for more and complaining, especially when we get everything for free. There were also complaints about Kerala being kept out of the Freight Corridor. Brings back memories of when we were left out of the Golden Quadrilateral, perhaps due to our own indecision and inabilities. But then, remember that we were offered central assistance for the estimated Rs.6400 crore North South corridor many years ago, but we are still deciding whether it should be called a "byepass" (if done by lefties) or an expressway (if the righties have their way). Having such an excellent roadline would have eased our rail demands certainly, as well as reduced the accidents on our existing highways. But then we are a state running on political mileage, and have no great consideration for economics or such logic.
The response was same for the nation's budget as well. Opposition political parties were united in talking down the budget and its allocations, but most non-political bodies realized that the budget was very equally based for all financial classes, and the policies were made for taking India to the future, rather than for temporary applause, as is the usual case. And considering the recessionary times, the PM and his team needs a good applause.
Somebody else needs applause. The women of Kerala for bearing the sun, heat, chain-snatchers, and eve-teasers, and turning out in lakhs to offer Pongala - here is an interesting read. A record estimated 3 lakhs women came out to pray for their families and a blessed married life. More power to our women! And kudos to the district administration for keeping the day relatively safe and peaceful, barring random incidents of hooliganism and theft. Lets hope some of our men also take a cue and do something more productive than getting drunk so often and being so happily unemployed.
Scientists from the state have discovered a plant extract which can mimick the effects of viagra, and the plant is relatively common across the state. Well, lets hope it is going to be on sale only on the basis of prescriptions when it finally comes out!
Talking about dysfunction, err..depletion..it has been identified that the state's ground water is getting rapidly depleted. This despite chasing out Coke.
There was also another kind of depletion evident from the ongoing spat between malayalam cinema industry professionals and the poet who appeared as an, allegedly uninvited, "interlocutor". That the interlocutor stooped so low on television to foul mouth the superstar Mohan Lal, that too by using filthy language linking the star with an actress, and the audience clapping and rejoicing the thought, was evident of the more alarming depletion in civil standards of our state.
Meanwhile, instead of pouncing on our beloved MP, Tharoor, at every given opportunity, it will be wiser if our leaders first went back and referred to what the word "interlocutor" really means. And no points to the mainstream media as well for conveniently misinterpreting his statements to simply create controversy. It is amply evident from the statements that he never meant or invited anyone to mediate bi-party talks, but simply meant to convey our demands to Pakistan, just as we have always wanted other nations to put pressure on our neighbour.
It is wonderful that the Indian team has won their first match at the Hockey World Cup today against Pakistan. The vicotry has fired up the campaign for giving our heart to hockey again. Many of us certainly did. And great to see that the goalkeeper from Kerala did his share (with the help of the crossbar, more than once!) to see that there was just one goal against India. Dhak Dhak, Go!
Read more!
The response was same for the nation's budget as well. Opposition political parties were united in talking down the budget and its allocations, but most non-political bodies realized that the budget was very equally based for all financial classes, and the policies were made for taking India to the future, rather than for temporary applause, as is the usual case. And considering the recessionary times, the PM and his team needs a good applause.
Somebody else needs applause. The women of Kerala for bearing the sun, heat, chain-snatchers, and eve-teasers, and turning out in lakhs to offer Pongala - here is an interesting read. A record estimated 3 lakhs women came out to pray for their families and a blessed married life. More power to our women! And kudos to the district administration for keeping the day relatively safe and peaceful, barring random incidents of hooliganism and theft. Lets hope some of our men also take a cue and do something more productive than getting drunk so often and being so happily unemployed.
Scientists from the state have discovered a plant extract which can mimick the effects of viagra, and the plant is relatively common across the state. Well, lets hope it is going to be on sale only on the basis of prescriptions when it finally comes out!
Talking about dysfunction, err..depletion..it has been identified that the state's ground water is getting rapidly depleted. This despite chasing out Coke.
There was also another kind of depletion evident from the ongoing spat between malayalam cinema industry professionals and the poet who appeared as an, allegedly uninvited, "interlocutor". That the interlocutor stooped so low on television to foul mouth the superstar Mohan Lal, that too by using filthy language linking the star with an actress, and the audience clapping and rejoicing the thought, was evident of the more alarming depletion in civil standards of our state.
