Saturday, September 22, 2012
2014 Scenario in AP for TDP
After the 2009 General Elections to the Andhra Pradesh Assembly, in which TDP tasted second successive defeat, bye-elections were held in nearly 62 Assembly constituencies, covering all the three regions, which all were contested by the TDP but could not win a single seat. The Party witnessed desertions by former and sitting MPs and MLAs. Desertions still continue. At a time when Congress Government is perceived to be most corrupt and incompetent and YSR Congress Chief in Jail for various alleged acts of commission and omission, it is indeed ironic that TDP has been rejected by the electorate But it is not surprising.
If Chandra Babu's criteria for giving party ticket is financial clout and winning chances, individuals also choose financial gains and winning chances in switching parties. Neither the Party has any principles or ideology nor the individuals. Same may be the story with any party. But nobody is striving as hard as Chandra Babu in seizing power.
The TDP is a pathetic clone of Congress. If sycophants root for Rahul there, here we see comic efforts to anoint Lokesh. 100 seats for BCs in next elections. Will Kuppam will be one of them? Why not a BC Leader of Opposition or Party President, here and now? Is this BC gimmick going to fetch him votes or boomerang? Can he regain back his Kamma constituency?
Presently I perceive difficulties for the Party in getting enough candidates willing to finance their own electioneering given the present trend of unaccounted election costs and the Party may not be in a position to bankroll them after remaining out of power for 10 years. Chandra Babu himself candidly admitted that he cannot be expected to spend like a 'Ruling Party'.
I also perceive total rout in Telangana area where it will be difficult for the Party to even canvass freely. Jagan, in jail or otherwise, is expected to sweep elsewhere. See the fright he gave even to TRS in Parkala.
Another factor is the likely match fixing between TRS and Congress in Telangana and between Jagan Congress and Congress elsewhere as predicted by political pundits. Present day elections are simply not influenced by either allegations of corruption nor political chicanery.
Wither the Party of Telugu Atma Gowravan? Will it be booted out like its founder?
… ponder
Friday, May 18, 2012
Refreshingly Good
Yesterday I casually tuned in to Lok Sabha Channel. Ms. Jayanti Natarajan, Minister for Environment and Forests, was replying to a debate on Saving River Ganga. It was a highly technical subject encompassing the subjects dealt by several ministries.
I admire at the grasp of the subject, homework done in preparing for the debate and the sincerity displayed by the honorable Minister. She is a senior politician, no doubt But contrary to popular perception about politicians, she displayed propensity for hard work, depth of knowledge and more importantly, statesmanship qualities. Whenever she was interrupted, instead of shouting down, she was resuming her seat which had a salutary effect on others an made the Hon'ble Speaker's job easy.
I also liked the way in which honorable MPs Sharad Yadav and Lalu Prasad intervened even while silently acknowledging the Minister's ability, sincerity and poise. It is heartening to see adversaries not crossing swords. Even when pointing out state governments; failings, she was not churlish but apologetic.
On a different plane, her reply underlined the intricacies in decision making, difficulties in implementation of decisions taken, ground realities
where a critical impediment can bring a juggernaut to halt.
Personally, the only jarring thing was her tribute to her political leaders at the end which could have been mandatory like a Designer putting on show his weird creation knowing none will buy it (pun intended).
Keep it up Hon'ble Minister. You definitely have places to go.
...ponder
Monday, April 30, 2012
Polls in Andhra
Recent AP bye election results have been a washout for Congress and Telugu Desam. TRS also suffered a strategic setback to BJP. Now we are going to have a larger chunk of Assembly seats going to bye polls. This will be a crucial test not only for the political parties in the arena but for the State, Country and Society at large.
This round of elections is the result of disqualification of those members who defied whip and voted against Congress government on the No Confidence motion. Or to put in straight, defections from Sonia Congress to Jagan Congress.
Jagan Congress has taken a head start as its contestants are automatically chosen being the disqualified members. Other two parties which could give serious fight viz. Congress and TD are having trouble choosing its candidates. Both the parties appear to have conceded advantage even before choosing candidates. Both parties are plagued by internal squabbles. Congress faces the piquant situation of reluctant contestants and TD rebels.
If the phenomenal crowds attracted by Jagan in his tours are any indication the results are a foregone conclusion unless there is a last minute dramatic turn around. May be corruption cases may reach their logical end.
Congress has a pan-India presence and after two successive wins in the State, could afford to sit in opposition after next elections. But a third successive defeat for TDP will be a death blow. There will be an exodus. The present round will be a curtain raiser for 2014 polls
The TRS was expected to have a cakewalk in Telengana districts. But its pitch is queered by BJP. Votes will be split making the decision wide open.
The young voters appear to have rejected corruption or sharp practices as of no consequence. Probably they have also refused to take religious and caste considerations in their calculations. Perhaps success alone matters, material success irrespective of the means. This is what our egalitarian IIMs must be teaching.
…ponder
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Refreshingly Different
Recently there was a panel discussion on HMTV. The participants were Minister D. Manikya Vara Prasad (Congress), Jaya Prakash Narayan (LSP), Pocharam Satyanarayana (TRS) and another Muslim MLA gentleman (TDP) whose name I could not catch.
Generallly suh discussions on party lines degenerate into acrimony, heated exchanges and downlight abuses. But to my pleasant surprise, the proceedings were cordial, meaningful and almost confessional of their inner feelings.
The topic was recently concluded budget session of the Andhra Assembly and, in particular, the wastage of almost half the time and the passing of the finance bill without discussion. It may be recalled that a budget of more than a lakh and fifty thousand crores was passed by gullitone.
JP was his usual erudite self. You can feel the vibes of intellect, homework and pain in him. Interestingly all the three other panelists quoted him supportively.
Congress's Prasad made an interesting observation. That 80% of the Hon'ble Members have no clue to the legislative nuances or procedures. His emphasis was on candid admission that as the ruling party, the treasury benches are happy at the disruption of proceedings.
The TDP MLA regretted that as a back-bencher he never gets chance from his floor leader to contribute to discussion.
TRS Member also regretted the lost opportunity to vent people's grievances and burning issues due to frequent adjournments.
HMTV's Moderator deftly handled the discussion without being obstructive, provocative or sermonizing.
A very refreshing program in these days of perceived degenerated standards of both media and politics.
…ponder
Generallly suh discussions on party lines degenerate into acrimony, heated exchanges and downlight abuses. But to my pleasant surprise, the proceedings were cordial, meaningful and almost confessional of their inner feelings.
The topic was recently concluded budget session of the Andhra Assembly and, in particular, the wastage of almost half the time and the passing of the finance bill without discussion. It may be recalled that a budget of more than a lakh and fifty thousand crores was passed by gullitone.
JP was his usual erudite self. You can feel the vibes of intellect, homework and pain in him. Interestingly all the three other panelists quoted him supportively.
