MONTH-IN-PERSPECTIVE
Month-In-Perspective
EDITOR'S COLUMN
Friends
We are into the month of financial closure. Although calendars have its own significance, it is the month of March, which really signifies the year end. The expected budget presentation was postponed to March 16th, instead of the customary month of February end. State elections have pushed it as per the EC directive, lest the budget freebies, sometime really motivated, influence voters and therefore election results.
Looking back over the last Month-in-Perspective, it has indeed been as usual, a very happening month. We have tried to take up as many issues as were possible.
Releasing The Hunger and Malnutrition (HUNGaMa) Survey Report 2011, by Nandi Foundation, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had recently observed that ‘problem of malnutrition is indeed a matter of national shame’. Despite continuously recording near double digit growth, it is a stark truth that a vast majority of our sections of population, especially children, are highly, chronically and acutely malnourished. We have taken it up in Focus, for the importance it deserved. We have tried to touch the different dimensions of the issue for a greater understanding of the malaise, which has really grown over a period, at an alarming speed and size. Hope we have done justice to the issue in hand, especially the health of our future generation, and our readers do find it worth their time. As usual do revert with your valued thoughts.
EDITOR'S COLUMN
Friends
We are into the month of financial closure. Although calendars have its own significance, it is the month of March, which really signifies the year end. The expected budget presentation was postponed to March 16th, instead of the customary month of February end. State elections have pushed it as per the EC directive, lest the budget freebies, sometime really motivated, influence voters and therefore election results.
Looking back over the last Month-in-Perspective, it has indeed been as usual, a very happening month. We have tried to take up as many issues as were possible.
Releasing The Hunger and Malnutrition (HUNGaMa) Survey Report 2011, by Nandi Foundation, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had recently observed that ‘problem of malnutrition is indeed a matter of national shame’. Despite continuously recording near double digit growth, it is a stark truth that a vast majority of our sections of population, especially children, are highly, chronically and acutely malnourished. We have taken it up in Focus, for the importance it deserved. We have tried to touch the different dimensions of the issue for a greater understanding of the malaise, which has really grown over a period, at an alarming speed and size. Hope we have done justice to the issue in hand, especially the health of our future generation, and our readers do find it worth their time. As usual do revert with your valued thoughts.
NEW DELHI: Month began with a body blow to all corrupt bureaucrats and equally corrupt politicians protected by the government’s unwillingness put these corrupt persons on the guillotine to let them stand trial. The apex court was allowing the petition filed by Janata Party President Subramanian Swamy questioning the modus operandi in the allocation of 2G spectrum. In deciding the petition, apex court held that, the sanctioning authority, to allow prosecution of MPs, ministers and babus, has to give the sanction or otherwise within 3 months, with a proviso for another month, if the authority concerned has to seek the opinion of Attorney General. Court also held that should the competent authority fail to take a decision within the now stipulated period of 4 months, it would be deemed to have been granted the necessary permit.
Now this is a big victory for the common man or any concerned individual who wants to take on the corrupt government functionaries and the so-called people’s representatives, MPs, Ministers etc.
Among the myriad kinds of voices in support of reservation benefits to Christian and Muslim dalits, is the plea of no less a person than the chairman of National Commission for Minorities, the former Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) Wajahat Habibullah to grant them Scheduled Caste (SC) status. Of course, when former CIC speaks, it carries lot of weight. But quite frankly, isn’t he muddying the already dirtied water!
While the benefits of SC status is available to Buddhists and Sikhs besides Hindus, the fact remains Buddhists and Sikhs are not the same as Muslims & Christians. They are part of extended Hindu family, as is obviously seen in their living styles and practices, so also they are all of Indian origin, unlike both Christianity and Islam. Besides, except a small portion of upper caste Hindus, most converts, into Islam and Christianity, are from OBC and dalits. They left Hinduism and got converted to these religions, partly because of identity problems of dalit or backward class status, and the long unremitting societal suffering endured by them, besides of course the alleged incentives, so also because at the time of vast majority of conversions, Muslims and Christians were the ruling class. Hence attraction of being part of the ruling class was also a proximate cause. Thus Sikhs and Buddhists are not same as Muslims and Christians hence cannot be equated. Another truth, all proponents of reservation to Muslims & Christians should realise is, reservation for SC/ST came much after the exodus of dalits into the fold of Islam & Christianity.
The report "Delhi Govt. wants no extra teeth for Lokayukta" should surprise no one. After all, it is part of the major partner in the ruling UPA combine. If UPA does not want strong Lokpal, it is automatically construed that since Lokayukta is only an extension of Lokpal into the state apparatus, it too should be subservient to the govt. Not only the Delhi govt. do not want to give the power demanded by the Anna team, it does not want to give even those powers what Karnataka Lokayukta enjoys. To be effective, at least these powers of search and seizure, to prove graft cases against politicians and babus has to be wrested in Lokayukta. Or else it will continue to be toothless and that is what most politicians and babus want.
Cancellation of 122 licences for 2G spectrum by the Supreme Court is by far the biggest blow for any policy decision by any government, anywhere in the world. Will it affect our FDI flow. Probably yes, and probably no. But those who understand the implication of rule of law will take in their stride. It could be, that it did not really shock them. May be little upsetting, yes.
But it was a serious indictment of the government of the day, and to call the allocation of 2G spectrum as ‘wholly arbitrary, capricious and contrary to public interest' the apex court has sent unmistakable message that it means business. The Hindu editorial said it very succinctly. 'For those business houses used to bending or breaking laws to rake in excess profit, (of course undeserving), verdict is a lesson that will forever remain etched in their institutional memory.'
As for the UPA government, it will remain ever chastened, hopefully, that its inability to investigate, despite there being an open and shut case, has exposed it comprehensively in the eyes of the legal eagle. This is despite the respite both PM and the then FM got, for their being let off for any malfeasance personally. But the fact remains, they did not act inspite of the abundance of evidences available in the public domain, CAG or no CAG. Hope, the open rap make the authorities realize their responsibility, especially those who control the nations resources.
