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1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678 2013 December / Rs 15/- / Vol 7 / Issue 07 The Companion RELECTIONS 21 THE ZEPHYR FROM KARBALA Farukh Shaikh

SOCIETY 23 PORNOGRAPHY NO GAIN, ONLY PAIN Syed Kazim

BOOK REVIEW 26 DESTINY DISRUPTED CAMPUS VOICE Shoaib Mohammed COMMUNALIZING EDUCATION OPEN SPACE 05 A FASCIST AGENDA TO DIVIDE AND RULE 28 Francis D'souza DEVELOPMENT - DELIBERATION ALTERNATIVES MYTH AND REALITY 14 15 Mohammed Hammad HEART DOESN'T VALUE BASED NATION AGREE HIGHER EDUCATION 31 FOOD SECURITY BILL Syed Tahseemuddin Prof. K. Mohammed, Ayiroor Mohammed Omais Shayan

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12345678901234567890123456789 12345678901234567890123456789 EXPRESSIONS 12345678901234567890123456789 Editor 34 A BUDDING POLITICIAN 33 WOMAN Mujahidul Islam Saif Ali Afia Qasmi

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D-300 (Old 230) Abul Fazal Enclave, Habeeb Haris on behalf of Student Islamic Organisation of India A P Zone. Jamia Nagar Okhla New Delhi-25 Printer Publisher & Editor Mohd Salimullah Khan. Printed at Bharat Ofset Tel : 011-26949817. 2034/35 Qasim Jan Street, Delhi-110006, Published from D-300 (Old 230) Fax : 26946285 Abul Fazal Enclave, Jamia Nagar, Okhla New Delhi-110 025. The opin- Mobile : +91-9873790897, ions expressed in the columns of THE COMPANION contain positions and Email : [email protected] view-points that are not necessarily those of editorial board or the Students [email protected] Islamic Organisation of India. These are ofered as a means for SIO to read online: stimulate dialogue and discussion in our continuing mission of being a stu- www.thecompanion.in/ dent and youth organisation. The contents under this magazine are licensed under CC-BY-NC-SA (unless stated otherwise) which means you’re free to copy and share them (but not to sell them) EDITORIAL more successful in creating educated zombies who can never feel the need to strengthen India’s economy in such a way that can benefit the poor. The other step taken in the context of improving higher educa- midst a flood of distractions created by the media and their con- tion is the recent approval given to glomerates we the youth of India are unable to raise our voices on foreign Universities to establish their issues which are of more importance to us. Is it not strange that a A own branches independently. It’s country with such a large proportion of youth is unable to educate its younger good that the entry of these Univer- generation? Yes, the plight of higher education in our country is in a very bad sities comes with certain clauses shape and undoubtedly needs urgent attention. that may weaken public protests First of all the Gross Enrolment Rate in higher education is as low as 19% against this approval. For example, and even at such a low magnitude we are unable to deliver quality. Our univer- these Universities cannot repatriate sities and colleges suffer from myriads of problems like shortage of faculty, money into their own countries. But deficient physical infrastructure, unaccredited institutions, poor academic stan- the most unfortunate part of this dards, employability etc. So what will happen if we work on increasing the whole strategy is the market ori- much needed student intake to higher levels? May be that is the reason we ented motivation which is quoted don’t have enough institute of excellence like IITs, IIMs, TISS in our country. without any hesitation. India with a Unfortunately even these institutions are unable to stand high in the interna- large population is looked as a tional ratings. potential market for education To address the above problems our government strongly feels that there is which again indicates neo-liberal a need to find innovative and newer avenues for proper funding, research and agendas taking over the social and quality improvement. On the above lines we have seen a major thrust towards educational goals of the educational the need of private and foreign universities in the higher education sector. Off institutions. course any privatization attempt in India is not welcome so easily but the rea- The above analysis is not protest- sons given by the government cannot be ignored so easily especially by those who blindly resist privatization. A major reason given in this contextis the ing blindly against the corporates and unavailability of enough public resources to solve these problems.With a total foreign interests in improving the of 3.7% of GDP in education in which only 1.22 % goes to higher education, plight of higher education in India. it is very difficult to resolve problems of such a large scale. So naturally the Their larger access to capital looks government, not in a position to increase the GDP part in higher education, has like a practical solution to solve the to invite other parties like corporates to join hands and help. above mentioned problems. But what A few years back Narayana Murthy Committee (NMC) was formed to study it is signaling at are the dangers of and recommend the corporate sector participation in expansion of higher edu- blindly adopting successful models cation and research in India. These recommendations were released recently from other countries which can be by the Planning Commission. A deep analysis of these recommendations re- suicidal in India’s case.This blind fol- flects a blind conformism towards the model of developed countries espe- lowing may result in all the benefits cially United States. According to NMC, private Universities in US have been going only to the elites and corporates successful in its large scale reach and meeting better quality standards. So they and a large section again ignored and have suggested that our country should also adopt the same model. But the marginalized. In this manner, the problems created by these models in the same country have largely been ig- same old story of social exclusion in nored. For example the private players in US have been involved in delaying education at the cost of improving research publications for better market impact and result, suppressing research quality and access may get repeated results for industry gain and directing research agenda for the benefit of the again. What India needs at this junc- industry only. ture is the development of their own In India the story is no different with so many private institutions in the model of public private partnership recent past acting on their profit seeking motives rather than meeting the edu- or partnerships with foreign agencies cational and social goals. With enhanced fees, undemocratic campus environ- in improving its higher education ment and market driven courses they have only benefitted the corporates and which primarily aims at equitable not the larger deprived population of the country. In this way they have been access to quality education to all.

4 The Companion 2013 December CAMPUS VOICE

Francis D'souza

Whenever ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ and ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ wherever ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ right wing have ruled in uring BJP’s rule in Karnataka commu nalization of textbooks took place at a India they have tried to Dlarge scale and in a well-planned man- weaken the plural atmo- ner. These textbooks injected with strong communal sphere of the country. The and religious bias, now are being taught in the schools across the state. Infecting textbooks with this worst they are doing is divisive mindset is very harmful for the unity and polluting the young mind of integrity of our nation. In the following sections of the nation by embedding this article we have given a detailed account of the communal bias in the school objectionable content from a few selected textbooks which are in complete contradiction with the Na- text books. In this article tional Curriculum Framework, 2005. “Committee for Resisting Saffronization of Textbooks, 6th std Social Science I Semester, History section 2013 Karnataka” gives an in-depth The 6th Std Social Science textbook appears to account of how BJP has have been deliberately drafted almost completely infected the text books of ignoring the appeals given by various progressive Karnataka in their regime. forums which are resisting saffronization of text books. At the outset it is quite apparent that the Is that what we want our social science textbook committee has intentionally children to grow with? strengthened the stereotypes against Muslims and

2013 December The Companion 5 There is a Islam has been entitled “Bharatha spread more in this country due matthu horaprapancha” (India and to trade contacts and also the common myth the World Outside), “Vijaya rigidity of caste system in Hindu regarding the nagara- The unforgettable empire”, society encouraged many to con- spread of Islam “The rise and fall of the Mughal vert to Islam. that has been Empire” and other titles show In the same chapter the expla- how child is denied the opportu- nation of Crusades has been given spread over the nity of deciding the validity and in great detail which is unneces- years using text- credibility of the religions and the sary for 6th standard children. books. But the empires using his or her own Participation of 40,000 Christians understanding of reading and and 50,000 children participating reality is Islam discussing the lessons. and dying on the way and other has spread more The first chapter which intro- explanations are irrelevant to the in this country duces Christianity and Islam has chapter. Similarly 9th Std chapter due to trade been entitled Bharatha matthu hora on Protestants also explains in prapancha (India and the World great detail about immoral behav- contacts and also Outside); here the title itself alien- ior of Catholic Church. On the the rigidity of ates the two religions and those other hand in the chapters entitled caste system in who follow them. In the same religious and social reform move- chapter in Kannada medium Jesus ments (in 6th and 9th std), birth Hindu society Christ has been addressed using of Buddhism and Jainism(in 5th encouraged many singular pronouns, example, and 8th std), we find just a casual to convert to janisidanu, helidanu, madidanu mention about Indian caste sys- Islam. and so on. Whereas no other tem, untouchability, hegemony of saint, religious person or prophet the upper castes, blind beliefs and ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ in the same textbook has been so on without introducing and Christians, and subdued the voice described in such singular lan- explaining them to the students. of the women, Dalits and non guage. The writers of the text- For instance “...their reforms eradi- Vedic traditions. book might have followed any cated ignorance, evil practices...” It is to be noted that the 6th version of the Christ’s life history “...Shankaracharya condemned Std textbook committee does not in Kannada but the use of such certain orthodox practices...” (page have any women members and so a type of Kannada to teach in 6th 39), “...Ramanujacharya con- the book gives no heed to the std is objectionable. demned casteism...” (page 41), issues of women. Only Raziya As far as the spread of Islam “...Basaveshwara condemned caste Sultana gets three lines of expla- is concerned here it is written in system, idol worship, and yajna- nation in brackets. In the preface page 5 (follow the pages in yagas...” (page 43) and so on. But of the text book it is claimed Kannada medium text book), none of these concepts and his- ‘constructive approach’ has been “...the Arabs also conquered the tory of these evil systems have observed according to NCF 2005, province of Sindh (in India) and been explained to the students in but in reality every presented spread Islam in the land.” “...The any textbooks of 5th, 6th, 8th and content of social science is ‘con- long rule of the Sultans led to the 9th except just a one-word men- structed’ and it is presented with- speedy spread of Islam in India.” tion. The readers of the textbook out leaving any scope for children This is a common myth regarding can clearly see that the writers of to construct anything in the class. the spread of Islam that has been the textbook are only interested in For instance, the first chapter spread over the years using text- exposing the demerits of only which introduces Christianity and books. But the reality is Islam has Christianity and Islam. This argu-