Meanwhile, instead of pouncing on our beloved MP, Tharoor, at every given opportunity, it will be wiser if our leaders first went back and referred to what the word "interlocutor" really means. And no points to the mainstream media as well for conveniently misinterpreting his statements to simply create controversy. It is amply evident from the statements that he never meant or invited anyone to mediate bi-party talks, but simply meant to convey our demands to Pakistan, just as we have always wanted other nations to put pressure on our neighbour.
It is wonderful that the Indian team has won their first match at the Hockey World Cup today against Pakistan. The vicotry has fired up the campaign for giving our heart to hockey again. Many of us certainly did. And great to see that the goalkeeper from Kerala did his share (with the help of the crossbar, more than once!) to see that there was just one goal against India. Dhak Dhak, Go!
Read more!
Friday, February 12, 2010
My Name is..Kaun?
The Pathology of the Politics of Intimidation and Intolerance
Congrats to SRK, all the Indians living in Maharashtra and its capital city, earlier known as Bombay, and the chief minister of that state. SRK for standing up to what he believes and expressing his opinion as an Indian, the Indians for going out there to watch MNIK and reiterate we are Indians First, and the CM of Maharashtra for holding it all together. But if we look beyond (or beneath, if you prefer) the politics and publicity aspects of the MNIK saga, we can easily see why the politics of intimidation and coercion work, and why, more often than not, we cannot enjoy the privilege of the fundamental rights, assured by our nation's founding fathers to every Indian. Why do we think twice before doing what is right? Why are we coerced into silence when our hearts yearn to speak out? Why are we living in constant fear and threat, but left with the feeling nothing can be done about it?
Under normal circumstances, no law abiding Indian citizen should be afraid to express himself or herself, voice opinions, and perform duties or obligations, so long as all these fall within the framework of legality. Yet, we realize this is not the case in our cities and towns. The main reason is because the system has been hijacked by vested interests and corrupted (not just financially, but ideologically and politically as well) - the system, which is meant to protect every citizen, the system on which every citizen should have founded his or her faith, courage, and patriotism. And most importantly, the system which interprets, upholds and delivers the law and justice.
For example, lets take a bandh call by a political party, for a cause or reason that you dont support. Ideally you want to go to work and ignore the call, or perhaps you want to oppose the call because you feel they are wrong. But you cannot. Why? Because you get out, and they will burn your car and beat you up. Why? Because the system connives with them, instead of protecting you. Because the law enforcers and the civil administration are forced to become operators of the political agenda rather than justice. Why? Because they are taught to be loyal to divisions rather than the law, because they are polarized instead of being committed to the neutrality of the constitution. Because they are rewarded only for their allegiance to these forces, and not for their honesty and courage. Why? Because most politicians and their politics survive because of divisions, not because of their committment to the nation or its citizens, and these are the kind of people who can justify violence against women and Valentines day one day and call it an "attack on democracy" the day they get the same treatment. Why? Because people still support them and vote for them, instead of isolating them and shunning them!
Majority of the bandhs and hartals (and along with it, politicians and their parties) would go un-noticed, and definitely fail, if the police and the government machinery ensured there is no violence and coercion. Yet, this doesnt happen because tomorrow it may be the government's own party that may call the bandh. And the police and civil administration frequently get penalized for delivering justice and protecting the citizens, without taking sides.
Or let us take the example of an official demanding bribe. We would think twice before acting against him or her? Why? Because chances are that you will get isolated, be made to suffer, and ultimately become the only loser in the end. Why? Because the wrong-doers become mighty the moment the system is on their side.
Yet, as the educated youth become the majority and slowly "wrests the politics" from the politician, we are seeing signs of great change and glimpses of great hope. We dont need to respond to every violent politician by inking him black, and we wouldnt need to declare war every time a movie is released if we can free the system from the selfish, intolerant, divisive forces, and instead reinstate a system that will respond in the same way and remain neutral, whether its Khan, King, Karan, Kursheed, or anyone other Indian. Because, we are Indians First.
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity.
Read more!
Congrats to SRK, all the Indians living in Maharashtra and its capital city, earlier known as Bombay, and the chief minister of that state. SRK for standing up to what he believes and expressing his opinion as an Indian, the Indians for going out there to watch MNIK and reiterate we are Indians First, and the CM of Maharashtra for holding it all together. But if we look beyond (or beneath, if you prefer) the politics and publicity aspects of the MNIK saga, we can easily see why the politics of intimidation and coercion work, and why, more often than not, we cannot enjoy the privilege of the fundamental rights, assured by our nation's founding fathers to every Indian. Why do we think twice before doing what is right? Why are we coerced into silence when our hearts yearn to speak out? Why are we living in constant fear and threat, but left with the feeling nothing can be done about it?