Those who have hung the photograph of Mohd. Azharuddin, the cricketer turned Member of Parliament, should think again about this ‘ICONIC’ personality. He was fairly known, or rather badly known for his role in the infamous match fixing case years ago, and the BCCI ban for life. That was rather an anti-national act. Despite this, our premier political party fielded him as a candidate in a predominantly Muslim constituency of U.P. Not realizing or not being sensitive enough to his diabolic role as a match fixer, electorates voted him to victory. So he is a privileged member of the political class. But then habits die hard. If you are basically crooked, you remain one. Now he has graduated into a bigger role. The front page news in ‘The Hindu’(19/02/2012) informed whole of India "Warrant Against Azharuddin", that too, it is non-bailable warrant.
Metropolitan Magistrate Vikrant Vaid has issued this warrant for repeated non-appearance in a cheque bounced case, informs report. This ‘Honourable’ M.P had issued a cheque of Rs: 1.5 crore thrice – in 2008, 2009 and in 2010, and on all three occasions it footballed (bounced).
Isn’t he proving himself as a model politician for young electorates! Is Congress high command smiling at this inimitable record! Come to think of it, he is only trying to pay back-refund-an advance received by him, well before 2008, for a property he didn’t sell, after receiving the advance. So, he is a cricketer who used his position as a captain to fix the match to make his million! Now is he trying to use his position as an M.P., to cheat? It is a clear case of breach of trust. Fortunately the law of the land can assert itself, and is catching up. Long live Indian courts.
MAHARASHTRA:Who is better – Suresh Kalmadi, the CWG hero or Padamsinh Patil, an NCP MP - was the question making rounds of Pune City Corporation. They have quite a few things in common. Both are bigwigs of Pune political landscape. Both have registered crimes against them. Both were jail birds. Padamsinh is still in jail on the charge of murdering his political rival Pawan Raje Nimbalkar, whereas Suresh Kalmadi, a Mangalorean who made Pune his home for decades, was the state guest in Tihar Jail, on charges of massive corruption in CWG, but just out on bail. Problem was Pune Municipal Corporation election. Although NCP and Congress are partners in most places, in Pune they wanted to remain separate due to the personality problems of Ajit Pawar of NCP and Suresh Kalmadi, who are strong adversaries of each other.
Despite the thick corruption taint on Kalmadi, the Congress in Pune reportedly wanted to give him a grand welcome in Pune, on his release and return from Tihar. So much for Congress party’s value system. Naturally NCP raised its ante. Congress hit back saying "You are sleeping with murderers (meaning Padamsinh Patil)".
The fracas reminded of a Hindi movie of the yore. During an election campaign in the then Bombay, posters of party candidates were stuck on building walls along the main roads, without realising a Hindi film poster already there, below these election posters. And the film was "Hum Sub Chor Hai". The above incident just proved that, ‘Kapde ke niche hum sub nange hain’. This is Yeh Mera India.
A Mumbai date lined news "Adnan ‘killers’ walk free" was about the acquittal of alleged killers of a rich man’s son from the Mumbai suburb of Andheri. Teenage crime is increasing by the day, influenced partly by the TV programmes, so also due to the desire for easy money, to live life on fast lane. That teenage crime is on the increase, is very clearly visible across the globe. But Mumbai police, claimed to be second only to the Scotland Yard has shown its ineptness time and again, with less and less number of criminals getting convicted. According to reasonably reliable sources police failed to produce credible evidence to establish the ransom demand, despite the knowledge of the victim’s close circle of friends, who were the alleged plotters in kidnapping and murder. Of course, the father of the victim Aslam Patrawala is on record having said that he will pursue the matter. But, the fact remains, it is a serious indictment of Mumbai police. Of course there were incidents in the past, where powerful people influenced the course of justice. Could this too, is one such?
If the government agencies cannot save those who are working for the agencies, how are they going to save general public? is a question being asked in the corridors of Mumbai’s only TB Hospital in Sewri in Central Mumbai. The news report that ‘Of the 60 infected, 26 workers died in TB hospital,’ has underlined the seriousness of the malaise within the system. There is malaise in the administration of malaise itself. And come to think of it, this is Asia’s largest TB facility, and the civic administration was planning a course of upgradation of its facilities. The real scourge in the issue of infection is the use of N-95 mask used apparently to protect the workers from being infected, which has been criticised by health experts as being of no use. According to them, it can only prevent the wearer from infecting others rather than vice versa. These experts dismiss these N-95 masks as only ‘a piece of cloth on the face attached to ears by rubber bands!’ Hence the hospital/civic administration must take a serious preventive approach to take care of those who are sick, or else hospital may not attract any new staff and existing one’s may leave for safer and better pastures.
Speaking at International Research Conference in Mumbai RBI governor Dr Subbarao, cautioned "If the government borrows and squanders money away on unproductive current expenditure, both fiscal sustainability and growth would be jeopardised". Being the Chief of the Central Bank of the country Mr Subbarao has been in the thick of policy making for the financial management of the economy and in an uncertain global economic scenario, his wisdom and leadership stood the test of time. So when he says, "Cap the deficit – the receipt - expenditure gap. Excessive borrowing is bad" it carries conviction and our economist prime minister should take note of. But will he? Fiscal deficit, budgeted at Rs: 4.20 lakh crores is expected to increase by close to another 1 lakh crore by March 2012. Unfortunately despite an economist from London School of Economics, being our Prime Minister, our expenditure is less on capital formation, like merit goods, public goods, expenditure on human and social capital so also on physical infrastructure, instead it is more on unproductive expenditures like populist measures. Because expenditure of Rs: 520,000 crores in excess of receipt is an extremely dicey situation. Hope the Finance Minister takes note of this and takes steps to contain this fiscal deficit in his budget proposals for 2012-13 due sometime in March.
KARNATAKA: The print media from Bangalore informed – The Chairman Emeritus of Bangalore headquartered IT Major – Infosys Technologies Ltd – listed on NASDAQ, software icon N R Narayana Murthy reportedly asked ‘Aren’t India’s corrupt and dishonest becoming role models for youngsters of the country?"