6 The Companion 2013 December ment gets strengthened when we Muslims and Muslim rulers in ased. Sufi cult is here more pro- study the presented Chronology India (pp 45-51). Important lines jected as followers of Hindu tra- in page 9; among them are, “...these inva- dition alone, for instance, “Sufis The above presentation is not sions aimed at looting the wealth, were influenced by Yoga, at all chronological. The lesson acquiring territories and spread- Vedanta... budan-al-din, wrote itself begins with the birth of ing Islam...”, Alauddin Khalji even songs in praise of Lord Krishna...” Christ. But this chronology here fixed the price of the slaves...had “...these practices were forbidden begins not with the birth of Christ 50,000 slaves... Firoz Shah by orthodox Muslims....” By pre- but with the dates of the Cru- Tughluq owned 1,80,000 slaves...” senting Sufi cult in this manner sades. If this not a deliberate In the same chapter ‘Delhi Sul- the text book has not done any justice to the great tradition of ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Sufi’s. CHRONOLOGY (AD) The next chapters like Crusades - 12-13th centuries Children’s Crusade - 1212 Prophet Muhammad - Circa 569-632 Hijira era - begins from A.D. 622 Genghiz Khan - 1162-1227 Qubilai Khan - 1280-1294

Timur - 1369-1405 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

attempt at saffronization, then tans’ in the activity section, Delhi what is it? Sultans are addressed as The 1st chapter Bharatha parakiyaru (...parakiyara guri matthu horaprapancha (India and yenidditu?) The only woman we the World Outside) also intro- find in the book is Raziya Sultana duces Genghis Khan and Timur (p.48)and she finds only three and their cruelty which strength- lines of explanation in the brack- ens the same negative stereo types ets. More over the picture (6.6) on Mongols as well. There are all which is used to show her is chances for the learner to think almost bare in appearance or she Vijayanagara, Bahmani, Mughals, that the ‘World Outside’ (hora is shown in ugly clothes. Is this Shivaji seem to be devoted to prapancha) is bad and cruel. the only available picture? only praising Hindus and making - The later chapters entitled derogatory remarks about Mus- Rajputs, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas 6th Std Social Science II lims rulers. In these lessons no of Kalyana, Hoysalas and Cholas Semester, History section 2013 sensitivity is given to minorities have been used most of the time In the first chapter entitled as stated in NCF 2005. Here in to project the mainstream history “The Bhakti Cult”, it is found that history section in 42 pages the which contributes only to Hindu- information has been tampered word ‘Hindu’ is used 16 times ism, and we do not find any with while explaining Sufi cult. and the word ‘Hindu Dharma’ 3 representation of subaltern voice Here a line states, “...many of times; even in geography Indian or the history of the marginalised. them (for example, Baba Budan) ocean (Hindu Maha sagara) is - The following chapter Delhi were worshippers of Dattatreya...” addressed as Hindu Sagara not as Sultans has been successfully used This information is incorrect and Hindu Maha sagara (pp. 87-88). to strengthen stereotypes on the statement appears to be bi- The above mentioned chapters

2013 December The Companion 7 focus mainly on Hinduism and Hindu culture and their rulers’ wars with Tippu, Hyder Ali and British no history of marginalized sections appears here. For have been highlighted without much mention about instance some presented sentences like “...but Hindu their culture and contributions to various fields other jahagirdars were small in number (p.19)”, “...Akbar than the Indian Army. prohibited cow slaughter (p. 28)”, “Aurangzib banned While depicting the history of Tulunadu (Coastal Hindu religious fairs, teachings and celebrations. He Karnataka) it is mentioned, “...foreign missionaries ordered many temples to be destroyed... (p.30)”, were the earliest to propagate Christianity. Later their

“...desire to convert India into an Islamic state...” work was continued by the Indian Missionaries ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ (p.66).” Various contributions of Christians in Tulunadu have been given the go by. This clearly While 6 pages have been taken up to reveals the ingratitude of the authors of the text present Shivaji that too only for his book. Actually they seem to be intent on persecuting warring details, the Wodeyars of Mysore Christians using textbooks. The same page also talks get only 3 pages of explanation. about the building of Churches and Mosques in coastal Karnataka yet it does not name any famous

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ old Church or Mosque. But at the same time one (p. 35) and so on without doubt are violation of the can find here the names of a number of Hindu guidelines of NCF 2005. temples and Jain Basadis with pictures. While 6 pages have been taken up to present Shivaji While writing the History of Hyderabad Karnataka that too only for his warring details, the Wodeyars of the persecution of Hindus and growth of Urdu Mysore get only 3 pages of explanation. language have been negatively highlighted (p.73). In While presenting the history of Shivappa Nayaka the same page contribution of Sri. Ramachandra Rao it is written, “...being deeply religious, he performed is repeated whose contributions are mentioned in last Vajapeya yaga according to vedic rites.... he encour- year (2012) 5th std text book, the sentence reads, aged Goan Christians to settle in his empire as they “Sri.Ramachandra Rao is a real patriot, who brought were good at agriculture..., and ordered to have only back the Hindus who got converted to Christianity...” native Christian priests... (p.54)”and so on. Above and so on. information indicates the fact that the writers of the text book get even a minute detail of performing 6th Std Social Science I Semester, Civics Vajapeya yaga and so on but it is so unfortunate section 2013 that they do not get any information about common Most of the section of civics seems to have been people or the history of the marginalized people used for instructing or cautioning minorities and especially the condition of the landless dalits during dalits and to strengthen the ideologies of right-wing the rule of Shivappa Nayaka and other kings. groups (PP. 54-80). For instance, while explaining Most of the contents presented in 5th Std history about the Directive Principles of State Policy in page in 2012, (last year) for instance, the content on Rani 62, the explanation provided under a side heading Chennamma, Shivappa Nayaka, Kempegowda and Prevention of Slaughter of Cattle gives a different so on have been repeated in 6th std textbook as well. meaning to the 1964 Act of Karnataka. And it is For example, while writing about Rani Chennamma stated that Karnataka has enacted a legislation to last year’s sentences, to which various forums had prevent slaughter of cattle. This is accompanied by raised objections, have been repeated this year - a lovely picture of cow and a calf. More over in about her contribution to agraharas and Veera the group discussion part we can find a question: shaiva mathas and she donating a plot of land for “Why did the Directive principles enjoin the state construction of a church in Mangalore (p.56) and to prevent the slaughter of cattle?” with a note to other details. discuss the issue in the class. While documenting the history of Kodagu, only But in 9th std social science prescribed in 2013,

8 The Companion 2013 December in page 96, 14 Directive Prin- sion. For instance in Right to ‘Our Defence Forces.’ There is a ciples of state policy have been Freedom of Religion, without question underneath the picture given but nowhere there is any explaining the Right properly it is and it reads, “what do you see in mentioning of Prevention of said “...nobody should be con- this picture?.” Slaughter of Cattle. verted to another religion by Since the picture is presented In the conclusion of the Direc- means of force, fraud or allure- separately and seemingly uncon- tive Principles, it is written “...if ment.” In Cultural and Educa- nected with the lesson, there are these are not implemented by the tional Rights, it does not say very high chances that the State, the citizens cannot appeal anything about the importance children’s answer would be “a to the court of law... although six given by Constitution to educa- Muslim terrorist.” The picture of decades have passed the central a bearded face with a cap seems government has not prohibited designed to carry this hidden consumption of liquor throughout meaning. As ‘Our Defence Forces’ India. And no one can appeal perform varieties of functions for regarding this in court...” (pg. the nation, this is not the only 63). Don’t such incomplete expla- way to introduce this lesson. nations create bias against the state and Constitution among the 6th std Social science II Se- students who are just at the age mester, Civics section 2013 of 10 or 11? Are questions like In the section “Unity in diver- “What is the need for a Uniform sity” (p.98) only Hindu beliefs are Civil Code for the citizens? (p.64)” explained, i.e. how Kashi, Ganga, for group discussion in the class- Kaveri, Tirupati, Shrishaila, room apt for this age group? Rameshwara, cow, cobra etc are In contrast to the 6th standard important to south Indians and conclusion for Directive Prin- north Indians. In the same page ciples, the conclusion for Direc- it is stated that, “Sanskrit was a tive Principles in 9th std social prominent literary language of science prescribed in 2013, in p ancient India. Dr.B.R. Ambedkar 96 states “...the Directive Prin- argued that if there was any lan- ciples of State Policy relate to a tion and its special provisions and guage worthy of being considered whole community. The central and programmes on education but it national language, it was San- the State governments are making just cautions “...the minority edu- skrit.” There is no mention of attempts to implement all the cational institutions are bound by other languages of India except a principles. These principles aim the Government regulations.” line stating “...the influence of at logistic development in India.” Such examples clearly reveal the Sanskrit can be seen on Hindi, In protection of places of mindset of the authors of the Kannada, Telugu and other lan- historical interest, examples like textbooks who seem biased and guages.” Though this section is Hampi, Beluru, Halebidu and inclined towards the right wing entitled “Unity in diversity” in Pattada kallu are given but there ‘fascist right wing ideology’. They fact it does not mention any non- is no mention of historical places appear to have used textbooks as Vedic traditions and beliefs. It of Muslims, Christians and ideological weapons. does not mention Christianity, other minorities. A picture (10.1 p.73) of a man Islam and other religions and their The section on Fundamental with heavy artillery is presented co-existence. It only makes men- Rights has been used only to on a separate page and before the tion of Ramayana and Maha caution minorities and conver- introduction of the lesson entitled bharatha. Quite obviously all this

