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Established 1946 Price : Rupees Five

Vol. 68 No. 52 Change is on its way January 5, 2014 S. Viswam

The first task for all of us here already formed a government in in Janata, a pleasant one, is to wish Profligate legislators . It has announced that it intends all our readers a happy 2014. In the Kuldip Nayar to go national and field a substantial context of national politics, the year number of candidates for Parliament. we have just ushered in is a crucial The party is not lacking in public Apartheid of the world unite! one for the polity and the country. support for its unconventional style K. S. Chalam We begin 2014, as we have done of politics. The people at large are with earlier new year arrivals, with funding it in a surprisingly big way. hope laced with abundant optimism. Its anti-corruption crusade, initially No roadblocks for AAP agenda The year we have just rung out did launched under Hazare’s inspiration Nitish Chakravarty not meet with all our expectations. and leadership, has caught popular Indeed, it left us highly dissatisfied, imagination, which has been further displeased and even angry. But it has fortified by the welfare measures set gone. Let it go. Why I am not in AAP? in by the Kejriwal government. In Sandeep Pandey short, the ground has been laid, and But in its own way, it gave some now exists, in many states of , for shape and substance to its successor by a pan-Indian entry into the national Communal violence in 2013 ushering in some important changes mainstream politics by the AAP. Irfan Engineer in national politics. To those of us who had anticipated the 2014 The AAP may not make as much polls to be a direct contest between the and the Bharatiya Janata difference to the outcome of 2014 Party (and their respective allies), Lok Sabha polls to the Congress the political events of 2013 came as and the BJP as the Delhi polls did to Editor : an eye-opener. Till the elections to them. The AAP arrived on the scene G. G. Parikh five state assemblies in November- as a spoiler of the BJP’s hopes of capturing the state from Sheila Dixit, Managing Editor : Guddi December, we had assumed that a dress rehearsal was being held for and a killer of the Congress hopes of D-15, Ganesh Prasad, the bigger round in the offing. But retaining Delhi for another term. It Naushir Bharucha Marg, the emergence and consolidation can’t repeat this on a national scale - 400 007. of the (AAP) has and, if it snatches votes from the introduced a new element in the scene two major parties, as also from some Email : [email protected] and a new dimension and dynamic regional outfits, it can be a crucial to national politics. The AAP has player overall in Parliament. 2 JANATA, January 5, 2014

Narendra Modi has remained a Between the lines serious contender for the top post as a BJP candidate. He has the powerful Profligate legislators backing of the RSS, and this assures him the Hindu vote, although not in Kuldip Nayar all states. is formally entering the prime ministerial race soon. While the Modi-Rahul fight is Despite the moral edge that trip abroad. Nearer home, the Akali to be formally joined, the AAP will the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Dal government sent the legislators come in with its own band, baaja movement has given to politics, to Scotland to see how the scotch and baraat. The BSP and the SP have a 16-member team of legislators whiskey was brewed. been dominating regional politics from the Congress-ruled Karnataka with just less than 30 seats, selling in the south were determined All such trips are considered study their allegiances for a share in power to tour a few South American tours. Since the reports following to the ruling coalition. The AAP countries at government expense. the tours are not published, it may not indulge in that game, but It is the intervention of Congress- is anybody’s guess whether the play another kind of interventionist vice-president Rahul Gandhi, a legislators submit anything in politics in the name of the common reinvigorated person after the writing at all. In fact, they are man. Kejriwal as CM has become drubbing the party received in all paid holidays for pleasure, reality. Maybe, by 2019, Kejriwal Rajasthan and Delhi elections, that something which the government as PM may also come true. In India, they finally buried the trip, which uses to placate its own members 2013 witnessed the politics of the was a joy ride, from the tax payers’ and those in the opposition. And this improbable. In 2014, politics is money. favour is not confined to legislators bound to change under any scenario alone. Members of the committee of in the sense that the Congress The most shocking aspect, the Scheduled Caste and Minorities may have a UPA 3 (anything is however, is that the members in Karnataka have just returned possible), the NDA may rule or going abroad were from the State from a 16-day trip abroad. Their the AAP may be sitting in the Lok , entrusted itinerary showed that they were Sabha as the principal opposition. with the task of saving superfluous visiting beaches, posh restaurants That is why we said earlier that expenditure. Representatives of and pleasure resorts. 2014 will be a momentuous year of both the Congress and the Bhartiya change for Indian polity and country. (BJP) constituted a I found the same craze of going Democracy zindabad! team for the proposed tour. The BJP abroad among our parliamentarians. members developed sudden cold feet Since I was a nominated member when some in the media criticized of the , I was never the junkets. The Congressmen caved included in any such trip. Because Janata Subscription in after Rahul Gandhi pointed out of the media, an ethics committee that the expense of Rs. 16 crore was was sought to be set up to stop Annual Rs. : 260/- a waste when 60 districts of the state extravagant expenses. The political faced drought and when more than parties normally distributed the Three Years : 750/- 200 farmers had committed suicide. “study tours” among themselves. It is flabbergasting that the Language Demand Draft / Cheque on The members were technically Committee members, including Mumbai Bank justified because the state assembly persons other than MPs, go to has laid down that the legislators England and America every year to in favour of could tour foreign countries assess the spread of Hindi. JANATA TRUST twice in their five-year tenure. D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Probably, the same provision is In fact, a phoren trip is as much Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 offered to members in most other a craze in India as in Pakistan and states as well. The Andhra Pradesh Bangladesh. The legislators there legislators are reportedly planning a also go abroad on one pretext or JANATA, January 5, 2014 3 the other. Whether it is a hangover of the 150-year colonial rule of The real face of politics the British or part of thoughtless expenditure of the burgeoning Rajindar Sachar middle class is difficult to say. Probably, both assumptions are Lok Sabha elections are due in Chief Justice Chagla as far back correct. Yet, it cannot be denied that four or five months. But instead as 1958, when it warned that “any a free foreign tour is the best “bribe” of parties putting forth ideological attempt on the part of business any government can offer. issues such as human rights or houses to finance a political party right to equitable development, is likely to contaminate the very Foreign countries in the West the only test being applied is the spring of democracy”. All this, know this. Missions of the United marketability of the party, even however, fell on deaf ears of Kingdom and the United States though it may flout the ideal laid politicians and political donations utilize this way to have the best of down in our Constitution or the were permitted after some time concessions. Top bureaucrats fall vision of the freedom struggle. during ’s rule. These for “invitations” from abroad. It have now been continued under would be revealing to find out how Though the Lokpal Bill has the Companies Act, 2013. So much many children of secretaries to the been passed under the shadow for the campaign against politics government have gone abroad on of forthcoming elections, both messed by money power! That scholarships or fully paid studies. parties made adjustments they is why corporate funding of the Foreign missions see to it that the previously proclaimed not possible. new Aam Aadmi Party, which is children of highly-placed people are But two other legislations — the forming the government in Delhi, given pre-travel and full expenses Whistleblowers Protection Bill and is a matter of concern, especially on board and lodging in schools, the Public Grievances Bill — which when it claims to be different. The colleges or other educational have been pending for so long danger of corporate involvement in institutions. and would have given great relief politics is not lessened by receiving against bureaucrats’ angularities, contributions through a website or Unfortunately, bureaucrats were not even given the courtesy cheques from the corporate sector, are falling prey to the generous of being discussed, much less being which in any case finds mention in hospitality of foreign missions. passed with just a day’s extension balance sheets of the companies. It Since booze is free and flows like of the Parliament session. is the source of the money funding water, you can spot out top officials political parties that is the real at parties of minor officials of The self-serving political danger to democracy. How it is foreign missions. This greed is parties’ exemption from the Right displayed is a small matter. nothing new. It has been there since to Information Act was passed a few years after independence. unanimously to a thundering India is among just 10 per cent of applause. Significantly, the question the countries that allow parties and India’s first prime minister of donation to political parties candidates to receive anonymous was so shocked by the corporate sector is being donations. Even Nepal and Bhutan by the presence of secretaries to studiously kept under cover. It is fare better. Of Rs 2,365 crore raised the government at parties of third no longer a secret that the amount by the Congress between 2004 and secretaries in foreign missions that of donations to political parties is 2012, about Rs 2,000 crore could he issued a circular to instruct that determined by the fact whether they not be traced to an individual or the top officials should respond to are in power or in the opposition. organisation. Similarly, the BJP invitations of only foreign officials attributed Rs 952 crore out of the of equivalent status. As days went The High-Powered Committee to total Rs 1,304 crore raised between by, the violations of the circular revise the Companies Act constituted 2004 and 2012 to unknown sources. increased. Today it is free, for all. in 1977 had recommended the Invitations are sought even by MPs. continuation of the ban on political Hypocrisy in politics to some Prime Minister donations by the corporate sector extent is accepted. But when (Continued on Page 6) because of the warning given by hypocrisy takes on the role of 4 JANATA, January 5, 2014 mentor while concealing its real intentions, it amounts to cheating Apartheid of the world unite! the electorate. Look at the way the BJP and the Congress are K. S. Chalam projecting their approach to the judgment of the Supreme Court Nelson Mandela, the indomitable to “ raped as her son marries reversing the view of the Delhi hero of anti-apartheid movement upper caste girl”. The victims in the High Court, which had held Section of the world passed away recently incidents hail from educated dalit 377 as unconstitutional, resulting in the section being restored on the marking the end of an era. Nations groups of and Andhra Statute. and groups that are discriminated, Pradesh respectively. This reflects humiliated, disgraced and exploited the contemporary social reality Initially, Congress leaders Sonia in their homeland by hostile and which most of our intellectuals and and Rahul Gandhi both publically crooked settlers breathed a sigh experts refuse to recognise. It is also a termed it an unhappy decision of relief after the fall of white warning signal to the exuberant Dalit and interference in individual empire in the form of colonialism. capitalists that money and power do liberties. The normal course of Yet, it is still acted in the form of not get them a visa in to mainstream action would have been to have globalisation and is openly co-opting and might ultimately make them Section 377 (LGBT) repealed groups and forces that are akin to to prostrate before racial and caste through Parliament. But then the the philosophy of apartheid or Jim hierarchies. Interestingly, the U S BJP, which had initially broached Crow. The so-called neo-colonialism officers who are associated with the idea of placing this matter or globalisation has been made Devayani arrest, Preetinder Bharara , before all parties, took a sudden popular due to several institutions NishaBiswal and others being Indian reverse turn and openly declared and support structures that were born upper caste American citizens, its support to the Supreme Court non-existent during the eighteenth questioned on the social media as decision. Obviously, the BJP century. We have now World Bank, prejudiced. Strangely, the socialite feels that in the country at large, IMF, WTO and a host of NGOs and and progressive commentators especially amongst rural voters and some civil society organisations, of a particular group pampered even among the older generation, with the mission of carrying the by media in Delhi have voiced deletion of Section 377 would not message of globalisation, are very diverse opinions, saying that it is find favour. The BJP has taken the active in most of the countries. competitive politics that make the cover of the Supreme Court order India has been considered as a issue trivial. Is it true? to retain Section 377. non-aligned country and was in the company of nations that were The Devayani case has become so The Congress hypocrisy is even fighting the hegemony of the Anglo- popular today that everyone knows messier. The Central government Saxons during the Nehruvian era. It her as a Deputy Consular General of has moved a review petition in is now part of history and we have India in New York was handcuffed, the Supreme Court against the a different category of scholars and strip-searched and placed in a cell of order upholding Section 377. rulers who pounce on anyone who the court house on 12th December on Filing a review petition is a way of attempts to critically evaluate the charges of underpayment of wages misleading the public. Legal experts globalisation policies. It is in this to her maid. Her father in India, would tell you that filing a review context that the Devayani episode a retired civil servant shattered is impermissible because courts surfaced recently. after the news of his daughter have held that merely because being subjected to cavity search, another view could be taken is The Hans India English daily has perhaps was reminiscent about no ground for review. It is also published two episodes, one on the the Khairlanji incident in his state embarrassing when out of two front page and the other prominently where the Bothmange women were judges who gave the judgment, the on the fifth page of nineteenth given similar treatment and killed in senior judge has retired. I do not December. Both are interrelated. 2006. Since it has happened in the understand why the government The former is on “India shields USA, the most civilized country of (Continued on Page 6) Devayani” and the latter relates the world, the naughty boy being JANATA, January 5, 2014 5

Uncle Sam, the treatment is perhaps played by some of the seasoned and system relies heavily on the trained little sophisticated. But the episode influential personnel of our missions attorneys in the market. It is here is evocative of America mimicking abroad with political links to occupy we got a hitch how the Richards India in social norms while India is important positions in government seem to have approached private copying their economic structure. on return from external assignments attorneys in the US to get out of the This way both the nations are or after retirement. Some experts of hands of Devayani on the way to benefitted helping about 30 lakh international relations feel that there acquire the Green card. This is one Indians settling down with nearly is a need to review the edifice of of the routes many non-residents 30 Indian-American officers in US the ministry in view of the change use to change their status from administration, exchange of agents, in the functions of our missions, illegal to legal category, making etc. After an African American, the overburdened with more economic in the process the naïve personnel MNCs and Jim Crow operators, and business issues and less of of the foreign missions becoming it is reported, would try an Indian customary roles. Naturally, there is a casualties of greed. Or, it could be, born Bania as their next Presidential possibility of disharmony of interests as Devyani’s father claims that the candidate. This appears to be leading to acrimonious incidents. Richards being adept employees unique and reformist in a market Devyani case is not the first incident of the American mission in Delhi economy, USA. But, there seem to in the USA, her predecessor Prabhu bowed as CIA agents. The way the be something beyond that. I had a Dayal from whom she took charge Richards were evacuated from Delhi mistaken impression that America was subjected to similar charges in by the American embassy just before was only an extension of Europe 2011 and Neena Malhotra in 2012. the arrest of Devyani is anybody’s’ without the Atlantic sea, is now It is contended that none of them is conjecture. seen accommodating nations that given the kind of treatment that this are geographically far off but similar elite dalit girl was subjected to. The incident as some in taste and mindset. Thanks to commentators claim is an indication There are fascinating globalisation, this is a great boon to of the end of an era of Bush-Man interpretations about the incident India and a windfall to USA. Mohan Singh friendship in our in our media. There are also relations with USA. But Man Mohan We do not know why the Ministry denunciations and aspersions on Singh was immediate in his reaction of External Affairs and the political Devayani mentioning about her to this saying it is “deplorable”. establishment reacted leisurely social background and the treatment one week after the incident. It is given to Sangeeta Richards, the Tai We may go beyond this and see increasingly believed now that (Nanny). But, the fact of the matter the implausible hidden message. Diplomats and other staff postings is the US government, particularly The globalisation project jointly have become political appointments the Indian born American attorney, operated with Indo-US and some and the poor bureaucrats in the Bharara who is reported to have other countries is encouraging every MEA are helpless. In fact, the claimed that “America’s law is law sundry person, particularly from ministry is still following archaic for the rest of the world” did not Asia to enter USA, steal their jobs structures with little support from use it against the Russian diplomats and get the advantage of differential the IAS dominated bureaucracy for medical insurance fraud. The pay/wage. It may be taken as a (some allege) with modest cadre of social media is flooded with cases of case to send a strong message that IFSs. It is contended by some of the similar nature that were disregarded no one particularly the diplomatic officers that the missions abroad do in the past. An interaction with community in New York could work under great economic strain, some Hispanics in Tampa (Florida) take liberty with US laws and play shortage of staff and insufficient recently gave us an account of with their domestic helps. That is allowances. There are cases of how the US economy survives alright, but why a Dalit diplomat indiscipline and corruption charges particularly in the semi-skilled who married an American citizen against a few diplomats including jobs, with millions of underpaid with two children is subjected to career ambassadors who were undocumented residents. Of course, this treatment? After all what is suspended/ dismissed from service. the law enforcement agencies in globalisation without free movement We know very little about the kind the US give us an impression that of labour? Is it only to facilitate free of politics and diplomatic games they are very strict and the legal flow of finance capital? 6 JANATA, January 5, 2014

We can see a veiled strategy them, the treatment meted out to serving as an employee of the facilitating the fusion of races/ Devyani has little to do with the USIS at Delhi I too did not get the castes that subscribe to self-interest, diplomatic niceties. They consider wages the Americans were getting. inequality and discrimination under it as an instance of the weight that This is probably understandable. globalisation passed off as values Washington throws about. The But what I could not comprehend of merit and efficiency. The irony persistence in prosecuting Devyani was the additional allowances is that how the minority of settlers/ says it all. that the Americans were getting outsiders as in India, impose such while touring within the country measures on the majority natives? The entire case began when as compared to the Indians, who Are they justified in picking Indians Devyani was not paying her accompanied them. I know this from with different social backgrounds in domestic servant the wages as per my experience. the present case as their experimental the US laws. I recall when I was group? (Continued from Page 4) (Continued from Page 3) is taking the tortuous route of parties, its decision to have the should issue a circular on the lines review when a straightforward easy Cabinet sworn in at Ramlila Ground Nehru had done. course of repealing this provision is the same as the old feudal Roman is available. I say this because the practice of giving the people circus But I have lost hope after Supreme Court judgment had given because you cannot give them seeing the manner in which the them clear power when it said: bread. There is nothing radical has suffered “Notwithstanding this verdict, the about it. The likes of Akhilesh humiliation at the hands of the State competent legislature shall be free Yadav and Lalu Yadav have done Department. Devyani Khorbragade to consider the desirability and it earlier. Such coronation does not was handcuffed and put in jail propriety of deleting Section 377, befit a party purporting to speak to share the cell with criminals. IPC, from the Statute Book”. When for the rickshaw-pullers and slum- Secretary of State John Kerry has this convenient solution is in hand dwellers of Delhi. It would be refused to tender an apology on why this double game of Congress far more democratic if the Delhi the incident. It has now been found leadership? Cabinet after having been sworn that she enjoyed the full diplomatic in at Raj Bhawan in the usual staid immunity when she was arrested. This is not being done because the manner were then to go to Ram Lila I am not surprised because of Congress is both running with the Ground and mix with the crowds America’s arrogance of power. hare and hunting with the hounds. as before. That would give the aam President Obama, who looked The party wants to present itself as admi a greater sense of belonging different initially, has become part modern and liberal, appealing to than being pushed around by the of the establishment. He does not the younger generation and urban police while the oath is being taken either evoke confidence or hope. population, but at the same time and dignitaries are seated safely. He should have himself rung up does not want to risk angering the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh rural and older generation. This may The times have changed since to express remorse. be a good political stratagem, but when Dr. Lohia’s precept to the is a devious strategy, which brings Socialist Party as the first principle The loss is that of America’s. more shame to the ambiguous of political work was summed up The Indians were beginning to conduct of the politicians. Compare in ‘Spade, jail and vote’, meaning feel that the US was different from this with the humility and bold field work, readiness to go to jail the rest of West. That impression response of Pope Francis: “If a and faith in democratic elections. has dissipated. Washington may person is gay and seeks God and The present generation has come a talk of strategic ties and New goodwill, who am I to judge him;” long way to ‘SMS, TV and middle Delhi may reciprocate to be on the and this when Italy has a law against corporate sector’. Where does the same page with the biggest power. LGBTs. aam admi, i.e., 90 per cent of the But this relationship will stay urban Indians who spend less than at the official level only. People Though AAP claims to be Rs 142.70 a day to survive, fit in of India will remain distant. For radically different from other the present new political language? JANATA, January 5, 2014 7 No roadblocks for AAP agenda

Nitish Chakravarty

The Aam Aadmi Party’s week- The Congress chose to back government that it had not honoured old minority government winning the confidence motion not out its promise to put corrupt ministers the confidence vote in the Delhi of altruistic intentions but for its of the previous regime behind bars Legislative Assembly was neither survival in Delhi politics. The was equally illogical. Chief Minister a big nor a small surprise. Assured Congress was left with no choice Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues of Congress support, the fledgling but to stand up along with the AAP have taken historic pro-people AAP government was in no danger legislators on the floor of the Delhi steps within a couple of days of of losing the confidence vote. Sure of Assembly. As I see it, the reason for coming to power. In politics a week defeat the opposition did not press for the Congress volunteering to support is said to be a long time; what they a division; only a headcount settled the AAP government is two-fold: have done within the first week of the matter. In the event the AAP is first, its mascot Rahul Gandhi’s office has raised the benchmark for unlikely to face any roadblocks for giving the fight against corruption performance by public functionaries. the coming six months in pursuing top priority in the Congress party’s new agenda would be perceived Mr. Kejriwal was himself in the agenda it had set for itself the thick of the movement to fight in the run-up to the December as an eyewash if the Congress denies support to the AAP whose corruption in the Delhi Jal Board, elections. The rules of business in a government undertaking for the Assembly do not allow a no- Jan Lokpal slogan has dramatically changed the country’s politics; and water supply, and in the private confidence motion being tabled until second, many Congressmen fear that sector companies which took over after six months from the date such the Aam Aadmi wave can turn its the supply of electricity in the a motion is dealt with in the House. fate far worse in the event of fresh national capital. He tore up what An opportunity for the opposition elections in the short run in Delhi. were perceived to be highly inflated to confront the government may electricity and water bills sent to however arise during the budget A couple of the Congress party’s consumers and advised them not to debate and consideration of the eight MLAs and a few of its senior pay up. Much to the delight of lakhs finance bill. leaders – Sheila Dikshit among the of consumer a drastic reduction has latter – were reluctant to give the already been made in the prices of The BJP’s insinuation that the AAP a carte blanche, Mrs. Dikshit, water and electricity payable by AAP had struck a quid pro quo deal who may have a lot to answer for consumer households. And on the with the Congress to stay in power some questionable decisions she corruption front, the decision to is no different from the pot calling made as chief minister, put a rider get the account books of the three the kettle black. The BJP backed on the Congress offer of support main power distribution companies out of government formation when to the AAP. There was nothing like audited by the Comptroller General it became crystal clear that with 32 unconditional support in politics and of Audit and Accounts is expected MLAs in its kitty – four more than this would depend on performance, to throw light on many a shady deal. she declared. What was her authority the Aam Aadmi Party’s 28 – it had The chances are that many no chance of gaining the support of to impose conditions she alone knows, for after the elections she skeletons will tumble out of at least four more legislators needed cupboards in the coming weeks. to win a trust vote in the 70-member holds no position in the Congress party. No wonder those who have a lot to Assembly. AAP leaders never made hide are perturbed. Even as public any overtures to any party to back The BJP’s floor leader, Dr. support for the AAP is steadily them in ministry making. They made Harshvardhan’s jibe that Chief increasing, there is no dearth of paid history by going in for a referendum Minister had mercenaries willing to harm them. In to gauge the people’s views on the reneged on his “solemn pledge” such a scenario Arvind Kejriwal will AAP climbing to power without not to buy any other party’s support be well advised to rethink the threat a legislative majority. The people for the sake of grabbing power perception. God may not approve of responded with an affirmative was an obvious misstatement. His their decision to leave their security verdict. other insinuation against the AAP in His hands. 8 JANATA, January 5, 2014 Why I am not in AAP?

Sandeep Pandey

Some friends are calling to suggest But the main reason why I am enough electricity in this country for that I should join Aam Aadmi Party not in AAP is because AAP’s focus everybody because we don’t have while others want to know whether is on corruption whereas I think enough resources. The rich and the they should join. Some think that that the central issue for our society poor in the service of rich will get it I am close to AAP and want me to as well as globally is inequality. So and but not every poor. If we don’t recommend their names as candidate long as we are not able to build a find a cleaner alternative to thermal for the next general elections from society where every human being power soon, the situation of paucity their respective constituencies while respects another human being to the is not going to change in near future. some experts of different fields same extent that he(she) expects for are offering their services for the himself(herself) from others we’ll Water is a natural resource and benefit of schemes for poor to be not have a humane society. This will meant to fulfill basic needs of all implemented by AAP in Delhi. not be achieved by merely getting human beings. The government or One policewoman called me to rid of corruption or establishing any private company doesn’t have beseech that Arvind Kejriwal should swarajya. any right to sell it. It is government’s accept security as she thought, with responsibility that all human beings her experience of having watched Let us assume that in Arvind get as much water as they need for politicians from close quarters, they Kejriwal’s rule corruption has been drinking, irrigation, bathing, clothes cannot be trusted. totally banished. There is not a washing, etc. But water should single paisa of bribe being given not be wasted in swimming pools, I am not in AAP because Justice or taken. Let us also assume that water parks, golf fields and other Rajindar Sachar, when he revived people directly participate in every big lawns, etc. In fact, there should the Socialist Party in 2011, asked decision making through gram be a ban on private installation of me to join it. This is the party of Dr. sabhas or mohalla sabhas, i.e., water pumps except for the purpose Rammanohar Lohia, Jayaprakash swarajya has been established. Will of irrigation. If this happens there Narayan, Acharya Narendra Dev, we be satisfied then? will be no need to place a limit on Achyut Patwardhan and others water usage. When farmers adopt which had merged with Janata Party What will happen to the caste organic farming the need for water in 1977. I was also part of People’s based discrimination? Will every for irrigation will also reduce. Political Front, which was formed rich be willing to sit beside the poor? Since we want to build a humane by Kuldiep Nayar before the last Will every woman feel safe and there society which will not have any general elections. I am devoting my will be total end of patriarchy? Will place for violence and we dream of energies to build both the Socialist there be end to violence? Will half creating a weapons free world - at the Party as well as the PPF, which the children, victims of malnutrition level of individual as well as nations. brings together about a dozen small and therefore school dropouts, start Hence, Socialist Party has decided parties. Now I think that just because receiving full nutritious meals as that its members should not just not AAP has become successful I should well as be able to attend schools of discriminate among human beings, not leave my organizations and the quality, which children of rich be against all forms of corruption join it. We have to remember that go to? Will a poor be able to receive but also believe in the concept of the political culture that we wish treatment of the same quality which security without weapons. Brave to cleanse includes defecting from a rich can buy in private hospitals? people like Arvind Ke.jriwal don’t one party to another when one sees feel the need for weapons for their AAP has promised to halve the greener pastures. That is why law security. against defection had to be enacted. electricity bill but what about those Of course, the option of alliance who are yet to be connected to the AAP’s foundation is based on the when there is agreement in ideology grid and probably will never get concept of nationalism. The popular and working style is open. connected? We simply don’t produce (Continued on Page 10) JANATA, January 5, 2014 9 Amendment of RTI Act

The amendment made in the RTI standing committee doesn’t appear exemptions under section 8 of the Act by the Parliament that proposed to have taken into account objections Act. The law doesn’t need any to keep political parties outside its to the RTI amendments submitted amendment.” ambit has been approved by the by the civil society organizations. Parliamentary Committee, entrusted No arguments have been given in Justifying its decision to amend with the task of reviewing it despite the report which indicate that the the Bill the Government said – much opposition from civil society committee has noted our objections. The political parties are neither organizations and citizens. It is obvious that no reasons were established nor constituted by or taken to counter our views before under the Constitution or by any In a landmark decision on June suggesting construing citizen’s other law made by Parliament. 3, 2013, the Central Information fundamental rights.” Commission (CIC) pronounced An authority or body does that the political parties (INC, BJP, Subhash Agarwal stated, “Report not require to be established or CPM, CPI, NCP and BSP) are of Parliamentary standing committee constituted by or under the public authorities under section 2(h) recommending that CIC-verdict constitution or any other law made by of the RTI Act. The Government holding political parties being the Parliament, to be called a public brought an amendment to the RTI covered by RTI Act is not justified authority. According to Section 2(h) Act excluding political parties from because according to the committee of RTI Act, an organisation that is its ambit. it was not intent of legislature ‘substantially financed, directly or to cover political parties under indirectly by funds provided by the However, due to mounting the transparency Act. There are appropriate Government’ can also public pressure, the Parliament many bodies claiming not covered fall under the category of public chose to refer the Bill to the under RTI Act but are declared authority. Parliamentary Committee, which public-authorities by Information invited suggestions on the proposed Commissions and even endorsed by The Government also claimed amendment to the RTI Act. High Courts as public-authorities. – “There are already provisions in Association for Democratic Reforms None of such bodies were ‘intended’ the Representation of the People (ADR) was one of the organizations specifically by the legislature to be Act, 1951 as well as in the Income- which made its submission apart covered under RTI Act. Surprisingly, tax Act, 1961 which deal with from NCPRI, MKSS, Subhash the committee has overruled Chandra Agarwal and Shailesh Attorney General’s advice that the transparency in the financial Gandhi among others. All of them any legislative step against CIC- aspects of political parties and their strongly objected to the amendment. verdict may be struck down by candidates.” courts. It is not appropriate that it Rejecting Parliamentary may become compulsory to involve However, an analysis by Committee’s nod to the amendment, precious time of Supreme Court in Association for Democratic Reform Prof. Jagdeep Chhokar, one of every matter to get things done in (ADR) of Income Tax returns for six founder members and trustees of public interest.” National Political Parties and the ADR, said, “The committee has statements filed by them with the not given any logical reasoning for Anjali Bhardwaj from NCPRI Election Commission show that over its recommendation in its report. also questioned the Parliamentary 75% of the funds cannot be traced Excluding political parties from RTI Committee’s approval to the Bill, and are from ‘unknown’ sources. Act is unconstitutional. It is odd to saying, “NCPRI has consistently argue that transparency is good for held that the proposed amendment to Another point made by the all state organs but not for political RTI Act is unconstitutional. Political government was – Declaring a parties, which in reality control all Parties ought to be covered as public political party as public authority the vital organs of the state.” authorities under the RTI Act. There under the RTI Act would hamper its is no rationale for people who made smooth internal working. Further, Expressing a similar view, Shailesh the law to keep themselves out of its the political rivals may misuse the Gandhi, ex-CIC, stated, “The ambit. We feel there are adequate provisions of RTI Act. 10 JANATA, January 5, 2014