Releasing a book ‘Upwardly mobile" by Ranjini Manian, Mr Murthy reportedly remarked "The number of role models that our youngsters can look up to is decreasing. How many people in our public life can be proud of, for honesty, courage, commitment and hard work? And that number is dwindling. Can the youth be blamed if they look up to corrupt as models of success since these corrupt are financially successful?"
The observations are right and questions are good. Mr Murthy is certainly a model India can justifiably be proud of. Not only he worked and earned his way to the top in a largely, then, uncharted IT sector. His Infosys foundation has done lot of difference to the society around them. He and his activities along with his wife Sudha Murthy are certainly a class apart. They deserve all the accolades. But being public figures they are bound to be scrutinised. Of course first and foremost we are all humans, and therefore could have differences of perception. A small time awareness journal had requested them, if they could write in the journal. They had flatly said no, citing lack of time. A couple had requested via-email, if they could call on then, while visiting Bangalore – at a time and place of their choice. They didn’t respond, and couple were not looking for any assistance. They just wanted to meet an iconic couple, just for the joy of meeting two wonderful human beings. The journal requested via-email if one of them partake in its decennial function in Bangalore. No response came by. Two proposals were sent to Mr Murthy, when he started his venture capital funding, no response came by. There was one common factor in all the above efforts. The same person was making overtures. Being such fine people, what made them not to respond! The question remained, for all the years, unanswered. May be even icons have their own limitations of being just another human?!
"Minister caught watching porn in State Assembly", "No moral police here, so watch blue films!", "Holy Horror", "House porn Hour", "It was documentary: BJP" "BJP has lost 7 members to sex, porn, scam".
These were all the print media reports from different news papers, emanating from the IT capital of India-Bangalore. Yes, every paper berated these three ministers in the only BJP govt. in the South. The party with a difference, was again proving itself to be different? ‘No’. All over India these politicians and their political class, at least a lumpen section of it, has indulged in crass activities bordering on extreme uncivility and irresponsibility and BJP ministers are no exception. Yes for once they have proved very clearly that they are like all else, when it comes to dirtier aspect of political life. Of course, media, most of which is anyway anti-BJP, especially in Karnataka, had a field day, ridiculing and poking pun at them. It is another matter that these BJP luminaries deserved it all. But the fact remains that this mental sickness is across the political spectrum and in its sweep covers Pan-India. Kashmir to Kerala, from Maharashtra to Meghalaya, one can find such nasties. Just the other day, a Thiruvananthapuram date lined print media report informed "Probe report on Kerala sex scandal submitted". It was the 16 year old "Ice cream parlour sex scandal" involving the then minister Kunhalikutti of Muslim League. The case involves sexploitation of minor girls employed in the Ice Cream parlour in Kozhikode in 1995. So we should know, a section of Indian politicians are like this only. Unfortunately only some get caught and they become fodder to the sensation hungry media men and women. But these 3 ministers were clearly on the wrong, when they took their mobile phones to the assembly, when it was clearly disallowed. If they have to face the music, it was they themselves, who composed it.
Our sensation hungry 24x7 electronic media had no time for such real worthies as B.S. Munir Ahmed, a meat merchant of Bangalore. Strangely, even the Bangalore based print media did not carry his story. But what is his story? We have heard of fatwas being issued by all and sundry on myriad issues, and most of us thought negatively about this edict from the Islamic clergy. The recent one against Salman Rushdie is still fresh in our memory.
Shivajinagar is a bustling suburb of Bangalore. According to Munir Ahmed, in Shivaji Nagar, there is hardly any footpath left for pedestrians to walk, due to the hawker menace. Even roads have been encroached left-right and centre. Munir Ahmed recognises that it is the members of his own community who are the culprits.
The problem in Shivajinagar has to be seen to be believed. All efforts by police failed, including the Apex Court order which said encroachment of public space is illegal. An accident involving 2 pedestrians run-over by the local KSRTC bus was the proverbial 'last straw' for Munir Ahmed. He approached Darul-uloom-Deoband for a fatwa and surprisingly they obliged. "Roads and pavements are for the people and they are not meant for carrying out trade. Encroachment of roads and pavements is against the Quran’s beliefs. Everyman rich or poor should respect law and remove encroachments, which cause inconvenience to others" and put their official seal. Yes the police have found it easy, as Munir Ahmed is going around with the copy of the fatwa. "But" says Munir Ahmed "my community looks at me as a villain, as I have got fatwa issued against their interest. It is a fact 99% of Shivajinagar hawkers are Muslims who flout all rules" he avers. By hindsight, it is clear that more than fatwa, it is people like Munir Ahmed who need to be publicly recognised for what he admitted and acted upon. He is indeed a good citizen. Two cheers for him.
KERALA: On 15th Feb. 2012, fishing vessel St. Antony from Ambalapuzza in Kerala, was fired upon by the personnel of Italian flagged tanker Enrica Lexie. Two crew of St. Antony, Indian nationals, Valentine and Pinku were killed by the firing. Reportedly it happened when the Indian fishing vessel was within 14 nautical miles off Indian shore. Authorities in Kerala termed the killing as murder. Response from both sides overshadowed the pain of the families of the victims. Italy is one of the more arrogant of European countries. The fact of an Italian national by birth, Indianised by marriage, calling shots at national politics, was anything to do with the, hammer and tong, attitude of Italian government, in approaching this whole episode involving this killing, is not clear. Legalities apart, the killing, apparently wrong, has not elicited any feelings of remorse from the Italian government and not even from Vatican. However, reportedly Vatican jumped in, on behalf of the two Italian Christian personnel of the Italian ship who were arrested by the police at Kochi. And strangely even the clergy in Kerala took up the gauntlet on behalf of Vatican to opt for a mediatory course in this sorry episode. Now this is a law and order situation happened within the Indian waters involving two Indians, and where does the question of them being Christian comes? Strangely Indian media didn’t voice its disapproval. Even Vatican’s intervention was not called as communal and racial by our press. Strange are the ways of the world.