Congress's Prasad made an interesting observation. That 80% of the Hon'ble Members have no clue to the legislative nuances or procedures. His emphasis was on candid admission that as the ruling party, the treasury benches are happy at the disruption of proceedings.
The TDP MLA regretted that as a back-bencher he never gets chance from his floor leader to contribute to discussion.
TRS Member also regretted the lost opportunity to vent people's grievances and burning issues due to frequent adjournments.
HMTV's Moderator deftly handled the discussion without being obstructive, provocative or sermonizing.
A very refreshing program in these days of perceived degenerated standards of both media and politics.
…ponder
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Reimbursement of Engineering College fees and Reimbursement of Medical expenses under 'Arogyasri' scheme are two important schemes of the Andhra Pradesh Government. Under these schemes White Ration Card holders (BPL families) can aspire for Engineering education free of cost and likewise they can also aspire for superior medical treatment at Corporate hospitals. Very laudable indeed.
But a closer look gives away the real intention and working of these schemes.
It is public knowledge that the number covered by White Ration Cards exceed the populations in several villages and towns and despite threats to weed out bogus cards, newer cards continue to be issued. All political parties are united in their resistance to the weeding out exercise.
The reimbursement is not made to the beneficiary but to the Engineering College or the Corporate Hospital. What fudging takes place no one can say. For example, there have been reports of people in their sixties and seventies enrolling for Engineering degree! There are reports of Corporate hospitals inflicting unnecessary trauma on people by subjecting them to avoidable surgeries.
Government hospitals are inefficient, unhygienic, under staffed, under equipped; all due to lack of funds. But there is plenty of money with government to fill private coffers.
Last year it is estimated that more than eight hundred crores were paid by government to Corporate hospitals under this scheme. Imagine how many Government hospitals could have been set up. Government's action in washing away is hands of the responsibility of health has become a cash cow for private players.
With permissions given indiscriminately for establishment of engineering college in AP, there are hundreds of these without proper infrastructure or faculty and naturally nobody opting to join them. Last year more than 50,000 seats remained unfilled. For these colleges, this reimbursement is a manna from the heavens. With practically no competition, anybody can be enrolled as student and reimbursement availed.
When the government stopped reimbursement as its treasury was empty, all parties without exception agitated till it was restored. Such is the power of these lobbies.
In executing a scheme or a project, the net result appears to be transfer of public money into powerful private hands, may be with a little incidental gain to public. Government instead of abdicating its social responsibility of providing education and health facilities should rethink.
…ponder
But a closer look gives away the real intention and working of these schemes.
It is public knowledge that the number covered by White Ration Cards exceed the populations in several villages and towns and despite threats to weed out bogus cards, newer cards continue to be issued. All political parties are united in their resistance to the weeding out exercise.
The reimbursement is not made to the beneficiary but to the Engineering College or the Corporate Hospital. What fudging takes place no one can say. For example, there have been reports of people in their sixties and seventies enrolling for Engineering degree! There are reports of Corporate hospitals inflicting unnecessary trauma on people by subjecting them to avoidable surgeries.
Government hospitals are inefficient, unhygienic, under staffed, under equipped; all due to lack of funds. But there is plenty of money with government to fill private coffers.
Last year it is estimated that more than eight hundred crores were paid by government to Corporate hospitals under this scheme. Imagine how many Government hospitals could have been set up. Government's action in washing away is hands of the responsibility of health has become a cash cow for private players.
With permissions given indiscriminately for establishment of engineering college in AP, there are hundreds of these without proper infrastructure or faculty and naturally nobody opting to join them. Last year more than 50,000 seats remained unfilled. For these colleges, this reimbursement is a manna from the heavens. With practically no competition, anybody can be enrolled as student and reimbursement availed.
When the government stopped reimbursement as its treasury was empty, all parties without exception agitated till it was restored. Such is the power of these lobbies.
In executing a scheme or a project, the net result appears to be transfer of public money into powerful private hands, may be with a little incidental gain to public. Government instead of abdicating its social responsibility of providing education and health facilities should rethink.
…ponder
Friday, March 9, 2012
Agitations & NGOs
It is interesting to learn that the Government has frozen the bank accounts of certain Christian NGOs in connection with the proxy agitation against Koodankulam Atomic Project. This has come to light when certain Bishops came out with statements supporting these NGOs and protesting the freeze.
It may be worth recalling the reports that the prolonged agitation against this project has controllers abroad and funding has been from abroad. It is also puzzling as to why quite a few Christian NGOs with access to foreign funds have their fingers in this particular pie. They are ofcourse protesting their innocence. Full and transparent enquiry should bring out facts.
Law, if allowed, will take its own course. As they will try to trace the source of funding, violation of regulations, private benefitting, if any, security implications, violation of charter of intended activities by the recepients, etc.these aspects will and should come under the scanner.
But from a layman point of view , that the media did not report sooner the involvement of religious NGOs is sinister. This news is tumbling out only while reporting the protests of the Bishops, who term it as an attack on minorities.
Another nugget that has been reported is that US sees Vatican as a possible hub of hawala. The State Department's annual International Narcotics Control Strategy Report identifies the Holy See as one of the 68 countries or jurisdictions 'of concern' for money laundering or other financial crimes.
As a secular Republic, India should be concerned about religious outfits dabbling in matters of state. Use of foreign funds, if true, to oppose state policies has security implications. As a democracy we are accustomed and welcome individuals, organizations and institutions fighting government policies but this should not degenerate into licence for foreign vested interests, with unlimited funds at their disposal, to derail our policies and developmental efforts.
…ponder
It may be worth recalling the reports that the prolonged agitation against this project has controllers abroad and funding has been from abroad. It is also puzzling as to why quite a few Christian NGOs with access to foreign funds have their fingers in this particular pie. They are ofcourse protesting their innocence. Full and transparent enquiry should bring out facts.
Law, if allowed, will take its own course. As they will try to trace the source of funding, violation of regulations, private benefitting, if any, security implications, violation of charter of intended activities by the recepients, etc.these aspects will and should come under the scanner.
But from a layman point of view , that the media did not report sooner the involvement of religious NGOs is sinister. This news is tumbling out only while reporting the protests of the Bishops, who term it as an attack on minorities.
Another nugget that has been reported is that US sees Vatican as a possible hub of hawala. The State Department's annual International Narcotics Control Strategy Report identifies the Holy See as one of the 68 countries or jurisdictions 'of concern' for money laundering or other financial crimes.
As a secular Republic, India should be concerned about religious outfits dabbling in matters of state. Use of foreign funds, if true, to oppose state policies has security implications. As a democracy we are accustomed and welcome individuals, organizations and institutions fighting government policies but this should not degenerate into licence for foreign vested interests, with unlimited funds at their disposal, to derail our policies and developmental efforts.
…ponder
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Sand Mining
For thousands of years, sand has been used in construction. Today, demand for sand continues to increase. But excessive exploitation can have disastrous results. This calls for responsible policies from authorities and discipline fromMining operators.