The above-mentioned claim of the Government does not hold much Modi pro-corporate ground as the RTI Act has enough built in protection in the form of National Alliance for People’s report of the western Ghats Ecology the section 8- “Exemption from Movements (NAPM) convener Expert Panel (WGEEP), chaired disclosure of information.” Medha Patkar has said the model by Madhav Gadgil. “Instead of of development promoted by BJP’s convincing the people of the The Parliamentary Committee prime ministerial candidate Narendra recommendations of WGEEP, observed that none of the six Modi is clearly pro-corporate. the government had appointed political parties, who happened the Kasturirangan-led high-level to be respondent to CIC Order of Addressing a meet-the-press working group (HLWG) to review 3rd June, 2013, has challenged the programme, she said the Modi model the Gadgil report. The NAPM order in the higher judiciary which of development was not different from demands that the Union government is a case of misrepresentation of a the one promoted by the Manmohan should reject the Kasturirangan Singh-Chidambaram-Montek Singh clear provision of law.” report as it has violated the terms of Ahluwalia combination. reference and subverted the concept However, the correct and the We need to be cautious and of decentralization and participatory established practice for a party careful while exercising our development upheld by the Gadgil aggrieved by a decision made by franchise. The reality after elections report. A division of Western Ghats, the CIC, is to go to the High Court may be vastly different from the with two thirds of it as cultural to challenge the CIC’s decision. If manifestoes prepared and the landscape, will result in its further this is a case of ‘misrepresentation degradation,” she said. of a clear provision of law’ there is promises delivered,” she said. no necessity of an amendment of She alleged that Shri Modi was She called for an end to the false the law. increasingly uttering lies about the propaganda that people who lived in Sardar Sarovar dam project. the Western Ghats would be evicted –ADR from their land and livelihood if She alleged that debates and the Gadgil committee report was (Continued from Page 8) controversies over the Lavasa project implemented. She said the Left slogans of AAP are Bharat Mata ki and reports of Western Ghats panels, parties had taken an unscientific Jai and Vande Mataram. We believe and subsequent developments had stance on the issue. led to the resignation of Environment that concept of nationhood is as Minister, Jayanthi Natarajan. “The NAPM demands withdrawal divisive as that of caste and religion. “Earlier, too had of proposals for airports in the The security of nations is ensured by faced the same. Anyone who tries Western Ghats region of Wayanad relations with neighbours based on to revive environmental regulations and Idukki”. The government trust and not by nuclear weapons. will be shown the door. Anyone who must take immediate steps to stop is pro-corporate is in,” she said. all illegal activities in the Ghats, It is because of abovementioned including mining and quarrying,” differences in some of these basic She criticized Maharashtra she added. ideological issues and also because Governor K. Sankaranarayanan of the corporate style functioning for refusing sanction to the CBI to She described high-speed rail of AAP where people are being prosecute former Chief Minister corridors, privatization of national associated not on the basis of human in the Adarsh housing highways and the proposed relationships but because of their scam. Aranmula airport as anti-people utility value, a person like me activities. doesn’t feel comfortable being part “The Maharashtra Cabinet had She called for the closure of Nitta of AAP. However since AAP is out to rejected the report of a judicial commission on the scam. All these Gelatin India Limited (NGIL), a change the decadent political culture have the support of Congress vice- company based in Kathikudam, that of this country it has our full support president Rahul Gandhi,” she added. faced allegations of environmental and we wish it will rid the politics pollution. of this country of corruption and She said the union and State criminalization. governments should accept the –Special Correspondent JANATA, January 5, 2014 11 Communal violence in 2013

Irfan Engineer

The year 2013 was worse and one police official – in 640 love jihad – a figment of imagination than 2012 from the standpoint of incidents of communal violence. of course – is supposed to mean communal violence. According to 2,067 people were injured, including that every love of a Hindu girl by the Home Ministry data released 1,010 Hindus, 787 Muslims, 222 a Muslim boy is a conspiracy for in the National Integration Council police officials and 48 others. which the Muslim boy receives a meeting, 107 people were killed in Though the number of communal handsome amount and the Hindu girl communal riots across the country, incidents reduced from 640 in suffers. The reverse – love between which includes 66 Muslims and 41 2012 to 479, the number of deaths a Muslim girl and a Hindu boy – of Hindus in 479 incidents of communal increased from 93 to 107. In the course is not a conspiracy because violence this year. Apart from those year 2012 also, UP had recorded the Hindu boys are supposed to be killed, 1,697 people including 794 highest number of deaths (39) in 117 only virtuous. Baseless and in fact Hindus, 703 Muslims and 200 incidents of communal violence, in obnoxious propaganda was carried policemen were injured. saw which 20 Hindus and 19 Muslims out through leaflets. The written 40 communal disturbances, 25 were killed. Among the injured, 266 word in large sections of Indian incidents of tension-like situation were Hindus, 197 Muslims and 25 society is unfortunately considered and recorded nine deaths - five police officials. This shows that with as proof. Muslims as a community Hindus and four Muslims. Among fewer incidents, and less spread out therefore appear as bundle of evil the injured, 123 were Hindus, 66 riots, the rioters were more angry or lot, even when some of them are not Muslims and 19 police officials. better armed and organized, or both. terrorists.

Gujarat reported 6 deaths (3 The other factor behind higher Relentless campaign was Muslims and 3 Hindus.) 147 fatality of riots is the approaching carried on regarding “illegal injured (85 Hindus, 57 Muslims Lok Sabha elections in 2014 and immigration from Bangladesh” and 5 policemen) in 64 incidents mobilization of voters along caste and practically the whole Bengali of communal violence this year (up and communal lines. , speaking Muslim community in from 5 deaths and 500 injured last the prime ministerial candidate of Assam State, Delhi, Mumbai and year). Incidents wise, is next the BJP, got his trusted lieutenant other places was branded as illegal only to UP, while number of people Amit Shah appointed as in-charge Bangladeshis. In addition to AASU, killed in communal violence in Bihar of UP State. Amit Shah soon the Bodo leaders in Bodoland is higher than Gujarat. visited the site of demolished Babri areas are also now accusing their UP recorded the highest casualties Masjid and prayed for construction neighbours since generations to until October 2013 at 62 deaths, of of Ramjanmabhoomi Temple – be illegal Bangladeshis. Anti-cow which 42 victims were Muslims revisiting the communal agenda of slaughter campaigns have been and 20 Hindus in 93 riots and 108 construction of Ram temple with the used very effectively in Gujarat, incidents of communal tension (ToI intention of communal polarization MP, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, dtd. 14.12.13 reports 95 deaths in ahead of general elections. The Haryana, and to some extent, in UP in 500 incidents). Communal Sangh Parivar next tried to Maharashtra. Sangh Parivar linked conflict in Muzaffarnagar alone promote communal polarization vigilante having links with police witnessed 53 deaths. A total of 219 by organizing chauryasi kosi personnel regularly stop cattle Muslims and 134 Hindus were parikrama of Ayodhya, something being transported and whenever injured. According to Indian Express that is not even a tradition, and either the driver or owner of the dtd 18-10-13, in Muzaffarnagar riots timing wise, the only justification vehicle, or the owner of the cattle 62 people died – 46 Muslims and 16 would be forthcoming elections. is a Muslim, then hefty bribes are Hindus. For over a year, the Sangh Parivar asked for and on refusal, the cattle stigmatized love between a Muslim is ceased calling in the police, the In 2012, the country had witnessed boy and a Hindu girl as “love jihad”. Muslim owner or driver beaten up. 93 deaths - 48 Muslims, 44 Hindus Unsubstantiated allegations of Media contacts publicising the event 12 JANATA, January 5, 2014 as Muslims were illegally taking actually pertaining to an incident create an environment of trust and cows slaughter house. Regular news in Pakistan. The video clip was security in which women may be of Muslims illegally slaughtering widely circulated through WhatsApp able to speak freely and seek help, cow, a religiously revered animal and MMS. Without any doubt, the justice and restitution.” makes them object of hatred. These circulation of the video clip added issues are in addition to traditional towards large mobilization of Jats The other very disturbing pattern propaganda like “all terrorists are in their Mahapanchayat and the was the spread of communal Muslims”, “Muslims are loyal to brutality that was witnessed during polarization to rural areas in Pakistan”, “Muslim population is Muzaffarnagar riots, which included Muzaffarnagar. The Jats and growing at an alarming rate due the brutal sexual assaults. A woman Muslims, largely from backward to polygamy and they would soon was dismembered into two and a castes share the same culture and be a majority in the country” etc. ten year old’s head was smashed speak the same dialect. They shared This continuous propaganda and and 13 of the 53 bodies on which strong bonds of harmony for ages mobilization around the above issues post mortem was carried on were and fought with unity against the contributed towards higher fatality beyond recognition. Maximum Britishers right from the first war during communal riots. The riots charred bodies came from Phugana of Independence. The backward also appear to be better planned and (Sunday ToI dtd 15-9-13). After class Muslims in Western UP rioters better armed as compared to Gujarat in 2002, this appears to the did not respond enthusiastically 2012. The culpability of the Sangh first time when sexual assaults were to the Pakistan movement. Sir Parivar is clear from the fact that used with brutality as a weapon. Syed too was not enthusiastic to in Bihar, there were 17 incidents of spread his Aligarh Movement for communal violence in 4 weeks after Women’s organizations visiting education of Muslims among this breakup of the alliance with the BJP Muzafffarnagar reported several class of Muslims. The campaign on and 24 incidents 6 weeks after the incidents of , however, the love jihad stigmatizing Muslims, and break up. women assaulted were not ready to the bahu beti bachao (save daughter- complaint. A team with Farah Nazqvi in-law and daughter) campaign In the year 2013, the Sangh and several other members that persuaded Jats, who maintain strict Parivar used both methods to visited relief camps in Muzaffarnagar control over their women, to believe polarize communally – shock and other riot affected areas reported that their women are under threat and awe, as well as low intensity “The team heard accounts of sexual from the predating Muslims. It is conflicts. The examples of shock assault on women of varying degrees ironic that the khap panchayats (caste and awe seem to Muzaffarnagar and of brutality – from tearing clothes based organizations that strictly Kishtwar where as the others, as we to rape and gang rape. We gathered enforce marital relations) known shall see below were low intensity, first-person testimonies from two for maintaining strict control over particularly in MP and Gujarat. young women who spoke with women in the family and resort to In UP, students of Darul Uloom great difficulty and trauma about honour killing of their daughters Deoband and Nadwatul Ulama were gang rape being committed on should name their campaign regularly attacked while travelling them. Several girls spoke of their as bahu beti bachao muhim. in train or outside their campus clothes being torn off. These were These campaigns, nevertheless, during the entire year with Urdu difficult testimonies to elicit, for “succeeded” in creating anti- press carrying the reports, besides the women were frightened and Muslim consciousness. Scores Indian Express dtd 9/9/2013. This spoke about ‘their honour’ and minor incidents and skirmishes year, restaurants became additional ‘family honour’ and, at this stage, took place between the Jats and sites of conflict – in Dhule, Jalgaon no one we met wants to go public Muslims over teasing women, a (Maharashtra) and Nawada (Bihar). or pursue a legal criminal case of common incident in patriarchal Social media was used ‘effectively’ . We heard reports and feudal society. The incidents in addition to rumours to mobilize that many families had sent young in which Shahnawaz was killed by the rioting mob on streets. Sangeet girls who were assaulted away to Sachin and Gaurav also emanated Som, BJP MLA was arrested and relatives’ homes. They did not want from the allegation of teasing their charged for circulating a fake MMS them to be in the camp, or for the sister and then, Sachin and Gaurav purportedly depicting Muslims stories to spread. There is an urgent were killed. This enabled the BJP beating up Sachin and Gaurav need for women’s rights activists to to hijack the Jat Mahapanchayat who later died. The video clip was spend time in these camps and help which metamorphosed into Hindu JANATA, January 5, 2014 13

Mahapanchayat. The spread of Wagh, owner of a restaurant in On 13-6-2013, curfew was riots in 4 districts in rural areas is Madhavpur near Machchi bazaar in imposed in Saudagaon (Raver devastating new trend. The displaced the heart of Dhule over nonpayment Tehsil, Jalgaon Dist.) following Muslims are still not able to return of a Rs 30 bill. Wagh hit the driver clashes between two communities to their villages. on his face with a ladle. Bleeding during which shops and vehicles profusely, auto driver went to the were scorched. 7 persons were Seven people were killed in police chowki, a 100 yards away, injured in the clashes. A small police firing (7 in Dhule – all but they turned him away. The driver dispute in a hotel turned into heated Muslims) and one died in Tonk returned with a dozen or so youth, arguments and soon members of the (Rajasthan) due to injuries sustained only to find that the crowd near the two groups pulled out sharp weapons when police in entered mosque restaurant had also swelled. Stone and resorted to stoning each other. and subjected namazis to baton pelting began from both sides. The Police arrested 20 people. (Sahafat, charge. Several policemen were police chowki, like a kiosk, was 14-6-2013 ) also injured in line of their duty. in the middle. The constables ran The police were able to contain away. The Muslim mob pulled On 18/8/13 there were communal and prevent only a few riots while out the furniture and papers from clashes in Mumbai over collection they were either mute spectators the chowki, made a pile on the road of donation for Ganeshotsav in or participants in the rest. In Dhule and set fire to it. Police arrived and Agripada area. Shiv Sainiks insisted and Tonk, the casualties were solely their fire was directed only on the on contribution of a certain amount due to police rather than rioters and Muslims. Six Muslims were shot for the festival from a Muslim victims of police brutality in both the dead and more than 229 people, vendor who expressed his inability cases were Muslims. including 113 policemen, were due to poor business. This led to injured. Four of them, including a clashes. Two policemen were injured The theatre of communal violence minor, were shot in the back, while while trying to control the situation. was in Maharashtra, Gujarat, MP, one received a bullet in his neck. UP, Bihar, Rajasthan, J&K and Muslim houses and shops, within Rajasthan: Assam i.e. mainly West and North. a stone’s throw from the police Communal riots broke out in formation, were looted and gutted Sawa village, a Muslim majority Statewise break up of some almost under police supervision. village in Chittorgarh, on 28/6/2013 incidents of communal violence: following a road accident in which A Maharashtra Police report on one person was crushed to death by a Maharashtra: the January 6 Dhule riots in the dumper. Large crowd gathered after In Maharashtra, 11 people were state indicted cops of firing “in the incident and burnt the dumper killed and 271 injured in 64 incidents excess” and without following the and demanded compensation. There of communal violence until October procedures. Six policemen were are many China clay mines in this year. Seven of the 11 killed were arrested on February 8 and two have the region and their dumpers ply from the minority community. Of been suspended based on the report, regularly through Sawa village on the injured, 101 were Hindus, 106 which states that the suspended its way to Gujarat. The rash driving Muslims and 64 police officials policemen looted and vandalised by dumper drivers led to pent up (figures given by the Central Govt. property in the area. anger among the residents. The mine during the National Integration owners mobilized their forces and Council meeting). On 5th February 2013 at 5.30 burnt shops in the village. 22 persons pm there was tension following from minority community, including Year Incidents Dead Injured communal clashes in Lonar town sarpanch of the village and 12 2013 64 11 285 in Buldhana district. The District persons from majority community 2012 84 15 280 is known for its hot water spring were arrested. One person was 2011 88 15 342 in. One person from majority injured in police firing. 2010 117 16 290 community died while being treated The communal violence in 2013 in hospital. Spread of riots was On 11 July 2013 when Muslims started with Dhule in Maharashtra. prevented by combing operations and of Tonk City were offering Maghrib On 6thJanuary 2013, a Muslim auto increasing police reinforcements. Salat (Prayer after sunset) at the driver had an argument with Kishore Five people were arrested (Sahafat Chhawni Jama Masjid, a Baraat Daily, dtd. 7/2/ 2013). procession came from the nearby 14 JANATA, January 5, 2014

‘Keer’ Hindu locality playing D.J. RAC and STF personnel. The Juma’ another injured critically. Then the in loud voice and stayed a bit longer prayers went peacefully and people police resorted to ‘lathi charge’ and in front of the mosque. Some people came out of the mosque. According started beating everyone irrespective requested the Keers not to play to the eye witnesses, all was peaceful of their age. Even a Muslim police the D.J. in front of the mosque. A and under control and the people officer, who was praying at the heated argument took place which were heading towards their homes. mosque, was also thrashed by the soon turned into conflict and then All of a sudden, allegedly without any STF. Even the Imam of the Jama’ stone pelting from both sides began. provocation, about 150 policemen Masjid was not spared. About 80 The police came and controlled the (including RAC and STF) stormed people were injured and two died. situation. into the mosque breaking the back The person died other than Nasir door of the adjacent Madrasa and could not be recognized, as the On 12 July 2013, as the instantaneously fired a number of police took him away in very serious Muslims gathered at the Chhawni teargas shells straight on the people condition and he didn’t belong to Jama Masjid in order to offer offering Namaz in the mosque. One Tonk. special Friday (Juma’) prayers, huge of the shells hit a youth, Nasir in Police force was deployed along with his face, who died on the spot and ( to be concluded) Say no to social sector budget cuts Open letter to the Prime Minister

It was prominently reported Development Ministry and Rs 4. The main reason for the present in the media a few weeks ago 5,500 crore for the education state of the fiscal deficit has been that the Finance Ministry of the sector which falls under the inadequate revenue mobilization Government of India, was likely Ministry of Human Resources in light of liberal taxation policies to mandate significant expenditure Development. In addition, followed by the government. cuts across the board, ostensibly to ministries are reportedly being Therefore, reducing expenditure rein in fiscal deficit and wasteful told to limit their last quarter to match the declining revenues expenditure. Such a move raises spending to below the average receipts on account of liberal several disturbing questions related of the first three quarters and a taxation policies is tantamount to both to its underlying presumed further cut of same by around 20 to asking the poor to bear a economic wisdom and its procedural percent might be imposed. disproportionate share of this propriety. 2. Expenditure cuts have been fiscal consolidation burden. Also, We do not wish to get into a specifically proposed for these it needs to be mentioned that detailed discussion of the relevant sectors in light of surplus projecting low revenue receipts issues here but would like to flag a unspent funds that they had on basis of low tax revenues few pertinent points in the following accumulated in the previous before the end of the fiscal year letter and urge the Government of fiscal year. We must ask why might be misinformed as tax India to rethink its reported move. unspent funds existed with these revenue collection increases In particular we strongly feel that ministries and whether it relates considerably over the last few the promise of universal old age to implementation failures by the months of the fiscal year when pension for elderly workers from government at various levels. many direct tax collections occur. unorganized sector, which has been 3. Further, in event of existing 5. The Constitution explicitly long overdue, should be fulfilled. surplus funds, what is the mandates the democratic 1. Such cuts typically occur in social rationale for not using same to oversight of the raising of sector ministries and schemes. As address the urgent and pressing resources and spending by reported in the media, the Finance issue of universal old age pension government, with the underlying Ministry has already proposed across India which can benefit principle for being that resource expenditure cuts amounting to the elderly population coming raising and spending patterns of around Rs 15,000 crore for Rural from the unorganised sector? the government must be subject JANATA, January 5, 2014 15

to popular scrutiny through to ask if the present fiscal and enhance pension amounts for a broad consultative process. consolidation strategy, at the cost the elderly with exclusions. Thus, in addition, a consultative of social sector expenditure and C. To institute a consultative mechanism with concerned by neglect of old age pension, process to deliberate measures for ministries is strongly desired is at all a strategy of “inclusive increasing revenues. before going for such policy growth” as emphasized by the measures. government regularly. Also, D. To make sure that all such it raises a serious doubt about budgetary processes should 6. We must remember that the government’s claim regarding henceforth be subjected to a pre- incumbent UPA government, insufficiency of funds and its budget consultative process. agreeing with the Pension concern regarding the welfare Parishad demands earlier this Signed by: Aruna Roy, Baba of elderly from the unorganized year had assured and promised Adhav, Akhila Sivadasa, Utsa sector, many of whom did not to universalize (with exclusions) Patnaik, Prabhat Patnaik, Jayati even receive basic minimum and upscale the monthly old age Ghosh, Ravi Srivastava, Praveen wages during their productive pension amount to a dignified Jha, Nikhil Dey, Brinda Karat, years. level for ensuring economic Poornima Chikarmane, Amrita independency to senior citizens. We urge you as the Prime Chhachhi, Seema Mustafa, Minister: National Alliance for Peoples 7. Suggested policy measures, Movements (NAPM), Madhuresh as reported in the media, also A. To ensure that no budget cuts Kumar, Mary John, Mathew neglect previous statements by are made from any social sector Cherian, Himanshu Thakkar, K.P. the Finance Minister who had funds and that there is no reduction Shankaram, Ram Singh Parmar, assured a poor friendly fiscal in the funds allocated for the social Pradeep Priyadarshan, Jaya Bharti, consolidation roadmap for the sector Neha Saigal, J Deshpande, Kiran next five years. B. To ensure that unspent balances Shaheen, Sudeshna Sengupta, Rted. 8. Hence, in light of these and savings are used to fulfill the Air Marshal PK Dey, Asha Dey, observations it becomes pertinent promises to universalize pensions SWARAJ group, Karnataka. Middle class

There is an unfamiliar animal animal is stirring itself. And nobody sprawled across the war rooms is really sure of the consequences of of most political parties ahead ignoring its importance. There are of the 2014 polls. It is the Indian tangible reasons for this turnaround. middle class. Not so long ago, its If we take a strictly economic presence was insignificant. Hard- criterion of defining a middle class nosed political strategists dismissed person as anybody who belongs to it as of little consequence, and they a household which has a monthly could not be faulted. Most members income of between Rs 20,000 of this class were self-righteously and Rs 100,000 a month, the disinterested in politics; they voted middle class starts to look very but sporadically; their vision rarely substantial. Estimates reveal that transcended their immediate familial as per this criterion the size of the and municipal concerns; and their middle class in 1996 was a paltry 25 numbers constituted neither a million. Today, it is in excess of 160 Price: Rs. 20/- tactically consolidated bloc, nor a million. And, by 2015, its numbers significant numerical size. are expected to go up to 267 million. Janata Trust D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg, But something has changed this Pawan K. Verma Grant Road (W), Mumbai 400 007. time round. The docile, half asleep in R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, January 5, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, January 5, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday January 8, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

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Printed and Published by G.G. Parikh on behalf of Janata Trust. Printed at Mouj Printing Bureau, Khatau Wadi, Girgaum, Mumbai-400 004 and published at D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg (Sleater Road), Mumbai - 400 007. JANATA, January 5, 2014 19 Established 1946 Price : Rupees Five

Vol. 68 No. 53 Democracy zindabad! January 12, 2014 S. Viswam

Uncertain neighbourhood Kuldip Nayar The new year has ushered in speculate on their likely performance significant changes in the dynamics on the basis of the public perceptions Do the world institutions and grammar of electoral politics in about their relevance and utility. function democratically? India. The outcome of any election, India’s electoral history testifies K. S. Chalam to the assemblies or parliament, has always been an open question but to one fact: performance of parties in 2014 has clouded electoral issues state assembly polls is not an accurate A new phenomenon even a bit more darkly. Predictions barometer of popular preferences in Indian politics are risky these days. Certainties of in a Lok Sabha poll. It would be Qurban Ali yore have become debatable issues. wrong to assume that the Congress’ All parties are confident, yet, no dismal performance in the four party is willing to bet it will come to assembly elections means that the The AAP conundrum power with a majority. Indeed, is the concerned states will vote the same Praful Bidwai ground situation conducive at all for way for parliament. Similarly, it is no any single party to get a majority in guarantee that parties/coalitions doing Deliberateness and the Lok Sabha on its own? The answer well at the Centre will automatically spontaneity in violence is a clear no. Therefore, the question secure a second chance. We have the Raheel Dhattiwala arises: what kind of coalition(s) are famous debacle of the NDA with the in the offing? Who is the front-runner “India Shining” slogan, we know that and who are the runners-up? not only the NDA did not anticipate of the coming age the drubbing, the Congress also did and its foundation As things stand today, four clear not anticipate the windfall. Now, to Sishir K. Dhar months ahead of the Lok Sabha, the extreme discomfort of the NDA the outlook for the Congress seems and the UPA, there is a spoiler in bleak, whereas, judging purely by the the field in the form and shape of Editor : superior propaganda strategies and the Aam Aadmi Party, which is yet G. G. Parikh tactics of the saffron parivar groups, another player, more hopeful than the the BJP-led parties have already won erstwhile spoilers like the Samajwadi Managing Editor : Guddi the day. Electoral outcomes are not that Party, the , the D-15, Ganesh Prasad, simply achieved. Experience teaches Trinamool Congress and the two us that nothing should be taken for communist parties. Naushir Bharucha Marg, granted in politics. Equations change Mumbai - 400 007. overnight, and what seems valid Will it be right to assume that the today becomes history tomorrow. AAP will divide the anti-Congress Email : [email protected] Any comment therefore must give and anti-BJP votes, or will it be equal footing to all contestants and right to assume it will attract special 2 JANATA, January 12, 2014 popular patronage on its own and Between the lines in support of its platform? Yes, and no, we have to say. Delhi, where Uncertain neighbourhood the AAP scored so heavily, putting well behind it seasoned parties like the Congress and the BJP, cannot be Kuldip Nayar the trend-setter for the entire country for the simple reason that the AAP It was not a midnight knock. It The farce of elections, even before has no pan-Indian presence, no pan- was a blatant arrest in the broad one vote was cast, returned as many Indian ideology and no experience. daylight. Moudud Ahmed, former as 154 members unopposed and 103 As against this, its performance so Prime Minister, was picked up by through the one sided polls a few far and its achievement in forming a the police as soon as he stepped out days ago. Parliament in the country government in Delhi has caught the of a hotel at Dhaka. has strength of 300. Hasina’s victory imagination of the public, and this makes little sense when the BNP is expected to stand it in good stead His crime is that he is a top and most of the parties boycotted if and when it enters mainstream opposition leader belonging to the the election and refuse to accept the politics and fields candidates for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party(BNP), new government. A survey by a daily Lok Sabha polls. headed by former Prime Minister newspaper shows that 77 per cent Khalida Zia. Prime Minister Sheikh of people do not accept the verdict. The general assumption on the Hasina, Chief of Awami League, basis of reactions from various The most disconcerting part is the states currently is that the AAP can hates both. The last time when expect a good response if it decides Moudud was detained it was during unending violence. Dozens of people to contest between 250 and 300 the military rule of General Ershad. have died in boycotts and hartals. seats mostly in urban constituencies He too is at present detained and This is bound to affect the economy because its presence is yet to be shares the same prison. He and his which has had a steady growth of felt in rural areas. For the present, party, Jatiyo Sangshad, had refused 6 per cent for the last five years. the AAP is regarded as an urban or to support the Prime Minister. There will be more unemployment, elitist party with no ideology that is more poverty and more inflation. relevant or applicable on a national No doubt, fortunes change. Neither Hasina nor Khalida are scale. Yet, the youth—the above Rulers of today are the opponents worried about the situation which is 18 segment—is so impressed with of tomorrow. Yet what is seen deteriorating day by day. the Kejriwal phenomenon that a in Bangladesh is the politics of favourable response in all states vendetta. Khalida even had gone The beneficiary is the Jamaat-e- is taken for granted. The question to the extent of eliminating Hasina Islami which, no doubt, is on the whether the AAP on its own can when she was in the wilderness. side of Khalida but targets own line secure 272 plus seats in the Lok Moudud and other detenues have to polarize the society and spread Sabha is one no one is attempting to dared to oppose the authoritarian fundamentalism. Organised as the answer seriously now. Apparently, rule of the Prime Minister. An Jammat is, it has contaminated the political class is still calculating! autocratic ruler is bad enough. But the intelligentsia as well. Violence Let us wait and see where and it is worse when she or he does not through its cadres is the Jamaat’s now the cookie crumbles!! want to give up power. This is the contribution. Unfortunately, India crux of Bangladesh problem. has openly come out on the side Janata Subscription of Hasina. There is no doubt that Annual Rs. : 260/- The opposition parties’ demand she is secular and, like her father, Three Years : 750/- is to hold free and fair polls under a Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rehman, founder Demand Draft / Cheque on neutral authority. Instead, Hasina has of Bangladesh, she is staunchly pro- Mumbai Bank held elections under her government, liberation. But her determination to in favour of having done away earlier with the retain power by hook or by crook JANATA TRUST constitutional provision to conduct has thrown all norms to the wind. D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 the polls by a care-taker government should have played a headed by the outgoing Chief Justice. conciliatory role. Initially it did but it JANATA, January 12, 2014 3 is now seen partisan. The anti-India feeling is spreading and the Hindu Do the world institutions function population, nearly eight million is democratically? feeling the heat. If at all India had to show preference, it should support K. S. Chalam a person like Kamal Hussain, first foreign minister of Bangladesh and Nobel Prize Winner Yunus, to Post-colonialism is a buzz word future of mankind. Therefore, an provide the . in cultural and literary studies alternative is suggested: have faith signifying that colonialism is a in market (based on self-interest Khalida, otherwise pro-liberation, bygone era. But, social sciences of individuals). However they did puts a question mark against her are very slow in capturing the not tell us that the modern market credentials when she voices protest nuances of literary studies and is under the control of those who against the hanging of Abdul Quadir are developing their own methods control finance and other resources Mullah who had collaborated with of enquiry to focus on the issues by hook or by crook. Several Nobel Pakistan in the 1971 Bangladesh war. that come under post-colonial or laureates have produced treatises Those who committed the excesses post-modern or post-industrial, etc. to demonstrate how market is a on this count have to be punished by categories. It seems the euphoria democratic institution and proposed a regime which liberated the country. of post-modernism at least in India the much deliberated, Washington Yet hanging person beyond the age seems to have weakened and might consensus. Let us see how they of 80 makes little sense. continue in the metropolitan centres, enhanced the democratic values. may be for some time. Some of Pakistan cuts a sorry figure when commentators who were trained in Experts of international economic its National Assembly passes a the traditions of classical writers are order, particularly the political unanimous resolution to hail Mullah resistant to the new and innovative as a martyr. It indicates a biased economists like Gunder Frank, concepts, notions and research Samir Amin, Arrighi, Kohli, mind. Instead of expressing remorse, output brought out by young scholars the Pakistan establishment goes on Cardoso and others have narrated mostly from the West or West how development patterns in Asia behaving as if it is not sorry for all oriented Indian schools of thought. and Latin America are dissimilar. that it did. The country is pursuing May be some of us are becoming The development policies in Latin a wrong policy on Bangladesh. back numbers. But the fact of the America are dependent, Atul Kohli The Pakistan nation proves again matter is that, except splendid points out, while nationalist state and again that it cannot come4 English and excellent narrative and capitalist alliances have helped up to the expectations of Quaid- skills, they have not substantially e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah enhanced our understanding about development of an “indigenous who advised Pakistan not to mix the contemporary problems. It seems capitalism” in India. But, the process state with politics. Islamabad first the concerns that are projected by of development in both the regions trained Taliban to fight against some of the experts are not new, is done through the US sponsored Afghanistan and Kashmir. Now and in fact they are the extensions of globalisation. It is said that the World those very Taliban are endangering the old themes. Neo-colonialism is Bank-IMF pressured Latin American the stability of Pakistan. seen as globalisation or imperialism elite to embrace Washington or some other concept advanced consensus whereas India and other Fundamentalism in Pakistan is by the experts of 18th century. Asian countries have succumbed to increasing and even liberal voices Nevertheless, the centre of all “US informal empire”. However, are rare. When the lawyers shower economic manipulations is known the two patterns of development are flower petals on the accused for to everyone at least after the collapse pursued ultimately under the direct the murder of governor of the so-called social imperialism. control of World Bank, IMF, WTO, Taseer who wanted amendments It is commended by the defenders of etc. The methods of the institutions to the blasphemy law, it shows the democracy that totalitarianism under have been subjected to academic deepening of extremism in Pakistan. the guise of socialism or equity study by different scholars and the (Continued on Page 6) considerations is perfidious for the results are available now. 4 JANATA, January 12, 2014