WEST BENGAL: So ‘intolerance’ is on roll? The news from Kolkata was, that ‘Official release of Taslima’s Book cancelled’. Close on the heels of Salman Rushdi controversy, the book ‘Nirbasan’ slated to be released at the 36th International Book Fair was cancelled due to the withdrawal of permission by the police. Police were reacting to some fundamentalist group’s threat to disrupt the function. It is indeed very unfortunate that a small minority of people can hold the country for ransoms. It is equally sad that authorities are buckling under perceived pressure. Somewhere along the line, surely authority must assert itself. Yes, the protesters have a right to protest, but ‘please no violence at all’. All violence has to be dealt with, as only law and order issue without mixing it with party affiliations. But it looks as if all political parties have lost the will to act, making it look like an act of appeasement. This will only encourage fundamentalist groups to defy every govt, and that’s a disturbing development. No wonder even a mere seminar on Rushdie was cancelled in Hyderabad, the same day, on police advice. Ironically the seminar was organized by Fathima Shahnaz and her India Peace Organisation, reportedly to promote non-violence. This is Yeh Mera India.
UTTAR PRADESH: The way political parties, whether Congress, the BSP, the SP and even BJP fighting out in UP elections, it is only confirming the long held view that UP decides national politics. For the sheer number of seats, every political party with a national stake will surely fight of the largest possible share of the electoral pie of U.P. While all parties have their own way of battling it out, Rahul Gandhi, the PM in waiting has been pleading with voters "Give Congress 5 years". And how during the last 20+ years of non-Congress governments, how the state has been reduced to what it is. Well, point taken. ‘But young man, before this past 22 years, it was your father, your grand mother and before that your great grand father who ruled Uttar Pradesh. If they were all to do what you are saying that you will do in the next 5 years, surely these political parties would never have come into the scene. It is only because, all of them failed to do, what they could have done, left the space for BJP, SP, and now BSP. Your forefathers had all the time and opportunity, but they squandered. Yes, you do sound sincere, but then your father too had sounded sincere, and he had 400+ seats in the Lokasabha but failed to keep them next time round! Of course there are Indians who do not mind dynastic rule of one family. So all the very best. However we at I & C wish that India wins at the end, doesn’t matter the party.
"My life’s aim is to construct a grand Ram temple" a press statement attributed to Lal Krishna Advani has only made him relevant to a small section of Indians. For most Indians the issue of Temple in Ayodhya is inextricably tied with the Masjid. Of course there may be supporters for the construction of Temple on either side of the divide. But the fact remains, a conciliatory approach by both side not to insist either for Temple or for Masjid can go a long way in settling the issue for ever. A memorial to the Idea of India where all Indians can congregate to celebrate the essential spirit of oneness of mankind shall be a fitting tribute to the Indianness which global community recognises. Hope there is a change of heart in Advaniji to promote such an India. Surely he will go down as one of the great Indian of contemporary political scenario.
WORLD: Is Australia undergoing some kind of transformation? History informs us that long years ago when England colonised Australia, the men of Queen of England were banishing criminals and crooks to this unexplored land mass, as a punishment. If the latest report is to be believed, crime graph is appearing to be on the ascent on this land mass. According to ‘The Herald Sun’ of Melbourne, crime by minors is soaring in Australia as close to 290 children under 10 years have been charged with offences like rape and arson. The paper informs quoting reports, police in Victoria kept hidden from public domain, some over 300 serious offences involving 288 children. The crime, reportedly included burglary, car theft, drugs, weapons and explosives. Due to the juvenile nature of the crime, with legal provisions not to charge these children, police have termed these rising child criminals as "The Untouchables". The statistics, according to the paper, showed that 254 boys and 34 girls aged 9 and under, were processed for 11 sex crimes including rape, 36 burglaries, 5 motor vehicle theft, 3 drug usage & possession and 3 for being armed with weapons including explosives. Yes, there is apparently no reason to disbelieve the story. It is indeed a sad story of evolving Australia. What could probably be the reason for this steep juvenile crime rate? Failed parentage? Collapsing social order? Or deteriorating educational standard? And still, strangely aren’t some Indian students rushing there for some educational degrees!
So now its official "Chindia trade hits all time high of $ 74 bn". But the catch is, the deficit in favour of China is also on an all time high at $ 27 billion. While it is true that bilateral trade increased from $ 61.7 bn & in 2010 to $ 73.9 billion, the trade deficit in favour of China rose to $ 27.07 bn. It is indeed a matter of serious concern, which the government in Delhi must take note of, to address and redress, slowly but surely, since there are many items of inessential nature which are being dumped to kill Indian industries. But the Indian trader, selfish that he is, wanting to buy cheap and sell dear, to make a fast buck from gullible Indian buyers, need to be reined in.
Whitewash in England and now in Australia, has exposed the vulnerability of Indian cricket or more importantly Indian cricketers. Media, as usual hypes and underplays unrealistically, every victory and every loss. This was no different. While most batsmen including the captain, failed to impress or come good under trying conditions, it was the seniors who had to take the brunt. But this was natural. You had the famed ‘wall’ that could not withstand, the sure-bat from Hyderabad was predominantly unsure. And the expected centurion of centuries failed to make his dream come true, although he proved better of all these three seniors.
Yes, Dravid and Laxman were a complete let down. Tendulkar too did not measure upto his usual high performance. In the event, new comers, not surprisingly, did not come up with pleasant surprises. Coming to the senior trio, it is indeed time that they quit all forms of cricket. Of course Dravid and Laxman are only in Test squad. They should leave for younger players to make into the test team. Fortunately for India, when it comes to cricket there is an abundant talent and maximum number of youngsters should make it to the national team. Of course IPL did provide the arena to display their cricketing skill besides making some solid money for themselves. Coming to Tendulkar, it is time he should make up his mind. The country is greater than his individual ambition of making his 100th hundred. In recent times, his goal appears to be only that. It is better he leaves with dignity at the height of his glory. Imran Khan a former Pakistan Cricket Captain has stated on record "Sachin should have retired after World Cup victory by India." "You don’t want to go having lost to Australia 4-0. If he had gone after the world cup, that would have been the ultimate high". But a sportsman need not be a sport. That’s the tragedy of human avarice.