Excessive sand mining causes degradation of rivers, lowers the stream bottom, which will lead to bank erosion. saline-water intrusion from the nearby sea. The effect of mining is compounded by the effect of sea level rising.
It is also a threat to bridges, river banks and nearby structures. Sand mining also affects the adjoining groundwater system and the uses that local people make of the river. It also results in disastrous consequences to eco systems like flora, fauna and water creatures.
Sand mining generates extra vehicle traffic, which negatively impairs the environment. Where access roads cross riparian areas, the local environment may be affected.
Andhra Pradesh is said to be in grip of illegal sand mining. This is over and above the permits issued by authorities at degradation levels. Such illegal mining spawn crimes like corruption, use of muscle power, amassing ill gotten wealth.
Nature has a way of taking revenge, only it is patient. When it strikes, it will be a mortal blow.
…ponder
Excessive sand mining causes degradation of rivers, lowers the stream bottom, which will lead to bank erosion. saline-water intrusion from the nearby sea. The effect of mining is compounded by the effect of sea level rising.
It is also a threat to bridges, river banks and nearby structures. Sand mining also affects the adjoining groundwater system and the uses that local people make of the river. It also results in disastrous consequences to eco systems like flora, fauna and water creatures.
Sand mining generates extra vehicle traffic, which negatively impairs the environment. Where access roads cross riparian areas, the local environment may be affected.
Andhra Pradesh is said to be in grip of illegal sand mining. This is over and above the permits issued by authorities at degradation levels. Such illegal mining spawn crimes like corruption, use of muscle power, amassing ill gotten wealth.
Nature has a way of taking revenge, only it is patient. When it strikes, it will be a mortal blow.
…ponder
Election Results
Rahul Gandhi has been bested by Akhilesh Yadav. That is some food for thought.
The trend of decimation of so-called national parties by the regional parties is reaching its logical conclusion. Uttarakhand, where Congress and BJP have done some face-saving and Manipur do not have any say in the party or national matters. Less said about Goa is better. 14 governments in 15 years. There only individuals matter not parties. UP and Punjab have decisively voted for regional parties.
Congress and BJP can write their own epitaphs but they will still try to cobble coalitions, with anybody, to keep themselves in business. But in 2014 where are the numbers to come from?
In AP, where Congress kitty is taken for granted, it is unlikely to get a two digit figure. The Congress culture of toadying to the Family and stunting local leadership has effectively sealed its fate. If the likes of Mani Shankar Iyers bank on Priyanka-Rahul-Vadra combine to give them succor, we can only pity them. There is not a single leader in Congress who can honestly and confidently say he can win an election on his own. That will also be blasphemy against the Family.
BJP's fortunes can only take a downward trend watching the way Karnataka is going. The 'Party with Difference' has simply no new takers and some important allies like JD(U) and BJD may abandon it. It is bereft of any ideas nor can it go back to Ram Mandir. It lost Ayodhya seat! It is just stalemate for them. Sushma, who was dazzling some years back, is just a jaded ghost now. It is not age alone. It is the toll taken on her by politics of BJP variety. She was forced to critics CBI and support Jagan and Gali. What a fall!
MMS and Pranab may be good in governance but are poor vote-getters. also they are increasingly seen to defend the indefensible. Honestly they cant stomach the nitty gritty of electoral politics. Nitin Gadhkari may continue to tumble on dais, but just does not project a national aura. Who will then counter regional king-makers like Jayalalitha, Mamta, Mulayam, Jagan, Badal, etc.
Handy allies like Laloo, Paswan, Chandrababu, Soren, Karunanidhi, etc. are all stewing in their own juice. No advantage from them or to them even if they are willing to ally. Communism of all hues has finally been swept out of India too.
Let us wait for 2014 if not even earlier as there is every likelihood of Didi or Maya or MK or Mulayam pulling the rug anytime.
…ponder
The trend of decimation of so-called national parties by the regional parties is reaching its logical conclusion. Uttarakhand, where Congress and BJP have done some face-saving and Manipur do not have any say in the party or national matters. Less said about Goa is better. 14 governments in 15 years. There only individuals matter not parties. UP and Punjab have decisively voted for regional parties.
Congress and BJP can write their own epitaphs but they will still try to cobble coalitions, with anybody, to keep themselves in business. But in 2014 where are the numbers to come from?
In AP, where Congress kitty is taken for granted, it is unlikely to get a two digit figure. The Congress culture of toadying to the Family and stunting local leadership has effectively sealed its fate. If the likes of Mani Shankar Iyers bank on Priyanka-Rahul-Vadra combine to give them succor, we can only pity them. There is not a single leader in Congress who can honestly and confidently say he can win an election on his own. That will also be blasphemy against the Family.
BJP's fortunes can only take a downward trend watching the way Karnataka is going. The 'Party with Difference' has simply no new takers and some important allies like JD(U) and BJD may abandon it. It is bereft of any ideas nor can it go back to Ram Mandir. It lost Ayodhya seat! It is just stalemate for them. Sushma, who was dazzling some years back, is just a jaded ghost now. It is not age alone. It is the toll taken on her by politics of BJP variety. She was forced to critics CBI and support Jagan and Gali. What a fall!
MMS and Pranab may be good in governance but are poor vote-getters. also they are increasingly seen to defend the indefensible. Honestly they cant stomach the nitty gritty of electoral politics. Nitin Gadhkari may continue to tumble on dais, but just does not project a national aura. Who will then counter regional king-makers like Jayalalitha, Mamta, Mulayam, Jagan, Badal, etc.
Handy allies like Laloo, Paswan, Chandrababu, Soren, Karunanidhi, etc. are all stewing in their own juice. No advantage from them or to them even if they are willing to ally. Communism of all hues has finally been swept out of India too.
Let us wait for 2014 if not even earlier as there is every likelihood of Didi or Maya or MK or Mulayam pulling the rug anytime.
…ponder
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Wither Gas
Even as summer is yet to set in in its full vigor, Kakinada and its surrounding areas and the whole of Andhra Pradesh is reeling under power cuts. This area boasts of several gas-based thermal plants which do not have firm gas supplies committed to them. The massive Anil Ambani owned Power Plant at Samalkot is likely o be commissioned soon. It is reported that they are still negotiating gas supplies and hopeful of gas allocation.
The entire activity of exploration, exploitation and extraction of gas is concentrated in this area, Rajahmundry and Kakinada being principal places. The ill effects of this activity is borne by people here. Farmers lose lands; lands get degraded; frequent fire hazards force villagers to evacuate; Fishermen cannot venture with full liberty. But there is no gas for power plants here. I have not seen a single CNG bus here in Kakinada.
They acquired huge amounts of land for a Refinery to be built by ONGC. Now ONGC has backed out. Another corporate firm has entered the field. Like other projects that have gobbled land, when or whether this refinery come up is a riddle.
The state has imposed severe power cuts on industry. Three days a week power holidays! Industrialists, medium and small enterprueners are reduced to agitations and dharnas instead of minding their business. Remember power cuts were lifted only in December.