Under normal circumstances, no law abiding Indian citizen should be afraid to express himself or herself, voice opinions, and perform duties or obligations, so long as all these fall within the framework of legality. Yet, we realize this is not the case in our cities and towns. The main reason is because the system has been hijacked by vested interests and corrupted (not just financially, but ideologically and politically as well) - the system, which is meant to protect every citizen, the system on which every citizen should have founded his or her faith, courage, and patriotism. And most importantly, the system which interprets, upholds and delivers the law and justice.
For example, lets take a bandh call by a political party, for a cause or reason that you dont support. Ideally you want to go to work and ignore the call, or perhaps you want to oppose the call because you feel they are wrong. But you cannot. Why? Because you get out, and they will burn your car and beat you up. Why? Because the system connives with them, instead of protecting you. Because the law enforcers and the civil administration are forced to become operators of the political agenda rather than justice. Why? Because they are taught to be loyal to divisions rather than the law, because they are polarized instead of being committed to the neutrality of the constitution. Because they are rewarded only for their allegiance to these forces, and not for their honesty and courage. Why? Because most politicians and their politics survive because of divisions, not because of their committment to the nation or its citizens, and these are the kind of people who can justify violence against women and Valentines day one day and call it an "attack on democracy" the day they get the same treatment. Why? Because people still support them and vote for them, instead of isolating them and shunning them!
Majority of the bandhs and hartals (and along with it, politicians and their parties) would go un-noticed, and definitely fail, if the police and the government machinery ensured there is no violence and coercion. Yet, this doesnt happen because tomorrow it may be the government's own party that may call the bandh. And the police and civil administration frequently get penalized for delivering justice and protecting the citizens, without taking sides.
Or let us take the example of an official demanding bribe. We would think twice before acting against him or her? Why? Because chances are that you will get isolated, be made to suffer, and ultimately become the only loser in the end. Why? Because the wrong-doers become mighty the moment the system is on their side.
Yet, as the educated youth become the majority and slowly "wrests the politics" from the politician, we are seeing signs of great change and glimpses of great hope. We dont need to respond to every violent politician by inking him black, and we wouldnt need to declare war every time a movie is released if we can free the system from the selfish, intolerant, divisive forces, and instead reinstate a system that will respond in the same way and remain neutral, whether its Khan, King, Karan, Kursheed, or anyone other Indian. Because, we are Indians First.
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity.
Read more!
Saturday, May 16, 2009
India Awakening
The election results today are probably a sign of things to come. It shows that the nearly 10 crore first time voters are wiser and more sensible than their older citizens. That young India is not bothered about religion and creed, but security and safety. They are not worried about caste and community, but more about education and opportunities. And with the number of young and educated voters set to increase for the next few decades, its obvious that the closing bell has started to ring for the politicians who have so far tried to divide the nation and loot us. Kudos to the winners and may God bless our new leaders with enough sense, health, and strength to take us forward as a nation! India first!
Special congrats to Shashi Tharoor who won from Trivandrum with a margin of nearly one lakh votes!
Read more!
Special congrats to Shashi Tharoor who won from Trivandrum with a margin of nearly one lakh votes!
Read more!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Home-Made Kasabs and Their Sponsors
When I see our present day politicians and their parties (this includes the ones that claim to be politicians and parties as well!) who force their distorted ideologies and mindless policies in order to further their own selfish interests, I try and analyze how different they are from terrorists and criminals. Unfortunately, I do not see any difference, except for the number of people killed. But sooner or later, I doubt even that difference will exist.
If India got together to blame and isolate politicians when the Mumbai attacks happened in Novermber 2008, it is very evident today that it is time that we all got together to blame them for terror-mongering organizations under political masks and their every day crimes, whether it is SIMI, IM, JUD, LTTE, RUF, VHB, SRS, BD, RSSs, DFI, AbVP, KsU, MKP, LMP, or any other outfit that takes law into their hands or adopts violence, irrespective of the party, ideology or religion.
Almost every day now we hear something like the SRS attacking women in Mangalore, Haryana Police thrashing a woman, BD monkeys chasing siblings, coffee shops and customers being attacked in Trivandrum, and cops being thrashed all over Kerala. The common factor here is the elected government failing to be responsible and respect the constitution, but instead becoming operators of legal machineries hijacked for the sake of power, crime, illegal activities, and injustice.