2013 December The Companion 9 prepared during the rule of BJP Government In the chapter entitled “ Life processes” in page. 159 to explain blood circulation a Sanskrit quo- tation of two lines is given from ‘Sangeetha Rathnakara 2.105’ “Dhamanyo....bhivardhate”. Again before the concept ‘Reproduction in human beings’ as an introduc- tion again a quotation has been given from Charakasamhita “Garbhasya...bhavanti dehe.” such quotes are irrelevant to the les- sons and it is not the way to present a content of biology while following NCF 2005. And such attempts can be seen as extreme ‘anxiety of Indianness’. In the chapter entitled “Repro- is designed to strengthen the Right 107). In this section only two to duction in animals” in page 204, Wing ideology. It also reveals that three lines have been used for after explaining the pre- determi- the sympathies of the Textbook explaining the Jayantis of Dr. B.R nation of the sex of the growing Society lie and the same factor Ambedkar, Dr. Radhakrishnan and foetus a quotation of Swami also proves that the text book Jawaharlal Nehru. Whereas half a Vivekananda has been given. That writers have close associations page has been dedicated for ex- quotation again is irrelevant to the with right wing. plaining the Jayanti of Swami lesson. And in science subject If you observe the same con- Vivekananda. What is even more Swami Vivakananda’s quotations cept “Unity in diversity” in 9th objectionable in the textbooks is are found after most of the les- std text book of 2013, p. 141 we only the quotations of sons. How appropriate is that find it saying, “In spite of all Vivekananda are used after the Swami Vivakananda appearing in differences in various aspects, lessons. This is really an insult to every subject? Do they call it an India stands on a foundation of our great leaders like Dr. B.R. ‘integrated approach’ of NCF unity. Beneath all geographical, Ambedkar, Dr. Radhakrishnan, 2005? And the writers of the text social, linguistic, cultural, politi- Jawaharlal Nehru and others. book should note that since ages cal, religious and racial variations According to the opinion of scientists have also given many are hidden certain common as- education experts, no Indian meaningful quotations. pects of life style. Uniform ad- civics textbook so far has been Last year itself when the sci- ministrative system, efficient com- so systematically tampered with ence text books used the contri- munication tools and modern to indoctrinate ‘Right Wing’ as butions of Kannada and others, in education system have enabled the present 6th standard text state level seminars “On combat- Indians to nurture a feeling of book carries. ing saffronization of text books” oneness.” a consensus have been collected The inclination towards right Objectionable contents found from the teachers that, any experi- wing ideology continues in the in the new 9th Std Science Text- ments of introducing old Indian section entitled “Celebrations” (p. book prescribed in 2013 and scientists should be carried at the

10 The Companion 2013 December graduation, B.Ed. and at the post his Kolkatta residence on June in the book that our ancestors graduation level by having through 19, 1981. Had Dr. Subhash been have told (about science) like academic discussions but not at allowed to publish his work and this...” he adds “Saying India had the school level. released adequate funds to com- tradition of science is different In page. 208 after explaining plete his research, he would prob- than writing in the tone, long assisted reproductive system un- ably have overtaken Dr. Edwards back Indians knew everything der the side heading ‘Test tube and would have grabbed the about the present science is dif- babies in ancient India’ (Chikitsa coveted Nobel award.” ferent.” And he is of the opinion 1979) there is claiming that Drona Dr. Mahabaleshwara Rao, an that the present science book has of Mahabharatha as the first test eminent educationist observes this been trying to prove the same. tube baby 7.500 years ago. Here attempt and says “Is it worthy that For the usage of Vivekananda’s the text book states in page.209, the Karnataka BJP government quotations he says “...to the old “...one day Baradwaja went to the Ganges for a bath, he saw a beautiful apsara named Ghritachi. He was over came by desire, causing him to ejaculate. Bharatdwaja captured the fluid in an earthen pot(drone), from which drone was born and got his name.” Is this not changing the very definition of science and scientific study? Is this text book making any difference be- tween myth and scientific truth? After explaining the whole pro- cess of how test tube baby is made, it is a height of ignorance explaining how Drona was born! In the same chapter in page.209 criticizing leftist government of prabhus (BJP rulers) of Karnataka it is said “The first successful test Bengal and the then Congress as Vivekananda was highly rev- tube baby in India was produced government at the centre through erential person so wherever they by Dr. Subhash Mukyopadhyaya... the text book?”; analysing the have found place at the end of the just 70 days after the first test new 9th standard science text- chapter they have liberally used tube baby of the world, Louise book Dr. Rao has written an his quotations”. Brown was born. But the West article in Udayavani a Kannada Dr. Mahabaleshwara Rao Bengal government rejected his daily dated August 6, 2013, en- found science text book to be claim saying that his work was titled “One threatening Science saffronised and of very poor aca- bogus. His work was not recog- text book” which gives ample demic quality because the nized and he was humiliated. He insights of saffronization of 9th Kannada medium science book of was invited to present his re- science text book prescribed in 9th std is ‘sanskritized’ by using search findings at an international the year 2013. He has also ob- more complex Sanskrit words conference at Kyoto Japan. But served the above given all instead of using Kannada words govt of India denied him a pass- saffronized information and he while translating from English to port. Frustrated and humiliated, opines in his article that “An Kannada. And he observes the Dr. Subhash committed suicide in attempt has been made to prove same text book says in the section

2013 December The Companion 11 ‘the role of micro-organisms’ it is said “...the is not being inserted but the other faiths are being urine and dung of the cow increases fertility “weakened”. In the same news (The Hindu dated June of the manure ...” (It sounds as if buffalo’s 20, 2013) the reporter of the same paper collected the urine and dung does not perform the same responses of history teachers who also agree that there function). And the same column starts with the is not enough material in the two religions. B. statement “In India cow has been considered Premalatha, who has been teaching history for 15 holy”. Dr. Rao opines here “Though few consider years, said “...more information should be given about cow holy, there is also consumption of cow meat the two religions, as it is important for the students in practice. So what is the purpose of the sentence to know.” (The Hindu 20th June 2013) here? And why such unnecessary provocations?.” Responding to our allegations, G.S. Mudambadittaya, Dr. Mahabaleshwara Rao’s observations are valid Chief coordinator, textbook committee, defended the because the same issue of cow and its ‘sanctity’ new syllabus saying, “The reduction of content (in the has been claimed last year differently in 8th Hindi Class 9 history textbook) is because we were told that text book in the chapter “Punyakoti”, now this the load of learning should be reduced (The Hindu year the same issue is recycled in 6th social dated June 20, 2013). The Committee would like to science (Civics) and even using science text book. question Mr. G.S. Mudambadittaya as to why he If this is not an ‘abuse power’ and ‘cultural devotes 3 pages to explain the immoral behaviour of hegemony’ then what else is it? the Catholic Church and the fight between Catholics Objectionable contents found in the new and Protestant in the 16 century which is actually 9th Std social Science Textbook prescribed in irrelevant. 2013 and prepared during the rule of BJP Asked if the factual errors had been pointed out Government. to the textbook committee, Mr. Mudambadittaya said: In the Social science textbook of Std. IX “What is right or wrong is debatable. One historian prescribed for year 2013, the first chapter entitled writes one thing, another writes something else. So we Christianity and Islam has been presented in one are not sure which one to follow.” To the kind notice chapter offering 1.5 pages each, whereas the same of Mr. G.S. Mudambadittaya, that the facts pertaining contents in the year 2002, i.e, the old text to the birth, life, teachings and miracles of Jesus has Christianity and Islam are presented in separate never been a debatable one. The Committee does not chapters covering 3 pages each. In page 2 of the accept his response and we totally reject the current same text it is projected as if Jesus was popular with version of history of Jesus Christ which is presented the Jewish and that he was arrested by the Jewish in the 9th standard text book. police. It also erroneously mention that Jesus died In the presentation of history of India between on April 7, Friday 30 A.D. thereby suppressing the 9th century to 18th century only two women appear, fact that AD commenced with Christ. they are Raziya Sultana and Meera Bai, the sub- In the sub title Christianity (p 1, 2013, of altern voice is still unheard in the present text. Std. IX Social Science textbook) it is stated that In pages 64 and 65, the same text gives an elaborate “there is no information available about the early account (in 3 pages) of the immoral behaviour of the life of Christ”, whereas there is a good account catholic church and the fights between protestant and of his early life up to the age of 12. Catholics which is the irrelevant to the textbook, We (Members of the Committee for Resisting whereas the same textbook giving details about the Saffronization of Textbooks, Karnataka) gave a ‘Religious reformation in India’ (in the chapter entitled report to ‘The Hindu’ dated June 20, 2013 stating “Religious reformers in India” pp.22-26) and Bhakti “...instance of saffronization are evident in the movement in India (in the chapter entitled “Bhakti Class 9 History textbooks introduced this year. Panth” pp.59-61) conceals the hypocrisy of the Indian The Committee as termed this as a “new form priestly class reasons for the need for Religious of indoctrination”, where the Right wing Ideology reformers in India and the Bhakti movement in India.