How did this come about?
At the time of awarding bids why the State's interests were not protected? Why the power plants were allowed to come up when gas supply could not be guaranteed? What sort of planning is this? Why private players are preferred over our Navaratna ONGC? Where all this gas is going? What is its end use?
They say Briitish looted raw materials and never allowed local industries to flourish. What is this?
…ponder
The entire activity of exploration, exploitation and extraction of gas is concentrated in this area, Rajahmundry and Kakinada being principal places. The ill effects of this activity is borne by people here. Farmers lose lands; lands get degraded; frequent fire hazards force villagers to evacuate; Fishermen cannot venture with full liberty. But there is no gas for power plants here. I have not seen a single CNG bus here in Kakinada.
They acquired huge amounts of land for a Refinery to be built by ONGC. Now ONGC has backed out. Another corporate firm has entered the field. Like other projects that have gobbled land, when or whether this refinery come up is a riddle.
The state has imposed severe power cuts on industry. Three days a week power holidays! Industrialists, medium and small enterprueners are reduced to agitations and dharnas instead of minding their business. Remember power cuts were lifted only in December.
How did this come about?
At the time of awarding bids why the State's interests were not protected? Why the power plants were allowed to come up when gas supply could not be guaranteed? What sort of planning is this? Why private players are preferred over our Navaratna ONGC? Where all this gas is going? What is its end use?
They say Briitish looted raw materials and never allowed local industries to flourish. What is this?
…ponder
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Dwindling vs Swelling
Today's Deccan Chronicle reports on a study which concludes that Britain will not be Christian by 2030 i.e. at a relatively very near future. Christianity is losing more than half a million every year. This loss to Christianity is no gain to other religions as actually the numbers of Atheists and Agnosists are swelling by approximately 7,50,000 every year. No reasons were attributed; atleast in the brief newspaper report.
It is also in news today that the VHP's International President has expressed concern over conversions in Andhra Pradesh especially in six districts where massive conversions from Hinduism is said to be on. He attributed the reason to pumping of money, though social inequalities could also be contributory. How does it matter if one professes this religion or that as long as he is not religious as he is oblivious of universal brotherhood.
The peculiar secularists of India will gloat on both these developments, inconsistent they are. Now juxtaposing the erosion at one place and swelling in another, I wonder what is going on in the minds of Missionaries. If this trend extends further to the other western white nations, on top of their dwindling birth rates, where from will the billions come to save the souls of the dark heathens of Asia and Africa? How long conversions can be sustained if dollars are choked off?
Recently Pope was in news for condemning conceiving through medical assistance. He called it arrogance against God. Now with such sentiments, it is no wonder progressive and thinking people prefer atheism to Christianity in UK and other western nations.
Mao famously called religion, the opium of masses. Lighter vein apart, religions have been tyrannical and now given the threat to their existence, they tend to become paranoid and rigider. This could lead to conflicts than spiritual solace.
…ponder
It is also in news today that the VHP's International President has expressed concern over conversions in Andhra Pradesh especially in six districts where massive conversions from Hinduism is said to be on. He attributed the reason to pumping of money, though social inequalities could also be contributory. How does it matter if one professes this religion or that as long as he is not religious as he is oblivious of universal brotherhood.
The peculiar secularists of India will gloat on both these developments, inconsistent they are. Now juxtaposing the erosion at one place and swelling in another, I wonder what is going on in the minds of Missionaries. If this trend extends further to the other western white nations, on top of their dwindling birth rates, where from will the billions come to save the souls of the dark heathens of Asia and Africa? How long conversions can be sustained if dollars are choked off?
Recently Pope was in news for condemning conceiving through medical assistance. He called it arrogance against God. Now with such sentiments, it is no wonder progressive and thinking people prefer atheism to Christianity in UK and other western nations.
Mao famously called religion, the opium of masses. Lighter vein apart, religions have been tyrannical and now given the threat to their existence, they tend to become paranoid and rigider. This could lead to conflicts than spiritual solace.
…ponder
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Rath Yatra
Our permanent PM-in-Waiting is planning to go on a Rath Yatra again. One discerning Reporter asked him whether he will cover Bellary too. The would-be Yatri parried this jibe as a 'suggestion'.
I have two suggestions to make. He should abdicate this onerous responsibility in favor of more vocal and more glamorous Leader of Opposition. Secondly, the Yatra could be confined to Andhra and Karnataka states, where a 'mine' of issues are available.
Andhra and Karnataka also boast of a 'wealth' of logistics and resources which can be at the disposal of the Yatri, Golden thrones, golden serving dishes, white houses and what not. Traditionally Reddys are large hearted and gracious hosts.
There will be no spoil-sport Chief Ministers here to abort the Yatra. In fact both the CMs will not be able to act as there is no border between these two states having been 'mined' out. They will think that it is the other one's jurisdiction. There will be no law and order problem too as people care little for Yatra here.
The Yatra's theme could be expanded to cover fight against CBI, Lok Pal as envisaged by 'Civil' Society vis-a-vis the enlightened vision of our squeaky clean politicians too. CAG is another irritant of late. It is worth exploring doing away with CAG as JPC and PAC are there doing a good job harmoniously. The Yatra may focus on this aspect too.
With Institutions and 'non-state-players' hogging the limelight, politicians desperately need some 'show'. The focus on 'stars-behind-bars' needs diversion. There will be a rare unanimity now. Grasp the opportunity Mr.PM-in-waiting.
…ponder
I have two suggestions to make. He should abdicate this onerous responsibility in favor of more vocal and more glamorous Leader of Opposition. Secondly, the Yatra could be confined to Andhra and Karnataka states, where a 'mine' of issues are available.
Andhra and Karnataka also boast of a 'wealth' of logistics and resources which can be at the disposal of the Yatri, Golden thrones, golden serving dishes, white houses and what not. Traditionally Reddys are large hearted and gracious hosts.
There will be no spoil-sport Chief Ministers here to abort the Yatra. In fact both the CMs will not be able to act as there is no border between these two states having been 'mined' out. They will think that it is the other one's jurisdiction. There will be no law and order problem too as people care little for Yatra here.
The Yatra's theme could be expanded to cover fight against CBI, Lok Pal as envisaged by 'Civil' Society vis-a-vis the enlightened vision of our squeaky clean politicians too. CAG is another irritant of late. It is worth exploring doing away with CAG as JPC and PAC are there doing a good job harmoniously. The Yatra may focus on this aspect too.
With Institutions and 'non-state-players' hogging the limelight, politicians desperately need some 'show'. The focus on 'stars-behind-bars' needs diversion. There will be a rare unanimity now. Grasp the opportunity Mr.PM-in-waiting.
…ponder
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Silence is not Golden
Chandra Babu Naidu is busy with issues lke Crop Holiday and Anti-Corruption movement of Anna Hazare. It is another matter that hundreds of farmers committed suicide during his regime and his party had opposed the suggestion of making Hazare, the Chairman of the Drafting Committee.