Karnataka is a typical example of what is in store for us if this political frenzy based on party, religion and community continues. Imagine a scum-bag claiming to be the general secretary of an prganization full of goondas coming in front of national television to justify their activities and warning that they will continue their criminal conduct. Or an old-gas bag like their president saying they would have done the same even if their sisters went to the pub. Just 2 days ago, a lady from the same outfit claimed that we do not need one day to "love" but we can love all through the year!
Fundamental elements like these bank on the perception that the elected government with shared ideologies will be soft on their activities, however criminal, and assume that they can gain greater support and fame in the process. Unfortunately, the elected government fails to uphold the constitution because of electoral interests and the thirst for power and money. The end result is that the people get polarized further on the basis of religion and community, destroying the very foundation of the nation that is India.
Many years ago, Indian culture included pissing on the road and spitting around, widows jumping into pyres, women were never allowed to wear blouses under their saris, and children getting married off before they finished growing. Over time, as education and exposure to better living increased, we changed. Nobody told us to change or stopped us from improving ourselves. Of course, some of them still prefer to piss and crap around, and it is their wish as long as they do not break law. Similarly, if some of us want to live in a more refined and dignified manner, that should also be allowed. The law and the constitution of India will and should be the only factor that decides the perimeters of our civil existence.
If our states and the country cannot protect us from these terrorists within our country, they should let Kasab and the likes of him be tried in other countries which will have better justice prevailing. Because I do not see any difference between the Pakistani Kasab and our own, home-grown Kasabs pretending to be from various political outfits and organizations in India. Indians will need to come together, irrespective of religion, caste and creed, in order to ensure justice, and protect our liberties and fundamental rights from these home-grown terrorists AND our own governments that support them.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Read more!
If India got together to blame and isolate politicians when the Mumbai attacks happened in Novermber 2008, it is very evident today that it is time that we all got together to blame them for terror-mongering organizations under political masks and their every day crimes, whether it is SIMI, IM, JUD, LTTE, RUF, VHB, SRS, BD, RSSs, DFI, AbVP, KsU, MKP, LMP, or any other outfit that takes law into their hands or adopts violence, irrespective of the party, ideology or religion.
Almost every day now we hear something like the SRS attacking women in Mangalore, Haryana Police thrashing a woman, BD monkeys chasing siblings, coffee shops and customers being attacked in Trivandrum, and cops being thrashed all over Kerala. The common factor here is the elected government failing to be responsible and respect the constitution, but instead becoming operators of legal machineries hijacked for the sake of power, crime, illegal activities, and injustice.
Karnataka is a typical example of what is in store for us if this political frenzy based on party, religion and community continues. Imagine a scum-bag claiming to be the general secretary of an prganization full of goondas coming in front of national television to justify their activities and warning that they will continue their criminal conduct. Or an old-gas bag like their president saying they would have done the same even if their sisters went to the pub. Just 2 days ago, a lady from the same outfit claimed that we do not need one day to "love" but we can love all through the year!
Fundamental elements like these bank on the perception that the elected government with shared ideologies will be soft on their activities, however criminal, and assume that they can gain greater support and fame in the process. Unfortunately, the elected government fails to uphold the constitution because of electoral interests and the thirst for power and money. The end result is that the people get polarized further on the basis of religion and community, destroying the very foundation of the nation that is India.
Many years ago, Indian culture included pissing on the road and spitting around, widows jumping into pyres, women were never allowed to wear blouses under their saris, and children getting married off before they finished growing. Over time, as education and exposure to better living increased, we changed. Nobody told us to change or stopped us from improving ourselves. Of course, some of them still prefer to piss and crap around, and it is their wish as long as they do not break law. Similarly, if some of us want to live in a more refined and dignified manner, that should also be allowed. The law and the constitution of India will and should be the only factor that decides the perimeters of our civil existence.
If our states and the country cannot protect us from these terrorists within our country, they should let Kasab and the likes of him be tried in other countries which will have better justice prevailing. Because I do not see any difference between the Pakistani Kasab and our own, home-grown Kasabs pretending to be from various political outfits and organizations in India. Indians will need to come together, irrespective of religion, caste and creed, in order to ensure justice, and protect our liberties and fundamental rights from these home-grown terrorists AND our own governments that support them.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Read more!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
60 years and waiting?
Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. Those are the assurances made to every citizen of India by our forefathers and founders of the nation, people who fought and gave their lives for us. But as we celebrate the 60th Republic Day, it is also time for introspection. How far (or farther) away are we from the above founding principles this day?
While the spirit of being Indian and nationalistic pride is very high within our bloods, it very often takes great calamity, grief, and death to unite us (apart from the occasional cricket matches, perhaps!). But most other times we are a complacent lot, waiting to be shred apart and pitted against each other by our own selfish political lot, who care for nothing but their power and might. Religion, caste, communal thoughts are all played at will by these vultures who are the enemies within our nation.
Unfortunately, we are increasingly seeing how we are failing as a state to uphold the constitution and the spirit of the preamble, as we call it as patriotic Indians. Strong words to use, but that is exactly where we stand when we do not protect our citizens, their rights and property. We are forgetting to "preserve, protect, and uphold" the constitution of India.
Whether it is a 1000 wrongdoers on one side and one single citizen with the law on his side, the state, its servants, judiciary, and the people collectively have to protect and uphold the rights of the latter, leaving no stone unturned or might unused to ensure justice. That is the very basic fabric of holding together a nation and its people.
This is where cunning politicians and evil religious leaders play their cards with a single focused goal of, shall we call it, "Divide and Loot". Lakhs of political workers, irrespective of the party, or religious followers, irrespective of the faith, may be influenced (or even misguided) by the divisive forces who have their own agenda. But the judiciary, elected government, and the government machinery (that includes the police, secretariat, and every official) must work free from this influence and uphold the constitution and the right of every citizen. Whether it is the Congress, Communist, Samajwadi, Janatha Party, or Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Jain, and Buddhist, we are all bound together by the constitution and the sense of being part of a nation.
For our leaders and party workers, many of whom will not even know (or may have forgotten) about the preamble, here is a reminder:
“ WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN, SOCIALIST, SECULAR, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens:
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity;
and to promote among them all
FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation;
IN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of November, 1949, do HEREBY
ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION.”
When will we understand that Democracy does not give the right to the majority to mete out injustice to the minority, even if its a hundred people versus a single person. Socialist does not mean that an irresponsible lazy group who refuse to work for a living can loot or rob the person who works and earns for himself and his family. Secular means every man has the right and freedom to believe, or not believe, in any faith or God of his choice. Republic means that any person who stands for election must realize he or she is meant to work for the people and build the nation, and not the self or party.
We need leaders that understand that a thousand party workers do not have the right to destroy government or private property, irrespective of the cause and emotion. The police and government are maintained by the tax-payer to protect and serve the people, and not as an instrument for the elected representatives. We need judiciary that appreciates that lakhs of supporters do not absolve or justify the wrongdoings or crimes of a political leader. We need armies and police that know millions of believers behind a religious leader does not give anyone the right to attack another faith, even if it is just one man.
Let us vow in pride of being an Indian first, and isolate and shun everything and everybody who undermines this sense of unity and partiotism.
Indian First!
Happy Republic Day!
Read more!
While the spirit of being Indian and nationalistic pride is very high within our bloods, it very often takes great calamity, grief, and death to unite us (apart from the occasional cricket matches, perhaps!). But most other times we are a complacent lot, waiting to be shred apart and pitted against each other by our own selfish political lot, who care for nothing but their power and might. Religion, caste, communal thoughts are all played at will by these vultures who are the enemies within our nation.
Unfortunately, we are increasingly seeing how we are failing as a state to uphold the constitution and the spirit of the preamble, as we call it as patriotic Indians. Strong words to use, but that is exactly where we stand when we do not protect our citizens, their rights and property. We are forgetting to "preserve, protect, and uphold" the constitution of India.
Whether it is a 1000 wrongdoers on one side and one single citizen with the law on his side, the state, its servants, judiciary, and the people collectively have to protect and uphold the rights of the latter, leaving no stone unturned or might unused to ensure justice. That is the very basic fabric of holding together a nation and its people.
This is where cunning politicians and evil religious leaders play their cards with a single focused goal of, shall we call it, "Divide and Loot". Lakhs of political workers, irrespective of the party, or religious followers, irrespective of the faith, may be influenced (or even misguided) by the divisive forces who have their own agenda. But the judiciary, elected government, and the government machinery (that includes the police, secretariat, and every official) must work free from this influence and uphold the constitution and the right of every citizen. Whether it is the Congress, Communist, Samajwadi, Janatha Party, or Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Jain, and Buddhist, we are all bound together by the constitution and the sense of being part of a nation.