There was this small report coming from Melbourne, Australia, "Lankan players to play despite no pay". The report informs that Sri Lankan cricketers are owed lot of money by their cricket board, over $ 4 million. And their skipper Jayawardene while admitting that some of the players do need money to keep their body and soul to-gether, he has reportedly stated, ‘they need not worry, the money will eventually come. Until then just move on and get on with cricket’. That’s being really sportsman-like and patriotic. Would the Indian cricketers do the same? They are probably the best paid and paid in advance. Sri Lankan cricketers definitely give their best on the field for their country, the same cannot be said about Indian cricketers, despite being looked after so well. Some of whom are only after personal records.
There were two press reports datelined Rome & Vatican City. One said "Church receives order from God, says Pope". The other "Abuse scandals have cost a bomb for Vatican". While the former report is purely a matter of faith, since most faithfuls belonging to any religious denomination express similar sentiments. But what about this expensive damage control exercise which did cost the city state over 2 billion $ in settlement of clerical abuse scandals! And this is over and above the discreet settlements by some of the dioceses. Is there a role for the God in these sorry episodes?
‘Only ‘Quality’ migrants are welcome, asserts UK,’ was a news in the print media. And why not? It is their country, why should it be charitable to those who are looking for handouts! There are lots of immigrants the world over, especially from Africa, Indian sub-continent and Latin America. It is true that Common Wealth of Nations is in fact the looted wealth of nations. It’s OK if they pay back a part of it to immigrants from those countries. But it has been so, for decades. Now UK appears to be tired of ‘importing economic dependency on the state’.
Yes, every country must look after its own interest first and charitable later.
Now this is a big victory for the common man or any concerned individual who wants to take on the corrupt government functionaries and the so-called people’s representatives, MPs, Ministers etc.
Among the myriad kinds of voices in support of reservation benefits to Christian and Muslim dalits, is the plea of no less a person than the chairman of National Commission for Minorities, the former Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) Wajahat Habibullah to grant them Scheduled Caste (SC) status. Of course, when former CIC speaks, it carries lot of weight. But quite frankly, isn’t he muddying the already dirtied water!
While the benefits of SC status is available to Buddhists and Sikhs besides Hindus, the fact remains Buddhists and Sikhs are not the same as Muslims & Christians. They are part of extended Hindu family, as is obviously seen in their living styles and practices, so also they are all of Indian origin, unlike both Christianity and Islam. Besides, except a small portion of upper caste Hindus, most converts, into Islam and Christianity, are from OBC and dalits. They left Hinduism and got converted to these religions, partly because of identity problems of dalit or backward class status, and the long unremitting societal suffering endured by them, besides of course the alleged incentives, so also because at the time of vast majority of conversions, Muslims and Christians were the ruling class. Hence attraction of being part of the ruling class was also a proximate cause. Thus Sikhs and Buddhists are not same as Muslims and Christians hence cannot be equated. Another truth, all proponents of reservation to Muslims & Christians should realise is, reservation for SC/ST came much after the exodus of dalits into the fold of Islam & Christianity.
The report "Delhi Govt. wants no extra teeth for Lokayukta" should surprise no one. After all, it is part of the major partner in the ruling UPA combine. If UPA does not want strong Lokpal, it is automatically construed that since Lokayukta is only an extension of Lokpal into the state apparatus, it too should be subservient to the govt. Not only the Delhi govt. do not want to give the power demanded by the Anna team, it does not want to give even those powers what Karnataka Lokayukta enjoys. To be effective, at least these powers of search and seizure, to prove graft cases against politicians and babus has to be wrested in Lokayukta. Or else it will continue to be toothless and that is what most politicians and babus want.
Cancellation of 122 licences for 2G spectrum by the Supreme Court is by far the biggest blow for any policy decision by any government, anywhere in the world. Will it affect our FDI flow. Probably yes, and probably no. But those who understand the implication of rule of law will take in their stride. It could be, that it did not really shock them. May be little upsetting, yes.
But it was a serious indictment of the government of the day, and to call the allocation of 2G spectrum as ‘wholly arbitrary, capricious and contrary to public interest' the apex court has sent unmistakable message that it means business. The Hindu editorial said it very succinctly. 'For those business houses used to bending or breaking laws to rake in excess profit, (of course undeserving), verdict is a lesson that will forever remain etched in their institutional memory.'
As for the UPA government, it will remain ever chastened, hopefully, that its inability to investigate, despite there being an open and shut case, has exposed it comprehensively in the eyes of the legal eagle. This is despite the respite both PM and the then FM got, for their being let off for any malfeasance personally. But the fact remains, they did not act inspite of the abundance of evidences available in the public domain, CAG or no CAG. Hope, the open rap make the authorities realize their responsibility, especially those who control the nations resources.
Those who have hung the photograph of Mohd. Azharuddin, the cricketer turned Member of Parliament, should think again about this ‘ICONIC’ personality. He was fairly known, or rather badly known for his role in the infamous match fixing case years ago, and the BCCI ban for life. That was rather an anti-national act. Despite this, our premier political party fielded him as a candidate in a predominantly Muslim constituency of U.P. Not realizing or not being sensitive enough to his diabolic role as a match fixer, electorates voted him to victory. So he is a privileged member of the political class. But then habits die hard. If you are basically crooked, you remain one. Now he has graduated into a bigger role. The front page news in ‘The Hindu’(19/02/2012) informed whole of India "Warrant Against Azharuddin", that too, it is non-bailable warrant.
Metropolitan Magistrate Vikrant Vaid has issued this warrant for repeated non-appearance in a cheque bounced case, informs report. This ‘Honourable’ M.P had issued a cheque of Rs: 1.5 crore thrice – in 2008, 2009 and in 2010, and on all three occasions it footballed (bounced).
Isn’t he proving himself as a model politician for young electorates! Is Congress high command smiling at this inimitable record! Come to think of it, he is only trying to pay back-refund-an advance received by him, well before 2008, for a property he didn’t sell, after receiving the advance. So, he is a cricketer who used his position as a captain to fix the match to make his million! Now is he trying to use his position as an M.P., to cheat? It is a clear case of breach of trust. Fortunately the law of the land can assert itself, and is catching up. Long live Indian courts.