But it is his deafening silence on other burning issues like Telangana Movement, CBI enquiry against Jagan and deletion of Clause 14(f) of Presidential Order that calls for one's attention.
Poor man is scared of local media. Only a few contrived photo-ops for him to continue in news without actually saying anything significant on burning topics. Also he keeps himself busy with 'discussions' with other unemployed persons from has been-parties like SP, CPM, CPI, LJD, etc. He shies away from touring Telangana region despite the Black Cat protection. This so called CEO says he will not harass government employees in future.
All the leading Andhra politicians have taken a definite stand on the future of AP one way or the other except Naidu. His party says that Congress should reveal its mind first. Congress revealed its mind by Chidambaram's Dec 9 statement.
Recent media polls indicate that TDP stands to get a mere 20% in coastal Andhra if elections are held now. TRS is poised to sweep Telangana area. A third consecutive defeat could wipe out his staying power any more. Two TDP MLAs have also joined Jagan camp till now.
One question begs answer. If the TDP, on its launch by NTR, had also flopped like the PRP, in which party will Naidu be now? Remember Naidu was a junior minister in Congress government and did not join TDP on its inception but after NTR was swept into power, he joined TDP 6 months later.
ponder...
Temples in Distress
East Godavari distict of AP is the eye of the storm. Farmers have declared 'Crop Holiday' as stocks from previous harvest are rotting with them unsold and input costs have spiraled uncontrollably. The alternative for them is going in for next crop with loaned capital which may result in more suicides unable to clear debts.
This phenomenon if it spreads contagiously will seriously jeopardize our food security, result in high rural unemployment and affect the industry due to non-lifting of fertilizer/insecticide stock. One good thing could be Holiday to Degradation of Land.
Another spin-off is its effect on temples. All temples are not Tirupati nor Ananta Padmanabha! Most temples depend on the meagre returns from the endowment lands leased out to tenant farmers and voluntary offerings. If farmers are already distressed how can they make offerings. And if 'Crop Holiday' is practiced how will they make the annual agreed payments?
Gods, Priests and the Staff will have to sweat it out along with the farmer. This could also affect the Tourism, Transport and Hospitality sectors.
…ponder
This phenomenon if it spreads contagiously will seriously jeopardize our food security, result in high rural unemployment and affect the industry due to non-lifting of fertilizer/insecticide stock. One good thing could be Holiday to Degradation of Land.
Another spin-off is its effect on temples. All temples are not Tirupati nor Ananta Padmanabha! Most temples depend on the meagre returns from the endowment lands leased out to tenant farmers and voluntary offerings. If farmers are already distressed how can they make offerings. And if 'Crop Holiday' is practiced how will they make the annual agreed payments?
Gods, Priests and the Staff will have to sweat it out along with the farmer. This could also affect the Tourism, Transport and Hospitality sectors.
…ponder
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Son Rise
A report in recent Hindustan times says that in his recent book India: A Portrait, Patrick French points out that all MPs under the age of 30 are hereditary. More than two thirds of 66 MPs under the age of 40 are hereditary. Of women MPs, 69.5% are hereditary. If the present trend continues, the Indian parliament will soon be made up of only hereditary MPs and India will be back to the era of the princelings and their kingdoms.
How true. This is so all-pervasive that this phenomenon cuts across almost all parties big and small; national and regional.
In Mulayam Singh's Samajwadi Party, his brother and sons are not only MPs but call the shots. In TRS, we hear and see only father, son, nephew and daughter. DMK is full of sons, nephews, grand nephews, daughters and what not. TDP was a pocket borough of one NTR till he was literally shoed out by his son-in-law. Now we are waiting with bated breath for the sons' rise - Lokesh and Jr.NTR. Ofcourse Congress is the mother of all nepotism starting with Moti Lal Nehru. The new offshoot of Congress in AP is brazenly hereditary, even in its name. BJP & communists are exempt from this may be because they are in the vice-like grip of humorless bachelors.
Initially people thought that this is due to the name tag as average Indian is still rooted in feudal mindset. Also, in case of deaths, sympathy factor rather than effectiveness works. The networking is ready on a platter.
But there are other reasons as well, the chief being money. Nowadays, elections are very costly affairs and the party generally gives ticket to winnable aspirant who can finance his/her contest. Secondly, in case of death of a sitting member, the family members alone have access to the stashed funds.
Today we see the jaded likes of Sathes pumping for Priyanka Vadra. We can understand their desperation. They always climb on others shoulders and cant win a municipal election on their own. There is also the orchestrated 'desires' like that for Lokesh in Chandragiri. Imagine 'Seniors' like Yerrannaidu and Ramakrishnudu keeping mum over the foisting of the 'son'. They have no option.
Why can't we switch over from de-facto to de-jure by legally doing away with elections and institutionalizing Aristocracy. We can then avoid, costly, corrupt, violent elections with the same results.
…Ponder
How true. This is so all-pervasive that this phenomenon cuts across almost all parties big and small; national and regional.
In Mulayam Singh's Samajwadi Party, his brother and sons are not only MPs but call the shots. In TRS, we hear and see only father, son, nephew and daughter. DMK is full of sons, nephews, grand nephews, daughters and what not. TDP was a pocket borough of one NTR till he was literally shoed out by his son-in-law. Now we are waiting with bated breath for the sons' rise - Lokesh and Jr.NTR. Ofcourse Congress is the mother of all nepotism starting with Moti Lal Nehru. The new offshoot of Congress in AP is brazenly hereditary, even in its name. BJP & communists are exempt from this may be because they are in the vice-like grip of humorless bachelors.
Initially people thought that this is due to the name tag as average Indian is still rooted in feudal mindset. Also, in case of deaths, sympathy factor rather than effectiveness works. The networking is ready on a platter.
But there are other reasons as well, the chief being money. Nowadays, elections are very costly affairs and the party generally gives ticket to winnable aspirant who can finance his/her contest. Secondly, in case of death of a sitting member, the family members alone have access to the stashed funds.
Today we see the jaded likes of Sathes pumping for Priyanka Vadra. We can understand their desperation. They always climb on others shoulders and cant win a municipal election on their own. There is also the orchestrated 'desires' like that for Lokesh in Chandragiri. Imagine 'Seniors' like Yerrannaidu and Ramakrishnudu keeping mum over the foisting of the 'son'. They have no option.
Why can't we switch over from de-facto to de-jure by legally doing away with elections and institutionalizing Aristocracy. We can then avoid, costly, corrupt, violent elections with the same results.
…Ponder
Friday, April 8, 2011
Privatisation
Education and Health are two vital responsibilities that the Government has almost totally abdicated and handed over to private hands who are raking in huge returns both through direct collection from public and through government reimbursements.
Huge amounts of land - both public and private - have been and continue to be compulsorily acquired and bestowed to private players in the name of Industries, SEZs, etc. It is an open secret that only a small percent of the land thus acquired is actually put to the legitimate use but get diverted to the booming realty sector or simply left undeveloped for the rates to increase.