For our leaders and party workers, many of whom will not even know (or may have forgotten) about the preamble, here is a reminder:
“ WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN, SOCIALIST, SECULAR, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens:
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity;
and to promote among them all
FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation;
IN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of November, 1949, do HEREBY
ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION.”
When will we understand that Democracy does not give the right to the majority to mete out injustice to the minority, even if its a hundred people versus a single person. Socialist does not mean that an irresponsible lazy group who refuse to work for a living can loot or rob the person who works and earns for himself and his family. Secular means every man has the right and freedom to believe, or not believe, in any faith or God of his choice. Republic means that any person who stands for election must realize he or she is meant to work for the people and build the nation, and not the self or party.
We need leaders that understand that a thousand party workers do not have the right to destroy government or private property, irrespective of the cause and emotion. The police and government are maintained by the tax-payer to protect and serve the people, and not as an instrument for the elected representatives. We need judiciary that appreciates that lakhs of supporters do not absolve or justify the wrongdoings or crimes of a political leader. We need armies and police that know millions of believers behind a religious leader does not give anyone the right to attack another faith, even if it is just one man.
Let us vow in pride of being an Indian first, and isolate and shun everything and everybody who undermines this sense of unity and partiotism.
Indian First!
Happy Republic Day!
Read more!
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Question Hour for Pinpricks?
The terrorists who plotted the attack in Mumbai must be shocked. For they lost their battle even before it ended; something they probably would have never imagined. Their attack united Indians in a very special way. The nation finally woke up and began asking questions as Indians, forgetting their religion, state, caste and all other less important tags created by divisive forces. And the lousy politicians we got so sickeningly used to, are being thrashed and cornered to assume responsibilities which form the very basis of their positions; the same responsibilities which they never ever expected to hear of while they slothed in arrogance and corruption. But an awakening at what cost? A big salute to our martyrs and heroes. May their souls rest in peace.
There are several questions that the Mumbai attacks have raised. But the biggest questions are the ones that will prick the conscience of every politician who is still remotely human. What about the others who have only manipulated the nation and divided it using religion, caste, ethnicity, crime and money? Its time to isolate them and shun them like the scums they really are. Venom against politicians is all over the nation. And rightfully so. The now famous SMS says it all: "Where is Raj Thackeray and his brave Sena? Tell him that 200 NSG commandos from all over India (No Marathi manoos) have been sent to Mumbai to fight the terrorists so that he can sleep peacefully - Mumbaikars". But how long will this energy last? Lets hope the constructive debates will be successful in channelising the energy into transforming the way we live and conduct ourselves every day. Lets constantly remind the politician that they are elected to serve the people, and not the other way around.
Back in our own little state, our Chief Minister had his foot in his mouth, yet again. Nobody in Kerala felt anything unusual about the comment. Some leaders said its expected of him, others said its his usual style; and yet others said its the same style that won him elections. But the rest of the nation said dogs are better than politicians, even as Kerala hung her head in shame, and wondered why our leaders wanted to mark their attendance at a Malayali martyrs house in Bangalore only two days after his funeral and incessant chiding from the media about the disrespect shown by their stark absence at the funeral.
Reminders of our totally paralysed administration and government are everywhere and are being shoved down our throats every day. But we, the people, remain mute spectators and suffer through the days, as though its normal and part of some elaborate ritual that needs to be silently performed in order to appease the Gods. Just as the Mumbai attack was a national tragedy, the politicians we have, and the system they have created, have all become a national shame. And it stinks, unbearably. Its time to get together and clean up the mess. Like someone very smart said, "(its) time to wrest politics from the politician's hands". Lets not wait for more reminders.
Read more!
There are several questions that the Mumbai attacks have raised. But the biggest questions are the ones that will prick the conscience of every politician who is still remotely human. What about the others who have only manipulated the nation and divided it using religion, caste, ethnicity, crime and money? Its time to isolate them and shun them like the scums they really are. Venom against politicians is all over the nation. And rightfully so. The now famous SMS says it all: "Where is Raj Thackeray and his brave Sena? Tell him that 200 NSG commandos from all over India (No Marathi manoos) have been sent to Mumbai to fight the terrorists so that he can sleep peacefully - Mumbaikars". But how long will this energy last? Lets hope the constructive debates will be successful in channelising the energy into transforming the way we live and conduct ourselves every day. Lets constantly remind the politician that they are elected to serve the people, and not the other way around.