12 The Companion 2013 December As Teesta opines: “They selectively speak about the can cause irreparable damage to young and im- immoral behaviour of Catholic priests in the middle pressionable minds. We wish to remind the gov- ages, while exonerating the Brahmins and the Indian ernment that it must show its sincerity and ruling classes. What is the message that we send out commitment to its initial promise on stopping to the growing child with theses factual misrepresen- saffronization of education. As the chief co- tations and deliberate exclusions of some historical ordinator of the text books every time is giving events and modern day social realities when it comes irresponsible answers by committing same crime to the conduct of the Brahamanical elite?” (Teesta has to be dismissed immediately. Recently in a Setalvand, “How textbooks teach prejudice”, commu- central syllabus book when a picture of ‘Rani of nalism combat, 15.6.2003). Jhansi’ found with ‘hukka’ the right wing groups The above short analysis of the 6th standard Social protested on roads throughout Karnataka and went Science text book of I and II semester, 9th standard to the extent of punishing the culprits by going science text book and 9th standard social science to the court. But progressive groups and educa- (History) prescribed in the year 2013 should be tionists since two years have been peacefully sufficient to unveil the fact that once again there is negotiating with the state government regarding a clear and discernible leaning towards the ‘Right hundreds of such distortions in our own Karnataka Wing ideology’ violating the guidelines of NCF 2005. state text books. But the past government and the Though the previous BJP government promised to textbook committees who distorted the text book adhere to NCF 2005 and appointed a committee have given no heed to our methods of protest. to scrutinize the textbooks, in actual fact the Now it is high time to the government to take objectionable contents and saffronization have mul- action against the culprits and thus pass a strong tiplied this year in comparison 5th and 8th text- message to those write text books for rest of the books of last year. It must be noted that this is only classes this year. We demand for a fresh text book the analysis of 6th std Social Science, 9th standard committee in our state with eminent educationists science and 9th standard social science (History) text and experts in the field, to clean the poison from books. Due to the non-availability of the rest of the the printed text books and write the rest of the textbooks we are not in a position to check and text books giving justice to NCF 2005. comment on the distortions, if any, contained therein. Have you noticed communal biases, super- It is high time the present secular government to stitious elements in your text books? Please take this issue very seriously and initiate all necessary write to us on this and share with our readers. steps to provide wholesome and good quality text- Francis Dsouza is a Research Scholar at the books strictly adhering to NCF 2005 guidelines. Delay Department of English, Kuvempu University, Shimoga

SOCIAL MEDIA

2013 December The Companion 13 [DELIBERATION] advice. Sometimes the decisions of heart causes to fall in ditch, but the decisions taken based on brain will ease most of the ways of a human life and gives a joyous life. It is not necessary that the heart always take wrong decision, sometimes the decisions taken by brain also prove to be wrong. But if the brain listens to heart and heart to brain and both takes one decision then life becomes much more better. As they say “Two are better than one” Among the heart and brain, who thinks, who does what, is still a mystery. According to the spirit of science heart is just an object to pump the blood and it is the brain that thinks. According to me and some individuals who agree with me HEART on a common perception believes that In the holy DOESN’T

AGREE Quran whenever there has been a mention about thought and self-reflection a reference has been Syed Tahseemuddin made to heart or chest. Like in surah An-Nas (Quran 114) it has been mentioned to seek refuge hough human being in itself is a “from the evil of the whisperer”(114:4) into the masterpiece creation of God, but the heart. And when Prophet Moses(as) prayed to God Theart and brain present in a human before going to the court of Pharaoh, there also body are of utmost significance. If the brain he requested God to quay his chest. With reference thinks; the heart feels. The work of both is to disbelievers many words are found like “We important in their own perspective. But the heart have hardened their hearts”. may feel proud that without it humans are nothing. Who knows some day it may be clear or obvious To a certain extent this conception of heart is to science that though the brain controls the body acceptable because if the heart forgets to beat then but just like a machine, brain gets all the guid ance what is the use of the brain and other organs? from the heart. Well, that is my point of view I would Because of this, it most often negates every like some individual(s) of knowledge to put light on decision of the brain and does not agree at any this topic, because my “Heart doesn’t agree” to be- cost, since “Heart it is”. lieve that it is the brain that thinks. But whatever it is, it cannot compete with the Syed Tahseemuddin is a Software Engineer brain because a good brain always gives a good based out of Bangalore

14 The Companion 2013 December [ALTERNATIVES]

Prof. K. Mohammed, Ayiroor

ducation is unique quality of mankind. It is education that Emakes man to act his part in this world successfully. Man is the viceroy of God- the Almighty- in this world. Accord- ing to Holy Quran by educating man God proved that man is the only creature who is suitable to be viceroy of the God and the angels ought to be succumbed to man. So education is the integral part of

2013 December The Companion 15 human life. Education is the very ultimate aim of education is nour- ity of intellect has helped man to important condition for the devel- ishing – developing - a socially land on moon, split atom, scratch opment of the ‘whole man’ and an acceptable and balanced personal- ocean floors, revive collapsing important weapon for accelerating ity – citizen - to the nation, to the heart and so many other wonders the well- being and prosperity of whole mankind. Here comes the but human being needs sublimity the world in all direction. Educa- importance of value education of soul as well to live together on tion is a lifelong process which which is inseparable from educa- this planet. continues from womb to tomb. tion. Such an education consists If we are borrowing words of Education has many different of , man-making and character a Malayalam orator “Man can meanings and definitions. The building programme; training of fly in the sky like a bird spread- parents, the teachers, the farmers, body, mind and soul; quest for ing its wings, and move easily at house wives, administers, mer- integrating culture and technol- depth of ocean like a fish, but chants, religious preachers, mili- ogy; and hunt for that goal which he is not able to live on earth tary men, politicians, artists and liberates man from fear, inertia, like a man.” artisans etc interpret the term in ignorance and superstition. So the In the words of Prof. D. S. their own ways. Hence the mean- real education should combine Kothari “Science and Technology ing of education is complex in science and ethics. It should cut are exploding but wisdom is im- nature. Some definitions of edu- across all narrow barriers and help ploding. It is shrinking. Knowl- cation are given below to under- humans to reach their destiny, edge is expanding and human stand the aims of Education. which is nobility of intellect and personality is shrinking. Because • “Education is bringing out of sublimity of soul. Now the nobil- of the explosion of knowledge the ideas of universal validity and implosion of wisdom, we find which are latent in the mind of various kinds of grave aberrations, every man.” imbalance and calamities.” - Socrates The National Policy It is here that we are compelled • “Education is the creation of a on Education (1981) to rethink about our existing edu- sound mind in a sound body. stressed the need for cational system. We the Indians It develops man’s faculty, es- are proud of our good literacy rate pecially his mind so that he read justments in the but what about our social, cultural may be able to enjoy the con- curriculum in order and moral life? We can see that templation of supreme truth, to make education a the main protagonists of commu- goodness and beauty of which nalism, rape, adultery, adultera- forceful tool for the perfect happiness essentially tion, looting, theft, killing, child consists”. cultivation of social abuse & exploitation, murdering, - Aristotle and moral values. It corruption, substance abuse, and • “Education means the manifes- also emphasized the all other anti-social activities are tation of the divine perfection, so-called educated people. already existing in man.” combative role of We can quote the words of a - Swamy Vivekananda. value education in columnist: “We have passion but • “By education, I mean an all- helping to eliminate no compassion, we have goods round drawing out of the best but no God, we have speed but obscurantism, reli- in child and man, body, mind no direction, we have production and spirit.” gious fanaticism, but no proper distribution and we - Gandhi violence, superstition have religion but no spirituality.” It is very clear from the above and fatalism. If we are looking into the world said and other definitions that the we can obviously say that it is not

16 The Companion 2013 December the phenomena of india only but cation (1981) stressed the need of the whole world. That is why for read justments in the curricu- the educationists all over the world lum in order to make education and agencies like UNESCO sug- a forceful tool for the cultivation gest so many measures for moral of social and moral values. It also and value education. Some of emphasized the combative role of them are as follows: value education in helping to Provision for spiritual and eliminate obscurantism, religious moral instruction for building fanaticism, violence, superstition up of the character of the and fatalism. young should be the responsi- Even though all the education bility of the home and commu- commissions and committees rec- nity :- The Central Advisory ommended strongly for the value Board of Education (1943-46) education nothing happened in Moral and spiritual instruction the practical situation in this at the university stage too matter. More over all the persons recommended by The Univer- tional understanding and unity who are working in the field of sity Education Commission of mankind. education are crying for moral (1948) The important resolutions of the values. We have taken so many Moral and religious instruc- first National Moral Educa- steps for the quality and quantity tion from the elementary to tional Conference (1981) were: improvement of education. We the university stage was rec- a) A course on moral educa- have introduced and completed ommended by Sri Prakas tion in all classes up to the high the projects like DPEP, SSA. The Committee on Religious and school stage in all schools should project DPEP was introduced in Moral Education (1959). be run inculcating moral and 1994 – 95 in 149 districts of India Every student who takes up human values in students to make with the help of World Bank. In science should have some them better more useful members our country we thoroughly re- background in the humanities of society vised the curriculum on the basis and should study a compul- b) Moral education should be modern trends and strategies of sory paper on Indian cultural a separate subject; education - shifted to constructivist heritage, just as student in c) The content of moral edu- paradigm and continuous and humanities should have some cation should include common comprehensive evaluation. So knowledge in general science. ethical teachings of all great re- many positive changes have been - The Committee on Emo- ligions highlighting their unity; occurred in the educational field tional Integration (1961). d) The syllabus for moral edu- due to these reforms but what The Indian Education com- cation should include stories, illus- about the values and morality of mission (1964 – 1966) recom- trations and events mainly from our educated people. It is a big ques- mended instruction on moral, own country and its literature from tion before us without getting a social, and spiritual values at various religions, so that it leads to proper answer. The project DPEP all levels of study. national integration; was concentrated mainly on Pri- The UNESCO in its report of e) In higher classes a course in mary education. the international commission comparative religion should be in- After that we have introduced in 1972 suggested that educa- troduced as it will promote social Sarva Siksha Abhiyaan (SSA) in tional systems should encour- harmony, a liberal attitude and a the year 2003. The project was age the promotion of the val- less fanatical approach to religion. concentrated on universalisation ues of world peace, interna- The National Policy on Edu- of education - education for all -