Likewise, minerals are also dished out to private players, who export the raw mineral than put it to end use within the country as professed.
Now water resources are also slowly being handed over to private parties who are poised to make a giant killing. Huge lakes, canals, minor water bodies have been legally and illegally filled in and diverted to realty. Now private parties are being allowed to overexploit the ground water resources to the detriment of common people who depend on wells for irrigation and domestic consumption.
Many villages do not get potable water from respective local bodies but in their midst private parties are being allowed to pump out thousands of litres of water for being supplied to hotels, ships, etc.
With the present trend, it may not be long before we are forced to pay private parties for having windows in our houses as the air we breathe may be privatized.
Since less governance is better governance, the government may be thinking of confining itself solely to decide who will own the nature's gifts.
…ponder
Huge amounts of land - both public and private - have been and continue to be compulsorily acquired and bestowed to private players in the name of Industries, SEZs, etc. It is an open secret that only a small percent of the land thus acquired is actually put to the legitimate use but get diverted to the booming realty sector or simply left undeveloped for the rates to increase.
Likewise, minerals are also dished out to private players, who export the raw mineral than put it to end use within the country as professed.
Now water resources are also slowly being handed over to private parties who are poised to make a giant killing. Huge lakes, canals, minor water bodies have been legally and illegally filled in and diverted to realty. Now private parties are being allowed to overexploit the ground water resources to the detriment of common people who depend on wells for irrigation and domestic consumption.
Many villages do not get potable water from respective local bodies but in their midst private parties are being allowed to pump out thousands of litres of water for being supplied to hotels, ships, etc.
With the present trend, it may not be long before we are forced to pay private parties for having windows in our houses as the air we breathe may be privatized.
Since less governance is better governance, the government may be thinking of confining itself solely to decide who will own the nature's gifts.
…ponder
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Govt Lok Pal vs People Lok Pal
It started in one ancient civilization, Egypt; engulfed quite a few African and West Asian countries and has now touched another ancient civilization, India. It is the whirlwind of spontaneous and popular uprising against venality and corruption cynically and systematically indulged by those who have given themselves the power to rule either through gun or sleight of ballot. Mercifully for India, the cudgels have been taken by a diminutive Gandhian in a Gandhian way unlike in other affected countries where guns are booming.
People of India are at their tether's end. Scam after scam is surfacing and what is dished out is glib talk and confusion. Take for example the issue of appointment of CVC, 2G scandal, and so on.
The first Lokpal Bill was passed in the 4th Lok Sabha in 1969 but could not get through in Rajya Sabha. Subsequently, Lokpal bills were introduced in 1971, 1977, 1985, 1989, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2005 and in 2008, yet they were never passed.
The present standoff between Anna Hazre and the Government is due to difference in perceptions on the body's constitution, its role and powers and more importantly about the composition of the re-drafting panel and its legal and binding status.
If the draft Bill prepared by the government becomes the law of the land, the Lokpal can’t punish a corrupt public servant but can send a person to jail for making a frivolous complaint. Activists want this provision to go and instead suggested imposition of fine to check frivolous complaints.
According to the draft bill, the Lokpal cannot act on its own or on a public complaint and can only receive complaints referred by LS Speaker or Rajya Sabha chairman.
Lokpal, after inquiry, will forward report to competent authority that can decide not to act on recommendations. Under the draft bill, Lokpal does not have powers of police to register FIR. Prosecution would be pursued by existing agency such as CBI.
Lokpal will have jurisdiction only on MPs, ministers and PM. It will not have jurisdiction over officers. The activists want it to include even judges.
Another controversy is around the composition of the body. The government draft proposes Lokpal to be three-member body — all retired judges. The selection panel is proposed to comprise Vice-President, PM, Leaders of both houses, Leaders of opposition in both Houses, law minister and home minister, thus not only loading heavily in favor of ruling clique, but also making it a cent percent political animal. But activists want CEC, CAG and international awardees of Indian origin to be on the panel.
The draft does not deal with corruption of bureaucrats and the Lokpal would not have powers to redress grievances. It does not incorporate mechanism to redress public grievance.
In the draft bill there is no provision to seize ill-gotten wealth. A corrupt person can come out of jail and enjoy that money. A limit of six months to one year has been prescribed for Lokpal to probe. But there is no time limit for completion of trial.
Anna Hazare has refused to budge and asked people to fill jails. With more and more citizens coming out against government, this is likely to snow ball. Let us hope unemployed politicians will not hijack the movement and whatever may be the outcome, things will remain on the peaceful Gandhian path.
...ponder
People of India are at their tether's end. Scam after scam is surfacing and what is dished out is glib talk and confusion. Take for example the issue of appointment of CVC, 2G scandal, and so on.
The first Lokpal Bill was passed in the 4th Lok Sabha in 1969 but could not get through in Rajya Sabha. Subsequently, Lokpal bills were introduced in 1971, 1977, 1985, 1989, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2005 and in 2008, yet they were never passed.
The present standoff between Anna Hazre and the Government is due to difference in perceptions on the body's constitution, its role and powers and more importantly about the composition of the re-drafting panel and its legal and binding status.
If the draft Bill prepared by the government becomes the law of the land, the Lokpal can’t punish a corrupt public servant but can send a person to jail for making a frivolous complaint. Activists want this provision to go and instead suggested imposition of fine to check frivolous complaints.
According to the draft bill, the Lokpal cannot act on its own or on a public complaint and can only receive complaints referred by LS Speaker or Rajya Sabha chairman.
Lokpal, after inquiry, will forward report to competent authority that can decide not to act on recommendations. Under the draft bill, Lokpal does not have powers of police to register FIR. Prosecution would be pursued by existing agency such as CBI.
Lokpal will have jurisdiction only on MPs, ministers and PM. It will not have jurisdiction over officers. The activists want it to include even judges.
Another controversy is around the composition of the body. The government draft proposes Lokpal to be three-member body — all retired judges. The selection panel is proposed to comprise Vice-President, PM, Leaders of both houses, Leaders of opposition in both Houses, law minister and home minister, thus not only loading heavily in favor of ruling clique, but also making it a cent percent political animal. But activists want CEC, CAG and international awardees of Indian origin to be on the panel.
The draft does not deal with corruption of bureaucrats and the Lokpal would not have powers to redress grievances. It does not incorporate mechanism to redress public grievance.
In the draft bill there is no provision to seize ill-gotten wealth. A corrupt person can come out of jail and enjoy that money. A limit of six months to one year has been prescribed for Lokpal to probe. But there is no time limit for completion of trial.
Anna Hazare has refused to budge and asked people to fill jails. With more and more citizens coming out against government, this is likely to snow ball. Let us hope unemployed politicians will not hijack the movement and whatever may be the outcome, things will remain on the peaceful Gandhian path.