Back in our own little state, our Chief Minister had his foot in his mouth, yet again. Nobody in Kerala felt anything unusual about the comment. Some leaders said its expected of him, others said its his usual style; and yet others said its the same style that won him elections. But the rest of the nation said dogs are better than politicians, even as Kerala hung her head in shame, and wondered why our leaders wanted to mark their attendance at a Malayali martyrs house in Bangalore only two days after his funeral and incessant chiding from the media about the disrespect shown by their stark absence at the funeral.
Reminders of our totally paralysed administration and government are everywhere and are being shoved down our throats every day. But we, the people, remain mute spectators and suffer through the days, as though its normal and part of some elaborate ritual that needs to be silently performed in order to appease the Gods. Just as the Mumbai attack was a national tragedy, the politicians we have, and the system they have created, have all become a national shame. And it stinks, unbearably. Its time to get together and clean up the mess. Like someone very smart said, "(its) time to wrest politics from the politician's hands". Lets not wait for more reminders.
Read more!
Monday, August 04, 2008
Governance for Dummies
A few days ago, a newspaper reported a really worrisome news, which is really an extension of an even more disturbing trend.
It lists out the adhoc committee for the state chapter of the Indian RedCross Society as per a Kerala Government Order:
The ad hoc committee comprises ......a former commie MP, ...a commie councillor, ....a commie leader from Vanchiyur, ...a commie youth outfit leader, ...a former commie councillor, ...a commie leader .....a ..who is heading the nurses union of the commie..and a well known Congress Party leader.
This is a really terrible and totally disgusting policy taken by political parties. Every time they get elected, they ensure that their cronies get into key posts within all major organizations, profit making public companies, and not to mention government agencies. But I dont think the trend has reached a low like this to include the Red Cross Society too!.
While the politicians do this for their selfish gain and influence, what really happens is that misfits and people who have no clue about (and cant even understand) how to run organizations, companies, and institutions sit in the driving seat and take our state to the pits of inefficiency, corruption, and mismanagement. Until now we had to worry only about one thing: That we have totally inefficient and useless governments ruling our state forever. Now thats extended to more walks of our life.
Incidentally, this is an email forwarded by one of my friends some time ago:
A well-known political leader, was seated next to a little 5th grade girl on an airplane. The leader turned to her and said, ''Let's talk. I've heard that flights go quicker if you strike up a conversation with your fellow passenger'.
The little girl, who had just opened her book, closed it slowly and said to the stranger, 'What would you like to talk about?'
'Oh, I don't know', said the leader. 'How about nuclear power?'
'OK,' she said. 'That could be an interesting topic.
But let me ask you a question first:
'A horse, a cow, and a deer all eat grass, the same stuff. Yet a deer excretes little pellets, while a cow turns out a flat patty, and a horse produces clumps of dried grass. Why do you suppose that is?'
The leader turns towards his colleague in dismay. Thinks about it and says,
'Hmmm, I have no idea.'
The little girl replies:
'Do you really feel qualified to discuss nuclear power when you don't know shit?! '
That just about sums up the state of affairs in Kerala.
_____________________________
While replying to a comment, I was lucky enough to find this piece. Priceless.
Read more!
It lists out the adhoc committee for the state chapter of the Indian RedCross Society as per a Kerala Government Order:
The ad hoc committee comprises ......a former commie MP, ...a commie councillor, ....a commie leader from Vanchiyur, ...a commie youth outfit leader, ...a former commie councillor, ...a commie leader .....a ..who is heading the nurses union of the commie..and a well known Congress Party leader.
This is a really terrible and totally disgusting policy taken by political parties. Every time they get elected, they ensure that their cronies get into key posts within all major organizations, profit making public companies, and not to mention government agencies. But I dont think the trend has reached a low like this to include the Red Cross Society too!.
While the politicians do this for their selfish gain and influence, what really happens is that misfits and people who have no clue about (and cant even understand) how to run organizations, companies, and institutions sit in the driving seat and take our state to the pits of inefficiency, corruption, and mismanagement. Until now we had to worry only about one thing: That we have totally inefficient and useless governments ruling our state forever. Now thats extended to more walks of our life.
Incidentally, this is an email forwarded by one of my friends some time ago:
A well-known political leader, was seated next to a little 5th grade girl on an airplane. The leader turned to her and said, ''Let's talk. I've heard that flights go quicker if you strike up a conversation with your fellow passenger'.