There seem to be a disciplinary narrated how the US enlightenment Keeping the democratic bias in the analysis of some scholars. was not a variant of Europe, but a wheedling of the US, one expects that Economists try to project that the protest against it. The political culture the social and political institutions economic fundamentals like savings, of America was an amalgamation that it promotes at the national and investment, interest rate, fiscal of philosophy of enlightenment, world bodies carry the same values. deficit, etc. (no definition yet) play bourgeois revolutions, workers Now look at the much publicised a role in how economy performs. movements and impact of Russian and pampered institutions that are The political scientists (of late called revolution. He has identified that responsible in converting the whole as public policy experts) do try to the poor migrant workers have world as a borderless village; IMF, explain growth of a nation in relation generated a religious ideology World Bank. It is generally believed to the health of the state, democratic that rejected enlightenment and that these institutions as world institutions and the rulers. There is facilitated the inclusion Article 51 bodies provide equal weight to a subtle competition between the in European Union charter about the each member nation or in relation two as to which factors dominate role of churches. The recognition to the weight of the population in in the description of growth, each of church in the so-called secular decision making. But, IMF, for complimenting the other factors that world in the twenty first century is instance, is a structure based on the are displayed in their explanations. an acknowledgement of its assertion wealth of the member nation and The market is swamped with books and at the same time empowers carry voting rights in proportion to of propaganda to show that the the democratic claims of other this amount. Consequently, India American and western democratic denominations like Hindu, Islam, gets 2.34, China 3.81, Russia 2.39 institutions are superior and etc. Thus, the US cannot breakut per cent of votes and the OECD responsible for the third world of Atlanticism , Amin says, so countries now have 59.5 percent, of nations achieving rapid growth by long as the political alliances that which, America alone has 16.75 per imitation. Some authors are capable define its ruling blocs remain united cent votes followed by Japan with of attributing the whole development on dominant transnational capital 6.23, Germany 5.81, UK and France to democratic institutions and leading to “Collective Imperialism”. each with 4.29 per cent votes. But, market, underdevelopment to narrow In other words, the political culture as per GDP ranks, US stands at 1, elite rulers (irrespective of historical and the economic philosophy of China 2,India 10 and so on. It seems conditions), with their excellent globalisation are shared by every there is no relationship between the narrative skills (for example ‘Why country that joined the club and are wealth and quota of rights, of certain Nations Fail’ by Daron Acemoglu in a way not averse to institutions countries! and James A.Robinson). They do that perpetuate inequality and not see any purpose in the unequal discrimination. It is here that Amin The value of voting rights in the exchange and the institutions that has said , “And the United States World Bank and other institutions promoted inequality and injustice today-through the intermediary is almost the same. In other words, within a nation and among nations. of NGO’s ‘defending human the four or five countries of Europe Political economy, on the other hand, rights’- tries to manipulate the unlike the Security Council (with is an independent subject with its Dalit community’s protests in the Veto) would decide and control all own tools of analysis to combine same way and to contain them in economic policies of the world. Of the given factors in relation to the offensive spaces for the management late, they allow the unfair institutions dynamics of economy, society, of capitalism as a whole.” This may to survive as long as they do not clash polity, history, etc. and interrogate be a limited view of Amin about the with globalisation. It appears that the process as interrelated. As we Indian situation, but makes him to certain pieces of sponsored research are concerned about the institutions say that, ‘the right of interference of of the so-called paid intellectuals and not so much about development the Western civil society, a party to contain propaganda material to here, we may look at the functioning manipulation of dominant capitalism popularise the democratic agenda of some of the world organisations in pursuit of its own objectives’. This of globalisation and debunk the noted above. complex analytic of Amin makes above trend. Do the adversaries us anxious to look at the social have the same kind of support and Samir Amin, a political economist institutions (race, caste) that are patronage to make the discourse in his ‘Beyond US Hegemony’ has enduring in the host nation, America. really democratic? JANATA, January 12, 2014 5 A new phenomenon in Indian politics

Qurban Ali

“The emergence of the Aam political parties to act responsibly spearheaded by the youth. The Aadmi Party (AAP) vis-a-vis the in the future or be ready to vanish. AAP may well decide to field many traditional Indian political parties candidates for the parliamentary like the Congress and the Bharatiya The victory of AAP is multi- polls. But if the party puts up, say, Janata Party (BJP) in the Delhi dimensional. Major political parties around 100-150 candidates in urban assembly elections signifies a failed to live up to the hopes and and semi-urban areas, they could emerge as a ginger group in the next change”, said a leading Pakistani aspirations of the people and AAP Lok Sabha. Even more important, daily, Dawn, in an editorial. The has given a voice to the anger of it could end up creating a climate newspaper further said that “State the people. It is a sign of a healthy democracy and should be welcomed. against both the Congress and re-established the BJP in many places, in the process growing assertive presence of the Delhi election clearly shows that helping “like-minded” socialist- middle class in politics.The AAP has the AAP vote has cut across castes, left of the centrist parties or their emerged as a force by securing a large classes and communities and its conglomerates. number of seats in Delhi, containing candidates have uniformly won the Congress but also denting the from middle class colonies as well What is more important than BJP. It appears that a sizeable as from slum-bastis. Since the AAP floating a party, winning elections number of Indian voters locate the is a beneficiary of the prevailing or forming the governments is to reasons for political malfunctioning mood in urban India, its emergence launch a new kind of clean politics, committed to the basic idea of in the system itself, beyond the could spell the beginning of the end shaping of Indian polity on the basis incompetence and corrupt practices of politics segmented along caste, of values inherited from national of a single political party.” religion and community lines in the last two and a half decades of the movement and embodied in the . Thus the AAP A senior Congress leader and post-Mandir/Mandal era. should fully commit to its vision Minister of External Affairs, Salman document released in October, 2012 Khurshid had conceded that “There The AAP also signifies a reaction in New Delhi and highlight the is a revolution of sorts that took to the traditional politician and need of a political party and dreams place in Delhi because people said therefore could open out politics in of freedom fighters. The vision that institutional form of politics is other parts of the country. Cynics document cites the reason for the inadequate. We have to go to another may dismiss the AAP’s role outside forming of AAP: level which is the grassroots level.” the national capital, though it has Khurshid spoke against the backdrop already set up units in over 300 For the past two years, millions of AAP’s stunning victory in Delhi districts. So while the Congress-led of people came out on the streets elections while delivering a lecture UPA Government is down, maybe to fight corruption and demand Jan Lokpal. This two year anti- in the conclave ‘One World - Role even out, as far as 2014 elections are concerned, the Delhi election could corruption movement has exposed of India, China and USA in fostering catalyse the formation of a new force all our political parties and has it’. nationally, which could potentially made us all realize that we cannot stop the Narendra Modi juggernaut expect any political party to work There is no doubt that the in its tracks. for a corruption free India. emergence of Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi state assembly elections is a This may sound like wishful For two years we tried all new and revolutionary phenomenon thinking, but ground level shifts available avenues. We negotiated and a warning to major mainstream are taking place in the country, for our cause with the government, 6 JANATA, January 12, 2014 prayed to all parties, begged in front LIBERTY, of thought, expression, This is a dream of democracy, of them, sat on dharna, organized belief, faith and worship; social justice, secularism and of protests and sat on indefinite fasts sovereign India. The preamble of the EQUALITY of status and of thrice; but nobody listened, neither constitution promises a just society. opportunity; and to promote among the parties nor the leaders. They It is a promise of Liberty, Equality them all went on fooling the people of this and Brotherhood. country. FRATERNITY assuring the By forming the government in We realize now that begging will dignity of the individual and theunity not work. It is the time to uproot and integrity of the Nation; Delhi, and fulfilling two of its major these parties and change the whole poll promises regarding free water IN OUR CONSTITUENT system. We are not saying that every supply and slashing electricity rates, single politician is corrupt nor are ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of AAP has proved its credentials in the eyes of the masses that it believes we saying that only we are honest N o v e m b e r, 1 9 4 9 , D O what it says and can deliver. Now and only we will run the Government HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND honestly if we come to power. We AAP should be ready to take plunge GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS are saying that the whole political in national politics as an alternative CONSTITUTION. system of the Government needs a to mainstream parties. It may take complete overhaul so that the key of This preamble depicts our dream, some time but eventually it will be the system rests only with the public. the dream of ordinary Indians. a success of its vision. Hence we are not planning to enjoy the power if we get it, but to tear down the power conclaves and pass (Continued from Page 3) on the power directly to public. Taseer’s son, kidnapped two years Pervez Musharraf’s challenge that Why this Party? The Dream of ago, remains untraced and has been the army still ‘stands behind me’. Our Freedom Fighters forgotten even by the media which But there has been no contradiction is otherwise alive and kicking. by the army chief or his publicity Millions of martyrs including setup. This makes a mockery of the , Netaji Subhash Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s case of treason being heard by a Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, efforts to make up with India and law court. It means that the military Afshfaq Ullah Khan, Chandra Afghanistan are a breath a fresh air. continues to remain Pakistan’s third Shekhar Azad, Ram Prasad Bismil, He has to reckon with the rightist chamber. That the Pakistan army Mangal Pandey, sacrificed their forces, many in his own camp, agreed to a solution of Kashmir, lives to free the nation. Did they on one hand and the military on the main impediment, has come sacrifice their lives so that our own the other. Still he sent his brother, around is indeed a surprise. The people should plunder the country Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz army cannot afford to have an ex- instead of the British? These gallant Sharif, to meet Prime Minister general sentenced to death or life freedom fighters envisaged an India Manmohan Singh. Nothing concrete imprisonment. It seems that an that is described in the preamble of seems to have come out. honourable way like his bad health our Constitution. is sought to be found to send him W E , T H E P E O P L E O F New Delhi is not willing to out of the country. One plus point in INDIA, having solemnly resolved resume the composite dialogue, the relationship between India and toconstitute India into a SOVEREIGN which is the only option to span Pakistan is the acceptable agreement SOCIALIST SECULAR the distance between the two on Kashmir. Prime Minister countries. Nawaz Sharif would have Manmohan Singh has said in a DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and accelerated the process of détente press conference that the Kashmir to secure to all its citizens: if he had pushed the punishment of problem had found a solution but the 26/11 perpetrators, the terrorists, ‘some other things’ came in the way JUSTICE, social, economic and who attacked Mumbai. Pakistan before it was finalized. Why not political; may underplay the retired General renew the same solution? JANATA, January 12, 2014 7 The AAP conundrum: Steering clear of doctrines

Praful Bidwai

T h a t t h e A a m A a d m i including referendums. This can Take electricity. Private Party represents something empower people and give them distribution companies (discoms) unprecedented in Indian politics a sense of ownership of politics, have been overcharging consumers is a truism. AAP is India’s first so lacking in India. AAP’s social through meter-tampering, cost- party since the JP movement of agendas like providing water, padding, etc. AAP should have the 1970s to have evolved from power, health and education are ordered an audit, and then proceeded a civil society mobilisation. It is also welcome. towards tariff reduction. Instead, formally a regional party, but with it raised subsidies to discoms! unhidden national ambitions and a The negatives are AAP’s silence Poor and middle-class people don’t fast-growing presence outside its on vital questions like poverty, need 400 monthly units. Even an original base. Unlike most regional inequality, , and un-airconditioned three-bedroom outfits, it has no crystallised caste, gender and caste discrimination; home with a refrigerator uses 200 class, ethnic, religious or location- prevarication on affirmative action units. Halving tariffs for 400 units specific identity. for the underprivileged; refusal to means subsidising the rich, but take a stand on Narendra Modi while leaving eight lakh poor families AAP claims to have no ideology mainly targeting the Congress; and unconnected. or affinity to doctrines like ad-hoc policy-making unrelated to socialism, secularism, liberalism or a broader vision. AAP’s transportation policy Hindutva. Ideology, it says, is “for Rejection of ideology, which is similarly warped: its minister the pundits and the media…” AAP alone can provide vision, is crucial opposes bicycle lanes and Bus is itself content to be “solution- here. Take the AAP government’s Rapid Transit, which is superior focused”. It deplores the “tendency first two decisions: to supply to the Metro. AAP’s “Vision” to pin down political parties as Left, 700 litres of water free to each document talks of education and Right, Centre…” Delhi household daily, and halve health unpardonably naively. It electricity tariffs for monthly only wants to raise government AAP is less about goals - barring consumption below 400 units. schools’ quality to that of private eradicating corruption, its principal Contrary to appearances, these schools—not establish common agenda - than process: popular don’t favour the poor as much as schooling. Healthcare involves participation to reduce the distance the middle/upper-middle class, and nutrition, sanitation, environmental between people and politics, rulers duck issues of universal access and safety, and preventive and curative and ruled. equity. medicine. AAP reduces it to hospitals alone. This is a mix of positive More than one-third of Delhi’s and negative features. Take the households, typically poor, don’t Worse, AAP is bending to positives. AAP has publicly rallied have piped-water connections, and pressure to conform to “mainstream” the normally apolitical middle will be effectively excluded. Little positions. That’s why Prashant class. It will willy-nilly eat into will be done to improve supply to Bhushan had to recant his sensible the BJP’s votes. No party places water-deprived areas or break the statements on Kashmir. As MNC as much emphasis as AAP on water-tanker mafia’s stranglehold. executives, bankers and professionals grassroots democracy, gram-sabha But 54 per cent of Delhi’s water join AAP, its composition and and mohalla deliberations, local will continue to be wasted. A positions will become more elitist. ownership/control of resources person only needs 50-60 litres daily. Whether and how it will combine like water, minerals and forests, Giving 140 litres free to all will this with a grassroots orientation and participatory decision-making, increase waste. remains unclear. –DNA 8 JANATA, January 12, 2014 Deliberateness and spontaneity in violence

Raheel Dhattiwala

An Ahmedabad metropolitan If different places experienced be most likely to lash out against court recently rejected a petition different levels of violence, did these Muslims. Instead, after taking into challenging the Special Investigation spatial variations occur at random or account other economic and social Team’s (SIT) 2011 conclusion did they indicate a pattern? factors, we found that lethal violence that the post-Godhra violence in was considerably less likely where Gujarat in 2002 was an impulsive These are crucial questions the BJP was strong (for example, reaction of Hindus enraged by the to be addressed for any event of Junagadh, Navsari). Endorsing this Godhra killings and not a political large-scale violence. To do so, I pattern, we found that violence was conspiracy fronted by Chief Minister teamed up with Dr. Michael Biggs, less likely to happen in places with Narendra Modi. a sociologist at Oxford University, to a sitting BJP MLA. conduct a systematic analysis taking Killings were less likely where On the other hand, some in account of all possible factors that the BJP was very weak (for example, the media, academia, police, and might have caused the violence. We Narmada, Dangs). It was in places advocacy groups have maintained meticulously gathered information where the BJP faced the greatest that the violence was a well- on the population of Muslims, electoral competition, having gained orchestrated anti-Muslim “pogrom,’ scheduled castes and Tribes -on about 35-40 per cent of the vote in not a spontaneous “riot.” The Sangh socioeconomic conditions such 1998, that lethal violence was the Parivar had diligently planned the as unemployment and migration. worst (for example, Anand, Kheda). violence to help a wilting Bharatiya We measured the strength of BJP Hereo the party will face the greatest Janata Party (BJP) in Gujarat, they by its vote in the 1998 Assembly competition for votes in the coming charged, and disgruntled members election and by the presence of a election. among Scheduled Castes () BJP MLA. Crucially, we compared and Scheduled Tribes (Adivasis) peaceful with violent places in These findings take into account were instrumentally mobilized to order to identify specific risk the social and economic factors that execute the plan. It was suggested factors associated with violence. could have led to “spontaneous” that “spontaneity” was a ruse, Explaining the factors leading to violence, and so identify the specific following ploys adopted by earlier violence by examining only those effect of the BJP. This cannot be governments, notably the Congress cases where violence occurred judged by taking one or two well- in 1984 and the BJP-RSS in 1992- can lead to spurious conclusions. known instances of violence. 93. This methodology follows from Violence delivered votes the exemplary work on ethnic The first question about the post- violence in India by sociologists Violence, therefore, was greatest Godhra violence that comes to and political scientists such as Paul in places where the BJP faced the mind, and has indeed been noted Brass, Steven Wilkinson, Henrik greatest competition from other by scholars like Achyut Yagnik Urdal and Ashutosh Varshney. parties. By inflaming anti-Muslim and Lancy Lobo is: why did it sentiment, it was possible that occur so unevenly across the State? We found persuasive evidence that people who had previously voted for Although violence affected many the violence was not spontaneous. the Congress or other parties would towns, and pervaded rural areas Had it been spontaneous, it would be switch to the BJP the next time. with unprecedented frenzy, many correct to expect the most outraged Remember that it was later in 2002 places in Gujarat remained peaceful. people - and, subsequently, the - nearly a year after the most lethal By implication, if the post-Godhra worst violence - in places, where anti-Muslim attacks occurred and killings were an outcome of anger the BJP was strong. Even if the close to the next election - that Mr. and revenge, why were perpetrators party had not taken a leading role, Modi delivered the now infamous selectively angry or vengeful? it was its supporters who would (Continued on Page 15) JANATA, January 12, 2014 9

Reprint

Socialism of the coming age and its foundation

Sishir K. Dhar

Deeds inspired by hate are not duties, whatever pain and self-sacrifice they may involve. Life and hope for the world are to be found only in the deeds of love - Bertrand Russell.

Socialism is at bottom a question of ethics or morals. It has mainly to do with the relationships, which should exist between a man and his fellows. – Keir Hardie.

Social means different things to different persons, but if by socialism we mean a form of society in which the material needs of every individual are satisfied and also in which the individual is a cultured and civilized being, is free and brave, kind and generous, then I am absolutely clear that we will never reach this goal except by strict adherence to certain human values and standards of conduct – Jayaprakash Narayan.

We believe, power corrupts those who wield it as much as those who are forced to obey it. ... Intellectuals, positivists, doctrinaires, all who put science before life, defend the state and its authority.... the difference between such revolutionary dictatorship and the modern state is only one of external trappings. In substance, both are a tyranny of the minority over the majority – in the name of the many and the supreme wisdom of the few – and so they are equally reactionary, devising to secure political and economic privilege to the ruling minority and the enslavement of the masses, to destroy the present order, only to erect their own rigid dictatorship on its ruins.

– Michael Bakunin.

In the “Roads to Freedom”, Revolution inspired humanists in initiative in place of inertia, idealism published in 1918, Bertrand general and, in particular, socialist which conquers all suffering etc.” Russell observes: “Socialism, like thinkers for a better society based everything else that is vital, is rather on the ideals of liberty, equality and In the ultimate analysis, the a tendency than a strictly definable fraternity that the French Revolution individual is at the centre in any body of doctrine”. Here, the word proclaimed. Basically, the concept socialist or humanist society. Thus, ‘tendency’ is significant, and this of socialism is an aspiration of Karl Marx, who dedicated himself to statement indicates the difficulty ‘visionaries’ with a humanist-ethical the building of a collective socialist in trying to present a unanimous bent of mind to build a better society, movement with the proletarian class doctrine of socialism. However, eliminating grievous deficiencies and as the ‘vanguard’, emphasized at looking at the historical background, injustice in society, offering people the same time that “man is the root we may say that the concept of the opportunity to build a richer of mankind”. In fact, humanists in socialism emerged first of all in life that is, as Gandhi felt, “healthy, general have placed the individual Western Europe in the modern age happy and spiritually developed.” at the center of the social universe. as a humanist-ethical protest against Thus, Rosa Luxemburg emphasized: Long ago, Protagoras held that the suffering of workers in the wake “Socialism in life demands a “man is the measure of everything”. of the Industrial Revolution and the complete spiritual transformation in Immanuel Kant viewed man as injustice that the existent capitalist the masses degraded by centuries of an end and never as a means and system, thriving on this revolution, bourgeois class rule. Social instinct to him, the sanctity of life was a manifested. Side by side, the French in place of egotistic ones, mass ‘categorical imperative’. In our 10 JANATA, January 12, 2014 times, we have the voice of Gandhi: of compassion or sympathy. This, it aspect, related to the given condition “The supreme consideration is man”, seems, is the noblest condition, the and it is pragmatic - the ideal and On the supremacy of the individual, acme of human existence as member practical aspects of socialism. (“only Bertrand Russell’s explanation is: of a society. The Upanishad’s a system of values can construct a “People do not always remember affirmation that all life is one is culture, a civilization, and a new that politics, economics, and social seemingly the farthest point of such way of living together as men,” organization generally, belong to the a relationship. Socialists might said Ignazio Silone in ‘The New realm of means, not ends..... It is in take this idea of the Upanishad as Machiavelli’). Undoubtedly, the individuals, not in the whole, reflecting the psychology or ethics compassion or humanism constitutes that ultimate value is to be sought. of socialism. Ideally, the socialist the most essential foundation; minus A good society is a means to a good society is one where there is caring humanism, there is no socialism. This life for those who compose it, not for all and sharing with all, where point needs to be sufficiently stressed something having a separate kind of cooperation, as against animosity, as in our own time humanism and excellence on its own account.” In is the most valued path. such other foundations of socialism short, the society, a human construct as ethics and democracy have been - and extremely important or rather The world would become an strangled in the name of socialism, indispensable for all except saints earthly paradise when, if ever, merciless tyranny riding roughshod and lunatics - is for the human compassion or fellow-feeling became over the people and mocking at the individual and not the vice versa. the dominant trait of society. Where very ideal. It bears repetition that fellow-feeling binds the people, socialism or any such system is for Socialists, to whom an all-round there is, by definition, no injustice man and no system should make man development of man is the summum or oppression and no lack of liberty just a cog in the machine. Socialism, bonum - the fruition of man’s talents and equality. A vision like this may because of its very goal, must that makes his life creative and appear rather utopian. The humans, mean ‘compassionate socialism’ – happy, have envisioned in socialism with their frailties, seem incapable ‘socialism with a human face’. As a relatively specific programme for of building a prefect society. Yet, Sidney Hook explained, “if we are growth of such a society – a society with their potential for great things, completely indifferent to questions that does away with all kinds of with removal to the utmost of factors of human cost and suffering, only injustice, oppression, deprivation that degrade a man, a society can physical and biological necessities and antagonistic relations among be enlivened for an onward march limit our action. We can make a men. Socialism, said the eminent from progress to progress, when desert bloom into a garden if we are French socialist leader, Jean Jaures, its inhabitants have an honest firm prepared to fertilize it with human is the fulfillment of the ideals of the will, the required vision and most corpses and water it with rivers of French revolution – liberty, equality important, compassion to reach out blood.’ and fraternity. It seems to me, to others – these qualities of mind fraternity, or a lively fellow-feeling are not totally unrealizable. Further, “Establishment of a socialist or compassion is the deepest of the we must be ever conscious of the society cannot become a reality three ideals. It appears likely that ideal that shows the farthest point until the majority of the people, liberty and equality are not absent that we might endeavour to reach and particularly its elite, accept the where there is fraternity or fellow- with an unwavering commitment to ethical basis of socialist society,” feeling. Here, we can think of a the ideal; and this takes us further asserts M. L. Dantwala. He adds family with cordiality among the ahead. Mankind has progressed, “The progress towards socialism can members that inspires them to sink as also regressed, and there is no truly be judged not by the number or swim together. Essentially the reason why it cannot move in either or sweep of ‘socialist’ measures but society is a larger family only with direction further. by the nature of change in the value greater diversity that this largeness system of the society. In the effect, implies, and fraternity or fellow The goal of socialism has two this view rejects the orthodox belief feeling among the members is the major aspects: the foundational that if the structure of the economy is final goal wherever the humans are to aspect, based on values of changed, for example, through public live together. Fraternity grows where humanism, ethics, democracy and ownership of the instruments of the humans are guided with a sense rationality, and the programmatic product it will ipso facto change the JANATA, January 12, 2014 11 value system, which in the Marxist ruthlessly his will in the name of dialectical materialism, fear makes literature is considered as merely a morality or humanism, both the men conform and the party takes superstructure. We would go further moral and humanist contents get place of God, but when that God and say if there is a basic change petrified with that action. himself turns vicious, to be vicious in the value system appropriate to become a universal code. I feel a socialist society, it may not be Today, with a strong convinced, therefore, that man necessary to enact a succession disenchantment with Leninism and must go beyond the material to of cultural revolutions after the an urge to discriminate between find the incentive to goodness. As overthrow of the capitalist system”. ‘wheat’ and ‘chaff’ in Marxism, a corollary, I feel further that the Further, as he says ‘Expressions like unlike in 1920-40s there is a clearer task of social reconstruction cannot ‘Socialist Ethics’ and ‘Value System’ perception of the relationship of succeed under the inspiration of are difficult to define and attempt ethics and democracy to socialist a materialist philosophy.” Later, to bind them in words perhaps society, most noticeably in the at the Rangoon Conference of the circumscribes their import. I may thinking of democratic socialists. Asian Socialists he said “If we define them negatively as the urge to Thus keeping an eye on the concern ourselves only with shaping share the ‘surplus’- material as well deformity of socialism in Russia and the environment, and neglect the as non-material – which may accrue concerned with questions creeping individual, we will find that all the from birth, wealth or wisdom (skill) in on some aspects of Marxism, elements which constitute human or sheer chance. The ethics of it is Jayaprakash Narayan wrote in ‘In nature will nullify our efforts at embodied in the dictum ‘from each the Lahore Fort’, the notes of which building a new society.” according to his capacity’ to ‘each had been prepared in 1944 while according to his needs’. “Relevant imprisoned in the Lahore Fort : “it On the question of appropriateness here is an observation by Mao is not sufficient to pay attention to of the means to be followed vis-a Zedong, as Dantwala refers to : “a the material aspects of life alone” vis the end of socialism, a valuable mere public ownership of production and when “lying, deceit, dishonesty, yardstick offered by Rammanohar cannot usher in socialism, because hatred are exalted into a principle of Lohia was what he called the ‘test such a change does not by itself rid state-craft and party management, of immediacy’, in terms of which men’s minds of selfishness, personal all who are not drunk with power the goodness or badness of an concept or the desire to have the must be seriously concerned with action in relation to the ultimate better of others, nor end workers’ the wisdom of such a one-side end could be, and should be, judged alienation arising from division of development”. by its immediate impact. He says, labour.” “whatever one does in the immediate With a relentless quest for truth goes into the total of what one At the beginning of this essay, we and with a striking open-mindedness, achieves in the future.” In short, have highlighted the views of Keir so characteristic of him, Jayaprakash the character of an action must Hardie and Jayaprakash Narayan, Narayan continued crystallizing his not contradict the character of the belonging to different countries thoughts and thus expressed himself ultimate end, when moral quality and to different periods, on the in a famous article, ‘Incentives to of the means followed acts strongly ethical foundation of socialism. Goodness’: “For many years I have on the end. It is significant that These views are based on strong worshipped at the shrine of the socialists as a part in their ideological realistic grounds. In reality, morality goddess - Dialectical Materialism moorings as R. H. Tawney and and compassion have an intimate, - which seemed to me intellectually Antonio Gramsci recognized that harmonious relationship. Thus, as more satisfying than any other a decent society could grow only Bertrand Russell points out, “Moral philosophy. But while the main quest with a commitment of the people to progress has consisted in the main, of philosophy remains unsatisfied, a decent ethic. of protest against cruel customs, and it has become patent to me that of attempts to enlarge the bounds of materialism of any sort robs man of The strong Gandhian emphasis human sympathy.” There is, it seems, his means to become truly human. on the sanctity of the means, on the a humanist content in morality In a materialist civilization man has essentiality of good means even for and a moral content in humanism. no rational incentive to be good. good ends, pinpoints a vital criterion When one imposes fanatically and It may be that in the kingdom of for socialists who are eager to honour 12 JANATA, January 12, 2014 the values of humanism, ethics and most violent or that which appears to had proclaimed “all powers to the democracy. Gandhi is categorical be most peaceable.” But can the end Soviets”, but the Soviets turned into that the means must be harmonious remain uninfluenced by the means? mere ornaments within three years to the moral quality of the ends; On this issue Lenin was close to of seizing power. Things could not acting for a good end does not mean Engels and he thus presented his be otherwise in the Leninist system. a licence to be unscrupulous. Not ‘Communist Morality’: “Morality only from the moral standpoint, also for us is subordinate to the interest of “Socialism properly belongs to pragmatically, this is a sound rule. the class-struggle of the proletariat”. the age of democratic ideologies that Referring to the continuity between In practice, this meant that the began at the end of the eighteenth means and ends Sidney Hook is upholder of such a morality could century”, points out Albert Fried and precise that “The shape of the future resort to any means to crush the Ronald Sanders. An undemocratic is moulded not by our words about ‘class enemy’, when any opponent climate is repugnant to development ends but by our day-to-day deeds.” was his class enemy. At the root of socialism. Lenin also was As you sow, so you reap. “As the of the Stalinist tyranny lays the categorical in 1905 that “whoever means so the end,” holds Gandhi. moral deficiency of Leninism. Let wants to approach socialism by It is nothing but self-deception to us consider the matter along with any other path than that of political attempt building, for instance, a Jacques Maritain’s explanation that democracy will inevitably arrive democratic or humanist society by the means are “ways to the end and, at the most absurd and reactionary resort to tyrannical methods that so to speak, the end itself in its very conclusions in the economic and will naturally strengthen the force process of coming into existence. in the political sense.” But in 1917, of tyranny. Gandhi uses a nice So, applying intrinsically evil means when he had the opportunity to seize metaphor on the intimate ends- to attain intrinsically good end is power by undemocratic means, means connection: “The means simple nonsense and a blunder.” Lenin did not hesitate to jettison may be likened to a seed, and the democracy, overwhelmed with his end to a tree; and there is just the The fate of socialism in Russia, in characteristic obsession with power. same inviolable connection between particular, bought a new awareness In the ‘Russian Revolution’, strongly the means and the end as there is to socialists all over the world on criticizing Lenin, Rosa Luxemburg between the seed and the tree”. the essentiality of democracy and said, “Lenin is completely mistaken freedom of the people for building in the means he employs” and “the In reality, there is a difference a socialist society or any humanist remedy which Lenin and Trotsky between geographical ends and society. After his visit to USSR in have found, the elimination of social ends; one can reach an existent 1920, Bertrand Russell had warned democracy as such, is worse than the place by different means but one at an early stage, when Lenin was disease it is supposed to cure; for it has to create a moral society by at the helm of the party and the stops up the very living source from morally appropriate means. This state, that ‘The system created by which alone can come the correction moral connection is there in Marx’s violence and forcible rule by the of all the innate shortcomings of assertion that “An end that requires minority must necessarily allow of social institutions”. unjust means is not a just end.” tyranny and exploitation… I see no Similarly, the seed and the tree reason whatever to expect equality Surveying the growth of relationship is obvious when he says of freedom to result from such a democracy from a historical : “Nothing can emerge at the end of system.” A prophetic warning that perspective Acharya Narendra Deva the process which did not appear as a was! After a rule of more than seventy said : “Democracy is the result of presupposition or precondition at the years, the gap between the rulers and a long and painful effort: and “if beginning.” However, Marxism with the ruled remained unbridgeable in we want to survive in the present its ‘historical materialism’ rather the ‘land of socialism’ (eulogizers’ age we shall have to accept those dilutes the point. Thus, contrary to words). And the ‘dictatorship of social and political values which this emphasis by Marx in the above the proletariat’ continues weighing are essential for a modern society”. statements, in a letter to Herson Trier on as a ‘dictatorship over the One of those values is democracy.” in 1889, Engels declared that, “any proletariat’ (Trotsky’s words before No doubt, democracy is integral means that leads to the aim suit me his joining Lenin’s party). On the both as means and as an end to any as a revolutionary, whether it is the eve of the seizure of power Lenin sane society, including the socialist JANATA, January 12, 2014 13 society. Democracy is valuable reliance on peaceful rational means. their actual form should be or not only as a political concept but whether, for instance, agricultural as a civilized way of life. Ideally, It should be recognized that growth shall have priority over democracy in its positive promises socialism has both democratic and industrialization, the appropriate is (i) freedom when it allows even totalitarian potential. Hence, one technologies, etc. – all these are the weakest (as also the smallest must be careful about the choice of highly important but they must be minority) to speak out against even means. We remember how Lenin considered in terms of their actual the mightiest; (ii) Progress ensuring had captured power in the name contribution in a given socio- “free struggles of opinion” and with of workers – a ‘dictatorship of the economic context. Of instrumental that helping elimination of wrong proletariat’, as he claimed - by value, the programmes are just ideas and fruition of good ones: strangling the incipient democracy means to the goal. The fundamental (iii) peace as in democracy people that the people of Russia got after question is what values shall vibrate can settle their discords - or fight long years Czarist autocracy, and society and the life of the people. their ‘war’, peacefully instead of how the people continued groaning The social structure and all such depending on brute force; and (iv) under Lenin’s tyrannous system, things may be modified in the light civilization as in democracy might is until its fall, mocking at the Marxian of their actual service. There is not right but reason and right of the vision of “an association in which sanctity of values and not of the individual are might : in democracy the free development of each is the structure of programmes. ‘the rule of law’ replaces the ‘law condition for the free development of the jungle’ (and the caprice of of all.” In course of his controversy Vehicles of reaching the goal, the an autocrat). “As long as I have with Engels, Prof. Duhring had socialist agenda must be related to any chance, I will only stay in a sounded a note of warning that the given objective condition and country where political liberty, force possessed an evil potential to its changes. Thus, the socialist toleration and equality of all citizens that might affect the character of the agenda, never oblivious to the goal, before the law are the rule,” held user, and the proletariat should be shall be based on an understanding Einstein. Hopefully, democracy is circumspect to use it lest it corrupted of the character and two major a universally valued principle in the the society they wanted to build. phenomena today - the existing world today. Significantly, the erstwhile Leninist capitalist system and the modern parties in Russia and East Europe industrial civilization, besides a Rationality is a precious have now opted for a multiparty recognition of problems faced characteristic of a civilized life, democratic system, discarding the or achievements by the forces of the best bridge of communication Leninist autocratic methodology. capitalism in different countries. between two conflicting opinions, and is an essential base of socialism Obviously, the values of Karl Marx who made a unique or any progressive society. It teaches humanism, ethics, democracy study of the capitalist system and us not to be dogmatic or fanatic and rationality reflect the basics was highly perceptive on some even when committed to a noble on which a free, egalitarian and features relating to its growth was at cause, but to be open-minded, compassionate society is to be the same time erroneous on its fall dispassionate and objective in our founded. At the same time, there and on its staying power. More than thinking. There is no single definite is a need for a programme of 150 years ago, Marx had predicted formula of social progress and even action. And when the norms or the in the ‘Communist Manifesto’ the if it were so, none could claim above values are inviolable, the “inevitable fall” of capitalism. that his formula was necessarily programme is pragmatic, subserving Marx’s emphasis on the history- the correct one. A mature mind, the values and the ideals of liberty, specificity of capitalism exercised not swayed with any dogma, shall equality and fraternity. This a strong influence on thinkers in examine questions with objectivity means what the socio-economic general. After him, not a few eminent and try to arrive at a balanced view. structure, rules, regulations, policies thinkers and critics of capitalism No doubt, democracy with its free and programmes, etc. should predicted regularly the end of struggle between differing ideas is be or whether there should be capitalism, for instance, Warner the most rational political system nationalisation, central planning, Sombart – ‘Modern Capitalism’ and it tames power and discord with etc. and of so how much, and what (1902), Rudolf Hilferding – ‘Finance 14 JANATA, January 12, 2014