...ponder
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Girl child
The sex ratio of India, according to the Census Commissioner, is 933 females to 1000 males for whole India and 946 for rural India and 900 for urban India. Urban areas, with their better health facilities and awareness, cull female children at a more ruthless rate.
The other bad news is that the phenomenon of female foeticide, which was mainly confined to North and North-West is now prevalent all over the country. But, this comes with the rider that import of brides from Bihar, Kerala, North-East, West Bengal into North and North-West is now difficult due to paucity of females there too.
The spinoff is that girls are calling the shots in the matrimonial market and have become very choosy. In the software sector, where girls are neck to neck with boys, it is usual now to see boys' and their parents making rounds to find suitable alliances. Another interesting fallout is, girls calling off alliances at the eleventh hour in the supreme confidence that they will find a better partner.
Though education and employment opportunities have vastly empowered the girl child, the mind-set of the previous generation is changing but slowly. If the society can deliver a more secure environ for the females, things will improve faster. Secondly, the Hindu society in particular and all in general, should somehow reform and re-jig to meet all eventualities in a son-less set-up. Apart from harsh realities, spiritual needs also have to be modified in this context. Religious leaders should take the lead in giving girls equal role in matters spiritual and customary (like performing funeral) to change the mind set.
Girls have demolished many a male bastion. But they have to penetrate into many more areas like employment where due to age old taboos certain professions are denied to them like Priesthood. There aren't any female barbers. Brahmakumaris have shown that they can organize better and give succor better. Maharashtra boasts of female purohits. It is good to see more females as software specialists, engineers, doctors, administrators, etc. But more females as priests, conductors, gas station attendants, barbers, police, petty enterprueners, etc will also change the mindset of the society.
Let us hope we will have a society which is not only safe for existing females but to those unborn females too.
…ponder
The other bad news is that the phenomenon of female foeticide, which was mainly confined to North and North-West is now prevalent all over the country. But, this comes with the rider that import of brides from Bihar, Kerala, North-East, West Bengal into North and North-West is now difficult due to paucity of females there too.
The spinoff is that girls are calling the shots in the matrimonial market and have become very choosy. In the software sector, where girls are neck to neck with boys, it is usual now to see boys' and their parents making rounds to find suitable alliances. Another interesting fallout is, girls calling off alliances at the eleventh hour in the supreme confidence that they will find a better partner.
Though education and employment opportunities have vastly empowered the girl child, the mind-set of the previous generation is changing but slowly. If the society can deliver a more secure environ for the females, things will improve faster. Secondly, the Hindu society in particular and all in general, should somehow reform and re-jig to meet all eventualities in a son-less set-up. Apart from harsh realities, spiritual needs also have to be modified in this context. Religious leaders should take the lead in giving girls equal role in matters spiritual and customary (like performing funeral) to change the mind set.
Girls have demolished many a male bastion. But they have to penetrate into many more areas like employment where due to age old taboos certain professions are denied to them like Priesthood. There aren't any female barbers. Brahmakumaris have shown that they can organize better and give succor better. Maharashtra boasts of female purohits. It is good to see more females as software specialists, engineers, doctors, administrators, etc. But more females as priests, conductors, gas station attendants, barbers, police, petty enterprueners, etc will also change the mindset of the society.
Let us hope we will have a society which is not only safe for existing females but to those unborn females too.
…ponder
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Orphans All
Andhra politicians have the knack of becoming orphans. This happens while in power, or after, or even in death.
See the case of P.V.Narasimha Rao. A person who ruled the country wisely through wily means for five years (without the blessings of the dynasty) was given an unceremonious funeral after force-shifting of the body and his belongings thrown out of the official accommodation soon after. Nobody remembers him on his birth or death anniversary.
,
Let us see the fate of N.T. Rama Rao, who was thrown out of power by Indira Gandhi only to have her hand cuffed and experience the mortification of his triumphant return to power, was thrown out again by none other than his son-inn-law and man-Friday, Chandra Babu Naidu. The package included the 'footwear' treatment. He had to sulk in the company of his new bride Lakshmi Parvati and only after his death his statues get an occasional garland.
Lakshmi Parvati's taps went dry with NTR's downfall and his subsequent death made her an irrelevant politician only to be used by media for occasional abusing of Chandra Babu Naidu.
Now see the great mass leader Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy. His is a peculiar predicament. Whether his legacy belongs to Congress or YSR Congress (Jagan) or falling between two stools. (Psst.. Was he bumped off only to market his fibre glass statues manufactured in China?).
Rosiah was a born orphan. Nobody shed any tears on his return to oblivion.
The quickest journey to orphanage is that of Chiranjeevi. He and his assorted brothers-in-law, etc will be under the care of his foster mother at Delhi.
There are other 'seniors' like Vekataswamy (aspiring for the President's post), ex-CM Janardhan Reddy, etc whom we don't see any more and whose nuisance value has also been choked off.
…ponder
See the case of P.V.Narasimha Rao. A person who ruled the country wisely through wily means for five years (without the blessings of the dynasty) was given an unceremonious funeral after force-shifting of the body and his belongings thrown out of the official accommodation soon after. Nobody remembers him on his birth or death anniversary.
,
Let us see the fate of N.T. Rama Rao, who was thrown out of power by Indira Gandhi only to have her hand cuffed and experience the mortification of his triumphant return to power, was thrown out again by none other than his son-inn-law and man-Friday, Chandra Babu Naidu. The package included the 'footwear' treatment. He had to sulk in the company of his new bride Lakshmi Parvati and only after his death his statues get an occasional garland.
Lakshmi Parvati's taps went dry with NTR's downfall and his subsequent death made her an irrelevant politician only to be used by media for occasional abusing of Chandra Babu Naidu.
Now see the great mass leader Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy. His is a peculiar predicament. Whether his legacy belongs to Congress or YSR Congress (Jagan) or falling between two stools. (Psst.. Was he bumped off only to market his fibre glass statues manufactured in China?).
Rosiah was a born orphan. Nobody shed any tears on his return to oblivion.
The quickest journey to orphanage is that of Chiranjeevi. He and his assorted brothers-in-law, etc will be under the care of his foster mother at Delhi.
There are other 'seniors' like Vekataswamy (aspiring for the President's post), ex-CM Janardhan Reddy, etc whom we don't see any more and whose nuisance value has also been choked off.
…ponder
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Land & Water
Israel, the tiny nation with just 70 lakh population and 400 km long and 120 km wide land is a vibrant economy despite a poor annual rainfall of 550 cm. But the nation's economy thrives on agriculture and horticulture exports and is a highly developed country with the state of the art technology adopted in all sectors including Agriculture. Water is the most precious commodity and is used judiciously by farmers and others. The government itself would determine the quantum of water required for an agricultural or horticultural farm and supply the same. Filthy and used water was treated and reused for farming purpose and not for human consumption.
Land in Israel is owned totally by the government and is allotted as per requirement on a lease basis.
