Happy Independence Day! :)
It started with an interview by economist Amartya Sen. In the interview, Mr. Sen expressed his doubts in the development model of Gujrat by Narendra Modi. Specifically, he commented ".. he(Modi) could have taken note of the fact that Gujrat's record in education and healthcare is very bad. He needs to concentrate on that as much as he is concentrating on physical infrastructure." In the same interview he said "As an Indian citizen, I could say we Indians don't want a situation where the minorities feel insecure and could legitimately think that there was an organized violence against them in 2002. That's a terrible record. .. As an Indian citizen I don't want an Indian prime minister who has that kind of record. I do not want Modi to be my prime minister."
As soon as the news broke out, the hell fell apart. One BJP MP Chandan Mitra pounded on Mr. Sen, and he wanted 'Bharat Ratna' award to be taken away from Mr. Sen for his comments. Very soon another BJP leader Kirti Azad commented that 'Sen should concentrate on his own work'. Fortunately the main opposition party BJP distanced itself immediately from these comments.
These comments by Mr. Mitra and Mr. Azad show the overall mentality of the political class in India. Similar kind of comments were made earlier numerous number of times by politicians across the board. The assumption is that the political class only will speak about politics and people from any other section of the society must concentrate in 'their own work'. It is not about who said what, and whether you agree with that point or not. It is about the very mentality of the political class who purposefully does not want any other section of society to take part in issues related to the politics!
People outside the politics are equally responsible for this state of affair. In India it is very pity to see that well known people outside of active politics (say film celebrities, sports persons, singers etc) do not express their political views in public. Their only political participation, if at all, is going to the voting center and showing the colored finger to the camera. The idea is that I must be busy with my work and and I leave you (politicians) to take care of the country. If something goes wrong, surely I will blame you via facebook and twitter.
The situation is very contrasting to the countries where the democracy is much more matured. In these countries, we see very often that the 'big-shots' take clear political positions, particularly before the elections, raise money and also campaign. They are proud of their political views and do express it as and when it is necessary. On the other hand, in India our celebrities or idols are always eager to hide their political views or inclination. It is important to note that the political views of notable persons do matter in public space. A good number of people love them and would like to listen to them, often more than the politicians! Thus it is an imperative responsibility of the well known people from the non-political class of the society to make their voice clear and heard. It is disgusting to see film superstars or cricket idols saying that he/she is not a political person. What is so wrong with the politics? It is as bad as we are collectively. Let's not shy away from politics, but be a part of it. Have a political view; be expressive about it, and also try to influence others in our own capacities.
I strongly support the idea of Amartya Sen talking about whether he would like to see Mr. Modi as next Indian prime minister. I may or may not agree with his point, but his opinion is well taken and well heard. In the end, he has the every right to say what he thinks and what he believes.
Before I sign-off: Narendra Modi started to take Rs 5 from the attendees of his political rallies. He claims that the raised money will cover the cost of the venue and organizational expenditures. This is an excellent idea, far better than extorting money from the local businessmen before organizing any sort of program like this.