Capital’ (1910), Rosa Luxenburg – the USSR itself and several states, future course. When Bernstein had ‘The Accumulation of Capital’ subscribing to the Leninist faith, shown how capitalism had diverged (1913), Lenin – ‘Imperialism: the have toppled down. Now capitalist from the path chalked out by Marx, Last Stage of Capitalism’(1916), thinkers are aloud on the superiority orthodox Marxists only expressed Joseph Schumpeter – “Capitalism, of the capitalist system, whether their fury against Berstein, the Socialism and Democracy” (1943), true, half-true or false they are. revisionist. They were wrong and Richard Lowenthal – ‘Beyond Bernstein right. Similarly, the well- Capitalism’ (1946) and, may be, In any case, since the time of known communist economist, some others. To them, capitalism Marx to today, capitalism has Eugene Varga, also argued that the was in its last stage. Rosa Luxenburs traversed a long distance and it is anarchy of capitalist production stated. “Though imperialism is the now remarkably different from what and distribution was considerably historical method for prolonging Marx had seen and thought of its curbed through state intervention. the career of capitalism, it is also a (to be concluded) sure means of bringing it to a swift conclusion.” The title of Lenin’s book itself is self-explanatory; he arrived Stop recommending impunity at the same conclusion as that of for pimps and brothel-owners Rosa Luxemburg through somewhat different arguments. Schumpeter, not an enemy of capitalism, argued Apne Aap Women Worldwide More than a 1,000 individuals and from a different angle than that of and over 1190 signatories, organizations representing victims Marx, that “there is inherent in the including several organizations and and survivors, women’s, Dalit, De- capitalist system a tendency towards individuals, submitted a petition notified Criminal Tribe, Backward self-destruction...” when “objective to the Executive Director of UN Class, Hill Tribe, Indigenous, LGBT, and subjective, economic and non- Women yesterday asking them to and First Nation groups have signed economic factors, reinforcing each withdraw recommendations in a a petition that Apne Aap will submit other in imposing accord, contribute Note and two reports -Sex Work to UN Women in Delhi on 7th to that result.” Richard Lowenthal, and the Law in Asia and Pacific: January. an important figure in German SDP, A UNDP, UNFPA and UNAIDS pleaded in 1946 for a federation report, Oct 2012 and HIV and the All India Dalit Adhikar Manch, of European socialist states, Law: Risks, Rights and Health, ABC Nepal, Bangladesh National beyond capitalism. The capitalist UNDP, 2012- asking countries to Women’s Lawyer’s Association, system also witnessed a number of decriminalize pimping, buying sex Budhan Theatre, Calcutta recessions in the twentieth century. and brothel-keeping*. University, Women’s Studies The world wide depression of 1930s Research Centre, Centre for Social was the most severe one, reminding “Such a move will fuel huge sex- Medicine and Community Health, many of the Marxian prediction of trafficking as those who buy and Eklayvya, Jabala, Kandamahal the doom of capitalism. sell women will get off scot free,” Zilla Sabuj Vaidya Sanghatan, said Apne Aap Founder, Ruchira Lady Sri Ram College, Women’s Today, the situation for capitalism Gupta. “The UN Women note and Development Cell, Miranda House, is much different from what it had the UNAIDS recommendations are Dept of Political Science, Maiti been before World War II, after in violation of agreed upon protocols Nepal, National Alliance of Women, which it made a strong resurgence. and conventions that India and other National Commission for Dalit In 1984, the then President of the member states of the UN are party Human Rights, National Dalit USSR, Chernenko, conceded that to. This backdoor attempt to push Forum, National Dalit Watch, South even through it had repeatedly through policies without getting the Asian Dialogues on Ecological appeared in history that the fall of formal agreement of member states Democracy, PRAJWALA, River capitalism was inevitable, it “still is a dangerous precedent. If India Basin Friends, Society for Promotion possesses quite substantial and and other member states ignore this, of Wasteland Development, Socialist far from exhausted reserves for other treaties and conventions may Front, School of Women’s Studies, development.” on the other hand, be flouted as well.” Lady Barbourne College, STOP, JANATA, January 12, 2014 15

SANLAAP are some of the groups Commission. The majority of the surrogacy, and cheap labour. One that have signed the petition. prostituted are girls and women are of the worst forms of trafficking is from scheduled castes and other now inter-generational prostitution The recommendations and backward classes. where former de-notified criminal note are in direct violation of the tribes are forced to pass down following: Girls and women are trafficked prostitution from mother to daughter UN Protocol to End Trafficking mainly for purposes of prostitution, or daughter-in-law by upper caste in Persons, Especially Women and child marriage, organ trade, and upper class gangs. Children, 2000 (Continued from Page 8) Universal Declaration of Human speech in Mehsana with obvious to use it with eclectic references to Rights; references to “Alis, Malis and Newton and puppies. His latest blog Jamalis” and their “child producing post following the metropolitan Supplementary Conventionon factories.” court verdict, where he expresses the Abolition of Slavery, the Salve “absolute emptiness” at the violence Trade and Institutions and Practices So, did this electoral tactic work? again signals the government’s Similar to Slavery, 1956; We measured how the BJP’s vote purported helplessness at the went up or down between 1998 and Convention for the Suppression spectacle of perpetrators letting off the Assembly election at the end of of the Traffic in Persons and of steam. 2002. We found a strong pattern: the Exploitation of Prostitution of where more Muslims were killed, Courtesy: The Hindu Others, 1949; the greater the boost to the BJP’s Guidelines in the Committee vote. For example, the BJP’s vote Veteran leader of fishermen on the Elimination of all forms of increased substantially in districts community in India, N D Koli, Discrimination against Women where the violence was severe, as passes away and we salute him. (CEDAW, 1979). in Panchmahal. In districts without violence, by contrast, the vote Petitioners have also objected to He led many struggles of declined, as in Surendranagar. UN Women reccommending that one of the most marginalsied their sexual exploitation be called These findings flag a crucial aspect communities in India. Like “sex work”. The Apne Aap petition about the post-Godhra violence: that farmers, fishermen also addressed to the Phumzile Mlambo it had an implicit political logic. are exploited largely by Ngucak, Executive Director, UN There is much evidence, not only Globalisation and in the name Women says: “We do not want to be from India, of the link between of so-called Development. called ‘sex workers’ but prostituted political authority and its capacity He was instrumental in women and children, as we can never to arouse ethnic tensions, sometimes forming National Fish accept our exploitation as ‘work’. leading to violence. Depending workers’ Forum. We think that the attempts in UN on the will of the government The struggle against foreign documents to call us ‘sex workers’ controlling local law and order, the trollers, and mechanised legitimizes , resulting violence is either allowed trawling, were fought especially women of discriminated to continue or is stopped. This is vehemently by Koli and castes, men and women from poor particularly the case in multi-ethnic he gave a vision to Indian and marginalized minority groups, societies because they provide wider fishing community like what who are most vulnerable to being scope to change the salience of Prof. Nanjundaswamy did for trafficked and prostituted.” ethnic issues to suit political elites. farmers... The foil of “spontaneity” in There are three million women Socialist fraternity violence has worked admirably in and girls trapped in prostitution expresses deep grief in the favour of the political elites in India. in India, of which 1.4 million are loss of a comrade from the used it to justify the girls, according to the CBI. The struggle front. average of entry into prostitution is “spontaneous” reaction of angry between nine and thirteen, according Hindus at the assassination of Mrs George Jacob to the National Human Rights Gandhi in 1984; Mr. Modi continues R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, January 12, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, January 12, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday January 15, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

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Vol. 68 No. 54 Disquieting scenario January 19, 2014 S. Viswam

Political Scene After delivering his farewell the prospects or otherwise of his Kuldip Nayar message to the nation at one of becoming prime minister. As for Modi his rare press conferences, Prime himself, it would seem that he has left Minister Manmohan Singh has lapsed the governance of his state Gujarat Dreams of Lowest of into his all-too-familiar silent mode. to officialdom and is wandering all the lowly subaltern Like the proverbial monkeys, he over the country attacking whosoever K. S. Chalam neither hears nor speaks nor listens; he can in the Congress but without so things can be said to be normal in telling the nation what he intends to his area of operation. As for the other do if and when he becomes prime The AAP Revolution major, and real, centre of power, what minister. His vision, as far as one can Irfan Engineer does or does not do, make out, is to live in a Congress- what she says or means and what she free India. Beyond that he does not tells others to do, only she knows. have an inkling of what the post of Prof. Ila Pathak Her son and heir to the Congress prime minister entails and what it (1933-2014) dynasty, is even worse: one day he symbolizes. However, what is clear Vibhuti Patel, Sonal Shukla is willing to become prime minister, from his travels and speeches is that the next day he would like to devote he is carrying out an assignment himself exclusively to party work entrusted to him by the RSS. And, he Socialism of the coming age and the third day, he is disgusted is doing his best. Modi wants what and its foundation-II with everything in Indian politics, the RSS wants. And the RSS wants Sishir K. Dhar including with his own party. The a Hindu Rashtra and rule of India by long-standing disconnect between a Hindu majority implementing the the Indian masses and the triumvirate concept of religious majorityism. continues. There are others in the Editor : Congress who try to connect with the Modi travels all through India G. G. Parikh masses, but they do not have the ears and captivates his audience with Managing Editor : Guddi of Sonia, Rahul and Manmohan. So, his oratorical skills, but one wishes as far as Indian masses are concerned, he would occasionally tell us what D-15, Ganesh Prasad, there is no government in Delhi. Not is wrong with India apart from its Naushir Bharucha Marg, now, not in the last five years. having to contend with the Congress Mumbai - 400 007. Party. Rahul Gandhi at least identifies As for the principal opposition the ills of the country having much Email : [email protected] party, nothing else exists or matters to do with the nature of the political other than Narendra Modi and system we have chosen for ourselves. 2 JANATA, January 19, 2014

So does the Aam Aadmi Party, but Between the lines the difficulty with the AAP is that it sees everything through the prism Political Scene of corruption at higher levels of the government. Surely, corruption is Kuldip Nayar only one negative in a plethora of negatives in the system. Modi does not want to share confidences with Indian Political scene, even rhetoric. The AAP has come out us on the kind of ills that are making though fractured and patchy, is with an agenda and time frame for democracy useless in India. acquiring a shape of sorts. The uplifting the lower half. When the emergence of the Aam Admi Party, communists could not improve the Considering that in just five founded by NGOs, sneeringly called quality of life in in their months India will be going in for the the johlawalas, has changed the 35-year-old rule, they have proved most crucial general election in its scene. It has provided the much- that the Marxism of their type is post-independent electoral history, needed alternative to the Congress only a veneer of progress. Scratch the run-up to the polls present and the Bhartiya Janata Party which their skin, they are found part of the a disquieting picture. What the are the same wine in two different establishment. What they could not scenario portrays cannot be true or old bottles. do—arouse the poor to have their acceptable for a country of 1.2 billion say—for decades, the AAP promised people. What the scenario obtaining Regional parties, which have to do in about 12 months. today tells us is that we have to a sway in the states, look like choose between Narendra Modi and the biggest losers. Their appeal The two main parties, Congress Rahul Gandhi or between alliances in the name of language, area or and BJP, are like mahants in temples. led by Modi or Gandhi. There seems religion has lessened in effect. They have learnt nothing, forgotten no alternative. Yet, something in The success of the AAP in the nothing. Instead of correcting their our instinctive assessments tells us Delhi assembly elections has hit the policies, they consider the AAP an that there cannot be such an acute polarization the most that the party aberration or a bubble which will famine of leaders in India that it is has transcended caste, creed and such burst by the time the Lok Sabha currently experiencing. Where are other considerations. When both elections are held this April. They all our eminent leaders gone? Congress and the BJP admit that they are mistaken because the party has have to learn from the way the AAP caught the imagination of the people Even three months ago, it seemed has come up, they should transform and it has spread like a wild fire. themselves. Yet they remain the Lakhs of people who have joined that the possibility of regional citadels of status quo. Whether the the AAP show that. leaders forging an alternative to the AAP has the Marxists and Naxalites Congress and the BJP should not within its ranks does not matter as The manner in which the wave be ruled out. But the advent of the long as they are in tune with the of Narendra Modi, the BJP’s prime AAP seems to have ruled out such a people’s aspirations. Ultimately, the ministerial candidate, has waned probability as the AAP willy-nilly is test is how soon the AAP eliminates indicates that he does not command being taken to be the Third Front of poverty which encompasses half the crowd he once did although which everyone spoke but to bring of India’s population even after 67 media continues to play him up. about which no one did anything years of independence. That is the reason why the RSS is seriously. Now, even the CPM sees frantically telling the BJP to stop the AAP in a position to deliver One thing sure is that the Left has the AAP, not the Congress, which the kind of goods the communists been trampled upon mercilessly. It is has been its opponent for years. wanted to and hoped to deliver. So a loss, no doubt. But the communists The attack by the leaders on every where do we stand? and the nascent Socialist Party step the AAP takes in governing have to blame themselves because Delhi confirms the perception that The AAP cannot be faulted for they are no more tethered to the the Congress has slipped to the entering the national mainstream grassroots. Espousing the cause third position. The Congress has politics after its runaway success of progress and egalitarianism reportedly come to the conclusion (Continued on Page 4) cannot be confined to slogans or that it should unofficially support JANATA, January 19, 2014 3 the AAP to stall Modi. It also means that the Congress has realized that it Dreams of Lowest of the lowly subaltern cannot come back to power. In fact, it may try to marshal the different K. S. Chalam parties in the states along with its own strength in support of AAP to form the government at the centre. This is an age of dreams. Everyone King Jr. spoke 50 years ago in 1963 starting from the former President of against “the manacles of segregation The Congress will leave no India down to the current presidents and the chains of discrimination” (I stone unturned to keep Modi out of of various business groups prod have a dream). power. The most disturbing aspect the young Indians to dream. The This brings us to the circumstances of political scene is the corruption. activists in Delhi are dreaming to under which the most desolate babies Both the Congress and the BJP, the put an AAP man in the PM chair and of Muslim refugees in Muzaffarnagar latter especially, have no hesitation different social groups particularly camps are reported dead and the in getting the support of tainted in Andhra Pradesh are dreaming to leaders. The Congress refuses to take resultant gloomy silence all over. capture political power. Perhaps the action against Himachal Pradesh The death of malnourished babies hallucinations of intelligent people chief minister Virbhadhra Singh and the orphans in different parts with media (print and electronic) who allegedly favoured a company of the country was never a public support, of late are becoming in which his relations have a large issue. Then, who are the lowest of dream projects for many. Yet, none number of shares. Modi, otherwise the lowly in this great Karmabhumi of them has given sufficient and talking about cleanliness in public of 125 million people. Everyone is reasonable indications as to how to life, retains in his cabinet a minister sacred, but there are few who are realise the dreams in the absence of who has been convicted by the court. profane and despicable, may be resources and opportunities. Prof. Both Bihar’s Lalu Yadav and Rashid due to their past karma. What we K. Ramakrishan Rao of Andhra Masood of the Congress ceased to be the mortal humans can do except University was the first in the members of parliament as soon as dreaming and praying for their sins they were convicted. Why the BJP country to establish a dream lab in in temples, churches, etc. Therefore, is shielding the convicted members the Psychology Department to study agendas of the political parties have in Modi’s government in Gujarat? telepathy and dreaming. Now dream no place for them, except for those labs are a big business venture, both Another disturbing feature who can contribute or reciprocate. in USA and India. visible is the personality cult. The The term poor are moved out and democratic polity is sought to be Aam Admi has taken its place. Now The young and opulent sections changed to the presidential form. Delhi CM Kejriwal has clarified that narrate stories how they realised their Modi is to blame the most because he Aam Admi need not necessarily be dreams while the devious experts has raised the slogan of a strong man a poor man as there are many good colour them. We have hundreds and a strong government. A ruler, people among the rich corporates. of books in the market explaining who presided over the massacre of It is now simple to locate the lowly the rags-to-riches stories of some his own citizens some 12 years ago, as those who are beggars, wretched individuals without telling us the can be dangerous to the dissent that of the earth, the asocial people frauds and tricks that they employed. the constitution guarantees. as in Europe, ex-criminals, ex- This seems to be a tactic to put on the untouchables, tramps, traipses, It is not surprising, however back burner the traditional methods vagabonds and several other names shocking it is, that the police refused of perspective planning to achieve given in the English dictionary. to register a First Information set goals of an economy or society Interestingly, India is not short of Report (FIR) against Modi at followed in all civilized nations at such categories, we have structurally Ahmedabad. The snooping scandal one time. The present fad for dreams which implicates Modi in having and philosophically developed sorts looks like a process of change a girl under surveillance raises that have been surviving here for from scientific planning to vision many questions. An FIR is in order ages without much modification. documents and presently landing in to determine the truth. A centre- a dream circle. However, it is not in The history of man is full of (Continued on Page 7) any way close to what Martin Luther stories of rebellious movements 4 JANATA, January 19, 2014 against injustice and tyranny starting below the poverty line. Majority There is suffering and anguish no from Spartacus down to French of them eat tamarind and mango doubt, among the middle classes and and Russian revolutions and many seeds, tubers, etc. during summer or even the rich in getting safe drinking anonymous engagements in different drought spells and have developed water, sufficient parks, sparkled parts of the world. Yet, most of indigenous methods of animal roads, enough flights to roam about, the movements and struggles are instinct to survive. The experts sufficient Demat securities,etc. But, carried in the name of the lowest sitting in Columbia and Delhi have the misery and desolation of the of the lowly in every generation decided that the body mass index has indigent paupers are so grave that the with the subaltern remaining as a undergone a change and therefore compassionate should appeal to the residue. This number has remained Indians do not need the minimum political class to pay some attention substantial in India due to our of 2100 and 2400 calories of food to the woes of the lowly who are social norms and religious/spiritual per day in urban and rural areas everywhere, from remote jungles practices. Therefore, we have a respectively. They have elegantly to urban slums, city pavements, etc. scheduled caste community today in demonstrated in their international Bihar surviving only by eating dead, publications that liberalisation has In the absence of feign service or hunting, rats, called as Musahar. reduced and there or even crocodile tears before Bhangi or their equivalent names is no place for the lowly.Perhaps elections, the lowest of the lowly in different parts of the country are this has impelled some of our civil who constitute 50 per cent of the the people who eke out their living society activists to concentrate on official poor (30 crores) have no by carrying the night soil on their corruption (not private frauds under alternative except dreaming for a heads not only in the remote rural liberalisation) that is inhibiting future deliverance. Is there anyone areas but in urban regions and in public provisioning. Some left and to heed or at least glimpse at them the so-called secular sectors like radical groups (parties) have been in the melee of triumph of common the Railways. They are not few and addressing the oppressed class for man? to the amazement of our executive, the last several decades and seemed (Continued from Page 2) they are in millions as per the Safai to have failed to locate them yet, Karmachari Andolan. Strangely, while the AAP smiled at Aam Admi. in Delhi. It now proposes to contest we have untouchables among the AAP have a national agenda now more than 400 seats in the Lok Sabha Brahmins who do the menial jobs and the left and socialist outfits will poll. This means it will be one of the and pretakarmas of the upper castes be soon made redundant to lick their parties which will contest as many and are not equal to that of the wounds of rhetoric. seats as will make it possible for it priests of temples dreaming to enter to touch the magic figure of 272 out mainstream. Women and the differentially of 543. The question now is how this abled particularly from the socially agenda of the AAP will affect the Thus, it is difficult to identify disadvantaged groups are subjected process of alliance formation that the lowest subaltern. The Planning to double marginalisation. The nation will begin soon. Will not some of the Commission and our colleagues has suddenly waked up to discover erstwhile partners of the UPA and the in the profession are busy in that US has outraged the modesty of NDA be wanting to join hands with churning out the number of poor Dalit Devayani but, the civil society the AAP and bring into being a new to be limited to 30 per cent of the never troubled to look at 33655 kind of Third Front which will be a total population (to satisfy MDGs). crimes against dalits and 244270 more effective challenge to the UPA But, one committed civil servant women victims in 2012( CRB). and NDA? (retired) placed the number around Several traditional occupations of Janata Subscription 50 per cent for the Ministry of Rural the ostracised groups like fisher Annual Rs. : 260/- Development. Then who are they folk, weavers and even professional Three Years : 750/- and where do we locate them? dancers are appropriated by others Demand Draft / Cheque on making original artisans jobless, Mumbai Bank It is reported that 80 to 85 per dribbling in silence. The number in favour of cent of Adivasis in , of roofless victims succumbing to JANATA TRUST Odisha, Chattisgarh and parts of cold waves has made the apex court D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Andhra Pradesh (isolated) live to pass an order for night shelters. Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 JANATA, January 19, 2014 5 The AAP Revolution