The little girl, who had just opened her book, closed it slowly and said to the stranger, 'What would you like to talk about?'
'Oh, I don't know', said the leader. 'How about nuclear power?'
'OK,' she said. 'That could be an interesting topic.
But let me ask you a question first:
'A horse, a cow, and a deer all eat grass, the same stuff. Yet a deer excretes little pellets, while a cow turns out a flat patty, and a horse produces clumps of dried grass. Why do you suppose that is?'
The leader turns towards his colleague in dismay. Thinks about it and says,
'Hmmm, I have no idea.'
The little girl replies:
'Do you really feel qualified to discuss nuclear power when you don't know shit?! '
That just about sums up the state of affairs in Kerala.
_____________________________
While replying to a comment, I was lucky enough to find this piece. Priceless.
Read more!
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Worth of an Indian Life
The series of bomb blasts across the country, so brutal and terrible, were perhaps a good eye-opener for our security agencies and the police. Its about time that they started doing their real work, and stopped wagging their tails behind politicians, some of whom even after the blasts were cruel enough to claim political mileage by trying to blame eachother of lapses. Isnt it so absurdly strange that they can be so cold to come in front of the media to score points even during such serious situations. People lost lives, but do they really care?
I mean why are the political leaders suddenly showing so much concern and shock? It is as though no Indian has died or been killed for a while, and these blasts were some surprise.
More importantly, arent we seeing so many deaths and injuries every day? Even if we forget natural calamities (which can be better met with better infrastructure and planning) and deaths due to health reasons (again can be improved with better care facilities and delivery systems), how many deaths occur solely due to our politicians and a general lack of law and order?
Very recently, in Kerala, a school teacher was thrashed to death by goons disguised as politicians, and earlier a policeman was beaten to death. Many are injured almost every day in political clashes, strikes, hartals, and politically masterminded attacks. People are killed and attacked without two thoughts. Thats as cold-blooded as it can get, and as heartless as any other terrorist attack.
So where does all this newfound, sudden concern and alarm come from? Arent they fooling us with their pretence? We will need another series of blasts for the next show of compassion and care from these brutally cold goons we call leaders.
I have to mention that there are exceptions and a lot of our elected representatives are genuine and at least trying to make good among the larger pack of wolves and swines. (Personally, I am so proud of the current Prime Minister. For once we have someone educated and sensible, and I hope he gets to continue with full support for at least another term!)
And I have a larger question. How much is the life of an Indian citizen worth?
Very little I guess. I think that is a huge problem we have in India. I dont know if its because we have a massive population or because we dont care, but we dont care or value life in India. Compare it to the US or UK or some of the other nations, where once you are a citizen (even if you are originally from another country), you get a sense of security and value for your life. But an Indian? We dont have any such values. Here we are still beating up eachother and killing eachother, like some primitives. We are still stuck in some older era.
Read more!
I mean why are the political leaders suddenly showing so much concern and shock? It is as though no Indian has died or been killed for a while, and these blasts were some surprise.
More importantly, arent we seeing so many deaths and injuries every day? Even if we forget natural calamities (which can be better met with better infrastructure and planning) and deaths due to health reasons (again can be improved with better care facilities and delivery systems), how many deaths occur solely due to our politicians and a general lack of law and order?
Very recently, in Kerala, a school teacher was thrashed to death by goons disguised as politicians, and earlier a policeman was beaten to death. Many are injured almost every day in political clashes, strikes, hartals, and politically masterminded attacks. People are killed and attacked without two thoughts. Thats as cold-blooded as it can get, and as heartless as any other terrorist attack.
So where does all this newfound, sudden concern and alarm come from? Arent they fooling us with their pretence? We will need another series of blasts for the next show of compassion and care from these brutally cold goons we call leaders.
I have to mention that there are exceptions and a lot of our elected representatives are genuine and at least trying to make good among the larger pack of wolves and swines. (Personally, I am so proud of the current Prime Minister. For once we have someone educated and sensible, and I hope he gets to continue with full support for at least another term!)
And I have a larger question. How much is the life of an Indian citizen worth?
Very little I guess. I think that is a huge problem we have in India. I dont know if its because we have a massive population or because we dont care, but we dont care or value life in India. Compare it to the US or UK or some of the other nations, where once you are a citizen (even if you are originally from another country), you get a sense of security and value for your life. But an Indian? We dont have any such values. Here we are still beating up eachother and killing eachother, like some primitives. We are still stuck in some older era.
Read more!
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