MAHARASHTRA:Who is better – Suresh Kalmadi, the CWG hero or Padamsinh Patil, an NCP MP - was the question making rounds of Pune City Corporation. They have quite a few things in common. Both are bigwigs of Pune political landscape. Both have registered crimes against them. Both were jail birds. Padamsinh is still in jail on the charge of murdering his political rival Pawan Raje Nimbalkar, whereas Suresh Kalmadi, a Mangalorean who made Pune his home for decades, was the state guest in Tihar Jail, on charges of massive corruption in CWG, but just out on bail. Problem was Pune Municipal Corporation election. Although NCP and Congress are partners in most places, in Pune they wanted to remain separate due to the personality problems of Ajit Pawar of NCP and Suresh Kalmadi, who are strong adversaries of each other.
Despite the thick corruption taint on Kalmadi, the Congress in Pune reportedly wanted to give him a grand welcome in Pune, on his release and return from Tihar. So much for Congress party’s value system. Naturally NCP raised its ante. Congress hit back saying "You are sleeping with murderers (meaning Padamsinh Patil)".
The fracas reminded of a Hindi movie of the yore. During an election campaign in the then Bombay, posters of party candidates were stuck on building walls along the main roads, without realising a Hindi film poster already there, below these election posters. And the film was "Hum Sub Chor Hai". The above incident just proved that, ‘Kapde ke niche hum sub nange hain’. This is Yeh Mera India.
A Mumbai date lined news "Adnan ‘killers’ walk free" was about the acquittal of alleged killers of a rich man’s son from the Mumbai suburb of Andheri. Teenage crime is increasing by the day, influenced partly by the TV programmes, so also due to the desire for easy money, to live life on fast lane. That teenage crime is on the increase, is very clearly visible across the globe. But Mumbai police, claimed to be second only to the Scotland Yard has shown its ineptness time and again, with less and less number of criminals getting convicted. According to reasonably reliable sources police failed to produce credible evidence to establish the ransom demand, despite the knowledge of the victim’s close circle of friends, who were the alleged plotters in kidnapping and murder. Of course, the father of the victim Aslam Patrawala is on record having said that he will pursue the matter. But, the fact remains, it is a serious indictment of Mumbai police. Of course there were incidents in the past, where powerful people influenced the course of justice. Could this too, is one such?
If the government agencies cannot save those who are working for the agencies, how are they going to save general public? is a question being asked in the corridors of Mumbai’s only TB Hospital in Sewri in Central Mumbai. The news report that ‘Of the 60 infected, 26 workers died in TB hospital,’ has underlined the seriousness of the malaise within the system. There is malaise in the administration of malaise itself. And come to think of it, this is Asia’s largest TB facility, and the civic administration was planning a course of upgradation of its facilities. The real scourge in the issue of infection is the use of N-95 mask used apparently to protect the workers from being infected, which has been criticised by health experts as being of no use. According to them, it can only prevent the wearer from infecting others rather than vice versa. These experts dismiss these N-95 masks as only ‘a piece of cloth on the face attached to ears by rubber bands!’ Hence the hospital/civic administration must take a serious preventive approach to take care of those who are sick, or else hospital may not attract any new staff and existing one’s may leave for safer and better pastures.
Speaking at International Research Conference in Mumbai RBI governor Dr Subbarao, cautioned "If the government borrows and squanders money away on unproductive current expenditure, both fiscal sustainability and growth would be jeopardised". Being the Chief of the Central Bank of the country Mr Subbarao has been in the thick of policy making for the financial management of the economy and in an uncertain global economic scenario, his wisdom and leadership stood the test of time. So when he says, "Cap the deficit – the receipt - expenditure gap. Excessive borrowing is bad" it carries conviction and our economist prime minister should take note of. But will he? Fiscal deficit, budgeted at Rs: 4.20 lakh crores is expected to increase by close to another 1 lakh crore by March 2012. Unfortunately despite an economist from London School of Economics, being our Prime Minister, our expenditure is less on capital formation, like merit goods, public goods, expenditure on human and social capital so also on physical infrastructure, instead it is more on unproductive expenditures like populist measures. Because expenditure of Rs: 520,000 crores in excess of receipt is an extremely dicey situation. Hope the Finance Minister takes note of this and takes steps to contain this fiscal deficit in his budget proposals for 2012-13 due sometime in March.
KARNATAKA: The print media from Bangalore informed – The Chairman Emeritus of Bangalore headquartered IT Major – Infosys Technologies Ltd – listed on NASDAQ, software icon N R Narayana Murthy reportedly asked ‘Aren’t India’s corrupt and dishonest becoming role models for youngsters of the country?"
Releasing a book ‘Upwardly mobile" by Ranjini Manian, Mr Murthy reportedly remarked "The number of role models that our youngsters can look up to is decreasing. How many people in our public life can be proud of, for honesty, courage, commitment and hard work? And that number is dwindling. Can the youth be blamed if they look up to corrupt as models of success since these corrupt are financially successful?"
The observations are right and questions are good. Mr Murthy is certainly a model India can justifiably be proud of. Not only he worked and earned his way to the top in a largely, then, uncharted IT sector. His Infosys foundation has done lot of difference to the society around them. He and his activities along with his wife Sudha Murthy are certainly a class apart. They deserve all the accolades. But being public figures they are bound to be scrutinised. Of course first and foremost we are all humans, and therefore could have differences of perception. A small time awareness journal had requested them, if they could write in the journal. They had flatly said no, citing lack of time. A couple had requested via-email, if they could call on then, while visiting Bangalore – at a time and place of their choice. They didn’t respond, and couple were not looking for any assistance. They just wanted to meet an iconic couple, just for the joy of meeting two wonderful human beings. The journal requested via-email if one of them partake in its decennial function in Bangalore. No response came by. Two proposals were sent to Mr Murthy, when he started his venture capital funding, no response came by. There was one common factor in all the above efforts. The same person was making overtures. Being such fine people, what made them not to respond! The question remained, for all the years, unanswered. May be even icons have their own limitations of being just another human?!
"Minister caught watching porn in State Assembly", "No moral police here, so watch blue films!", "Holy Horror", "House porn Hour", "It was documentary: BJP" "BJP has lost 7 members to sex, porn, scam".