2013 December The Companion 17 . It aims to achieve a General Higher Education. Considering tutions especially in the higher Enrolment Ratio ( GER) of 90 % this situation Association of In- education stage. up to 8th std. Now the Rashtriya dian Universities (AIU) as a rep- Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyaan resentative body of universities Concept of Value Based (RMSA) has been introduced and as a advisory body to the Education: during the 11th five year plan. Government of India, play an Value is an orientation towards The project RMSA concentrated important role in giving direction a whole class of goals that are on Secondary Stage and it aims to the higher education system of considered important in one’s life. to universalise access and to the country. Since the Rastriya Our education aimed the all-round improve quality of education at Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyaan development i.e. the development secondary stage. It aims to achieve (RUSA) scheme is going to be a of proper attitudes, emotions and a General Enrolment Ratio (GER) landmark scheme to improve character in the learners. It covers of 75 % for classes IX – X within higher education system. all domains like cognitive, affec- tive and psychomotor and all aspects of personality- physical, intellectual, economical, social, political, cultural, moral and spiri- tual. All true education ultimately involves the spiritual growth from individuality to personality through the process of clarifica- tion and assimilation of human values. According to Swamy Vivekananda “Education for values should be education for man-making and character building”. Man-making education means the development of one’s personality with the conscious- ness that one must be a respon- five years by providing a second- Here I indent to discuss need sible and purposeful servant of ary school within a reasonable of taking steps for ensuring the his community. Tagore, Mahatma distance of every habitation. It is quality and morality of the edu- Gandhi, Sri Aurobindo, Dr. S. a truth that by implementing cated people. All the documents Radhakrishnan and all other think- various projects and process like of educational projects and pro- ers and educationists laid special MLL, DPEP, QIP (Quality Im- grams like DPEP, SSA, QIP, NCF emphasis upon the development provement Program), SSA, RMSA 2005, KCF 2007, RMSA, and of spiritual aspects and values we achieved improvement and RUSA are agreeing to the essen- through education. Each and ev- progress both qualitatively and tiality of developing values and ery person of the society should quantitatively to a certain extend morality in the society especially be conscious about accountability up to secondary level especially among educated youth. But it is to himself, to the parents and in Kerala. But the Higher Educa- very regretful to state that there family, to his neighbours, to the tion in our country is still in the is not any clear idea or concrete society, and more over to the miserable condition. It is too late program for developing value God. A close analysis of educa- to take steps for the quantitative awareness or implementing value tion reveals that good education and qualitative development of education in the educational insti- is inseparable from value oriented

18 The Companion 2013 December education which should promote complex process which involves a spirit of service, social sensi- We should realize that developing the ability to think in tiveness, cooperation, sacrifice and value education is a terms of values, the ability to do high moral character. complex process which the ‘right’ thing and also the Such an education consists of: ability to feel the emotions. There- involves developing the Man- making and character fore we cannot argue for a single building program. ability to think in terms method for value education, vari- The training of mind, body, of values, the ability to ety of methods has to be employed. and soul do the ‘right’ thing and First of all the institution should The quest for those nobler have a value code. The strategies aims that integrate culture and also the ability to feel for value education can be classi- technology. the emotions. fied as direct and indirect. The hunt for the goal which liberates man from fear, iner- Direct Strategies for Value tia, ignorance, greed and su- Education: perstition. tures including mankind, with • This has to be done with a the nature i.e. the environ- prescribed graded curriculum Aims of Value Based ment, and with the Creator. and a graded series of text- Education: books. Personal growth leading to Methodology of teaching • Purposeful talk on selected sub- enhance self-concept is the key values: ject is another direct method. principle of value based edu- There is an old saying that • Purposeful open discussion on cation. “values are to be caught and not personal examples of students The chief aim of the value to be taught.” If there is a value and teachers. based education is to achieve based ideal and moral society it maximum purified human re- may be correct. The growing Indirect Strategies for Value source development so as to generation will get ample situa- Education: improve our total life. tion to see and practice a moral • So many various incidents Divinity of man and the unity life. They can catch values of occur both at home and insti- of existence are the basis of elderly people and either by imi- tutions and even in the com- value education. So the mani- tation or by special efforts they munity. The concerned stu- festation of divinity through can develop appropriate values dents involved in the incident the refinement of feeling along accepted and respected in the should be separately called and with the development of intel- society. But it is not the present proper advice can be given. lectual and motor abilities is condition. So values have to be • Deliberate group discussion or the ultimate objective of value taught as well as caught. The panel discussion on the ethical based education. Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget, issues occurs in the day to day The important and ultimate Lawrence Kohlberg, so many other news media. aim of value based education psychologists and educationists • Conducting surveys on value is to nourish a socially accept- have put forward various methods issues and prepare critical able person i.e. citizen so as for inculcating values among stu- note it. to making him able to dis- dents. Value education is a matter • Critical analysis of day to day charge his duties as viceroy of of ‘training of the heart’ and departmental and social life. God. It accentuates to train consists in developing the ‘right’ • Structured observation and him to maintain a good rela- feelings and emotions. We should closed discussion on it. It may tionship with his fellow crea- realize that value education is a be peer observation, self ob-

2013 December The Companion 19 servation using diary writing mind that human being is not a education. Thus the system of etc or observation by the higher mere matter or material, but they higher education must be changed authority. are the only creature in this world into value based education. We • Speeches in morning assembly having discriminative power to can work together for that and or any other gatherings, as- select their own life style. Thus buildup a more strong nation. signing group work, Interac- they can be superior with upright tion with the reputed moral morals and characters resembling References: personalities. to the angels by doing great and 1. Dr. N. Venkataiah, -Editor- • Indirect curricular activities: merciful deeds. Otherwise they (2005) APH Publishing corpo- Teachers or the concerned will be inferior to the cattle and ration, 5, Ansari road, Darya authority should go through more harmful than the wild ani- Ganj, NewDelhi – 110002. the curriculum and textbook mals by doing mischievous deeds. 2. Dr. Sarayu Prasad Chaube – of their respective subjects The Holy Quran says “They have Some Foundations of Education and find areas which nor- hearts wherewith they understand : Bharath Publications 1957. mally evoke value questions. not, eyes wherewith they see not, 3. N. P. Pillai – The Educationsal For example in science, pur- and ears wherewith they hear not. Aims of Mahathma Gandhi: suit of truth, spirit of enquiry, They are like cattle, - nay more Kallyan Maudir Publicatiions co-operative efforts, logical misguided (than the cattle) : for – 1959. thinking, reasoning, cleanli- they are heedless (7:179). If we 4. S. S. Chandra K. Sharma – ness, existence of God etc. are looking into the Holy books Principles of Education : At- Similarly in mathematics, lan- of other religions we can see lantic publishers and guages, history etc there are so that all the religions are argu- Distributers ; 2004. many area for value education, ing for development of values. 5. Woodbume. A.S. (1992): Hu- but the teachers or other con- India is the country where 99% man nature and Education; cerned persons have to make of people are believers and hav- Cosmo Publications; New a preplan. More strategies ing a heritage of high values. All Delhi. which are appropriate to higher the education commissions and 6. Association of Indian Univer- education stages have to be educationists in India and all over sities – University News, vol. developed by discussion. The the world are arguing for value 51, No. 28, July 15 – 212013. teachers and the society have 7. Association of Indian Univer- a vital role in inculcating sities – University News, vol. values. It can be discussed 50, No. 09, Feb 27 – March later. 04 - 2012. It is very important to keep in 8. Association of Indian Univer- mind that a balanced develop- sities – University News, vol. ment of harmonious and inte- 48, No. 28, July 12 – 18 2010. grated personality is impossible if 9. Prof. K. Mohammed, Ariroor, the educational system does not (2012)- Vidhyabhyasethinte inculcate proper values and mor- Islamika Dharsanam als. Not only in India but also (Malayalam), Vicharam books, world - wide arouse a cry for I P H tower, P.O. Road, Trissur. back to basic values and for 680 001. nourishing human values and K. Mohammed is the Principal of morality among the youth. Each Ansar Training college for women, and every one who is in the field Perumpilavu, Kerala. He can be contacted at of education should bear in the [email protected]

20 The Companion 2013 December [REFLECTIONS]

The One who reminds us of our ideals amidst the turmoil and turbulence.

oharram a month of Islamic Hijri world who continue to suffer from tyranny and calendar reminds us about the leg tyrants. Let us not limit ourselves to the ritualistic endary sacrifice in the path of celebration of Moharram just by citing the coinci- MTruth and Justice. Looking dence of liberation of Moses and his people from around, its astonishing on how this month of Moharram Pharaoh, and the anchoring of Noah’s ark. What is viewed and what message do the people draw. Two remains firmly and contemporary to the people powerful forces form a front in upholding their doc- globally is the incident that took place in the month trines. One group forms a potent practice of celebrat- of Moharram and the place called Karbala. ing this month, and the other side we find a countering Imam Hussain a simple Muslim with profound group of radically literate whose comprehension lacks personality, perhaps sacrificed his life not just as wisdom. mere act of gaining martyrdom, but a strong ideology The martyrdom of Imam Hussain was not just and need for resurgence cannot be ignored. Though the loss of Muslims but it was the loss for the entire there were many upheavals in the political history of Islam, nevertheless there were group of Islamic Revivalist who always felt an immediate need for Farukh Shaikh upholding the sanctity of Islam and State.