Irfan Engineer

Aam Admi Party has aroused a AAP spokespersons are proclaiming the party in Gujarat while Kumar lot of enthusiasm among the people that while the traditional national Vishwas, one of prominent leaders of India after its spectacular debut parties like the Congress and the BJP of the AAP has praised Narendra in the Delhi elections. Though AAP are replacement to each other, AAP Modi and is busy mobilizing voters could not get majority and was not was an alternative. Arvind Kejriwal’s in Amethi to defeat Rahul Gandhi. even the single largest party, it was book titled Swaraj is selling like Mallika Sarabhai even publicly obliged to form its government. AAP hot cakes and has aroused a lot of rebuked Kumar Vishwas for being was nudged by both – Congress interests. sexist gay hater and for praising as well as the BJP to form its Modi. There is incoherence within government in the National Capital Jamat-E-Islami and other small the party on account of mainly being Territory - Congress by extending parties have declared its support to a single issue party which focuses unconditional support and BJP, the AAP. Soon there was a rush in on corruption. People following by deciding to sit on opposition many metros and small towns to join all kinds of ideologies and political benches in spite of being the single the AAP. Some media reports stated programmes are against corruption largest party. Harsh Vardhan, BJP’s that in matter of three days, three and therefore Meera Sanyal as well Chief Ministerial candidate in his lakh persons have become members as anti-globalization activists are tweet challenged the AAP to form of AAP and Arvind Kejriwal, the attracted to the AAP, particularly its Government. Both the parties AAP Chief Minister of Delhi has set with the success of the party in were hoping that AAP would fail to a target of membership of ten million Delhi. With the target of ten million fulfill its promises and AAP’s failure by 26thJanuary. The AAP received members till 26th January, there would be beneficial to expose during wide coverage and news channels is an aggressive recruitment drive the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. during prime time. Some notable throughout the country, including personalities too have joined the online and the verification process In its manifesto, AAP had AAP, including Mallika Sarabhai in of those joining the AAP during promised among other things that it Gujarat and industrialists like Meera an aggressive drive is going to be would provide 700 litres of water to Sanyal. lax. While CM Kejriwal talks of the residents of Delhi free and reduce simplicity, integrity and honesty, the energy charges by 50 percent. Meanwhile, one witnesses a lot of those joining the AAP may be BJP and Congress were hoping incoherence, if not contradictions, in ambitious seeking opportunities of that AAP would fail to deliver on the AAP rank and file. Meera Sanyal being in various posts. its promise and hence expose the has often been on TV studios and aired party before the impending Lok her views in favour of more rigorous Understanding Sabha elections. Nevertheless, AAP and speedier less regulated inflow of the AAP ‘Revolution’ turned the challenge of forming the foreign investments, less regulated The quick popularity of the AAP government into its advantage and market and removing fretters on is not difficult to understand. There delivered on some of the promises. capital and entrepreneurship. On was exposure of series of scams While deciding to form a minority the other hand, many activists beginning from Commonwealth government with the Congress who are opposed to liberalization games, 2G spectrum, coal block supporting it from outside, AAP and globalization too have joined allocation and the rest. Team Anna’s adopted some unusual methods the party. Kamal Mitra Chenoy, agitation supported by liberal by holding “referendum” through an accomplished academician and coverage by media demanded Jan mohalla sabhas. The concept of member of CPI, has joined the AAP. Lokpal as one off solution to all mohalla sabhas was new to the Mallika Sarabhai who contested corruption gave a vent to popular electorate as well as other political against Narendra Modi who presided frustration and anger. Team Anna’s parties. In the TV studio debates, the over the Gujarat carnage has joined strategy to fight corruption placed 6 JANATA, January 19, 2014 heavy reliance on the institution of being a system compliant party from issues on which the mohalla sabhas Jan Lokpal with jurisdiction over a system adverse party. would be entrusted to decide? There the PM, the judiciary and lakhs of are many issues on which the mohalla government employees including Mohalla Sabhas sabhas could not be entrusted with class IV and control over the CBI and Renunciation decision making, particularly on the and the CVC. Team Anna, which The USP of the AAP has been issues that are in conflict with the included CM Kejriwal, demanded basically twofold. One, Arvind Constitutional morality of liberty, nearly unlimited powers for the Kejriwal and his team’s simplicity, equality, fraternity and dignity of Jan Lokpal and with little or no plebian background and renunciation every individual. Can affirmative accountability. Arundhati Roy, the of all privileges of office, like official actions for dalits, adivasis and celebrated author, in one of her residence, cars, security cover and minorities be decided in mohalla articles asked, would the common the rest. Renunciation resonates with sabhas? What if the Khap panchayats man and the elite now have to bribe common people as they hope that were to decide on section 377 of one more institution in addition to those who renounce privileges of the IPC pertaining to the rights of the traditional authorities to continue office are going to be non-corrupt. sexual minorities? Or on liberties their everyday affair. That need not be so. How far will of women? However, it could be all of them now in positions of experimented if the mohalla sabhas The media and people cared little authority and with opportunities should be called upon to deliberate whether the Jan Lokpal was the right to make quick bucks would be how they would like to spend their and desired solution to the problem able to resist temptations in spite funds for development of their of corruption, what prompted them of maintaining their appearance as local area. There could be a danger to support the agitation, including renouncers, remains to be seen. It here too that those in position of the opportunist opposition, was that is not only temptations that they hegemony over the mohalla sabhas the issue of corruption was being will have to resist. They will have could exclude the marginalized publicly debated and rebuked. While to resist coercive attempts of the sections like the dalits, adivasis, the BJP wanted to put the ruling land mafias, water mafias, and the minorities etc. It is for this reason Congress in the dock, Team Anna rest. The second USP of the AAP that Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had wanted to put all the politicians and is innovative ways in which they misgivings about Gnadhiji’s concept institutions of democracy, including have utilized social media as a of gram swaraj. Autonomous gram the Parliament and Judiciary in tool to continuously communicate swaraj could turn into instrument the dock. The agitation bordered with their constituencies in a way of oppression of the dalits and on anarchism with all powerful the traditional parties could not institutionalization of untouchability. Jan Lokpal as a solution to all have imagined (to borrow Rahul Dr. Ambedkar therefore advocated problems of the people. The agitation Gandhi’s phrase). The way in which strong centre, where the elite, was peppered by undercurrents “referendum” on the issue – whether informed of Constitutional morality of majoritarian nationalism and the AAP should form a minority of equality, could be relied upon to liberal use of symbol of Bharatmata. government with external support take on the caste oppression through The middle class, with its usual from the Congress – impressed Constitutional measures. abhorrence to politicians as “less everybody. The AAP’s decision intelligent” and “less educated” and making organs are going to be not The unique feat that the AAP even rural and backward thinking, just party leaders or a small coterie, achieved in Delhi was that through enthusiastically supported the Team but the ordinary members of the their door to door campaign on Anna agitation prompted by media. party and the people in the mohalla the issue of inflated energy bills, It is this backdrop that gave birth to sabhas. promise of free water upto 700 litres the AAP – an offshoot of Team Anna. per person per day, promise to halt Origin of the AAP was in opposing However, there are many issues demolition of slums until alternative all the democratic institutions of who would constitute the mohalla accommodation was provided, and without proposing any alternative sabha? What would be their decision on anti-corruption plank, it could and therefore sounded like anarchic making process? Simple majority? mobilize the middle class as well as in its solutions. However, with Overwhelming majority? Or the slum dwellers of Delhi to vote elections, it is going more towards complete unanimity? What are the for it! JANATA, January 19, 2014 7

The AAP’s Strengths: The party is too nascent and has not The party does not seem to have The AAP holds the hope for the yet deliberated on many political put in place strong structure in place. future as it has been mobilizing the issues. The leaders are speaking in Sudden expansion will bring all citizens not on the basis of their different voices on, e.g. presence kinds of elements in the party – the caste, region, community, language, of military in Kashmir. Prashant left wingers and the right wingers, ethnicity or any other identity Bhushan has taken position stating the honest and the opportunists, markers. It mobilizes citizens on that military should be withdrawn notables like Meera Sanyal, Mallika Sarabhai and the ordinary grass root the issue of transparency within the from civilian areas in Kashmir activists. How this plays out remains system; for participatory processes while others are disowning Prashant to be seen. But for now the AAP’s and anti-corruption. Since all Bhushan’s stand. Similarly, on the expansion is posing challenge to sections of the society, except those issue of Kudankulam Nuclear plant the BJP’s victory at the hustings. in positions of authority and the and nuclear energy, different leaders Kejriwal has demonstrated that elite, including industrial houses, are speaking in different voices. leaders who renounce privileges want more participatory democracy, While Kumar Vishwas is praising are more popular. Modi in contrast transparency and corruption free Modi, others are strongly differing. uses considerable financial resources Arvind Kejriwal is maintaining system, all sections have been hopping in helicopters, constructing joining the party despite the silence on some of the issues. massive podiums and spending identities they profess. It mobilizes People from varied ideological millions of rupees in technology and citizens as citizens and not as stream are infiltrating into the party mobilization of people. Congress Hindus or Muslims or South Indians in absence of ideological or clear failure at hustings in the four or North Indians! If the AAP were to and declared political positions. states in which elections were held succeed and continue on these lines, The incoherence on varied issues recently had boosted the morale communal and caste based politics can pose a challenge of alienating of BJP workers however, with would become irrelevant. But there one section or the other once its AAP dominating the media and is capital IF. In this sense, the AAP positions on various issues are expansion of AAP has the BJP now is catch-all party. It promises to set declared. In coherence can lead to worried. Good enough justification up right systems for accountability indecisiveness on issues. for existence of AAP! of those in power. The free market (Continued from Page 3) advocates and anti-globalization activists – all can be members of appointed commission may be able Rahul Gandhi has partly retrieved the party. Only the free market to dig it out. But the state machinery the Adarsh Housing report which advocates within the party would be is not willing to cooperate, as is was rejected by the Congress-led worried that energy and water and obvious from the attitude of the government in the state. Still the indeed other services should not be local police. politicians have gone scot-free. subsidized. Only bureaucrats will have to bear The Congress should have seen the brunt. through Modi’s game to convert The social origin of the AAP has the 2014 elections into a clash of Delhi chief minister Arvind been its campaign for RTI and anti- personalities, not of issues. But Kejriwal should realize that the corruption. The leadership of the the party is guilty of projecting AAP government is not coterminous party is so far drawn from ordinary Rahul Gandhi as if the contest is with him. Strange, he retains 16 people and its professed political between the two. Rahul Gandhi is departments. The Janata Party in the goals are policy seeking rather than too often speaking on important wake of a movement by Gandhian office seeking or vote seeking. policy matters and having the Jayaprakash Narayan did not last. government’s decision reversed. But it saw to it that there would Problem areas One example is that of the ordinance be no Emergency. Democracy was The biggest challenge that AAP to save politicians from the Supreme deeply entrenched. If the AAP could faces in spite of its strengths is that Court judgment that a legislator clean the system and make sure that it does not follow any ideology nor would cease to be member once he is it stays that way, this will be a great does it seem to have any professed convicted. Yet another issue is that of contribution even if the AAP does political programme or direction. the housing scandal in Maharashtra. not last. 8 JANATA, January 19, 2014 Prof. Ila Pathak (1933-2014)

Vibhuti Patel Sonal Shukla

In passing away of Prof. Ila College, Ahmedabad and free lance when a tribal woman in Sagbara Pathak due to breast cancer on journalist who wrote on women’s village of South Gujarat was gang 9-1-2014 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat concerns. In the early seventies raped and Sahiyar stood by the has lost a dedicated social activist she started her crusade against victims, it was Ilaben who activised who stood by socially excluded in Gujarati plays rife the government machinery and took sections of society, especially with double meaning sentences full the case up to Amnesty International. brutalized women. She tirelessly of crude and crass jokes/puns that As a result all the rapists were supported women survivors of degraded women and objectified punished and a tribal woman got dowry harassment, rape victims, women’s bodies. In 1981, Ilaben justice and her dwelling place. crimes of honour (‘fallen” women with her young colleagues/students Ilaben took leadership for movement whose noses were cut as punishment such as Dr. Ila Joshi, Aditi Desai against Patan P T C College gang for being ‘adulteress” by their (Theatre artiste), Sofia Khan (now a of students by their male husbands and in-laws) not only in human rights lawyer) established a teachers backed by powerful the urban areas but also in the rural women’s rights organization, AWAG politicians. She also supported and tribal areas. She campaigned (acronym means noise). AWAG Manipur’s Irom Sharmila’s against selective abortions of female energetically made noise against agitation against Armed Forces foetuses way back in 1980s. sexism in advertisement, media and Special Powers’ Act (AFSPA). textbooks. They blackened sexist Ilaben raised her voice against all Together both of us have been advertisement at public places forms injustice without fear of aware of her work with AWAG - roads, square -, staged dharna consequences. Her courageous and from 1981 when she attended the against a phallocentric play “Putra consistent work among victims of first national conference of women’s Kameshti Yagna” to be aired on All communal riots post-demolition of studies at the SNDT Women’s university’s Juhu campus that India Radio and got the broadcasting Babri Musjeed in 1993 and among resulted in formation of the Indian cancelled. Her tireless work resulted Muslim refugees after Gujarat riots Association of Women’s studies. in Government of Gujarat appointing in 2002 symbolised her secular Ilaben brought her own energies and a committee under her leadership to humanism. perspective to women’s movement. examine portrayal of sex stereotypes Ilaben’s command over language She had been an untiring worker and subordinate status of women came handy to coin catchy and hard right from the beginning. A master’s in the school textbooks in which hitting slogans in Gujarati such as degree in law, a Ph.D. in English she involved us also. Mandate for “Silence is not a virtue, Break the literature and a high post in NCC evaluation of the textbooks was silence of oppression”, “Putting up were indicative of her capacity to decided within the framework of with injustice is not a virtue, fight for achieve the goals she had set for equality, development and peace. justice”. She gave great emphasise herself. Her devotion to working In 1982, she spearheaded to documentation, research and for women’s rights and development participatory action research project training and AWAG always provided was reflected in her writings of AWAG to bring out precarious material in local language and case and action through Ahmedabad condition of homeless and miserable studies and resource persons for Women’s Action Group (AWAG) tribal migrant works near railway capacity building of community and innumerable institutions she was tracks of Ahmedabad city who workers, elected representatives associated with. eked out their subsistence through and youth. During 1986-1992, Feminist Activism collection of coal fallen from engine she regularly wrote for a feminist Ilaben began her career as on the tracks. She started income quarterly in Gujarati, Nari Mukti a university teacher of English generation activities for them based (Women’s Freedom) that was language and literature at H. K. Arts on tribal art and beadwork. In 1982, collectively brought out by feminists JANATA, January 19, 2014 9 of Mumbai, Valsad, Surat, Vadodara She reached out to the weak and Ilaben was president of India Chapter and Ahmedabad. marginalized people with utmost of Women’s International League for humility. She made lifelong friends Peace and Freedom. She was an We have fond memories of among women’s studies scholar and active member of Movement for spending quality time with Ilaben feminists whenever she attended Secular Democracy. In 2012, Ilaben in IAWS Conferences, Nairobi End national Conferences of Indian Pathak was honoured for her work of the Decade Conference, 1985, Association of Women’s Studies among poor and oppressed women Gujarat Human Rights Conference, and international conferences at of and four books based on compilation 1990, Women’s International the United Nations. She attended of her articles promoting women’s League for Peace and Freedom these conferences with over a dozen striving for dignity and struggle for women of her organization and she (2011) and capacity building empowerment were published. conferences of Gujarat University looked after them very well. on at Workplace. Crucial Contribution Her four decades of pioneering To take women’s political agenda in work will always give us strength Ilaben served on many apex the mainstream politics, she also and inspiration to keep the torch of contested election for Ahmedabad bodies to further the cause of women’s rights burning in today’s Municipal Corporation in 1990. women. She was a member of Women Development Cell of Gujarat volatile circumstances. She has left Social Movements University that had to perform a huge fan following among students Her persuasive style of speaking twin tasks of prevention of sexual and all those women whom she was her success mantra. She could harassment and promotion of gender supported pro-actively, intellectually reach out to all - Gandhians, sensitization in the university and its and emotionally. Ilaben will always liberals, feminists, human rights affiliated colleges. Ilaben was also remain with us in spirit. As fellow activists, leftists…She could governing board member of Centre travelers in the women’s movement establish communication with for Social Studies, Surat. She played who shared common her-story and the rich and powerful without important role in all women centred collective memory, we salute our getting cowed down by them. activities of Gujarat Vidyapeeth. sister, Ila Pathak. Cancel Environmental Clearance for POSCO Project

A protest was organised by 14 In the ongoing case the NGT had specifically without an MoU of the groups under the banner of Delhi decided to stay the earlier clearance Project proponent i.e. POSCO with Solidarity Group at Paryavaran given to the project even while the the state of Odisha. To note, the MoU Bhavan today to protest the question of forest clearance has not had lapsed in June, 2010. Environmental Clearance given been settled. Despite this, the MoEF to POSCO project in Odisha in has cleared the project just before The Meena Gupta Committee in violation of the Honorable National the arrival of the South Korean 2010 too reported the Environmental Green Tribunal’s decision and the President, Ms. Park Geun Hye. On Clearance and the Forest Clearance as illegal and it recommended for Meena Gupta Committee findings. 30th March, 2012, in the matter of additional study and due compliance The groups demanded cancellation of Prafulla Samantra v/s Union of of all the conditions. But, the the clearance until recommendations India, the National Green Tribunal Environment Ministry which is of the NGT and Meena Gupta suspended the clearance given to the incharge of ensuring environment Committee are fulfilled as well as project by the ministry untill a full policy for the country overlooked a complete halt on forceful land review by a committee consisted of all the conditions, violations by the acquisition and destruction of forest judicial and expert members of the project proponent, state and more and beetel vines. The action was committee. The tribunal in its order importantly the ongoing struggle organised in solidarity with POSCO even reduced the total capacity of against the project by the people for Pratirodh Sangram Samiti (PPSS) the project from 12 MTP to 4 MTP. their right to life and livelihood for as part of observing January 15th But the ministry has again given last seven years now. as National Protest Day against clearance to the project without POSCO. following these conditions and more (Continued on Page 15) 10 JANATA, January 19, 2014 People’s Movements Extend Support to Aam Aadmi Party

People’s Movements for years barriers in achievement of the goal measures such as reservations. have been striving in non-violent, of peace, justice and development 5. Resolutions of conflicts between democratic ways for a broader of the country. the state and people - may those social and political transformation. be farmers, dalits, adivasis These struggles at times manifest in Today a new context and content or urban poor - through due changing government policies and has been provided to the people democratic processes and on laws and raise broader questions of in the movements by the ongoing the basis of the Constitutional alternative development and address churning among the common values and principles questions of societal values. For masses, emerging beyond the non- 6. Solutions to inequality, injustice, years and decades long struggles electoral processes. People are eager corruption and water, energy have evolved consensus among and full of confidence, courage and crises. various sections of farmers, workers, commitment to bringing in change, labourers, fish workers and across distinct and deep. 7. Working for an alternative classes, including the middle class political culture for the political in the cities and villages. The A number of attempts by small class. movements are in alliance across and large parties and fora to create the country and have achieved many an alternative to the mainstream Arvind kejariwal and the team of things, in the form of protecting politics, creating space for those at youngsters, with Yogendra Yadav, people’s rights, livelihood and margins by the power holders have Prashant Bhushan, Prof. Anand resources as well as changing their played a role in the past. Earlier it Kumar, Prof. Ajit Jha and many relations with the rulers, the power was JP Movement (post-emergency experienced intellectual activists holders. We have always stood for rise of new alliance of parties) and took a lead and have made a dent people’s power. again with V P Singh that such into the electoral politics. Their churning happened. Once again and achievements through innovative However, the movements with a difference, the concern of the strategies, principles of transparency have over the years witnessed the masses has led to formation of Aam and accountability in realm of changing face, culture and approach Aadmi Party reflecting a need for governance have raised hope for of political class to people’s issues changing the political cultures and everyone today. and priorities. The mainstream system. The people’s movements parties, in power, have just not been have found their issues and visions We consider the attempt of AAP insensitive to people’s demands reflected in the position of the AAP, as a movement and appreciate the but also have been insulting the that includes : endeavour to fill in the political people’s power, role and violating 1. Decentralisation of power and vacuum. It’s because the AAP is their rights. Corruption – as misuse governance to grant primacy to following the movement ways, and misappropriation of monetary people and the lowest smallest giving regard to mass participation and natural resources - is hitting unit of democracy – gram and and bringing in simplicity and not only the micro level livelihoods Bastis. selfless service into politics that many and downtrodden but the macro comrades and colleagues in various economy of the nation as well. When 2. Rooting out corruption from people’s movements have decided the politicians are engaged in loot bottom to top though not to extend our active support to AAP. and don’t care for the large majority only legal but social-political This is a decision taken through of common people, they resort to processes. dialogue to deliberations within caste-religion and other bases to 3. Due place and scope for movements in states taking note of gain vote bank and distribute notes, alternative economic and diverse opinions with a common freebies, liquor to regain and retain technological solutions rooted ground. Narmada Bachao Andolan, political power. This needs to be in the land of India and Bharat. Ghar Bachao Ghar Banao Andolan condemned. People’s movements 4. Rising above caste, religion, (Maharashtra), Jan Sangharsh Vahini have always fought against these gender based divisions and (Delhi), Abhiyan (Orissa), fraudulent ways and means that discriminations while retaining Kosi Baadh Prabhavit Sangharsh defeat democracy and become positive discriminatory Samiti and Jan Jaagran Shakti JANATA, January 19, 2014 11

Sangathan (Bihar), Unorganised non-electoral as strengthening each democracy, unity in diversity and Sector Workers federation (South other and the Indian society with equity. India) and many others. Signed by Medha Patkar, Kailash Awasya, Meera, Narmada Bachao Andolan, Prafulla Samantara, Lok Shakti Abhiyan, Orissa, Geeta Ramakrishnan, Unorgnaised Sector The decision is based on our Workers Federation, Pasharul Alam, Aadivasi Jameen raksha Samiti, West Bengal, viewing AAP as an evolving political Ramakrishna Raju, United Forum of Right to Information, Andhra Pradesh. Gurwant vehicle for people’s movements. Singh, Small Scale Industries and Traders Association, Punjab, Smipreet Singh, Sumit With Indian Constitution as the guide Wajale, Santosh Thorat, Poonam Kanojia Ghar Bachao Ghar banao Andolan, Maharashtra, Prasad Bagwe, Ekvira Bachao Andolan, Maharashtra, Rajendra Ravi, Sanjay M with fundamental rights to directive G, Ramdas Bhatkal, Chandrshekhar Architect, Madhuresh Kumar, Seela M - NAPM principles and ‘we the people of Maharashtra and Delhi, Mahendra Yadav and Kamayani Swami – NAPM Bihar, India’ as our resources, we feel AAP Bhupender Singh Rawat, Jan Sangharsh Vahini, New Delhi, Gautam Bandopadhyay, is committed to both. Hence, without Nadi Ghati Morcha, Chattisgarh, Rajkumar Sinha, Bargi Baandh Visthapit Sangharsh Samiti, MP, C R Neelakandan, Geo Jose, Hussain Master – NAPM any dogmatic views and traditional dilemmas, we see a hope and extend our support and contribute The Neros Of to ideological strengthening of the The Muzaffarnagar riot victims have been left to fend for themselves party pogrammes and policies. We while leaders of the ruling enjoy lavish celebrations and appeal to other movements too to foreign jaunts. Deevakar Anand reports (http://www.tehelka.com/the-neros- join and support. The victory in of-uttar-pradesh-2/) Delhi should be taken forward to all Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav can certainly brave states, villages, hamlets, bastis and the chill of the January nights. On the night of 8 January, he was at the cities in the country. annual Saifai Mahotsav in his native district of Etawah, along with his son, We are however, yet to discuss Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister . The father-son duo looked some aspects – ideological to absolutely comfortable enjoying the “Bollywood Night” as actors Salman strategical – with AAP leadership Khan and Madhuri Dixit, among others, shook their legs to various dance and ensure a mechanism to establish numbers. a relation of the party with the Around the same time when the Bollywood performers were regaling people’s movements. Many of us the Yadavs, along with their select list of guests that included the who’s are part of National Alliance of who of Uttar Pradesh politics and bureaucracy, about 400 km away at People’s Movements (NAPM), Malakpur village in Shamli district, Akbari, a 60-year-old widow, struggled a non-party political platform, to keep herself warm by burning dried sugarcane leaves in front of an 8×6 which will continue to retain its feet tarpaulin tent. Akbari, along with her two teenage sons, had run away independent identity and provide from her home in Lank village on 8 September last year to escape the riots input to programmes and policies — India’s deadliest in a decade that left 59 dead and rendered over 50,000 and also lead struggles on people’s homeless. issues as done always. We see AAP The tent that serves as her shelter is in one corner of a camp where itself as a movement that bring in there are more than 200 such tents — temporary shelters for families that complementarity and hence we confide in its leadership to evolve were displaced from their homes during the communal riots that ravaged such process and spaces within Muzaffarnagar and Shamli districts. Like several other such camps that for the long term struggle to clean came up during the riots, the Malakpur camp too was set up hastily on an politics and bring in an alternative open field near the narrow road leading to the village. politics and political culture.. An almost unbearable chill had begun to set in earlier in the evening. At quarter past seven, the road from Kairana, a municipal town in Shamli We will announce forms of district, to Malakpur village was already shrouded in thick fog, with support and our interventions into visibility less than 30-40 metres. As the mercury dipped to freezing levels, the political arena with AAP with the tarpaulin tents ceased to provide any protection against the chill. As it all formalities and processes after is dangerous to light a fire inside the tent to bring in some warmth, Akbari our dialogue in Delhi on 16-17th and others in the camp had no option but to go out into the open, gather dry of January and look forward to a leaves to burn and sit huddled around the fire. new era of politics – electoral and - Qurban Ali 12 JANATA, January 19, 2014