These were all the print media reports from different news papers, emanating from the IT capital of India-Bangalore. Yes, every paper berated these three ministers in the only BJP govt. in the South. The party with a difference, was again proving itself to be different? ‘No’. All over India these politicians and their political class, at least a lumpen section of it, has indulged in crass activities bordering on extreme uncivility and irresponsibility and BJP ministers are no exception. Yes for once they have proved very clearly that they are like all else, when it comes to dirtier aspect of political life. Of course, media, most of which is anyway anti-BJP, especially in Karnataka, had a field day, ridiculing and poking pun at them. It is another matter that these BJP luminaries deserved it all. But the fact remains that this mental sickness is across the political spectrum and in its sweep covers Pan-India. Kashmir to Kerala, from Maharashtra to Meghalaya, one can find such nasties. Just the other day, a Thiruvananthapuram date lined print media report informed "Probe report on Kerala sex scandal submitted". It was the 16 year old "Ice cream parlour sex scandal" involving the then minister Kunhalikutti of Muslim League. The case involves sexploitation of minor girls employed in the Ice Cream parlour in Kozhikode in 1995. So we should know, a section of Indian politicians are like this only. Unfortunately only some get caught and they become fodder to the sensation hungry media men and women. But these 3 ministers were clearly on the wrong, when they took their mobile phones to the assembly, when it was clearly disallowed. If they have to face the music, it was they themselves, who composed it.
Our sensation hungry 24x7 electronic media had no time for such real worthies as B.S. Munir Ahmed, a meat merchant of Bangalore. Strangely, even the Bangalore based print media did not carry his story. But what is his story? We have heard of fatwas being issued by all and sundry on myriad issues, and most of us thought negatively about this edict from the Islamic clergy. The recent one against Salman Rushdie is still fresh in our memory.
Shivajinagar is a bustling suburb of Bangalore. According to Munir Ahmed, in Shivaji Nagar, there is hardly any footpath left for pedestrians to walk, due to the hawker menace. Even roads have been encroached left-right and centre. Munir Ahmed recognises that it is the members of his own community who are the culprits.
The problem in Shivajinagar has to be seen to be believed. All efforts by police failed, including the Apex Court order which said encroachment of public space is illegal. An accident involving 2 pedestrians run-over by the local KSRTC bus was the proverbial 'last straw' for Munir Ahmed. He approached Darul-uloom-Deoband for a fatwa and surprisingly they obliged. "Roads and pavements are for the people and they are not meant for carrying out trade. Encroachment of roads and pavements is against the Quran’s beliefs. Everyman rich or poor should respect law and remove encroachments, which cause inconvenience to others" and put their official seal. Yes the police have found it easy, as Munir Ahmed is going around with the copy of the fatwa. "But" says Munir Ahmed "my community looks at me as a villain, as I have got fatwa issued against their interest. It is a fact 99% of Shivajinagar hawkers are Muslims who flout all rules" he avers. By hindsight, it is clear that more than fatwa, it is people like Munir Ahmed who need to be publicly recognised for what he admitted and acted upon. He is indeed a good citizen. Two cheers for him.
KERALA: On 15th Feb. 2012, fishing vessel St. Antony from Ambalapuzza in Kerala, was fired upon by the personnel of Italian flagged tanker Enrica Lexie. Two crew of St. Antony, Indian nationals, Valentine and Pinku were killed by the firing. Reportedly it happened when the Indian fishing vessel was within 14 nautical miles off Indian shore. Authorities in Kerala termed the killing as murder. Response from both sides overshadowed the pain of the families of the victims. Italy is one of the more arrogant of European countries. The fact of an Italian national by birth, Indianised by marriage, calling shots at national politics, was anything to do with the, hammer and tong, attitude of Italian government, in approaching this whole episode involving this killing, is not clear. Legalities apart, the killing, apparently wrong, has not elicited any feelings of remorse from the Italian government and not even from Vatican. However, reportedly Vatican jumped in, on behalf of the two Italian Christian personnel of the Italian ship who were arrested by the police at Kochi. And strangely even the clergy in Kerala took up the gauntlet on behalf of Vatican to opt for a mediatory course in this sorry episode. Now this is a law and order situation happened within the Indian waters involving two Indians, and where does the question of them being Christian comes? Strangely Indian media didn’t voice its disapproval. Even Vatican’s intervention was not called as communal and racial by our press. Strange are the ways of the world.
WEST BENGAL: So ‘intolerance’ is on roll? The news from Kolkata was, that ‘Official release of Taslima’s Book cancelled’. Close on the heels of Salman Rushdi controversy, the book ‘Nirbasan’ slated to be released at the 36th International Book Fair was cancelled due to the withdrawal of permission by the police. Police were reacting to some fundamentalist group’s threat to disrupt the function. It is indeed very unfortunate that a small minority of people can hold the country for ransoms. It is equally sad that authorities are buckling under perceived pressure. Somewhere along the line, surely authority must assert itself. Yes, the protesters have a right to protest, but ‘please no violence at all’. All violence has to be dealt with, as only law and order issue without mixing it with party affiliations. But it looks as if all political parties have lost the will to act, making it look like an act of appeasement. This will only encourage fundamentalist groups to defy every govt, and that’s a disturbing development. No wonder even a mere seminar on Rushdie was cancelled in Hyderabad, the same day, on police advice. Ironically the seminar was organized by Fathima Shahnaz and her India Peace Organisation, reportedly to promote non-violence. This is Yeh Mera India.
UTTAR PRADESH: The way political parties, whether Congress, the BSP, the SP and even BJP fighting out in UP elections, it is only confirming the long held view that UP decides national politics. For the sheer number of seats, every political party with a national stake will surely fight of the largest possible share of the electoral pie of U.P. While all parties have their own way of battling it out, Rahul Gandhi, the PM in waiting has been pleading with voters "Give Congress 5 years". And how during the last 20+ years of non-Congress governments, how the state has been reduced to what it is. Well, point taken. ‘But young man, before this past 22 years, it was your father, your grand mother and before that your great grand father who ruled Uttar Pradesh. If they were all to do what you are saying that you will do in the next 5 years, surely these political parties would never have come into the scene. It is only because, all of them failed to do, what they could have done, left the space for BJP, SP, and now BSP. Your forefathers had all the time and opportunity, but they squandered. Yes, you do sound sincere, but then your father too had sounded sincere, and he had 400+ seats in the Lokasabha but failed to keep them next time round! Of course there are Indians who do not mind dynastic rule of one family. So all the very best. However we at I & C wish that India wins at the end, doesn’t matter the party.