2013 December The Companion 21 When I say about Islam, let us be necessary. The mediocre class ideologue that infiltrated Islam not limit ourselves with very mea- of people don’t see the spirit of his and the State and the perils that gre Islamic practice. Worship has message, and the noetic people are was engulfing. To him life was always filled in the vacuum created chronic to lunacy. Both these class just a journey testifying the true in upholding the message of Islam of people have brought catastrophic spirit of Islam. Nowhere can we in true spirit. Over ages we lost the disgrace to the foundation and re- find any elements craving for message and confined all our might affirmation of Islam and state. Im- worldly fame and pleasures. to the least of worship gratifying provident and knowledge evolved This philosophy is still relevant ourselves with the promise made out of sheer ignorance have become in our country who wanted to lib- with God. Those basic pillars of Is- the capital of their manifestation of erate themselves from the clutches lam faint if these population fail to religion. of tyranny and tyrants. To make it comprehend the illuminating spiri- Possibly divine words of God more lively, let us take an example tual message with Islamic worship. always obtruded the whole per- of Indians who have succeeded in Never can we ignore the wisdom sonality of Imam Hussain. Al- pushing out the tyrant British, but and planning of Almighty God, we mighty God says: we still continue to suffer from the may wonder sometimes what mes- “Stand firm in Justice even various forms of evils arising from sage we should seek with the mar- if it goes against yourselves or Neo-Imperialism. The martyrdom tyrdom of Imam Hussain. your parents and relatives.” of Imam Hussain reminds every Whether a person testifies on Quran 4:135. individual who uphold the value of the oneness of God or not, agrees This young noble man just Freedom and Justice. or disagrees on the divinity of didn’t stand against Yazid who The zephyr from Karbala still Prophet Mohammed and Words of moulded the state as per his whims travels throughout the world. The God i.e. Quran, Imam Hussain and wishes claiming the Supreme message so refreshing has in- stood for all those who believed authority over the state, but the spired great leaders of this con- that Peace, Justice and Unity is the greater message is unveiled by temporary world. How fortunate birth right of every individual un- raising the degree of our intellect were Mahatma Gandhi, Charles conditionally. This message does and ponder sincerely, we will be Dickens, Edward Gibbon, Victor not fade away with the drying of drawn towards the illuminating Hugo, Tolstoy and many familiar his blood in Karbala and with the message that we have always faces and strangers have taken the blending of flesh and bones in the missed and neglected. Let us not message and added values with sturdy soil. His message is neither look at Yazid as a personality but the purpose of life. justified by mere hearing and re- as phenomena. These phenom- In every Uprising, calling the narrative incidents nor enon have existed in the past and In every Sobbing, by flagellating the body inflicting are still present today. Tyranny In every Clamant, pain. These measures are just tem- does not end with the death of In every Iniquity porary and it can nowhere match tyrants. People and Scholars In every Atrocities the life and message of Imam present their views and arguments In every Turmoil Hussain. Though he bade farewell with the whole episodes from the The voice of the people amal- to us countable centuries ago, his demise of our beloved Prophet gamates with the message of Imam message is still felt today. Worth- Mohammed, the four great ca- Hussain… less celebration and refutable liphs and the tragic death of Imam Farukh Shaikh is a humanities claims takes away the core message Hussain. This great Imam Hussain student from Manipal that Imam Hussain considered it to stood against the tyranny, the evil

“Wisdom will not be completed except by following the Truth.” - Imam Hussain.

22 The Companion 2013 December [SOCIETY]

number one activity on the web. Syed Kazim Many people start watching porn before marriage to fulfil their hile the world continuous to progress technologically, sexual desires with an intention to faster than its growth in technology, it is worsening stop it after marriage but they fail Wmorally and spiritually. For some, pornography is a to do as they get highly addicted business, entertainment and pleasure and for others it is filth and a to it. The fantasy of porn has grave sin. But it goes without saying that pornography is one of the triggered an explosion of interest- biggest immoral and indecent act on the face of the earth. Watching ing pornography, especially on pornography has become so very popular that our politicians watch the internet. A study shows that them during the assembly sessions. Pornography addicts have a more 90% of pornography is viewed difficult time recovering from their addiction than cocaine addicts, since through the Internet. Today por- nography has become a part of the popular culture. Thanks to various forms of vulgar and inde- cent media who has played a significant role to promote it. The entry of smart phone into the market has drastically contrib- uted to the growth of pornogra- phy, where porn has become just a touch away. Pavan Duggal, a Supreme Court lawyer and cyber law expert, says smart technology devices are giving quicker and secretive access to pornography. The very private nature of the mobile phone, combined now with drug users can get the drug out of their system, but pornographic images good bandwidth, allows people to stay in the brain for a very long time. surf the net far more than what Pornography is a problem. It's a personal problem for many and PCs allowed, given that PCs tend a cultural problem for all. The shocking size of the pornography to be family devices. No wonder industry, its influence on the media and the acceleration of technology, that, according to some estimates, paired with the accessibility and affordability of pornography all the consumption of pornographic contribute to its increasing impact upon the culture. videos and adult content has gone Before social networking became popular, pornography was the up by 30% in the last one year.

2013 December The Companion 23 Though no agency tracks the The daily pornographic search requests is 68 million (25% of total volume of porn consumption in search engine requests). Another study claimed that the porn industry India, cyber experts say it is seeing generates $13 million each year. 90% of 8 – 16 years olds have viewed a phenomenal increase and that pornography online and American children begin consuming hardcore most porn sites are hit between 10 pornography at an average age of 11. And the numbers are only pm and 12 midnight. increasing. In the recent Mumbai gang Peer pressure, easy availability through smart phones, explicit vulgar rape, the cops said that three environment through movies and ads, high level of promotion and lack accused used to watch porn of moral sexual education from parents are a few important causes regularly. After this incident, one for the growth of pornography. of the officer’s said, “Such mov- An individual gets into a lot of problems when he/she starts ies are to a large extent respon- watching pornography. He/she gets addicted to it and wants to watch sible for these youngsters indulg- more and more each time, loses money, time, memory, intelligence, ing in crime.” It is a normal reasoning, analyzing and thinking capacity, has an impact on the marital tendency of a human being to do life as it demands unnatural sex from the partner, leads him/her to what they see. stress,sadness, depression, and loss of self-esteem, leads to bad Assam police chief J.N. relationship with the close relatives,makes the individual enter into the Choudhury said that easy acces- state of loneliness and boredom, takes him/heraway from his/her sibility of pornography is one of ambitions and goals in life and the addiction, taken the individual to the reasons for increasing number a state of tension that lead to the destruction of the soul, indulges of teenage boys committing sexual into masturbationand perversion to sex leads the individual to commit crimes like rape. Reacting to a sexual crime. gang rape case in Guwahati, in Pamela Paul, in her book Pornified, quoting the research of one which the accused are five minor psychologist who has researched pornography at Texas A&M that, boys, the DGP said, “The acces- “Softcore pornography has a very negative effect on men as well. The sibility of pornography has problem with softcore pornography is that its voyeurism teaches men changed the mind-set of many to view women as objects rather than to be in relationships with women young boys. Earlier, there were as human beings.”Teaching which hampers the happy and peaceful more instances of women being living. raped by strangers but nowadays There exist a huge mafia behind the pornography industry. People such crimes are often committed indulge in this business for acting, marketing and selling because of by persons known to the victim.” the easy money it offers. Many students in UK indulge themselves The threat of pornography in porn movies in order to pay their school/college fees. Promoting addiction is rising throughout the playboy T-shirts and stickers, promoting Sunny Leone in Big Boss are world.According to‘Family Safe some of the contributing factors to the growth of pornography in India. Media’, every second - $3,075.64 is being spent on pornography, every second - 28,258 Internet users are viewing pornography, every second - 372 Internet users are typing adult search terms into search engines and every 39 minutes, a new pornographic video is being created in the United States. 4.2 million (12% of total websites) deal with pornography.