Reprint

Socialism of the coming age and its foundation-II

Sishir K. Dhar

Evidently, capitalism has scaled and hence a remarkable staying Such developments Marx did great heights with enormous power. During the depression of not anticipate, while emphasizing progress in productivity and 1930s, when the capitalist economy excessively on the economic prosperity, particularly in the West, was in dire straits, the upholders of factor. He also did not recognize, benefiting not only the owning the laissez-faire system accepted though he had a presentiment of class but, though less, also the a big role of the state in the it as late as in 1872 (when it was people at large, when “the fate of economy, following the Keynesian perhaps rather late to make thorough Marx’s laws of Increasing Misery prescription of a kind of recovery revision of the system he had so has been increasingly miserable’ programme, known as “pump assiduously built) that with the (Pranab Bardhan). And, Schumpeter priming”, in which the private growth of democracy a new factor observes: “Measured in real terms, investment was to be stimulated by of profound significance would relative shares (in national income) public investment progammes. Here be operative in the socio-political have substantially changed in relevant is Schumpeter’s opinion system, that democracy would give favor of the lower income groups. that “The capitalist civilization is the workers an unprecedented power, This follows from the fact that the rationalistic and ‘anti-heroic’” and hardly available to their forefathers capitalist engine is first and last an “even disliking warrior ideology groaning under various restrictions engine of mass production, which that conflicts with its ‘rational’ and repressions, to organize unavoidably means production utilitarianism, the industrial themselves by peaceful means for the masses ...” Further, “…an and commercial bourgeoisie is and to counter the monopolistic avalanche of consumer goods that advantages enjoyed by the capitalist fundamentally pacifist…” Such permanently deepens and widens the following concentration of capital. a characterization does not fit in stream of real income although in the The workers did not give up the with the analysis by Marx, whose first instance they spell disturbance, idea of class consolidation or class emphasis on the role of impersonal losses and unemployment....In struggle, which, however, did not forces in the social process relegates other words, the capitalist process, sharpen into violent class war, to the background personal traits not by coincidence but by virtue when the calculating bourgeoisie of of individuals or groups. However, of its mechanism, progressively Schumpeter’s description also was raises the standard of life of the with an awareness of its real interests perceptive of the ground reality. masses.” Scientific and technological the capitalist makes compromises, (Some critics of capitalism with innovations, which seem to be at the recognizing the demands of the a Marxian prism thought that to core of the dynamics of capitalism, changing situation. He acquiesces save itself from a difficult situation, lead to ‘mass production’, flooding even to part with the principles capitalism would turn into Fascism. the market with various durables and of laissez-faire, held sacrosanct They proved unrealistic). At the non-durables, and things, necessary by his predecessors, and accepts, same time, the workers found that and not necessary, continue along grudgingly various controls imposed with the backing of a powerful with an aggressive advertisement by the state on what hitherto labour movement they could carry policy to rouse the consumers’ craze had been his domain, including on fairly successfully, what one for more and more items. what Keynes called “a somewhat might call a class struggle around the comprehensive socialization of negotiation table, face to face with The capitalist system, remarkably investment.” As Adolf A. Berle sums employers’ representatives. flexible in practice and ready to make up the situation: The capital is there, compromise when the situation so and so is capitalism. The waning It seems, at the root of Marx’s failure demands, shows a strong resilience, factor is the capitalist. to anticipate such a development, JANATA, January 19, 2014 13 with all its implications, were two some response, it is mainly because to what Bentham called ‘welfare important errors: (a) his failure to those who wield power and are production’ and it is judged by the assess realistically the potential entrusted with affairs of the society amount of welfare it produces and of democracy and the increasing are too callous to the condition of the by the justice and efficiency of its strength it gains as it grows and (b) people, or even connive at oppression distribution system. The ‘Welfare his failure to analyze correctly the and exploitation or denial of justice, State’ also shows that the weakness real character of the state (Marx’s with a modicum of good governance in distribution in capitalist system characterization of the state is and growth of democracy internal cannot be rectified sufficiently by somewhat dogmatic and presents a political violence will have little the ‘invisible hand’ that Adam Smith ‘half-truth’). Actually, in spite of all footing.) In this context, there has had thought of. In short, the ‘welfare the depth of his study of capitalism, emerged the ‘welfare state’ in all the state’ is primarily a matter of humane he ignored an important trait in industrially advanced countries, and distribution in a mainly capitalist the capitalist – his flexibility and it is accepted by most others. system of production. Looking capacity to compromise so as to save back, one may note that those whom as much as possible of the system How far does the ‘welfare state’ Marx and Engels called ‘utopian when, otherwise, the whole of it fit in with the socialist vision of socialists’, desirous of separating might be lost. As Robert Heilbroner a compassionate, egalitarian and the good from the bad in capitalism, points out, “Marx was not so much free society? The ‘welfare state’, thought of such a possibility. ‘wrong’ in his economic vision as hardly thinkable in Marx’s time, However, notwithstanding all the he was wrong in assuming that his has originated largely because of a welfare ensured by it so far, much psychological perceptions were sustained struggle by the working remains to be done, if one looks fixed and unalterable”. The idea of class in a democratic set-up. The at the situation with a vision of a democracy, the idea of a somewhat Social Democratic parties are socialist society. It appears that the neutral state in a democratic system, the main initiators. Verily, ‘the ‘welfare state’ cannot overcome the seeking to reconcile divergent welfare state’, partly capitalist and existence of private ownership and interests of the people as a whole partly socialist, is a mid-way house that of a class-based society but transcending the class barriers, was between the two. It is capitalist in can mitigate the drawbacks of this rather a fantasy to Marx. that the ownership in it is to a large class-base as it has done so far in the extent in private hands. It is socialist multi-class system. We may add here Thus, the cataclysmic view of in that to a large extent distribution, in passing that the Marxian idea of history that Marx visualized has lost and to some extent production also, the state ‘withering away’ followed much of its earlier passion in his are under public control, when by the emergence of ‘classless disciples, particularly in countries the capitalist class has lost much society’ is a remote possibility, if of advanced capitalism. The owning of its earlier hold on the economy at all. And even if all the economic class also is inclined to stave off and when the public authorities conflicts are resolved, perhaps any violent conflict in society that are the major determinants of non-economic conflicts, e.g. racial, harms its pursuit of more wealth, socio-economic policies, along cultural, communal, etc. and also and majority of the people have with a considerable abridgement conflict at the individual level for little fascination for any violent of the power of the owners and a greater eminence and more power uprising when peaceful means simultaneous enlargement of that will be there and a government may might serve their urge for a better working class. The state is no more be there with an avowed function life – better food, greater security the ‘governing body’, of any single of maintaining order in the context in a condition of freedom. (Even in class. of conflicting claims by different India, where democracy and national sections of the population in such a economy are yet less advanced than The ‘welfare state’ signifies a classless system. in the western countries, the Indian great victory of the socialist point communists’ attempt at an armed of view that it is the function of the Do the socialists have a better uprising in some pockets just after state or society to create a condition alternative to the ‘welfare state’, India’s independence received little helpful to people’s security, welfare in a democratic set-up? The popular support. If anywhere in the and progress. As Michael Walzer democratic system with its peaceful world believers in violent action get says, the state is to be devoted methodology and freedom for all 14 JANATA, January 19, 2014 people allows the existence and All these efforts and attempts are communist governments in Russia functioning of different cultural doomed to failure unless they are and in East European countries groups and economic classes. On rooted in the value of freedom proved, after all, a failure or an the other hand, as already explained, - what Marxists stigmatize as autocratic system of government elimination of democracy by force, ‘negative freedom’, i.e. the area of that the people threw away at the in the name of ‘dictatorship of the decision, which society allows to the earliest opportunity. But as already proletariat’, of working class rule, individual.” The only apparent snag stated, votaries of capitalism have or on any other ground, is likely to in the ‘welfare state’, contrasting hailed it as a failure of the socialist be a remedy worse than the disease. with socialist theory, is the existence system and are aloud that capitalism in it of private enterprise. Anyway, is the only viable system for human While discussing the question whether one appreciates or opposes society. Thus, emphasizing on whether there is any alternative to the the democratic socialist approach, the superiority of the capitalist welfare state it may be recognized the Social Democrats in a number system, a British historian, Paul that there is nothing wrong with of countries, particularly in the Johnson, claims capitalism to be “a its principles. Basically, in any Scandinavian countries, have natural force rather than a contrived humanist society that socialism is, succeeded in ensuring to the people ideology springing from instincts a government must play a positive a high degree of liberty, equality deep in our human nature”, He also role of safeguarding the security, (political, economic and social) avows, “never will any considerable welfare and progress of the people. and security along with prosperity body of opinion seriously doubt The important question here is even while working in a parameter its wealth-producing capacity or how far efficient in practice the of private ownership. What other seek to replace it with something welfare state can be in translating system in human history has done fundamentally different”. Further, its principle into reality. Also, it better in terms of the quality of life “many idealists, early in the 19th has not only to ensure the needed of the common men and women? century, saw it as devil, rejected welfare but also to motivate the That the Social Democrats in these it entirely and sought to replace people with a greater sense of countries have remained in power it. We have come to the end of social responsibility. Contrasting the for long periods at a stretch, winning argument. We have discovered that Marxist-Leninist approach with the democratic elections, would only there is no effective substitute”. democratic socialist approach Leszek make obvious the appreciation Such views overlook the Social Kolakowski writes “The apocalyptic received by them from their Democratic model in which the state belief in consummation of history, countrymen. guides substantively the country’s the inevitability of socialism, and economy without itself becoming an the natural sequence of ‘social Of course, much remains to be omnipotent, totalitarian state that the formations’, the ‘dictatorship of done and democratic socialists must Soviet Russia had been and has done the proletariat’, the exaltation of ever be introspective as to how to do so much in terms of a better quality violence, faith in the automatic better. As C. A. R. Crosland observes, of the life of the people. efficiency of nationalizing industry, “For all the rising material standards fantasies concerning a society and apparent contentment there is What is the actual performance of without conflict and an economy a significant residue of distress, capitalism? Historically, capitalism without money - all these have resentment, and injustice (which) is a more progressive system nothing in common with the idea of affords a prima-facie justification for than feudalism. More important, democratic socialism. The latter’s further social change… in a socialist capitalism has built a strong ‘engine purpose is to create institutions direction”. The contention is valid. of production’, which is gaining which can gradually reduce the In a sense, the endeavour for a ‘better strength continually, is much subordination of production to profit, society’ is a perennial one. As we colossal today than ever before, do away with poverty, diminish shall discuss presently, the socialist that even the most eloquent critic of inequality, remove social barriers agenda widen as the society moves capitalism, Karl Marx himself had to educational opportunity, and to ahead. recognized. In spite of these positive minimize the threat to democratic contents, capitalism is unable to liberties from state bureaucracy and Today, capitalism appears to be in rectify by itself its basic deficiency in the seductions of the totalitarianism. a state of resurgence. The fall of the ensuring a just distribution, leading JANATA, January 19, 2014 15 to a gross inequality in society, a highly threatening example, a things: economic efficiency, social poverty in the midst of plenty. The very recent report, introduced by justice and individual liberty”. ‘welfare state’, a product of socialist the British Prime Minister, Tony The socialist programme should movement, negating the laissez-faire Blair, warns that “unchecked global be richer with experience and should principle of capitalism and giving warming will devastate the world recognize (a) the resilience of an upper hand to government in the economy on the scale of world capitalism, (b) its moral indifference, formulation major socio-economic wars and the Great Depression,”. (c) the failure of the Leninist model policies, removed this capitalist Obviously, we should get out of of socialism that petrified itself into deficiency to a large extent, in some the old mould of thinking. Hitherto a tyrannous autocracy, attributable advanced capitalist countries in socialist thought and action have very much to Leninist methodology, particular. Yet a sizable section of aimed mainly at fighting the evils and (d) the evils of the modern the population remains deprived in of capitalism and building a material materialist civilization on which, several preponderantly capitalist base for a better society, mainly on beginning with Gandhi, good many countries – and, this deprival is the economic plane. The evils of thinkers in the East and West are sometimes stark enough. A former capitalism have not mitigated totally highlighting today. editor of ‘The Times’, London, in spite of significant modifications (To be concluded) William Rees-Mogg points out: in the system and they have to be (Continued from Page 10) “In the USA and Britain, there is resisted. Referring to the character Delinking of Port Project is not a growing under-class, suffering of capitalism, Paul Johnson says enough, the clearance should ensure from poor education, poor job capitalism is “single minded in its of no mining which is already opportunities, poor health, poverty, thrust (for efficiency)... is blind proposed as the project will include the break-down of family structures, to all other factors; blind to class, iron ore mining for over 30 years bad housing, crime, drug and social race and colour; to good and evil. (total 600 million tones) at captive alienation.” Similarly, referring It is materialist, impersonal and mines located in Keonjhar and to the maldistribution of wealth, nonhuman... Capitalism is morally Sundergarh district of Odisha, Huck Gutman (who was a Fulbright indifferent and so productive of great destroying the beautiful Khandadhar Visiting Professor) points out that miseries as well as great blessings.” mountain and disturbing the tribal “In the USA the wealthiest one This is the fundamental ground culture of the area. percent of the population own for the socialist struggle against W h e n n o n e o f t h e s e more than the bottom 95 per cent.” capitalism. Socialists, as human conditions were looked into and Gutman concludes: “Economic beings cannot be indifferent to a recommendations ignored then how injustice is the unacknowledged nonhuman system, cannot be blind can the Ministry go ahead and clear spectre which haunts American to good and evil and to production of the controversial POSCO Project at society. And this injustice is, sadly, great miseries in any social system. the cost of life and livelihood of such increasing.” Undeniably, as Michael Capitalism with its efficiency in a large population? Harrington observes, “Capitalism production and indifference to continues to be a contradictory, human misery presents the image Delhi Solidarity Groups crisis ridden system.” An ‘inner of a powerful machine without demanded: contradiction’ as Karl Marx noted, any sense of direction and should 1. The Environmental and Forest is rooted in capitalism. be treated as such, and should be Clearance should be canceled dealt with resolute well-meaning until the recommendations of Today, while some of the basic human efforts. While socialism the NGT and Meena Gupta deficiencies of capitalism persist, requires economic growth, it cannot Committee are fulfilled new problems, highly serious, be content with “production for 2 Forceful land acquisition and unthinkable in Marx’s time, are production’s sake”, a feature of destruction of forest and beetel rearing their ugly heads. What capitalism that Marx had pointed out vines should be stopped should be the socialist agenda in long ago. Efficiency of production, 3. Construction of boundary walls the coming age that is going to be however needed, is not the only for the project should be stopped loaded with challenging, obdurate thing of importance. As Keynes immediately, since there is no problems both on material and emphasized: “the political problem MoU and any construction is psychological planes? To refer to of mankind is to combine three completely illegal R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, January 19, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, January 19, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday January 22, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

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Vol. 69 No. 1 Annual-Republic Day Number February 2, 2014

Decline in Standard S. Viswam

The Current Economic Scenario Arun Kumar

Economic and Social Costs of Environmental Degradation in India K. S. Chalam

It’s Politics Mr President Kuldip Nayar

A Round up of a Decade of Adarsh Scam Lyla Bavadam

Birth Pangs of Swaraj Uday Dandavate

Running a Government is a Sober and Serious Business Rajindar Sachar

Will the Muslims Become a Vote Bank for AAP? Prem Singh

Sixty Four Years of the Indian Republic Radhey Shiam

Editor : G. G. Parikh Managing Editor : Guddi D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg, Mumbai - 400 007.

Email : [email protected] 2 JANATA, February 2, 2014 JANATA, February 2, 2014 3 Decline in Standard

S. Viswam

What we had feared, and warned also, in these pragmatist and has identified only what is possible to columns awhile ago, is sadly coming to pass as the be delivered. Here, he has kept up with the stipulation electoral tempo rises in the run-up to the 2014 Lok of President Pranab Mukherji that those who seek the Sabha polls. After the entry of Narendra Modi in the trust of the voters must promise only what is possible. electoral campaign as the BJP’s nominated prime Government is not a charity shop. Of course, we have ministerial candidate, we had commented that the to wait and watch and see whether the BJP manifesto tone and temper of the campaign was getting more incorporates Modi’s wish list and to what extent. personalized and that there were indications that the Whatever the semantics indulged in by the Congress level of the debate would decline if personalities leadership, it is now clear that Rahul Gandhi is the instead of issues were projected in the debate. Well, party’s prime ministerial candidate. Hence, the nation the standard of the current debate is by no means high is entitled to know the young man’s agenda for the and is in marked contrast to the usual levels observed nation. Recently, we had the opportunity of listening in the past. Even during the past elections, the level of to him in a rare television interview. There is a marked debate often tended to fall as the campaigners resorted contrast in the styles of the two prime ministerial to abuse instead of argument and campaigners indulged candidates. While Modi is a powerful orator and is often in below the belt canvassing forgetting that abuse only vituperative in his anti-Congress comments, Rahul is invites counter abuse resulting to the debate being sober, calm and collected and gives the impression of dragged to the level of the gutter. What is one to say choosing his words carefully. However, while he is when comment is made about the choice lying between articulate, he tends to be vague and superficial, and also a “moron and a murderer” and the comment is endorsed unfortunately repetitive. What comes through clearly by a constitutional functionary like a chief minister. is his earnestness and sincerity, but mere reiteration Instead of deploring that someone should sacrifice good of the imperative of “changing the system” without taste for a little sensationalism, Delhi chief minister indicating the methodology of change does not carry Arvind Kejriwal chose to endorse the twitter message us far enough. How is the system to be changed? What he had received by re-twittering it. A Congress party new form should parliamentary democracy assume? leader describes Modi as a tea-vendor as if vending tea Does he want to convene a new constituent assembly is a crime. The description gets widely circulated and to draft a new constitution adopting systemic changes? gains currency and becomes a talking point. A Union minister calls Modi a Bhasmasur and adds for good We notice that while Rahul spouts lofty sentiments, measure the statement that like Bhasmasur Modi will like women’s empowerment, decentralization and swallow the party who created him. A lot more, and regeneration of youth power, there is no suggestion worse, has been said by both sides, and the standards for concrete action in regard to the goals. And above are falling. There is still time for the campaigners to all, the martyr complex is too much on display in raise the level of the debate and talk of issues rather his pronouncements, as if losing a grandmother and than of personals. father to political violence is a special qualification for leadership! And even now strangely enough he gives Responding to criticism that Modi had not taken the the impression of wanting to change the system not people into confidence on his agenda for the nation, the through political governance but through party politics. Gujarat chief minister has issued a statement identifying The run-up to the 2014 polls indicates that in the coming his priorities. To the extent that his agenda is neither days and weeks, the election debate will focus more far-fetched nor too ambitious, the list is worth an closely on the personalities and thought processes of analysis and an indepth reaction. Unfortunately, even the two contestants. It should be an interesting debate the media did not denote enough space to the list of and hopefully some issues that each side champions priorities given by Modi. The list shows that Modi is a will be highlighted. 4 JANATA, February 2, 2014 The Current Economic Scenario

Arun Kumar

1. The rupee has fallen dramatically last year. Any should have lowered interest rates to help spur growth. one particular reason that you’d say is the reason Inflation control in India requires supply side responses for this fall. and a political will to stop speculative activities and The most obvious one is that foreign investors to check the growing black economy. Black liquidity and Indian businessmen have lost confidence in the rushes in to speculate so any tightening of money economy. This has led to the expectations of a declining supply by the RBI is undone by the funds from the value of the Rupee. Since the currency markets are black economy. notoriously speculative, there is speculation on the 3. Could the RBI and the government have done decline in its value. Often expectations are self-fulfilling anything to stem the fall? Will the move to tighten in a speculative market and that is why the Re has been capital account help the Rupee? falling rapidly since May 2013. Over the last two years it has fallen from its peak value of around Rs. 44 to RBI by itself cannot control the value of the Re. the dollar. Both fiscal and monetary policy instruments have to be used. The government correctly set into motion steps to The consequence of these self-fulfilling expectations address the trade and current account deficits in BOP is that there is withdrawal of funds from India by say, by curbing the inflow of inessentials like, gold. the FIIs and NRIs. They feel it is better to withdraw funds before the value of the Re declines any more. While it is true that smuggling of gold has increased Further, the exporters delay bringing back the proceeds but overall the demand for gold has moderated and of their sales abroad so as to make more money and the the outflow of foreign exchange on this account has importers import more so that they can take advantage moderated. It needs to be remembered that the inflow of the cheaper Re. Finally, to take capital out, there is of gold increased from 160 tons per annum in 1992 greater under invoicing of exports and over invoicing to the current level of about 900 to a 1000 tons after of imports. All this results in an increase in the trade liberalization of the import of gold in 1992. This has and the current account deficits in the BOP which then led to a massive out flow of foreign exchange. justifies the fall in the value of the Rupee. Capital account restrictions are important since 2. The RBI has tried to stem the fall. Was the RBI they stem the outflow of capital and foreign exchange. right in seeking to defend the Rupee or should we let However, the government’s steps are half hearted and market forces decide the Rupee’s value? leave many channels for the outflow to continue. It The RBI’s steps may be characterised as `too little needs to be remembered that in the 1997 Contagion in too late’. It should have defended the Rupee much the SE Asian Tiger economies only Malayasia emerged earlier rather than when it had fallen below Rs. 60 to unscathed because it imposed capital account controls. the dollar. The market forces in a speculative situation The IMF was critical of Malayasia at that time but are destabilising so there is no market determined value later praised it for the management of the economy. of the Re. When the Re fell from Rs. 47 to below Rs. 50, that is when the RBI should have intervened. This The government also needs to lower the fiscal would have prevented expectations of a further fall from deficit in its budget by raising more resources and building. The RBI has had a kitty of $280 billion dollars investing more on the Plan account (rather than in its reserves. It is true that this is based on borrowings cutting it). It has been lowering Plan expenditures in of $ 380 billion. However, early intervention would the last few years by a whopping Rs. One lakh crores have required small amounts of release while later it each year. This has resulted in lower demand in the required massive releases to correct the situation. economy and a slowing economy. In a period when the private corporate sector is not investing enough, The RBI has been trying inflation control while in the cut in the plan expenditures has resulted in a fall India inflation is not strictly a monetary phenomenon. It in the investment rate of the economy from its peak Based on the author’s book, The Indian Economy since Independence: Persisting Colonial Disruption. 2013. Vision Books, N Delhi. JANATA, February 2, 2014 5 in 2007-08 and that has adversely affected growth in Immediately the price of energy (petroleum products the economy. and coal) rises and since this is used in all production, all prices tend to rise. Electricity, petrol, diesel, gas More resources can be raised by lowering the `tax prices rise. Energy is required for transportation so all expenditures’ in the budget which are running at about goods face a rise in price due to higher transport costs. Rs. 5.5 lakh crores (See Receipts Budget). Further, a All electronics goods, automobiles, etc., with high moderate dent on the black economy of 50 per cent import component see a price rise. Internal tourism of GDP can raise the additional funds required for is adversely affected because of its import intensive maintaining the Plan expenditures budgeted for. character but foreign visitors may increase in number with the weakening Rupee. Finally, the investment model adopted by India is based on crony capitalism (more so after 1991) and In India, growth is not stagnant but it is still at around this has collapsed since 2008 when major scams were five per cent per annum which is better than what the unearthed and the public started reacting. Since then IMF prediction for the world economy is. Thus, Indian the politicians and bureaucracy have become wary. economy’s rate of growth remains better than the world Businessmen have also suffered with cancellation of average and this cannot be called stagnation. The rate licenses, so they too are wary. Further, the public has lost of growth will fall as inflation rate rises. Employment trust in big projects that lead to massive displacement generation which is a big concern for India will fall while the rich and the politicians make money. Thus further and lead to persistence of poverty and more resistance has built up to all major projects, like, power crime amongst the unemployed youth. plants, SEZs, steel plants and mining projects. All these have stalled and there are cases of withdrawal of Exports will do better over time as the prices of projects like, Arcelor Mittal and POSCO. Indian goods decline and this would help the growth of some sectors like, software, call centres, textiles and There is a need for transparent and market based leather goods. However, the rise in exports will not be investment in which the public can have confidence able to compensate for the decline in internal demand and where these projects appear to be in the national due to inflation. Hence the rate of growth would tend interest and not just to fill the pockets of the rich and the powerful. Such a model of investment has not emerged to fall unless other steps are taken. and that is why investment is suffering in the country. 6. Moving to the general economy, how much of the blame for the economic downturn can be put on the Unfortunately, given the political uncertainty due external factors, and how much with the current to the weakness of the present government and the government’s ineptitude? impending national elections and the uncertainty of who will come to power, private investors are holding back We are facing major macroeconomic imbalances in investments. This is not likely to change any time soon. the economy.

4. Where do you see the rupee vis-à-vis the dollar in On the external front, the Current Account Deficit the coming months? in BOP is also a result of the slow growth in the major There is no way to predict the value of the Re even world economies – USA, Eurozone, China and so on. a few months down the line. If the government can That is why the growth rate in exports has fallen while successfully reverse expectations, the Re can strengthen imports continued to surge due to import of energy and go back to Rs. 55 to the dollar but if not, it could and gold (prices of both of which rose or remained breach the Rs. 70 mark. The latter appears more likely high). Now with the improvement in growth in US at present given the uncertainties and the lack of and Euro zone while Indian economy is weakening, confidence in the economy. capital has begun to go out leading to a decline in the value of the Rupee. Finally, the fear of tapering off of 5. How has the Rupee fall impacted the economy? For the Quantitative Easing (QE) by the Federal Reserve example, petro product prices going up, and pushing has made many believe that days of easy money are up inflation even as growth remains stagnant. Is numbered and capital flows to emerging markets are “stagflation” likely? set to fall. This has created the expectation that the The fall in the value of the Rupee results in the prices currencies of emerging markets will decline in value of all goods with imported content to rise in price. and that is what happened. 6 JANATA, February 2, 2014

On the internal front, the high rate of persisting We are pursuing a policy of `growth at any cost’ with inflation, high fiscal deficit (kept in control by cutting all costs falling on the workers and the environment. plan expenditures) and falling rate of growth (especially The cost of a deteriorating environment is borne in industry) reflect deep macro imbalances. disproportionately by the poor who live in poor conditions. Studies show that the health cost of the The internal and external factors have dented the poor have risen sharply so that their increased incomes confidence in the Indian economy and led to credit cannot compensate for the increase in the cost of living rating agencies repeatedly threatening a downgrade. for them. Even though the performance of these agencies was not creditable during the crisis starting 2007, their actions The new policy paradigm which has led to increased are still influential with investors. consumption by the middle classes and the well-off hides a massive rise in social and political instability Along with these factors one can add the `policy in the country. This has its hidden costs. Further, paralysis’ of the present government since 2009 due to consumerism is the means used by the ruling class the surfacing of the various scams. The government has to divert the attention of the people from the real been busy warding off pressures due to these exposes problems faced by them. But rather than provide rather than setting new directions in policy. Now with the solution it is creating additional problems due to elections round the corner, investors will wait and watch the rising expectations amongst the youth which is and the government will have to get more proactive in bombarded with images of high consumption in TV ads, encouraging growth through its actions. serials, films, etc. However, there is no way that these expectations can be fulfilled since the organized sector 7. You have written that the problems we face is jobs paying well are only six p er centof the total jobs. because we are following a “borrowed development Ninety six per cent of the 12 million children joining model”? But many would argue that 22 years of the work force every year will have to take up low liberalisation has helped India far more than 44 years paying jobs in the unorganised sectors and they cannot of state control policies ever did? fulfil their expectations. This is leading to terrorism and We borrowed a development model in 1947 and crime all around. another one in 1991 – both have been based on copying western modernity and not what India needed. Both 8. If the current development model is flawed, then have been based on a top down approach and not a what is the development model best suited for India? bottom up one. Both have depended on trickle down to One has to go for an indigenous path based on the poor. The post 1991 path has not increased growth social justice and equity. This does not mean a closed rates as much as the pre 1991 path did. Our average economy. Development has to be from below as rate of growth in the period between 1950 and 1980 suggested by Gandhi. That is what the government jumped by a factor of 5 as compared to that in the 50 also now wants when it talks of inclusive growth but years before independence. After 1991, the rate of it lacks the will to implement such a path. Its flagship growth has barely increased by 50% over the average programmes are mere safety devices to take care of growth rate in the 1980s and that too over a few years the problems its policies are creating. The alternative between 2003 and 2008. We are now back to around path would target productive full employment and not 5% rate of growth. just investment. It would be based on an appropriate mix of various levels of technologies. It would The growth in the last two decades is based on the create conditions for decentralized urbanization and achievements of the earlier four decades. Also, the decentralized development with autonomy devolved growth rate has accelerated due to structural changes from the Centre to the States to the local bodies. It where the services sector has become dominant and the would curb the black economy to release resources from slow growing agricultural sector has become marginal the present unproductive sectors and channel them to to the growth story. Further, the present path is leading productive activities. It would be based on protecting to massive disparities since the growth is concentrated the environment and making everyone not only literate in a narrow section of the population. Finally, poverty but also creative through high quality education to all. is changing its characteristics so that in spite of increase Such a path was spelt out in the alternative budget in incomes of the poor, poverty is persisting in its presented in 1994 which also showed `how to make changed forms. the desirable feasible’. JANATA, February 2, 2014 7 Economic and Social Costs of Environmental Degradation in India

K. S. Chalam

Economists have been considering the relationship They have also examined whether it is a happenstance or between climatic change and its effect on GDP quite due to adverse effect on the productivity of agriculture, for some time. In this context, they seem to have mortality, morbidity, cognitive performance, crime and remembered the 14th century thinker Khaldum who so on. It is noted that this effect is severe among the lamented that hot countries tend to be poorer. The poor countries and may not affect the already rich. The recent debate on the environmental issues in the country present global climatic change would lower growth rate therefore, could be reflected with reference to the by 0.6 in median poor countries until 2099 and make publication of two important reports on environmental them 40 per cent poorer. These calculations are based degradation. The IPCC Report on Climatic Change on certain assumptions and are only warning signals for 2013 and the World Bank, India: Diagnostic Assessment our policymakers to mend their policies. In fact, the 19th of Environmental challenges 2013 are noteworthy. If century economist W.S. Jevons, one of the founders of we read these reports together and relate them to the the Neo-classical Economics wrote on the Coal question political economy of development process and the in 1866, indicating how even technology is not going to drama in the Paryavaran Bhavan in Delhi where more solve the problem. He said that, “now, if the quantity of than 1.5 lakh crores of pending projects are reported coal used in a blast-furnace, for instance, be diminished to have been cleared in a matter of days, we would in comparison with the yield, the profits of the trade know what is in store for India. That doesn’t mean all will increase, new capital will be attracted, the price the projects are bad, but some are helpful to a small of pig-iron will fall, but the demand for it increase; number of citizens, and quite a few may be fatal to all and eventually the greater number of furnaces will of us in the long run. more than make up for the diminished consumption of each.” Modern economists have worked on the theme Economists who analyse data and presage the and developed “rebound” and “backfire” concepts to society, have been considered as pessimists from the indicate how the technological improvements do not time of Malthus. Yet, there are sane policy makers lead to the reduced use of a resource. For instance, and people’s representatives and even civil society Boulding has written, in 1959, as:“(a)ny technical organisations like the Club of Rome who have taken improvement can only relieve misery for a while, for the sage advice of the experts seriously. There is no as long as misery is the only check on population, doubt that exceptional individuals might believe in the the improvement will enable population to grow, and tautology of, nothing is created from the unknown and will soon enable more people to live in misery than all that happens in the universe is only a change from before. The final result of improvement, therefore, one element to the other. This way, humans neither are is to increase the equilibrium population, which is to capable of changing the quantity of water available increase the sum total of human misery”. Therefore, nor influence the climate. Thus, they might say, we some scholars claim that the key to avoiding the Jevon’s need not bother about the negative propaganda and Paradox is to adopt the principle that neither efficiency should openheartedly invite all development projects. improvements, nor any other approach to reducing If someone conveys the death toll or displacements due resource use (including voluntary conservation), can to the adverse effects of the projects, certain of them be allowed to reduce the cost of consumption. Based might say, after all human beings must ultimately make on empirical studies, scholars have suggested that over as the five elements in universe, why do you bother energy efficient technologies as a solution to the world’s now. However, as mundane beings we cannot ignore energy and environmental problem will not work. our immediate present. Rather, energy efficient technology improvements are counter-productive, promoting energy consumption. Scholars have conducted studies and found that Instead of recommending an undesirable policy, we can national income falls by 8.5 per cent on an average per introduce taxes, rates, concessions, etc. as incentives degree of Celsius rise in temperature (Dell, Jones, et al). and penalties to circumvent the Jevon’s paradox. 8 JANATA, February 2, 2014

National governments should tax more energy-efficient pollutants (S02, NOx, CO, and ozone) are generally not appliances and use such revenue only for expanding thought to be as damaging as fine particulates. However, natural reserves such as, set aside forests in order to S02 and NOx may have important health consequences prevent more human development in the long run. We because they can react with other substances in could see some of the things happening in USA, Europe the atmosphere to form secondary particulates. In and in other developed countries where the forests, particular, the evidence implicates sulphates formed water courses and other natural resources are well from S02, but is much less certain about nitrates, formed protected and polluting industries dumped elsewhere. from NOx.The focus of this report therefore is the health It may be due to the accessibility of acquisitive and effects of all fine particulates (PM1Oand PM2.5) since short sighted corporate interests and their cronies in they are regarded as criteria pollutants and include developing countries, that it is possible to exchange components of other pollutants. They are an important carbon credits with the advanced countries and accept cause of cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, and pollution, infirmities and death. lung cancer in the population. This requires data on who are exposed, the health impacts of that exposure Let us examine the results of the study on and the value attached to those impacts. Given data environmental damages in India and the social costs limitations we can only estimate impacts for the urban estimated by the World Bank. It provides estimates populations and in fact only for a part of that population. of social and financial costs of environmental damage Only major cities have TSP and PM1O monitoring data. in India from three pollution categories. We are In this study we focus on cities with a population of reproducing here important paragraphs from the report: 100,000 and above only. Since the baseline population is from the 2001 census there are many cities that have (i) urban air pollution, including particulate matter achieved population of 100,000 since 2001 and have and lead, (ii) inadequate water supply, poor sanitation not been included in the study”. and hygiene, (iii)indoor air pollution; and four natural resource damage categories: (i) agricultural damage Pollution data for all cities, where available, was from soil salinity, water logging and soil erosion, taken from the Central Pollution Control Board's (ii) rangeland degradation, (iii)deforestation and (CPCB) Environmental Data Bank website for the (iv) natural disasters. The estimates are based on a year 2008. Health damage estimates for PM1O were combination of Indian data from secondary sources and calculated based on observations for the year 2008. on the transfer of unit costs of pollution from a range The study included 96cities with monitoring stations of national and international studies (a process known and 223cities with no monitoring stations (254 million as benefit transfer). Data limitations have prevented people in total). The population for 96 cities with estimation of degradation costs at the national level for monitoring stations amounts to to186 million, or about coastal zones, municipal waste disposal and inadequate 16 per cent of the country's population. Interestingly, the industrial and hospital waste management. It is most pollutant city in terms of PM1 is Meerut at 313, doubtful, however, that costs of degradation and health Delhi at the rank 6 with a value of 214, Mumbai with risks arising from these categories are anywhere close a value of 127 is much below Delhi, and above Andhra to the costs associated with the categories considered. Pradesh cities. Vijayawada with 96, Ramagundam at Furthermore the estimates provided do not account 87, Hyderabad at 84 and Visakhapatnam at 81 appear for loss of non-use values (i.e., values people have for to be not as much polluted as Delhi. It may be due to natural resources even when they do not use them). the fact that the ICT( in Hyderabad) does not load with These could be important but there is considerable pollutants except the vehicles used by the wage earners uncertainty about the values. and might have other kinds of pollutions that are not yet considered as environmental damages? The loss of life as a result of pollution that has shown the strongest association with the health endpoints The terminology used in this report needs some is particulate matter and other secondary particles qualification. Environmental damage means physical with similar characteristics of less than 10 microns in damages that have an origin in the physical environment. diameter (PMIO). The report mentioned that “Research Thus, damages to health from air or water pollution in the United States in the 1990s and most recently by are included as well as damages from deforestation. Pope, et al (2002) provides strong evidence that it is The term cost means the opportunity cost to society, particulates of less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) that have i.e., what is given up or lost, by taking a course of the largest health damaging effects. Other gaseous action. When goods traded in markets are damaged, JANATA, February 2, 2014 9 prices and knowledge of consumer preferences for the estimate and noted that it stands at Rs. 3751 billion per damaged goods (embodied in the demand function) annum. The sub-categories are (in billions): 1.Outdoor and production information (embodied in the supply air pollution Rs.1,100, 2.Indoor air pollution Rs. 870, function) provide the necessary input for computing 3.Crop lands degradation Rs703,4.Water supply, social costs. Estimating social costs of reduction in sanitation and Hygiene Rs 540 , 5.Pastures degradation productivity of the agricultural land due to erosion, Rs. 405 and 6.Forest degradation Rs133 . It is found salinity or other forms of land degradation is a good that the total cost of environmental degradation in India example. However, many damages from environmental at about Rs. 3.75trillion (US$80billion) annually, is causes are to "goods," such as health, that are not equivalent to 5.7percent of GDP in 2009, whichis the traded in markets. In these cases, economists have reference year for most of the damage estimates. In devised a number of methods for estimating social fact, the higher side of the estimate at Rs 5821 billion costs based on derived preferences from observable is more than 10 per cent of GDP seem to be closer to or hypothetical behaviour and choices using shadow the reality and is equal to the total revenue of the union pricing, etc. One example is the value of time lost due government. to illness or provision of care for ill family members. If the person who is ill or the one, who is providing care The report has devoted some pages for the estimation for someone ill, does not otherwise has a paid job, the of health related damages. They are based on the data financial cost of time loss is zero. However, even in sets made available by the government agencies and such a case the person is normally engaged in activities are based on certain assumptions. For instance, Value that are valuable for the family and time losses reduce of Statistical Life in India as the average VSL from the amount of time available for these activities. Thus, the available studies comes out at about $375,000 (Rs. there is a social cost of time losses to the family. In an 17.8million) and this figure was applied in the report. economic costing exercise this is normally valued at It can be seen that the ratio of VSL/HCA is about 16 the opportunity cost of time, i.e. the salary or a fraction times for children and 44 times for adults. In this report, of the salary that the individual could earn if he or she the experts said, “we used the average of the VSL and chose to work for income. In summary, social costs HCAvalues for adults (i.e.$192,000 or Rs. 9.1 million). are preferred over financial costs because social costs For children we do not use the VSL at all as none of capture the cost and reduced welfare to society as a the VSL studies are for children. Hence we take only whole. All costs are estimated as flow values (annual the HCA value of $24,168 or Rs.1.148million. This losses). conservative approach is also consistent with other costs of degradation studies that have been conducted.” The The report has considered six categories of damages Human Capital approach takes in to consideration the and estimated the costs involved. The following table earnings foregone or loss of income taken at Rs 150 for provides annual cost of environmental damages by urban and Rs 60-75 for rural areas per day are lower in different assumptions. We have taken the mid-point value, and is not based on facts. The baseline survey