"My life’s aim is to construct a grand Ram temple" a press statement attributed to Lal Krishna Advani has only made him relevant to a small section of Indians. For most Indians the issue of Temple in Ayodhya is inextricably tied with the Masjid. Of course there may be supporters for the construction of Temple on either side of the divide. But the fact remains, a conciliatory approach by both side not to insist either for Temple or for Masjid can go a long way in settling the issue for ever. A memorial to the Idea of India where all Indians can congregate to celebrate the essential spirit of oneness of mankind shall be a fitting tribute to the Indianness which global community recognises. Hope there is a change of heart in Advaniji to promote such an India. Surely he will go down as one of the great Indian of contemporary political scenario.
WORLD: Is Australia undergoing some kind of transformation? History informs us that long years ago when England colonised Australia, the men of Queen of England were banishing criminals and crooks to this unexplored land mass, as a punishment. If the latest report is to be believed, crime graph is appearing to be on the ascent on this land mass. According to ‘The Herald Sun’ of Melbourne, crime by minors is soaring in Australia as close to 290 children under 10 years have been charged with offences like rape and arson. The paper informs quoting reports, police in Victoria kept hidden from public domain, some over 300 serious offences involving 288 children. The crime, reportedly included burglary, car theft, drugs, weapons and explosives. Due to the juvenile nature of the crime, with legal provisions not to charge these children, police have termed these rising child criminals as "The Untouchables". The statistics, according to the paper, showed that 254 boys and 34 girls aged 9 and under, were processed for 11 sex crimes including rape, 36 burglaries, 5 motor vehicle theft, 3 drug usage & possession and 3 for being armed with weapons including explosives. Yes, there is apparently no reason to disbelieve the story. It is indeed a sad story of evolving Australia. What could probably be the reason for this steep juvenile crime rate? Failed parentage? Collapsing social order? Or deteriorating educational standard? And still, strangely aren’t some Indian students rushing there for some educational degrees!
So now its official "Chindia trade hits all time high of $ 74 bn". But the catch is, the deficit in favour of China is also on an all time high at $ 27 billion. While it is true that bilateral trade increased from $ 61.7 bn & in 2010 to $ 73.9 billion, the trade deficit in favour of China rose to $ 27.07 bn. It is indeed a matter of serious concern, which the government in Delhi must take note of, to address and redress, slowly but surely, since there are many items of inessential nature which are being dumped to kill Indian industries. But the Indian trader, selfish that he is, wanting to buy cheap and sell dear, to make a fast buck from gullible Indian buyers, need to be reined in.
Whitewash in England and now in Australia, has exposed the vulnerability of Indian cricket or more importantly Indian cricketers. Media, as usual hypes and underplays unrealistically, every victory and every loss. This was no different. While most batsmen including the captain, failed to impress or come good under trying conditions, it was the seniors who had to take the brunt. But this was natural. You had the famed ‘wall’ that could not withstand, the sure-bat from Hyderabad was predominantly unsure. And the expected centurion of centuries failed to make his dream come true, although he proved better of all these three seniors.
Yes, Dravid and Laxman were a complete let down. Tendulkar too did not measure upto his usual high performance. In the event, new comers, not surprisingly, did not come up with pleasant surprises. Coming to the senior trio, it is indeed time that they quit all forms of cricket. Of course Dravid and Laxman are only in Test squad. They should leave for younger players to make into the test team. Fortunately for India, when it comes to cricket there is an abundant talent and maximum number of youngsters should make it to the national team. Of course IPL did provide the arena to display their cricketing skill besides making some solid money for themselves. Coming to Tendulkar, it is time he should make up his mind. The country is greater than his individual ambition of making his 100th hundred. In recent times, his goal appears to be only that. It is better he leaves with dignity at the height of his glory. Imran Khan a former Pakistan Cricket Captain has stated on record "Sachin should have retired after World Cup victory by India." "You don’t want to go having lost to Australia 4-0. If he had gone after the world cup, that would have been the ultimate high". But a sportsman need not be a sport. That’s the tragedy of human avarice.
There was this small report coming from Melbourne, Australia, "Lankan players to play despite no pay". The report informs that Sri Lankan cricketers are owed lot of money by their cricket board, over $ 4 million. And their skipper Jayawardene while admitting that some of the players do need money to keep their body and soul to-gether, he has reportedly stated, ‘they need not worry, the money will eventually come. Until then just move on and get on with cricket’. That’s being really sportsman-like and patriotic. Would the Indian cricketers do the same? They are probably the best paid and paid in advance. Sri Lankan cricketers definitely give their best on the field for their country, the same cannot be said about Indian cricketers, despite being looked after so well. Some of whom are only after personal records.
There were two press reports datelined Rome & Vatican City. One said "Church receives order from God, says Pope". The other "Abuse scandals have cost a bomb for Vatican". While the former report is purely a matter of faith, since most faithfuls belonging to any religious denomination express similar sentiments. But what about this expensive damage control exercise which did cost the city state over 2 billion $ in settlement of clerical abuse scandals! And this is over and above the discreet settlements by some of the dioceses. Is there a role for the God in these sorry episodes?
‘Only ‘Quality’ migrants are welcome, asserts UK,’ was a news in the print media. And why not? It is their country, why should it be charitable to those who are looking for handouts! There are lots of immigrants the world over, especially from Africa, Indian sub-continent and Latin America. It is true that Common Wealth of Nations is in fact the looted wealth of nations. It’s OK if they pay back a part of it to immigrants from those countries. But it has been so, for decades. Now UK appears to be tired of ‘importing economic dependency on the state’.
Yes, every country must look after its own interest first and charitable later.
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