24 The Companion 2013 December Many organisations launch huge campaigns against smoking, gutka, from the Internet or copied from female feticide and alcohol but the number of organisation who have video CDs,” the petition stated. raised their voice against pornography is very few. It is an act which Some countries have already is committed in private thus many people do not reflect on the negative taken steps to curb this grave impact it is creating on the current generation. problem. More than 60,000 por- In order to overcome the addiction of pornography and to avoid nographic websites have been shut such unhealthy habits one should, 1. Have a good company, 2. Keep in China following a massive themselves busy in healthy activities, 3. Get involved in social welfare crackdown. National Office activities, 4. Make productive use of the internet, and 5. last but not Against Pornographic and Illegal the least, increasing spirituality through becoming God conscious; Publications said, nearly 1.785 remember the accountability in the hereafter. Religious books address million websites have been this issue by instructing the men and women to lower their gaze and checked since the launch of the guard their private parts. campaign in December 2009 and The Government should realize the damage which pornography is some 2,197 cases of dissemina- tion of online pornography have been dealt with during the crack- down. Now it’s high time, the Government of India takes step to stop this business which is spread- ing and growing rapidly in leaps and bounds. The million dollar question which we need to ask our self is that, “We would not like to see our loved ones in a Porn film, then how can we see others?” Pornography is seen as a funda- mentally destructive force to eradi- cate from one's life and society. The parents should take up this issue seriously and counsel their causing to the individuals and to the society at large and take steps children on this aspect. The youth to curb the act as it is killing the nation slowly and steadily. The should understand this grave prob- Supreme Court recently said it wanted immediate steps to block lems and dangers of addiction to websites with pornographic content, especially those featuring children. pornography and abstain from it. India has of late witnessed a rise in cybercrime but the government, As responsible citizens of the despite having the new IT Act in place, has largely been ineffective country, we need to address this in tackling the problem. The Information Technology ministry, which issue at all levels and try our best safeguards India’s cyber space, has done little to take action against to eradicate pornography from porn sites. minds and our society which is A petition filed by advocate Kamlesh Vaswani who pleaded that only causing harm and doing no although watching obscene videos was not an offence, pornographic good. Men, who respect women, sites should be banned as they were one of the major causes behind don’t watch Porn. crimes against women. “The absence of Internet laws encourages Syed Kazim is a lecturer, people to watch porn videos and over 20 crore videos or clippings Department of Management at are freely available in the market, which have been directly downloaded Kristu Jayanti College, Bangalore

2013 December The Companion 25 Book Review

istory has many lessons in store for Hhumanity. It enables us to gain knowledge about the doings of the former generations on one hand, while on the other hand it guides us in our own personal and collective lives. The knowledge about the mistakes committed by the past generations will certainly stop us from repeating them again, while their suc- cesses and glories will encour- age us to follow their course of action on different situations.

As youthsit is very impor- particular ideology or concept. after the event of 9/11 has tant for us to know the history There are a very meager increased drastically. Hence, of our forefathers and to read number of books as per my books and content which and analyze their lives criti- knowledge which narrates the narrate our history in a differ- cally. Today many voluminous history of Islam and Muslims ent style leaving the old books are available on the in an unbiased and in a traditional ways is the need of history of Islam and Muslims. manner receptive to the En- the hour. Every book has its own glish speaking western society. ‘Destiny Disrupted’ written message and tries to convey or The demand to know and by Prof. Tamim Ansari is one impress upon the reader some understand Islam and Muslims such master piece which illustrates the history of the Shoaib Mohammed Muslim world in a very ([email protected]) precise and lucidmanner. The author’s narration about the

26 The Companion 2013 December different events of the Muslim Salafism and Sufism. history is very balanced and The bookthen narrates the well researched. The book ‘Destiny large scale changes which were begins by focusing on the two taking place in Europe in the parallel narratives of history Disrupted’ is a form of industrialization and existing in the west and the must read for the modernity and how the Muslim east. When a westerner is world responded to it. After asked about the history of people who are this, began a series of reform humanity, he explains it in the concerned about movementsamong the Muslims sequence of Evolution – the questions and to oppose the tide of western Civilizations - Classical Age - domination over the east. Apart Dark Age – Renaissance – issues which are from movements and organiza- Revolutions – World Wars – facing the Mus- tions, the author has high- Cold War and so on. On the lighted on individuals also who lims today. Per- other side of the world, history had an impact on the Muslim is known to people as Ancient haps the knowl- community. Finally discussing Civilizations – Birth of Islam - edge and under- on some contemporary ques- Caliphate – Crusades – Rebirth tions and challenges facing –Defeat of East by West – standing of our Islam and Muslims in today’s Reform Movements and so on. history might world, the book ends with a Prof. Ansari analyses these two enable us in our note of the philosopher Leibniz narratives of history existing according to whom the uni- parallel to each other. The efforts to do so. verse consists of"monads," each fascinating thing is that neither monad beingthe whole universe of the two narratives have understood from a particular much awareness about the point of view, and eachmonad other. As a result both have conflicts began erupting among containing all the others. The always been in opposition and the nascent Muslim community. author has made an effort in this in conflict with each other. The author remarkably narrates book to narrate a common history Taking the world’s geography how and why such conflicts for humanity by highlighting the into consideration, the author arose among the Muslims influence of the western history explains how these two narra- which ultimately ended up in narrative on its eastern counter- tives of world history evolved. the replacement of the Caliph- part and vice-versa. The book then briefly ate to Sultanates and King- ‘Destiny Disrupted’ is a must highlights the events of the doms. Further reading brings read for the people who are Prophet’s life starting from his Scholars, Philosophers and concerned about the questions early childhood, then his Sufis into the scene and how and issues which are facing the appointment as a Prophet, the their understanding of Islam Muslims today. Perhaps the Hijrah, the early battles, was influenced by the events knowledge and understanding of conquest of Mecca and finally happening in the Muslim world. our history might enable us in our his demise. Then it takes us to A reading up till here will make efforts to do so. the Caliphate era, focusing on us clear how different ideologies Shoaib Muhammad has done his the political scenario at that and interpretations of Islam crept Masters in Engineering and works for time and how differences and into the community such as newzfirst.com

2013 December The Companion 27 [OPEN SPACE]

remember a debate in Mohammed Hammad class upon the same topic Iwhere many were of the opinion that there has been great development in recent times until

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ someone pointed out that they ‘Development’ or in other words Growth or were not talking about technol- ogy. Due to such similarities crop- Advancement has been a subject of many ping up everywhere not only are discussions and debates and it is very sad that we being ignorant about the vari- this concept has been greatly misunderstood. For ous other dimensions of develop- ment but also being anti to the most of us ‘Development’ has become merely overall development of humanity. equal to ‘Technological Development’. Now let us take up different dimensions of development indi-

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ vidually with first being Technol- ogy. Seeing the production of hy- brid cars, invention of medical tools, reach to various planets, and so on it seems as if we really

28 The Companion 2013 December are developing technologically and atrocities on women in our coun- in 2012-13. A ray of hope can be moving ahead but the truth is not. try and other major crimes. A seen when we talk about poverty Technological development is the statistical report by NCRB says though, according to a World Bank invention of solution to problems the total number of rapes in India report India reduced poverty from created by it (most of the times) in 2006 were 18682, 21603 in 60% of the population to 42% and this particular definition 2010 and 23582 in 2011. Clearly between 1981 and 2005. The makes it really difficult for us to the number of crimes against number in 2010 was 33%. This see advancement hand in hand women has seen a positive slope alarming 33% stands for about with technological development. in the graph. When we come to 400 million people. But then For example consider a boy, other unethical crimes, say mur- again when we see the rampant he arrives late to a class as a der, the reported cases in 2012 increase in prices of basic com- result of which he leaves to home were 34434, an alarming number modities even that ray of hope is an extra hour late to complete his indeed. According to another re- vanquished. It is high time that notes and now he is unable to port of NCRB, the total number we start to critically analyze our help his mother who had already of ‘Total Cognizable Crimes view of economic development. cleaned up the house all by her- (IPC)’ had increased by 28.9 % self. Now, to help his mother after in 2011 when compared to the “Economy does not lie in her tiresome work he couldn’t do 2012 census. Do these statistics sparing money, but in spending his homework and then similarly say we are developing? A straight it wisely”. the cycle goes on. Every time he No is the answer and remember -Thomas Huxley. finds a solution to a new problem that this was only regarding major, he creates another as a result of immoral, crimes; there are many We live in a country abundant that solution. In this case there is other unethical acts which are too with political parties and politics. no real scope of development or large in number to mention here. Has there been any confident advancement for he only con- We are surely and very quickly advancement in the field of Poli- cerned with providing solutions going backwards as far as culture, tics? We follow the same old to the problems he himself cre- ethics and morals are concerned. procedure of electing that person ated and he is forever indulged in as our leader who proposes him- that. Similar is the case with - A man without ethics is a self to be the leader. Leader is one technology wherein you saw the wild beast loosed upon this who is better than the rest, the invention of cars as a result of world. best person of the nation, and need of ease in transportation and Albert Camus once someone proposes them- then to cope up the rising pollu- selves to be the leader it means tion due to cars we invented other Now let us see the status of that he thinks and acts in the best measure. There has hardly been economic development. It is sad of all. What kind of procedure is an invention that came up without to state that we are no good in this to elect a person who is self- the need to solve other problems. this sector as well. The number nominated? This procedure of Now to say the least technologi- of debts has increased; the value election is common for small cal development is not all good, of rupee is in a free-fall, prices organizations, companies and the it has its own pros and cons. of basic commodities going up, country as a whole. This is ex- The other dimension of devel- etc. According to Economic Times actly the reason why we see calls opment is cultural, moral and the external debt of India has of change in leadership every ethical. We are all aware of the increased by 13% to $390 billion now and then.