Table 1 Annual Cost of Environmental damage-low, High estimates Rs Billion per year Environmental categories Low Mid-point High Mid-point estimate as % of Total cost of Env damage 1. Outdoor pollution 170 1100 2080 29% 2. Outdoor air pollution 305 870 1425 23% 3. Crop lands degradation 480 703 910 19% 4. Water supply, sanitation&Hyg 475 540 610 14% 5. Pastures degradation 210 405 600 11% 6. Forest degradation 70 133 196 4% TOTAL ANNUAL COST 170 3751 5821 1% Total as % of GDP 2009 2.60% 5.7% 8.8 % ---- Source: The World Bank, 2013 10 JANATA, February 2, 2014 of the World Bank relied heavily on NFHS, NSS and continue beyond 2100, with sea level rise due to thermal other secondary sources which have further reduced the expansion to continue for many centuries. The few values that are again adjusted for the expected value at available model results that go beyond 2100 indicate 2010. In other words, the cost of life valued around Rs global mean sea level rise above the pre-industrial level 1.5 crore seems to be low-priced. by 2300 to be less than 1 m for a radioactive forcing that corresponds to Co2 concentrations that peak and Climate Change Report decline and remain below 500 ppm as per one scenario. The IPCC Fifth Assessment Report on Climatic Changes in many extreme weather and climate events Change-2013 is complimentary to the World Bank have been observed since about 1950. It is very likely report on India. As it is a scientific report, I have that the number of cold days and nights has decreased reproduced below some important findings verbatim and the number of warm days and nights has increased for an informed debate on the issues raised in the report. on the global scale. It is likely that the frequency of heat waves has increased in large parts of Europe, Asia and It is reported that each of the last three decades has Australia. There are likely more land regions where the been successively warmer at the earth’s surface than number of heavy precipitation events has increased than any preceding decade since 1850. In the Northern where it has decreased. The frequency or intensity of Hemisphere, 1983–2012 was likely the warmest 30- heavy precipitation events has likely increased in North year period of the last 1400 years. Given the position of America and Europe. In other continents, confidence earth in the solar system for the last millions of years, in changes in heavy precipitation events is at most the average temperature in the troposphere according medium. to the scientists, became warmer since 20th century. The globally averaged combined land and ocean surface Methods that aim to deliberately alter the climate temperature data as calculated by a linear trend, show system to counter climate change, termed geo- a warming of 0.85 [0.65 to 1.06] °C3, over the period engineering, have been proposed in the report. Limited 1880 to 2012, when multiple independently produced evidence precludes a comprehensive quantitative datasets exist. The total increase between the average assessment of both Solar Radiation Management of the 1850–1900 period and the 2003–2012 period (SRM) and Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and is 0.78 [0.72 to 0.85] °C, based on the single longest their impact on the climate system. CDR methods dataset available. have biogeochemical and technological limitations to their potential on a global scale. There is insufficient The atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, knowledge to quantify how much CO2 emissions could methane, and nitrous oxide have increased to levels be partially offset by CDR on a century timescale. unprecedented in at least the last 800,000 years. Carbon Modelling indicates that SRM methods, if realizable, dioxide concentrations have increased by 40 per cent have the potential to substantially offset a global since pre-industrial times, primarily from fossil fuel temperature rise, but they would also modify the global emissions and secondarily from net land use change water cycle, and would not reduce ocean acidification. emissions. The ocean has absorbed about 30 per cent If SRM were terminated for any reason, there is high of the emitted anthropogenic carbon dioxide, causing confidence that global surface temperatures would rise ocean acidification. The mean rates of increase in very rapidly to values consistent with the greenhouse atmospheric concentrations over the past century are, gas forcing. CDR SRM methods carry side effects and with very high confidence, unprecedented in the last long-term consequences on a global scale. 22,000 years. What we learn? The Co2 emissions in to the atmosphere through fossil The content in both the reports are extremely useful fuels during the period 1750 to 2011 is estimated to be in understanding the environmental damages and the at 375 GTC (Giga Tons of Carbon) while deforestation benefits of possible mitigation. The World Bank study and other changes in land use released 180 GTC making shows that policy interventions such as environmental the total 555 GTC. Further, the long-time scales of heat taxes could potentially be used to yield positive, transfer from ocean surface to depth, ocean warming net environmental benefits with minimal economic will continue for centuries. Depending on the scenario, costs for India. The General Equilibrium model of about 15 per cent to 40 per cent of emitted Co2 will Economics shows that addressing "public bads" via remain in atmosphere longer than 1000 years. It is selected policy instruments need not translate into large virtually certain that global mean sea level rise will losses on GDP growth. The environmental cost model JANATA, February 2, 2014 11 developed in this study can thus be used to evaluate due to disasters mainly as a result of the depletion the benefits of similar pollution-control policies and or non-judicious use of natural resources mentioned assist in designing and selecting appropriate targeted above are not taken in to consideration. Economists intervention policies (such as a SO2 tax, a CO2 tax, or generally consider resources that are tangible or emission trading schemes). Once the impact on ambient scarce or that have pecuniary value, therefore seem air quality of a policy to reduce particulate emissions is to have overlooked these issues, or may be for some estimated, the tools used to calculate the health damages other reasons – but it is a serious gap. Further, the associated with particulate emissions can also be used social costs of environmental damages like loss of to compute the welfare impacts of reducing them. The livelihoods of adivasis, poor and others that affect the monetized value of the health benefits associated with identity of the group are not considered. Social costs each measure can be calculated, using the techniques of uprooting of communities in ecosystems like marsh developed in this study, and compared with the costs. lands being treated as bunzar and assigned to industries, fisher folk who are displaced due to extinction of The comparisons made between the BAU (Business species with excess mechanisation, loss of indigenous As Usual) scenario and the Green Growth scenarios knowledge systems and culture owing to displacement reveal that a low carbon, resource-efficient, greening of communities, etc. are not considered here. of the economy should be possible at a very low cost in terms of GDP growth. This makes the Green Growth The growth models tested by the report and the issues scenarios attractive compared to the BAU scenario. A raised by it are based on technology like the Green more aggressive low carbon strategy (Green Growth Growth and or models that take in to consideration coal Plus) comes at a slightly higher price tag for the tax or green tax, etc. It is here that we may get back to economy while delivering higher benefits. The extent the early part of this paper where we have explained to which GDP growth would be impacted under more the Jevons Paradox. In this context we may refer to a severe cuts on polluting emissions can be determined perceptible book, “The Myth of Resource Efficiency: by further study using the CGE model. On the other the Jevons Paradox”, where the authors have made a hand, the modest GDP impacts indicated in this study very interesting observation: “Technological energy- depend on the availability of minimal-cost mitigation efficient improvements such as hybrid cars may options (energy efficiency improvements, embodied represent a crucial component of a different trajectory of technological improvements, improved daily operating evolution of the metabolism of households in developed practices of boilers). countries. However, the adoption of hybrid cars per se will not solve the problem of the unsustainability of Both Green Growth scenarios have other important modern lifestyles if adopted by a world population of 9 benefits. Most significantly they reduce CO2 emissions, billion people. If the energy-environment situation is to which have an important value. If we take that value at improve, consumers will need to change their behaviour even a modest US$ 10 per ton, reflecting what might patterns by including concern for the environment be gained in revenues from participation in emerging among the priorities determining their choices.” I do carbon abatement markets, India could realize an feel that metabolism, an attribute of living organisms, additional benefit of around US$ 59 billion (with a seems to have slowly influencing the technology or PM10 tax). Global carbon models estimate that these gadgets used by human beings. The authors have added emissions could be worth much more -US$ 50-120 - that, humans have to accept losing something in order by 2030. to be able to retain something else. It sounds like an There are however, several limitations in the World Indian philosophical precept that we should all consider Bank study indicated by the authors themselves at in the matters of environment of a finite world, with the end of the report. In addition to the constraints infinite greed. recognised by the report, we have noticed that they have not included the costs of loss or damage of the Janata Subscription ecosystems such as grass lands, wetlands, mangroves Annual Rs. : 260/- and coral reefs. In fact, the report has stated the value Three Years : 750/- Demand Draft / Cheque on Mumbai Bank of service of this category of natural resources at Rs. 108600 crores per year. But, it has also not considered in favour of the damages due to the construction of major dams JANATA TRUST that affect the above scarce resources in addition to D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 the human costs. The damages done to the society 12 JANATA, February 2, 2014

Between the lines It’s Politics Mr President

Kuldip Nayar

Kuldip Nayar President has been I have not liked the dharna by Aam Aadmi Party’s making speeches verging on politics from Day One. chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on the demand of He has been commenting on the problems confronting transferring two police officials who had reportedly the nation as if he is presiding over the affairs of the insulted his Law Minister Somnath Bharti. But Chief country. His Republic Day broadcast beats them all and Minister Kejriwal has set a bad precedent by letting has naturally evoked some angry comments. Several his Law Minister off the hook. He should have left it political parties like the have to the state chief secretary to deal with the “defiance” characterized the speech as political. by the police officials. The chief minister’s defence that his dharna was not unconstitutional does not wash. He What President Mukherjee says is generally correct. does not realize that the middle class, his forte, wants For example, his remarks that populist anarchy is no an orderly administration and feels let down over the substitute for governance or that there is a rising trend tactics like dharna by the state chief minister. of hypocrisy in public life are correct. But he forgets that he is only a constitutional head and has to observe But why should President Mukherjee comment on the decorum which the elected parliament and state political matters is really beyond me. His defence is that he did not violate the Constitution. It is a strange legislatures expect from a person who occupies that logic when he threw to the wind the very letter and the position. spirit of the Constitution which has given all powers No doubt, he finds politics a familiar turf but he left to the executive of which he is only a figure head. President Mukherjee’s comment that the “government it when he was elected President. His grievance with is not a charity shop” is criticism of the promises that Congress president Sonia Gandhi may be genuine. But the government makes to draw the electoral support. that is between her and him. The nation is not concerned All political parties do so. Mukherjee was in the with what goes on in a political party. cabinet of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi when she raised the slogan of Garibi Hatao. The Manmohan Mukherjee would have been a natural successor after Singh government has doled out favours to the DMK Prime Minister Manmohan Singh steps down. Precisely to sustain its support. It is an open secret how the CBI this is the reason why a person who had wide contacts case against Mulayam Singh Yadav was withdrawn was kicked upstairs. Sonia Gandhi’s determination to to get his party’s support. Mukherjee was part of the make her son, Rahul Gandhi, the Prime Minister came government when there was a quid pro quo to save in the way of Mukherjee’s political ambitions. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government from falling. If President Mukherjee felt so strongly, as his It was up to Mukherjee not to accept the post of criticism indicates, why did he not speak out at that President. But when he announced that he would not time? His opposition would have mattered because he contest in the 2014 election, it became clear that he was a senior leader. was exasperated, waiting in the wings. Sonia Gandhi readily accepted the position because he had himself For example, his recovery of tax retrospectively cleared the deck for Rahul Gandhi. Mukjerjee had taken dried up foreign investment. As Finance Minister, he it for granted that due to the key role he had portrayed should have anticipated the adverse effect his decision as a fire fighter during the troubled times he could not would have on investment. Even today when reasons be ignored for having served the dynasty relentlessly. for stagnation are adumbrated, Mukherjee’s name Unfortunately, Mukherjee has not adjusted himself to is mentioned repeatedly. He lives in the luxury of the institution of President. He should refrain from Rashtrapati Bhavan while the nation is paying the price making such remarks which he could do as a politician. for his follies. 24 JANATA, March 25, 2012 toJANATA, see the distinctionFebruary 2, between 2014 social . But, the In fact, no political party including13 movements and a political strategy future depends on how the BSP BSP, SP, DMK, RPI, etc that speak in winningMukherjee elections. was a minister It is alleged when Smt.prepares Gandhi its hadstrategies. proclamation If Akhilesh even beforeabout thesocial cabinet engineering gave its approval.has ever thatstopped Mayawati sending was any forced paper to to slowly the then PresidentYadav succeeds Giani like Mayawati in experimented in sharing power with estrangeZail Singh the whosymbol differed of upper with castes her oncontaining Punjab. What rowdy elementsMy experience and isthe that lower a Prime rungs Minister who are paysminorities scant SatishSmt. Gandhi Chandra did Mishra was a violationby 2012. of thebring Constitution. rule of law, itattention is likely to why a President. within The the constitution social groups framers, and tried who out Now BSP is restricted to UP and the upper castes and Muslims look constructive programmes to unite I wish Mukherjee had raised his voice then. The preferred parliamentary democracy to presidential form may be to a sub-region in future, if to BSP. The reading that SP won the so called bahujans, sarvajans and office of President is an institution which should not the present trend continues. 58 out of 85 reservedof seats government, to show haveeven laid the down numerous what the dalit President sub castes? can be disfigured. Yet the political leadersthat do Mayawati that. That has lostdo. groundBut this with has been nullified over the years because the MukherjeeThe competing should also politics be doing in UPso is a saddalits commentary is not entirely correct.Congress Dalits takes or the President’sDalit vote wishes bank of for BSP granted. is alleged By madeon his thesagacity SP, onetime and those a likeLohiaite him. any single caste on theirmaking own political in any speeches,to be a thedivided occupant house; of Rashtrapati disruptive party becoming worldly wise in constituency (includingBhavan reserved) only aggravates behavior, the problem. leg pulling and finding makingYet another the affable example young is that Mukherjee’s man do silencenot win when the elections without solace with non-dalit leadership Smt. Gandhi imposed in 1975. She are considered as some of its Akhilesh Yadav as the new Chief support from others. Therefore,There is athe very thin line dividing the right and the Minister.delivered The a severe SP was blow originally to the like institutions number which indicates her a general trend shortcomings. This is the greatest wrong, moral and immoral. Institutions are ought thefather, BSP, Jawaharlal but slowly Nehru, graduating had fostered. to of some kind of a swing in favour limitation of bahujan politics as of become a bahujan party by bringing of SP, may be due toto protectthe Muslim that line.now. It is Further,easy to saySP hasfrom shown the pulpit that otherMukherjee castes also was in thento its a fold.close The collaborator shift. ofHowever, Sanjay BSPthat has such pockets and such therething isis andangerous alternative to the leadership country. upperGandhi, castes an extra-constitutional in UP have done authority.a of dalit The concentrations worst However where itcorrect can Presidentin the party. Mukherjee’s But Mayawati observations has a moronicaspect of act the of Emergencyencouraging was first that getmorality a minimum was of may70 seats be, heand should a introspectproblem of whether stewardship what as he dalits did as are a thebanished BSP againstfrom politics. SP and There now wasby fearpeak which of 90 made with its owncabinet vote minister bank. wasdisorderly correct, andnot areonly too legally many tobut claim also supporting SP against BSP, they leadership. Unfortunately, Mayawati the then President, Fakruddin Ali Ahmed,But, tothat sign does the not bringmorally. victory. The ballIt is in his court. seem to have permanently lost the has to play an inclusive politics. has no family to fall back upon as ground in UP politics for ever to Further, Muslims would always feel the future politics in India appear to be dictated by these forces. This comfortable with a non-dalit due to be heading towards consanguinity attitude of ruling castes sustains the caste stigma than with a dalit. rather than consensus politics! Western Railway Employees’ Union Central Offi ce: Grant Road Station Building (East), Mumbai-400007 P&T: 23083813 Rly- 43662, 43663 -Fax: 23003185, Rly. 43666 E-mail: [email protected] The Westem Railway Employees’ Union (“WREU”), earlier known as Bombay Baroda & Central India Railway Employees’ Union was established in 1920 at Parel, Mumbai. WREU is one of the oldest trade unions not only in Railway but also in the country, its registration number being 5. After enactment of the Trade Union Act, 1926, the WREU got itself registered on 30.10.1927. WREU is a founder member of All India Railwaymen’s Federation (“AIRF”) and All India Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), WREU, AIRF and HMS are free, independent and democratic trade unions. WREU fought for upliftment of railwaymen and their family in particular and labour class in general for the last 87 years. WREU-AIRF is instrumental in creation of Permanent Negotiating Machinery (“PNM”) for solving the grievances of railwaymen in 1951. Productivity Linked Bonus, large scale upgradations, etc. To the Railwaymen, these are some of the major achievements of WREU. WREU is the most popular union amongst the railwaymen on implementation of modifi ed recommendations of the 6th CPC w.e.f. 1.1.2006 WREU was led by prominent trade union leader, late Miss. Maniben Kara and in memory of her, WREU established “Maniben Kara Foundation”, a charitable trust fi ghting against the evils of the society. Apart from trade union activities, WREU along with Maniben Kara Foundation is conducting various non-bargaining activities such as organizing Health Checkup Camps, Blood Donation Camps, Family Planning Camps, Anti-Dowry campaigns, HN-AIDS Awareness Campaigns, Trade Union Education Class, etc. for the benefi ts of the railwaymen and the general public. Umraomal Purohit J.R. Bhosale President General Secretary 14 JANATA, February 2, 2014 A Round up of a Decade of Adarsh Scam

Lyla Bavadam

First, a bit of background before looking at the seems, was for ministers and bureaucrats to appropriate current events in the Adarsh building scam. the flats and assign a few to senior armed forces officers.

In the 1970s the spot where the Adarsh building now In 2003 a press report exposed what was clearly a stands was just marsh and mangrove forest with bits of scam in the Adarsh Cooperative Housing Society Ltd. land along the edges. Part of the strip of land between From starting off as one meant for defence personnel the mangrove and the road was occupied by a few it had a motley group of members that included high dhobis who would use the nearby military dhobi ghat level ministers and bureaucrats, a few very senior and dry the clothes on the mangroves. The only other armed forces officers and a dubious ‘promoter’ who human activity was deep inside the mangrove forest was already under CBI scrutiny for irregularities in where a few local bootleggers prepared their brew. The another defence land deal. whole area belonged to the military as was apparent not just by clear sign boarding but by a rusty old barrier of Not much notice was taken of the report at the time colonial vintage that stood about 700 mtrs north from but in 2010 it was resurrected again by the media. By where Adarsh is now. this time the scheme was accepted as being meant for

Gradually the mangrove forest was hacked, rubble from Mumbai’s nascent construction industry was Salient points of the Justice dumped and land appeared where once there was J. A. Patil Commission Report marsh and sea. At the same time some land was handed on the Adarsh Housing Society over by the military to the Bombay Electric Supply and Transport Corporation (there are allegations of 1. Four former CMs of Maharashtra indicted, corruption in this but no case was ever made). A large including the current Union home minister bus deport was constructed there. Over the years the , Ashok Chavan, Shivajirao reclaimed land was extended further into the sea and Patil-Nilangekar and the late vast colonies of slums ruled by slum lords came up. 2. Of the 102 members of Adarsh, 25 were found ineligible. They included Devyani Khobragade In the early 1990s there was talk about constructing and three close relatives of Ashok Chavan – his a building for retired armed forces officers on 6,490 mother-in-law, sister-in-law and a brother of his sq mtrs of land alongside the bus depot. In prime real father-in-law. estate area in one of the nicest locations in the city, the 3. Some allottees had already been granted plan generated great enthusiasm among retired officers. subsidized housing by the government but were However, for a long time nothing seemed to materialise also granted membership at Adarsh in violation and the idea faded away till construction activity started of rules. on the site in the mid 2000s. The secrecy around the 4. The report said the land belonged to the state case started from this time – no one seemed to know if government and not the Defence Ministry. it was the same plan as earlier or something different. 5. The Commission determined that membership of Even those keen to own a flat there had no success in the society was not restricted to retired defence finding out. personnel or Kargil war heroes or their survivors. 6. The report found several violations of the As the building grew taller and reached its height of Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 31 storeys the mystery remained. From being a housing Road Transport Act, Coastal Regulation Zone scheme for retired armed forces officers it grew to Act and the norms for granting membership of include serving personnel then later was modified to the cooperative housing society. Several rules of benefit Kargil war heroes and their widows. While the Road Transport Act were also flouted. all this speculation was going on the real intention, it JANATA, February 2, 2014 15

Kargil heroes (though when this change occurred is not known) and the uproar centered round flats being owned Time line of the Adarsh Scam by non-participants in the Kargil war, top politicians, military officers and bureaucrats. Furthermore, it was • July 1999- Adarsh society approaches alleged, construction clearances were given inordinately government seeking plot of land in Colaba. fast, there were development plan violations, security • July 1999 - Government Resolution allots plot violations and the flats were sold at artificially lowered to the society. prices. Flats that would have cost a minimum of Rs. 4 • Oct 2004 - Collector, Mumbai hands over crores at the time went for an average of Rs. 70 lakh. possession of plot to the society. At the same time the Western Naval Command seeks Such controversies forced the resignation of the then details of the society from deputy registrar of Chief Minister, Ashok Chavan, in 2010. His successor, co-operatives. , appointed a 2-member judicial • Sept 2010 MMRDA gives occupation certificate commission headed by retired High Court judge Justice • October 2010 Vice Admiral Bhasin writes to J. A. Patil to probe the allegations. The mandate was to the naval chief saying the land beloned to the look into several aspects including the land ownership, defence forces and had been misappropriated who the housing society was intended for and whether • Nov 2010 Ashok Chavan resigns as CM rules were bypassed during construction. Meanwhile the after his role in Adarsh is exposed. CBI CAG report for 2011 had castigated the episode saying, registers an inquiry. Files go missing from “The episode of Adarsh Co-operative Housing Society Mantralaya. Prithviraj Chavan becomes new reveals how a group of select officials, placed in key CM of Maharashtra. posts, could subvert rules and regulations in order to • Jan 2011 A judicial commission headed by grab prime government land - a public property - for Justice J. A. Patil is appointed to probe the personal benefit.” scam. Environment Ministry issues order that the building be demolished in three months. In April 2013 Justice Patil’s report was submitted. • The CBI registers an FIR naming 13 people It indicted four Congress CMs including Ashok including former CM Chavan. Chavan. The other former CMs include the present • March 2011. The questions Union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde, the late the CBI on its failure to make arrests forcing Vilasrao Deshmukh and Shivajirao Patil-Nilangekar. the agency to arrest a few retired officers and Two ministers in the state cabinet, one former chief bureaucrats. More arrests in the following secretary, three additional chief secretaries and several months officers in the ranks of principal secretary and secretary • July 2012 The CBI files a 10,000 page charge were also indicted. Both Chavan and Nilangekar were sheet indicting 14 people including Ashok named for the role they played as revenue ministers in Chavan. the period from 1999 to 2004. The other two ministers • April 2013 The judicial commission submitted named are from the NCP. Both Sunil Tatkare, minister its final report to the state government but this for water resources and minister for higher education, was not tabled. Rajesh Tope were indicted for taking advantage of their • Dec 2013 The Bombay High Court questions positions as junior ministers in the urban development the delay and the state is forced to table the ministry from 1999 to 2004. The report said the land report on the last day of the winter session of belonged to the state government and not the Defence the state legislature so that there could be no Ministry, nor was Adarsh reserved for war widows. It discussion on it. also said rules were flouted during the construction. Forests despite the building falling within the CRZ II The Patil report said 25 people of the 102 members category which states that construction activity of more were ineligible to be members of the housing society; than Rs.5 crore in this zone requires ministry clearance. among them Devyani Khobragade who is at the centre of a diplomatic quarrel between the US and India and Instead of tabling the report when it first received three relatives of Ashok Chavan. Furthermore, the it, the Congress-NCP government delayed it by saying report said that the required construction permission the Action Taken Report was not ready. An enraged was not sought from the Ministry of Environment and BJP moved the High Court and the government was 16 JANATA, February 2, 2014 forced to table it on the last day of the winter session with prosecution of the former CM but was refused on December 20. On December 20 the state government permission for this by K, Sankaranarayanan, the rejected the report. It is worth noting that though the Governor of Maharashtra. CM heads the cabinet and it was a cabinet decision to reject the report he, in his personal capacity, was The Prithviraj Chavan-led government is faced with apparently unhappy with the decision. Interestingly many dilemmas. Adarsh is now clearly a political hot what changed the game was the public rally held by potato. The very fact that it is back in the news in an election year proves this. There will be pressure from Narendra Modi in Mumbai on December 22. Mocking those who are already members. Adarsh is prime real Rahul Gandhi’s attack on corruption Modi said the estate – no one, least of all its powerful members, Congress was protecting the perpetrators of the Adarsh is going to let it slip through their hands. While scam and suppressing judicial probes. Soon after this prosecution of erring members has been recommended there was a change in attitude. Rahul Gandhi criticized the government has already made it clear that this is not the state government for rejecting the report and South a step it will take easily. Scenting moral victories the Mumbai MP, , who is believed to be close Opposition is badgering the CM to convene a special to Gandhi, tweeted his support saying the party should meeting of the house to debate the report’s findings. not hush up the Adarsh report. It would be suicidal for Prithviraj Chavan and the On December 13 the CBI received a setback to Congress to disregard the J. A. Patil report but to its ongoing investigation against Ashok Chavan. implement its recommendations would mean walking The agency said it had enough evidence to proceed a political tightrope.

With Best Compliments from Transport & Dock Workers' Union, Mumbai. P.D.' Mello Bhawan, P.D.' Mello Road, Carnac Bunder, Mumbai 400 038. Tel. No. : 2261 6951/52 Telegraphic Address : Fax No. : 2265 9087 ''DOCKUNION'' Mumbai-38. E-mail : [email protected] E-mail : [email protected]

CHAMPIONING THE INTEREST OF PORT, DOCK & TRANSPORT WORKERS

S.R. Kulkarni Kishor M. Kotwal (President) (Executive Vice-President)

P.K. Raman S.R. Yadav Rajaram Shinde Baban Mete Madhukar Bhondve Nivruti Dhumal Venkatesh Swami (Secretaries)

Anil Golatkar Jagannath More (Treasurer) (Jt. Treasurer) JANATA, February 2, 2014 17 Birth Pangs of Swaraj

Uday Dandavate

Arwind Kejriwal’s disruptive approach to reimagining Somnath Bharati’s indiscretions to exposing the nexus India’s democracy has generated a major controversy between Delhi police and the criminals. in India. The extent of this controversy can be gauged by a sense of alarm expressed by President Pranab I want to clarify my position. The claims of African Mukherjee’s in his republic day address where he women have not been verified yet. The videos released warned, “populist anarchy cannot be a substitute for by the AAP do not support the claims of the ladies that governance”. Bharati led an assault on them. The matter must be investigated through judicial inquiry. While the local The term “anarchy” refers to a society without a citizens attribute police’s refusal to follow Somnath publicly enforced government. Used in this sense, Bharati’s orders to connivance between the police and anarchy may or may not be intended to imply political local drug and sex trade. If, through proper inquiry disorder or lawlessness within a society. Many Somnath Bharati is proved guilty, he should face the anarchists have challenged attitudes similar to the consequences. Regardless of the outcome of the inquiry one expressed in President Mukherjee’s address that a clear message from this episode is that grass root anarchy is synonymous with ‘civil war. level activism calls for moral leadership and disciplined What has escaped media attention is that there management of crowds. are forms of anarchy that attempt to avoid the use In March 1918, Gandhiji led a Satyagraha for of coercion, violence, force and authority, while still peasants of Kheda. While in April, he appealed for producing a productive and desirable society. Gandhi’s concept of Swaraj is essentially an example of anarchy a nationwide hartal protecting the enactment of the without coercion, violence, force and authority. barbarous Rowlatt Act. However violence broke out and for the first time Gandhiji had to suspend the Satyagraha Swaraj warrants a stateless society; according to calling it a Himalayan miscalculation. In 1920, Gandhiji Gandhi, the overall impact of the state on the people was elected the president of the All India Home is harmful. He called the state a “soulless machine” Rule League. He urged a resolution for Satyagraha which, ultimately, does the greatest harm to mankind. campaign of non-cooperation. Gandhiji decided upon The raison d’etre of the state is that it is an instrument an experiment of mass civil disobedience at Bardoli of serving the people. But Gandhi feared that in the in 1922. He had to suspend the campaign owing to name of molding the state into a suitable instrument the outbreak of violence at Chauri Chaura. Gandhiji of serving people, the state would abrogate the rights realized that a peaceful agitation could only be led by of the citizens and arrogate to itself the role of grand trained Satyagrahis. As the Aam Aadmi party pursues protector and demand abject acquiescence from them. its mission towards replacing the current corrupt system This would create a paradoxical situation where the of governance with a participatory model, it needs to citizens would be alienated from the state and at the engage resources in training its cadres and leaders in same time enslaved to it which according to Gandhi the morality, legality and discipline of bringing about was demoralizing and dangerous. The politician- change. I would consider Somnath Bharati case an police-criminal nexus Arwind Kejriwal was protesting aberration in a movement that is genuinely reflecting against is in fact the anti-people manifestation of the the frustrations and aspirations of millions of suffering state Gandhi had in mind. It is not surprising therefore Indians who see in the current political establishment that while mainstream media and several civil liberties an exploitative machine and an era of slavery that needs groups as well as women’s rights groups have focused to be disbanded and replaced with a more participatory on Somnath Bharati’s behavior in leading a mob for a form of governance. raid on alleged peddlers of drugs and sex trade racket in the Khirki area of Delhi, the locals are coming out In his thesis “Hind Swaraj” Gandhi has clarified, in support of Arwind Kejriwal turning the focus from “In South Africa. I came in contact with every known 18 JANATA, February 2, 2014

Indian anarchist in London. Their bravery impressed (republic). AAP’s vision of Swaraj, contrary to the me, but I feel that their zeal was misguided. I felt that media projection does not subscribe to either despotism violence was no remedy for India’s ills, and that her or barbarism. It aims at replacing the republic of India civilization required the use of a different and higher with Swaraj, where self-rule could be established weapon for self-protection”. without requiring the force of the government.