On a recent visit to US, I have come to understand that in this country, nobody is permitted to have a borewell, even on his own land/house, and water is available only through public distribution system. Land use is also subject to stringent scrutiny and regulations and the pristine beauty of nature is painstakingly preserved even while development takes place. Urban forestry, natural parks, massive green cover on either sides of the highways are regular features. While driving through the heart of the town of Auburn, we used to come across several animals like deer, ant-eaters, wild cats, etc. The changing colors of the foliage during fall was a sight to behold.
Just compare this with the conditions in India. Indiscriminate shrinkage of forest cover. Vanishing water bodies, old canals and drains. Quarrying at will. Whole hillocks have vanished. Sand mining at will. People bore wells to great depths depriving water to less privileged neighbors. Private players raking in money due to water woes. In a small village called Kumarapuram In Pithapuram Mandal of East Godavari District of Andhra, a huge and majestic pond called Jaggaih Cheruvu has been converted for housing and the only other source of irrigation, Thammiah Cheruvu is proposed to be taken over for water supply to Pithapuram Town. What will happen to farming in this village and to those hundreds depending on farming is anybody's guess.
Why our Governments permit such indiscriminate exploitation of land, water, hills, rivers for private profit makers like realtors, industry, business interests knowing fully well that we are tampering with nature only to deprive the well being of future generations for today's profit is depressing to ponder. Not only Governments are permitting this but they are themselves indulging in this vandalism on a massive scale.
Ever since Independence, people like Nehru, who could influence the policy and had the mandate to implement good governance and bring about change for the good , had been visiting counties like US and must have seen with their own eyes the benevolent and eco-friendly policies and practices there but allowed things to drift towards disaster in India. Was this not to prevent rocking the electoral boat by stepping on the feudal interests who have captured most of the posts in elected bodies and decided policies solely aimed at their continued hold on land and water resources? We amended our constitution to insert the the word 'Socialist' and US is a self-confessed Capitalistic country. What an irony?
…ponder
Land in Israel is owned totally by the government and is allotted as per requirement on a lease basis.
On a recent visit to US, I have come to understand that in this country, nobody is permitted to have a borewell, even on his own land/house, and water is available only through public distribution system. Land use is also subject to stringent scrutiny and regulations and the pristine beauty of nature is painstakingly preserved even while development takes place. Urban forestry, natural parks, massive green cover on either sides of the highways are regular features. While driving through the heart of the town of Auburn, we used to come across several animals like deer, ant-eaters, wild cats, etc. The changing colors of the foliage during fall was a sight to behold.
Just compare this with the conditions in India. Indiscriminate shrinkage of forest cover. Vanishing water bodies, old canals and drains. Quarrying at will. Whole hillocks have vanished. Sand mining at will. People bore wells to great depths depriving water to less privileged neighbors. Private players raking in money due to water woes. In a small village called Kumarapuram In Pithapuram Mandal of East Godavari District of Andhra, a huge and majestic pond called Jaggaih Cheruvu has been converted for housing and the only other source of irrigation, Thammiah Cheruvu is proposed to be taken over for water supply to Pithapuram Town. What will happen to farming in this village and to those hundreds depending on farming is anybody's guess.
Why our Governments permit such indiscriminate exploitation of land, water, hills, rivers for private profit makers like realtors, industry, business interests knowing fully well that we are tampering with nature only to deprive the well being of future generations for today's profit is depressing to ponder. Not only Governments are permitting this but they are themselves indulging in this vandalism on a massive scale.
Ever since Independence, people like Nehru, who could influence the policy and had the mandate to implement good governance and bring about change for the good , had been visiting counties like US and must have seen with their own eyes the benevolent and eco-friendly policies and practices there but allowed things to drift towards disaster in India. Was this not to prevent rocking the electoral boat by stepping on the feudal interests who have captured most of the posts in elected bodies and decided policies solely aimed at their continued hold on land and water resources? We amended our constitution to insert the the word 'Socialist' and US is a self-confessed Capitalistic country. What an irony?
…ponder
Monday, January 17, 2011
Winds of change
People have always been wondering why the laws tend to protect the white collar law breakers. Ofcourse, the maxim is there 'Innocent till proven guilty'. However, many a crime, especially venal crimes like corruption peter away on technical grounds. Great effort and time that goes into detection, investigation and prosecution gets frittered away on flimsy grounds. Courts are helpless as they can only uphold law as available on statute books.
Many of the Institutions like Lokpal, Lokayukta, Human Rights Commission, Minorities Commission have little powers being more of advisory in nature. In respect of persons holding political or beuracratic positions, one big hurdle is that permission is needed to prosecute them even in a normal court of law. Several offices are exempt. Ofcourse, people are to be protected for performing their duties, from frivolous and vexing litigations from aggrieved parties.
However, winds of change started blowing in a not small way, first through courts entertaining Public Interest Litigations and secondly with enactment of Right to Information Act.
Can't we get round the problem by easing laws of prosecution but at the same time tightening laws against character assassination and blackmail? Likewise can't 'Right to Information' elaborated to 'Obligation to Furnish Information'?
It is also puzzling why there should be secrecy about information already in possession of authorities - like names of persons having unaccounted money abroad, etc.
Recent newspaper reports are heartening that courts, public persons, individuals are exercising their minds about these issues e.g.
Wikileaks' Assange announcing imminent release of around 2000 names of persons round the world having secret Swiss Bank accounts.
Indian Courts questioning the need for keeping information secret about Indians who have stashed money abroad which the government has given the court in a sealed cover.
prominent thinkers and activists undertaking a walk in Delhi on 30th January seeking adoption of the draft laws they have proposed to give teeth to existing watered-down laws.
Let us wait and watch and more importantly hope.
…ponder
Many of the Institutions like Lokpal, Lokayukta, Human Rights Commission, Minorities Commission have little powers being more of advisory in nature. In respect of persons holding political or beuracratic positions, one big hurdle is that permission is needed to prosecute them even in a normal court of law. Several offices are exempt. Ofcourse, people are to be protected for performing their duties, from frivolous and vexing litigations from aggrieved parties.
However, winds of change started blowing in a not small way, first through courts entertaining Public Interest Litigations and secondly with enactment of Right to Information Act.
Can't we get round the problem by easing laws of prosecution but at the same time tightening laws against character assassination and blackmail? Likewise can't 'Right to Information' elaborated to 'Obligation to Furnish Information'?
It is also puzzling why there should be secrecy about information already in possession of authorities - like names of persons having unaccounted money abroad, etc.
Recent newspaper reports are heartening that courts, public persons, individuals are exercising their minds about these issues e.g.
Wikileaks' Assange announcing imminent release of around 2000 names of persons round the world having secret Swiss Bank accounts.
Indian Courts questioning the need for keeping information secret about Indians who have stashed money abroad which the government has given the court in a sealed cover.
prominent thinkers and activists undertaking a walk in Delhi on 30th January seeking adoption of the draft laws they have proposed to give teeth to existing watered-down laws.
Let us wait and watch and more importantly hope.
…ponder
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