2013 December The Companion 29 -“The growth and develop- ment of people is the highest calling of leadership”. - Harvey S. Firestone

We live in a multi-religious and multi-cultural society there- fore it is very important to deal with this another aspect of devel- opment i.e. Peace and Harmony. The branding of whole commu- nity as bad is an evil act of a single person from that commu- nity, hate speeches by profane politicians, caste-ism and commu- nal clashes appeal to me that we are not very peace-loving crea- necessary to write an Exam. The in the hearts of today’s youth. It tures. On the other hand inter- reason why we see a poor con- is needless to say that this attitude faith dialogues suggest otherwise. dition of government institutions is very harmful for the nation as What we know is that there are is the material attitude of educa- a whole.- evil as well as good forces work- tionists. As mentioned earlier, ing in the world. What we need students no more gain the knowl- “Attitude is a little thing is to choose a better path that edge to become a better person that makes a big difference”. leads to communal harmony. but only loads of information - Winston Churchill such that they pass an exam and “The most valuable posses- get a good job. In the end I’d like to appeal sion you can own is an open to you, respected reader, to nei- heart. The most powerful - “Education is the most pow- ther bask in the glory of construc- weapon you can be is an instru- erful weapon which you can use tion of metros, bridges, sky-scrap- ment of peace”. to change the world”. ers, etc. nor in the production of - Carlos Santana - Nelson Mandela innovative gadgets, expensive automobiles, etc. There is much Then there is development of The attitude development of more to the concept of develop- our education sector. I believe youth has also been in the wrong ment then we usually think. For that this fact is more or less direction. Their attitude is becom- the transformation of India from agreed upon i.e. Education is now ing more and more individualistic a developing nation to a devel- commercialized. Every single rather than social. A student of oped nation this holistic concept school, college or institution looks today no more thinks of overall of development in the minds of forward to make as much money development of his family, his people, especially youth, is very as they can on each student. society or his country. The youth necessary. Students are now being treated as are today too busy in shaping up Mohammed Hammad is a second prisoners for 10 hours a day, their own lives, their future. The year student of Mechanical Engineering at MJCET, Hyderabad being stuffed with information concern for society is now dead

30 The Companion 2013 December [NATION] National Food Security Bill (NFSB) passed by both houses of Parliament introduces itself as "to provide food and Mohammed Omais Shayan nutritional security in human life cycle [email protected] approach by ensuring access to ad- equate quantity of quality food at af- fordable prices to people to live a life ublic distribution system evolved as a system for distri with dignity". bution of food at affordable prices. Unlike as we know Pit today, it started in India in the 1960s to counter Birds eye view: food scarcity in urban areas with an intention to stop grain 1. The bill guarantees "Right to receive hoarding and check prices. Now comes its next evolution, as a food grains at subsidized prices by right for food for all, that emanates from right to life. people belonging to priority house- holds covering 75% of rural popu- lation and 50% of urban population. 2. It entitles every pregnant women a meal free of charge during preg- nancy until six months after the

2013 December The Companion 31 child birth through local anganwadi and a maternity benefit which is not less than Prof. Amartya Sen’s con- Rs. 6000. 3. It ensures nutritional needs of children by pro- tention is that if the viding free meal for children of Age group - 6 goodies doled out to the months to 6 years through anganwadi and one middle and richer classes free mid-day meal for children up to Class VII in all Government run/aided schools. – subsidized power, fertil- 4. In case of non-supply of above entitlements the izer, LPG connections – government is required to pay allowance to such are reined in, there will people. 5. Empowerment of women by making elderly be more than enough woman as head of the household and giving money for food entitle- preference to women and their collective in ments licensing of fair price shops. 6. Envisions reforms in present PDS such as end- to-end computerization to ensure transparency of visions for farmers interests. AIDMK raised objec- transactions at all levels, leveraging "aadhar" for tions that it didn't ensure continued adequate level proper targeting of benefits, cash transfers and of allocation of food grains to States. other measures . Activists’ opinion: Economists take Activists’ groups such as Right to Food Cam- There are two contrasting opinions, one where paign have welcomed the bill as first step, though Prof. Bhagati and Arvind Panagariya of Columbia being critical of its provisions falling short. PUCL Univ., feel that, the bill will make an already stressed secretary Kavita says “Without adequate nutri- fiscal situation worse and fuel inflation hurting the tional support, the bill is inadequate in terms of poor more. On the other hand Prof. Amartya Sen’s food security. Even the amount of food grain contention is that if the goodies doled out to the allotted of 5kg is not sufficient for an adult middle and richer classes – subsidized power, fer- person” [3]. Tribal activists called for full coverage tilizer, LPG connections – are reined in, there will as part of the bill, questioning the rationale in be more than enough money for food entitlements excluding 33% [4]. Farmers' group oppose the bill [1]. Jean Drèze, a well known activist and econo- saying it nationalizes the agriculture by making mist, also a member of NAC that pioneered the bill, Govt. largest buyer and procurer denying farmers in his opinion piece in The Hindu [2] pitches for their bargaining powers. the bill where he says "wide coverage and clear Sreelatha Menon sees a hope for migrant poor entitlements are two pillars of the fairly effective laborer who can press for his right for ration card PDS reforms" while admitting to its shortcomings in place of his stay[5] as mostly urban migrants have and dangers ahead. ration cards in their home districts and so face Politicians contention: hardships in getting their due. Harsh Mander, an Congress calls it a game changer in terms of activist, cautioned against privatization of Integrated hunger eradication, a pledge of its 2009 election. Child Development Scheme with Govt. encouraging Principal opposition calls it "lollipop" to garner votes manufactured "ready-to-eat meals" not hot cooked in coming election. It flayed the Govt. for the hurry, meals. For further reading [6]. but eventually voted for it. Samajwadi party called The evolution is not going to stop here as the it "anti farmer" and stressed for inclusion of pro- bill implementation begins it is bound to raise many

32 The Companion 2013 December challenges. Like Govern ment's References: ability to procure enough grains, 1. http://www.tehelka.com/critics-cry-unaffordable-only-when-the-benefi- State Government's commitment ciaries-are-the-poor/ to transparency by end-to-end 2. http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/from-the-granary-to-the-plate/ computerizing. It has many unan- article4974764.ece swered questions like, how would 3. http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-09-05/guwahati/ it be managed in a dry year? Will 41800126_1_national-food-security-bill-rights-forum-foodgrain it accommodate all the deserving 4. http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tribal-activists- ones without exclusion in the seek-full-coverage-under-food-bill/article5054537.ece 67%? Ensuring fair functioning 5. http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/the-right-to-ration- of fair price shops is another cards-113071300663_1.html challenge. All these need to be 6. http://righttofoodcampaign.blogspot.in/p/right-to-food-act.html discussed, debated and apprised Mohammed Omais Shayan works as a to Govt. by all concerned citizens. Digital Design Engineer for Intel Technologies.

Woman is a mystery But if you are a liar An unsolved chemistry She turns into fire Even if you turn to history Then for you she burns You cannot solve this mystery Into ashes she turns

She is a lovely rose Woman is like a sky Take care of these pretty cores Difference is, she is nigh Then you will receive lots of love She is as good as fertile soil Realising the smoothness of dove And as bad as crude oil

If you throw rose petals It showers on you and settles If you throw a stone at it It will fall back on you and hit W It is upon to man How he handles woman Never test her patience O But always feel her appearance M If he is good She does what she could But if he is bad A He always have to remain sad

N So never under estimate a woman She is never less than a man Only the thing is she likes to love Afia Qasimi, Raichur So for all she kindly serve

2013 December The Companion 33 [EXPRESSIONS]

Saif Ali

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ t ○ was ○ ○ ○ just ○ ○ before ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ election ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ time ○ ○ ○ ○ and ○ ○ the ○ ○ ○ poli ○ ○ ○ ○ “Oh! The member of…..” Mayor Recalled, – then tician of, I’d not tell you the name … any begged his son to wait for some days as he has to settle Iway, he was sitting on his arm chair thinking his income tax issues. about how far can he reach in the coming years and “No right now! You know why?” “Why?” how fast could it happen if he thinks right, and all that “Cause Manohar Pandey’s son said luxurious cars sort of political stuff the politicians live and die for. like that don’t suit the leaders of the scheduled caste! His thoughts then jumped to, and wandered around Not behind my back but in front of me, grinning like a money. So he closed his eyes and imagined more and bastard pig!” more about money, for it provided his corrupt mind Now Mayor’s face turned its colour to red, “Bas- with materialistic peace. tards!” He mumbled, the Mayor at once sprang up, Suddenly a frustrated faced intruder burst into the peeped into the deepest corner of his safe, and took room and began uttering straight away in tone he was out the cheque signed him rushed out of the room. A used to tolerating. short while later, when the Mayor talked about his It was his young son. friend’s son’s comment to his wife she felt shocked “I’ve been asking you for the past two days, con- and said,” But why then Gullu has accompanied tinuously, that I want the money for the car and you’re Pandey’s son right now, if such was the cases? And so busy that you can’t even sign a cheque!” He shouted. that too laughing out loud!” “Why the hell are you shouting so much when I said “Er, no,” the politician uttered. “That means, the I’d sign it tomorrow!” The politician shouted back. liar, once more had made a fool out of his own, Scoun- “But I want it right now, I’ve made plans to travel to drel” Pig!” “Gosh, it’s your mistake, not mine!” Goa tomorrow! She shouted like a parrot, “It’s you, who has taught “For what?” him to become such a liar, isn’t it?” “My friend’s Birthday!” “Heavens above!” The politician exclaimed. “He “Which Friend?” certainly will become a good politician! Mardood!” “That Goan politician’s with whom you shared Saif Ali is a professional graphic designer and a video your tactics on phone, why don’t you remember!” editor. His passion is writing short stories in spare times.

34 The Companion 2013 December