The election in India to the 16th Lok Sabha, House of the people or the lower house of Parliament, is due in April/May this year. With just three months to go for what is universally described 'the world’s largest democratic exercise', here are some thoughts:
The pre-election political scene is thick with allegations and counter allegations. Mudslinging is a daily routine. The past is being reinvented to justify the present. If you are an apolitical observer, you will wonder if this is an attempt to deflect public attention away from real issues.
In the ongoing campaigns, not once has a debate been held on issues of public relevance or significance. Until now, there hasn't been an expression of any serious intent to solve the numerous problems the nation is facing. No plan or programme worth its value has been presented to help visualise what life would be like in the next five or ten years.
As the people battle it out against all odds, the adverse effects of a failing economy are beginning to catch up. Owning a house is beyond the common man's reach now. Education and health-care cost a fortune. Electricity and water charges are unreasonably exorbitant. Cooking gas and automobile fuel give jitters. It costs a lot to live today!
Yet, there is hope that real issues would be debated and remedial actions initiated. If anyone seeking to become an elected representative still has difficulties in identifying the many concerns, here is a ready list. Even if a third of these are addressed sincerely and honestly in the next five years, India would well be on its way to become a super power.
Here is a snapshot of the prevailing issues:
.
If you find anything missing, let us add...
Here is a snapshot of the prevailing issues:
.
If you find anything missing, let us add...
'Democracy is the only system that
persists in asking
the powers that be whether they are the powers
that ought to be.'
- Sydney J. Harris
So much can be expressed on this tricky issue! But, we have been taught to be miser with our words and thoughts on negative aspects of life. Nonetheless, a very well written piece with restrain and concern about the present living condition in our country.
ReplyDeleteA thinker had once articulated his thoughts after the constitution was passed by the Indian parliament that a well written constitution but, it would only be effective if the preaching is practiced. We all have failed this well written constitution by not practicing the preaching