Gandhi was a mass leader, a visionary, and had the The recent agitation in Delhi has brought to the capacity to invent symbols that would capture mass surface establishment’s panic reaction the idea of imagination and inspire people with a vision of a non- Swaraj because it threatens control being currently violent revolution. He inspired popular imagination welded by established political class and challenges by organizing Salt Satyagraha, inventing Charkha, their established methods of winning elections and propagating use of Khadi. He introduced into the governance. First of all, compared to many other street popular vernacular concepts such as Satyagraha, Harijan agitations, the agitation in Delhi was of a much smaller and of course- Swaraj. Even his recommendation to scale and a lot less threatening to the government. make Mohamed Ali Jinnah the first prime minister of It is not unusual for political parties to engage in undivided India was a symbolic masterstroke that did mass agitations to turn public opinion against the not go well with the Congress leadership. government of the time. To proclaim that the decision with regard to bringing police under the command of The core of Gandhi’s vision resonated with the Delhi government should have been discussed and concept of anarchy. Being an expert in semantics, resolved within the chambers of Delhi assembly or in he was able to lend a positive affordance to the idea consultation with the central government, and that the of anarchy by calling it Swaraj. Driving an entire AAP was wrong in resorting to agitations is hypocritical nation towards an anarchist utopia required the moral of the Congress and the BJP. Agitations are necessary stature, mass reverence, organizational discipline and for forcing governments to open their eyes to pressing conceptual palatability. Gandhi’s genius in crafting issues faced by people. narratives could alone make anarchy palatable to the nation’s imagination. Jayaprakash Narayan gave a call for Total Revolution in response to Indira Gandhi’s totalitarian and corrupt The concept of Swaraj is also echoed in the idea rule. Sensing her predisposition to assume absolute of convivial society envisioned by another anarchist, power he even went to the extent of appealing to the Ivan Illich. In his book Tools for Conviviality (1973) armed forces to disregard her orders if she ordered Ivan Illich envisioned a modern society of responsibly them to resort to violence against the opposition. At the limited tools. Illich believed that, “Scientific discoveries time, the Congress government accused JP of treason. can be used in at least two opposite ways. The first leads However, within a few weeks of this accusation, to specialization of functions, institutionalization of Mrs. Gandhi proved JP right by imposing a state of values and concentration of power and turns people into Emergency and pushing India into a period of autocracy. accessories of bureaucracies or machines. The second enlarges the range of each person’s competence, control After the Janata Party Government assumed power, and initiative, limited only by other individuals’ claims initiated back door manipulations to to an equal range of power and freedom”. Illich believes bring about a split in the Janata Party. At the same that in a convivial society, “People will rediscover the time, he resorted to street agitations to revitalize a value of joyful sobriety and liberating austerity only demoralized Congress party. if they relearn to depend on each other rather than on energy slaves.” The ’s Ram Janmabhoomi movement, especially the march to Ayodhya which led German philosopher Immanuel Kant’s description of to demolishing of the , is another example four types of governance explains anarchy in relation of a party resorting to the streets, and engaging in a to other forms of government. 1. Law and freedom criminal act (unlike the demonstration by Kejriwal without force (anarchy), 2. Law and force without in Delhi) to capture power. While the AAP has the freedom (despotism), 3. Force without freedom and ultimate goal of transcending the vote bank politics law (barbarism), and 4. Force with freedom and law with participatory democracy where every individuals JANATA, February 2, 2014 19 regardless of his/her religion, caste, creed, color or gender had equal opportunity to participate in governance, both the BJP and the Congress party have gone to the extend of presiding over genocide (in 1984 and 2002) of minorities in order to consolidate power. cegbyeF& keÀeceieej ceO³eJeleea ûeenkeÀ menkeÀejer mebmLee ce³ee&efole In my view AAP’s approach to Swaraj shows greater (yengjep³e ûeenkeÀ menkeÀejer mebmLee) promise, over the discredited political class against ieesefJebopeer kesÀCeer jes[, vee³eieebJe, oeoj (HetJe&), cegbyeF& - 400 014 which the youth have risen in response to the call for þUkeÀ JewefMeäîes change first by and then by the AAP. Ø 64 Je

The youth is behind the AAP because they have a Ø meeceeefpekeÀ GHe¬eÀce different worldview. They are not indoctrinated by old ¶ ­­­­kegÀefìjesÐeesie, ûeeceesÐeesie Je Mesleceeueeuee ceekexÀì GHeueyOe ideologies. They care less about vote bank politics. They ¶ ­­­­Kejsoer ye®ele ³eespeveebvee Òeeslmeenve have access to the Internet and have got accustomed ¶ ­­­­DeMeer YesmeU DeMeer ®eueeKeer Òeel³eef#ekesÀ to the Open Source model of contributing their own ¶ ­­­­ûeenkeÀ efMe#eCe DeeefCe mebj#eCe cesUeJes ideas for a larger good. Crowd sourcing has become a reliable method of finding patterns in people’s needs and Ø meYeemeoebvee KejsoerJej JeìeJe aspirations, more reliable than any expert opinion. In this background the youth are less loyal to centralized DeHevee yeepeej meJee¥meeþer control and delivery mechanism and more tuned into the fuzzy space of collaboration and co-creation. DeeHeues menkeÀejer

Eric Schmidt, Founder of Google describes this Deefveue iebiej ÞeerHeeo HeÀeìkeÀ keÀe³ee&O³e#e GHekeÀe³ee&O³e#e phenomenon as %eeveosJe oUJeer, megneme yeves Sme. ìer. keÀepeUs “The Internet is the first thing that humanity has Yeejleer efMejmeeì, meblees

The real opportunity for the AAP is to put in place an oerHekeÀ je#es, veeiesMe leeJe[s, Deefveue keÀebyeUs HR mechanism that can help guide the participants of mesJekeÀ ÒeefleefveOeer this revolution with a moral, disciplined and inspiring framework. 20 JANATA, February 2, 2014 Running a Government is a Sober and Serious Business

Rajindar Sachar

It is hoped that the Delhi Law Minister has understood telecom scandals. With that experience for a party to Article 227 of the Constitution of India providing for cast a doubt on the public sector’s existence is to betray the separation of powers between the executive and the the constitutional mandate. Also a party going national judiciary. He along with Chief Minister Kejriwal had must also indicate its position on the ongoing policy of an audience with the Chief Justice of the Delhi High the Central government in selling off the family silver Court the other day so as to remove any impression of (PSUs) to private predators. The AAP policy against even indirect interference in the domain of the judiciary. FDI in retail is, of course, on the right direction. It does not behove an AAP minister to reach late by one hour and disrupt the screening of a film at a public The right to food is an absolute right of every citizen centre to deliver a lecture. Is this not an act more of a in the country. The PUCL has been fighting for the feudal lord than that of an elected minister? The AAP acceptance of the right in the Supreme Court for years government also needs to clarify its announced policy - it is because of this that the governments have been of 95 per cent of the Delhiites only being eligible for obligated to pass the Right to Food Act for supplying the Delhi colleges — a policy opposed by DUTA and the food at subsidised prices. But if a party has doubts student associations. about the subsidy, then it must enlighten the public how the poor are to get even the minimum food required for It is self-evident that any political party must keeping alive. present a defined socially relevant policy. That the country should have a corruption-free government The AAP government is obligated to clear its policy is unexceptional and no party can possibly say to on the demand of the Socialist Party and the Pension Parishad to raise the pension for Delhi’s elderly people the contrary. People naturally will judge it by actual who get a monthly minimum pension of Rs. 5,000. experience. But then people want to know whether the objectives laid down by our founders of the Constitution An immediate response from the AAP government are the ones on which any government, state or Central is called for to the danger of displacement of lakhs of is functioning. Some of the basic unalterable objectives people, pointed out by Medha Patkar, the NAPM leader, of our Constitution postulate the government’s active due to the decision on the Delhi-Mumbai and Amritsar- role in developing an inclusive society with special corridors being activated soon. consideration for the minorities like the Muslims and the Christians and to minimise inequalities in society. The self-praise by AAP that it has solved the water In short, any political party must spell out clearly its problem in Delhi is cynical. The supply of 700 liters position vis-à-vis the big corporate sector, foreign as free water a day means nothing to about 40 per cent of well as Indian, and its commitment to socialism and the the people simply because there are no water pipes in public sector, emphasised by Dr. Ambedkar as being the their areas and the government is not supplying water objective of the Constitution. Unfortunately, on all these at all. They depend on water mafia tankers available at policy matters there is a resounding silence by AAP. exorbitant rates. Areas like Zakir Nagar and Sangam Vihar have the D.J.B. water pipes passing them by at It is not enough to say that a party is committed to a little distance but the D.J.B. refuses to connect these the poor - that bald declaration is made by even neo- areas, thus leaving them at the mercy of the mafia. In fascist groups all over the world, including India. A fact, the experiment of privatisation of water must be party has to spell out the instruments it will apply to discontinued. This facility must remain in the public achieve the growth of the economy. In India public sector as the right to water is a human right. sector undertakings like Oil India and NTPC are a strong bulwark of growth as against the failure of some No doubt, corruption is an evil eating into the vitals of the biggest private sector corporations, the hands of our society. But you do not fight it by spreading of some of them being sullied by the Coalgate and suspicion about every one’s honesty excepting those JANATA, February 2, 2014 21 belonging to the ruling party. To what dangerous the electricity bills from March 2013 onwards belonging proportion this is sought to be practised is clear when to his party will not be required to pay the arrears and AAP unabashedly announces that its government is instead these will be paid by the Delhi government. creating a service which will teach public callers how The justification given is that it has to be assumed to conduct a sting operation. The government feels this that all these defaulters were part of the “andolan” will create a fear psychosis in each civil servant. This launched in March by AAP. This is a dangerous view is frightening. This method reminds me of the system apart from being legally impermissible. The state devised during the decadent period of the USSR regime government cannot distinguish between people who when Russian children were indoctrinated to spy on vote for or against it. As it is, a question may well their parents and report to the secret service and then were publicly honoured. Corruption is not eased out by be asked at this partiality by lakhs of voters who had such hare-brained sting operations but rather by the top paid their electricity bills and also voted for AAP: Are of the administration being above reproach. some people more equal than others? It needs to be continuously remembered that running a government It is a pity that Chief Minister Kejriwal has is a sober business and not a public bluster or empty announced with a boastful flourish that the defaulters of rhetoric. KANTA Enterprises Pvt. Ltd

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Prem Singh

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) did not succeed in of AAP with the success of ‘new’ politics, manage to the Muslim majority constituencies in the recently underscore the fact that this new politics too looks at held Delhi Assembly elections even though the AAP sections of the population of the country as categories, leadership tried hard, even monetarily, in this direction by dividing them into religions and castes. It won 9 out to help the candidates. In order to secure the Muslim of 12 reserved seats in the Delhi Legislative Assembly votes, the AAP supremo visited the heads of many elections, but did not put forward a single Scheduled Islamic organizations/bodies, and also approached to Caste candidate on any of the other seats. Its next Maulvi Taukir Raza Khan in Bareli. AAP found Muslim target is Haryana, where it has already started politics candidates easily enough, even the BJP is able to seek based on caste equations. To put up a Yadav candidate out Muslim candidates, but it could not convince the for chief minister’s post in the Jat dominated politics Muslim ‘voters’. This indicates that the perception of Haryana, first and foremost priority has been given of the Muslim community about politics is much to the inclusion of Jats. The Jats are falling over each different from that of the mainstream civil society in other to fulfill their political ambitions by doing ‘clean the country; they do not cast their votes simplistically politics’. They hope that a Jat’s name may be decided – merely because the candidate happens to belong to upon later, to make victory certain. a particular or common category. The contenders of the ‘new’ politics, the leaders of AAP, who want to fly Like other political parties who are said to be secular, before hatching, might consider Muslims’ perception AAP while keeping a firm hold on the Hindus, wants about politics to be old fashioned and stagnant as their to cast its sway over the Muslims by placing before India Against Corruption (IAC) comrade Chetan Bhagat them the fear of Narendra Modi. Now it depends has suggested. upon the Muslim community whether it continues the same relationship with AAP, the sort that it had with In the last three decades, most mainstream political the other secular parties. As per this relationship, the parties of the country have become ‘agents’ of Muslims vote for the candidate of any other party that neo-liberalism, but its direct ‘product’ is AAP. Neo- is capable of defeating the BJP. This decision is not liberalism and communalism had begun to join hands wrong in view of the security necessary for their life in the 1980s, disregarding the Indian Constitution. It and livelihood. Since AAP is a party run on strategy became stronger with the implementation of the new rather than struggle, its leadership does not declare is economic policies in 1991 and the demolition of the position clearly, position either on neo-liberalism or on Babri Masjid in the last month of 1992 and has been the question of communalism. Its only goal is to have regularly gaining strength ever since. The hype that the electoral success as soon as possible by being vague new avatar of this alliance i.e. AAP, created in Delhi, has and non-committal about these two major issues. In been challenged only by the large Muslim population its bid to win votes from different communities/strata of Delhi. Therefore, it is a cause of worry for AAP and of society, it speaks in so many voices. In the coming it has formed a ‘special task force’ to win the Muslim elections its multi-facedness may even beat the RSS. votes in the coming Lok Sabha elections. From the time of its RSS-backed anti-corruption Before the Delhi Legislative Assembly elections, movement, AAP has had a large number of neo- when AAP started a special drive to involve some liberal and communal elements. Many BJP/Congress important Muslim names the party, as is practiced by the and SP/BSP leaders had joined the party before the other political parties, it became clear that the leadership Delhi elections. AAP now has a growing number of of AAP too considers Muslims to be a vote bank first and opportunistic and power-hungry elements after its not equal citizens. The making of a ‘special task force’ success in the Delhi elections and the formation of confirms that AAP leadership considers Muslims to be a its government. In this scenario, the assurance to the separate vote bank. The people, who equate the success Muslims that it has many secular faces is questionable. JANATA, February 2, 2014 23

We must keep in mind that a neo-liberal can never house was accomplished with a lot of fanfare at the cost be truly secular. The Muslims should keep in mind of crores in the Ramlila Maidan. The celebration of the that there are a number of more secular parties other ‘feel good’ factor generated by AAP’s electoral success than AAP which do not hesitate to form a government led to the celebrations of the New Year with a special with the BJP at the centre or in states. AAP too, after zeal by the rich in Delhi and other metros in the country. getting the Muslim votes might repeat this practice. Those who claim to check Modi did not even take a A secular leader from AAP, Prashant Bhushan, has peek at the riot affected areas. Nevertheless, they are already advocated the formation of a government with grinding their political axe by organizing membership the support of the BJP instead of the Congress in Delhi. campaigns in that area. Additionally he has also made the ‘grand comment’ calling CPM corrupt, with which an alliance cannot The Muslims need to seriously examine the be made. arguments being propagated by secularists in favour AAP. The argument that Arvind Kejriwal has faded It is unfortunate that along with many Marxists, Modi’s glow may be an excuse for the secularists. secular intellectuals, politicians, peoples’ movements This argument may help some Muslims from AAP to and civil society activists are trying to push Muslims in reach the Parliament and the legislative assemblies. AAP’s fold. Obviously, they all perceive the Muslims But it will not strengthen secularism. The fading of only as a vote bank and are succeeding too, at it. Some Modi’s ‘glow’ will not lead to the fading of communal Muslim clerics and political leaders are apparently fascism. The ideologically neutral stance – ‘neither left impressed by their campaign. They have started nor right’ – could only lead towards strengthening of talking in terms of helping AAP’s candidates to win, fundamentalism forces, be it market or religion. It is to considering it to be a part of the truly secular camp. In be noted that the corporate world and the media, who this period of grave danger to the constitutional value have already pronounced Modi to be the next prime of secularism, the Muslim leadership/intelligentsia minister, is simultaneously singing paeans of Kejriwal. should take a decision on this contentious issue after giving it a serious thought. For the Muslims and the The Muslim voters need to realize that that Modi other minorities in India, this is a question not just of is not just a name that they are gearing to challenge. debate/discussion but one concerning life and death. Communal fascism will not end even if Modi loses the The minorities suffer most by the havoc unleashed by election. The extremist views of the RSS are personified communal politics. Communal forces are so strong in in some or the other leader, from time to time. This time the present times that there have been communal riots, it is Modi who has risen as its biggest representative. one after the other, in Uttar Pradesh under the secular There is a need to look at this extremist streak. May be Samajwadi Party government. on a smaller scale, but the same is visible in Kejriwal. There is some solid evidence available on that count. Communalism has grown steadily with neo- liberalism. Fundamentalism is gaining greater footage Modi easily won the third Legislative Assembly in every religion rather than tolerance. Its latest proof is elections in Gujarat. Many individuals and organizations that when there were congratulatory declarations about have been trying to find justice for the victims, ever political ‘miracles, God’s grace, celebration, hawan and since the time of the state sponsored massacre in 2002. Vande Mataram’ in Delhi on the occasion of the oath- Kejriwal and his followers, who despite repeated and taking ceremony in Delhi, just 100 km away, more than loud claims of saving the country, have not spoken a 60 people were killed and 60,000 people uprooted from word about it, neither at the time of incident nor later. 185 villages during communal riots in Muzaffarnagar- We do not find any comments on the anti-constitutional Shamli districts. Thousands of them are still not ready and anti-civilization deed of the demolition of the Babri to go back to their homes after four months. The SP Masjid either from him or his Guru, Anna Hazare. government has been rightly denounced for their Anna Hazare, whom Kejriwal brought from Ralegaon misdeed of holding and attending the Saifai Mahotsav. Sidhhi to Delhi, dropping his first choice Baba Ramdev, But those who denounced Saifai had no qualms about had first praised Modi from the Jantar Mantar. Modi the celebrations in Delhi. The New Delhi government’s immediately conveyed his thanks by a letter. At the oath-taking ceremony that could have been managed same time he cautioned Anna, that his detractors will within a few thousands at the Lieutenant Governor’s (Continued on Page 26) 24 JANATA, February 2, 2014 Sixty Four Years of the Indian Republic

Radhey Shiam

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution declares that a sovereign nation in the world to take care of Indian India is a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, nationals who are living even in other countries. Republic. India became Republic on 26th January, 1950. On the occasion of 64th Republic Day celebrations in Secular India, it is important to introspect the meaning and the Secularism is a special feature of our Constitution. relevance of these words which are incorporated in the Secularism means that the state doesn’t have any religion Preamble. of its own and that the Indian people enjoy equal rights as citizens of the country without any discrimination India of caste, creed, religion and sex. The name of this ancient land was declared to reflects the spirit of unity in diversity in our land which be “India” after long deliberations in Constituent is a legacy of our cultural heritage. Our national leaders Assembly. Beside ‘India’, other names, ‘Bharat’ and had rejected the two nation theory in 1947 based on ‘Hindustan’, were also considered. However this religion. nomenclature was finalised at the instance of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru. Religion cannot be the basis for the creation of any state in modern times. In the Indian context, Secularism India is a large country having different religions, is not only a constitutional right of the people but castes, creeds, languages, etc. We are next only to China something more than that. It is a way of life, sharing in population. The name “India” even after 67 years of cultural beliefs and living together, in spite of the fact its independence could not however touch the hearts that people belong to different religions and cultures. of the Indian people. Sometimes it appears that ‘India’ stands for urban population of the country and ‘Bharat’ We still recall the fact that in World War II, there were for rural India. Maybe this country is the only country two camps having one common religion: Christianity. in the world having three names ‘India’, ‘Bharat’ and We are witnessing the conflict and war between Muslim ‘Hindustan’. Perhaps this makes it difficult to develop nations in Middle Eastern countries also. The religion a sense of nationality in the minds of the people. no doubt made its historical impact throughout the world and is still relevant to shape the destiny of many We have to confess that we have not been able countries. It is also a historical fact that a number of to develop the sense of nationality as other leading wars have been fought in the name of religion. The countries of the world have done whose advancement lessons from the ancient history reemphasize that the is in great measure due to the national sentiment and the problem of modern society cannot be resolved only on inspiration of the people, from the past history. the basis of religion, especially in this scientific age and when the coming age shall be the age of spirituality Sovereign and science. It means that the ultimate power remains with the people and they are the masters of the land and that Our freedom struggle against the British was having all the sovereign nations of the world are independent the support and the participation of the people belonging and equal. They are supreme within the domain in their to different castes, creeds and religions. As a result of geographical territory. that, we got our freedom. The eminent freedom fighters were inspired by the highest teaching of all religions, We feel proud of the fact that our nation is a sovereign which is the unity of the people and brotherhood of nation in the world. However, in the last 67 years of our mankind. Stalwarts like Netaji Subhash Chandra independence, there are unfortunate examples when our Bose, Gandhiji, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Maulana Azad, country has been challenged by China and Pakistan. The Bhagat Singh were highly motivated by the spirit of ‘soft’ nature of our state has been perceived by many sacrifice, in the service of our motherland. In fact, countries as a weakness. We must assert our right as the remarkable combination of the highest sense of JANATA, February 2, 2014 25 nationalism and secularism is the greatest gift of Indian It is significant that presently, the whole world is freedom movement. facing the worst depression in its economy, having its impact on India too. A number of economic analyses The real challenge to the unity of this country is has given the indication that the above economic crisis from within as well as outside. We are witness to the was the result of capitalistic economic system and increasing emergence of caste, religion and communal market economy. As a result of that, many countries politics in recent times. No doubt, the conflict between are raising the question about the role of globalization secularism and religion that has emerged in recent years in the poverty and unemployment in their countries. should be a matter of concern to all the Indians. The economic crisis and the problem of poverty and Secularism means nationalism which is based on unemployment demand the consideration and relevance humanism. It is sharing of values and beliefs of different of ‘socialist’ economy in our plan and action. communities and religions. The basic teachings of In this context, there is lot to learn from Chinese Islam, , Christianity, Sikhism, Jainism, experience where they have combined talents of private promote the basic ethical values for the entrepreneurs with their government policies and have development of the society. No doubt their metaphysics made their economy global and competitive throughout is separate but there is remarkable unity about the basic the world. approach. It is now time to create a synthesis between secularism and spiritualism. In this background, the There is a great need to set up an Institute for Indian cultural heritage has special message for the Socialist Studies and also as a challenge to socialist unity and synthesis of varied beliefs. thinkers to prepare an alternative 5-year plan for economic reconstruction of the country to be placed Socialism before the nation and also before the newly elected The Preamble of the Indian Constitution contains Parliament in the months to come. Socialism, though this word was inserted in the Indian Constitution by 42nd Amendment Act in 1976. However, National integration time has come to consider the relevance of socialism in Even after 67 years of independence, India is facing present times. After independence, Jawaharlal Nehru, the problem of national integration. India is the only inspired by Russian Revolution was of the opinion country in the world having so many religions and sub- that economic policy of India should have socialistic sects. There are number of political parties and citizens content. All the public undertakings in different parts having different approaches and perceptions about the of the country were established in the same direction. national Integration of the country. Many a time their The nationalization of Indian Banks by Indira Gandhi in conflict of interest creates a problem to maintain and 1969 was considered a landmark in the Indian economic sustain the national integration of the country. scenario. But after that, a drift started towards the capitalistic economy and in 1992, under the leadership In fact the problem of national integration cannot be of Narashima Rao, the then , left in the hands of the government alone. The people and Dr. Manmohan Singh, his Finance Minister, a of the country have to play their due role to maintain new chapter started - of liberal economy with new the national integration. Ultimately these are the people momentum to market economy. who are victimized at the time of communal riots. It is worth observing that in the last three decades, a number In the period thereafter, the shadow of capitalistic of communal riots took place in different parts of the economy has loomed large over the country and our country and some of them that are noteworthy are the institutional framework has been on the roadmap of riots of 1984, after the assassination of the then Prime capitalism. It has however not provided solutions to Minister Indira Gandhi; riots in 1992 in the aftermath problems faced by our society. It is paradoxical that of demolition of Babri Masjid; communal riots in 2002 India is one of the richest country but having the poorest in Godhra and the recent communal riots in 2013 in people. More than half of the population is still facing Muzaffarnagar the problem of survival due to their worst economic condition. It is interesting to note that in this country All the communal riots were the result of deep under the banner of socialism, capitalism is thriving. conspiracy of vested interest and anti-social elements. 26 JANATA, February 2, 2014

Though a number of commissions were set up to country. They are providing employment to about 20 investigate the communal riots, however their reports crore people. However, they are not able to take the were not implemented. This indicates the indifferent advantage of credit and other facilities provided by the attitude of the official agencies and their hypocrisy. government as they are unable to repay the loan. It is high time to take some lesson from Bangladesh where Agriculture and industry they have been able to develop grass root mechanism Agriculture and industry are the two main spheres to resolve the problem of tiny industries. of economic activities in this country. We presently witness the imbalance between agriculture and industry. Small scale industries The agriculture sector could not get due attention in As a result of globalization, many industries in small our Five Year Plans. More than three lakh farmers scale sector have lost their base as they are not able to have committed suicide particularly in the States of face the challenge of globalization in their enterprises Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka due to lack due to the lack of facilities, lack of quality products, of proper attention to them. Time has come to recognize marketing and capital. It is imperative to consider the agriculture as industry. The Indian economy depends development of small scale industry as the backbone of on the progress of agriculture. The rural Indian life our industrial development, providing employment to depends on agriculture. It is a mater of great concern a large number of people and exporting their products that in today’s India, there are examples of starvation of to a number of countries, earning foreign exchange in farmers and the government is unable to resolve their the process. problems. This is also due to the capitalistic approach and lack of sense of responsibility on the part of the India is undoubtedly on the threshold of transformation government. In the long run, agriculture demands as one of the topmost ‘global power’ as vocalized by the status of industry to enable the farmers to take several statesmen including Former President of India advantage of industrial policy made by the government Abdul Kalam. In this journey, all citizens of India must in regard to creation of facilities providing agricultural play a significant role towards building a prosperous tools, machineries and marketing. and progressive nation based on national pride. The key words of the Preamble - Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Tiny industries Democratic, Republic – must be realised effectively to There are about 30 million tiny industries in the achieve the above objective.

(Continued from Page 23) try to create differences between them. Some secularists political parties advocate the implementation of the tried to attempt damage control, but Kejriwal still didn’t recommendations of the report in one way or the other. speak up. Only RSS-BJP has opposed it. But AAP has still not issued any comment on that report. Therefore, one may An important member of the India Against Corruption assume that AAP sides with the BJP on this count. The team, Chetan Bhagat, had campaigned for Modi even Sachar Committee report records the pathetic state of before the RSS came out with its decision in his Muslims in the country and seeks their empowerment favor, and is still doing so. Lately he has been trying by suggesting some immediate measures. The Ford to ‘educate’ the Muslim youth in favour of ‘modern Foundation sponsored AAP’s leadership, including and progressive’ Modi cautioning them against ‘old Kejriwal, never speak a word against the neo- fashioned and stagnant’ Muslim community. An imperialism conducted from the American-Israel axis. important leader of the anti-corruption movement and Kejriwal’s comrade in arms, Ramdev’s utterances It is astonishing that the secularists consider Kejriwal and literature are not hidden from any one. Ramdev to be their card against Modi, when he has never said called Modi to his ashram at Hardwar and declared a word against Modi. It will be interesting to see him to be the leader of Hindus. Kejriwal did not speak what decision the Muslim public takes with regard even after that. The Sachar Committee report and its to AAP which has pushed back the real socialist and recommendations came out in 2006. This report has secularist forces and is continually hobnobbing with become a central issue in the India politics. All the the neoliberal-communal nexus! JANATA, February 2, 2014 27 R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 28 JANATA, February 2, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, February 2, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday February 5, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

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Vol. 69 No. 2 Weakest Prime Minister? February 9, 2014 S. Viswam

Communalism will be poll plank What makes a prime minister comfort level, a part of Dr. Singh’s Kuldip Nayar strong and what makes a prime persona resents being described as minister weak? Are there well-laid weak, surfaced at his press conference Public Policy Reports and criteria to assess the relative strengths on February 1. He surprised the media Private aspirations and weaknesses of prime ministers, or persons at the conference venue of K. S. Chalam for that matter, presidents? On what Vigyan Bhavan and also all those Wobbly Take Off for Third Front basis did L. K. Advani describe Dr. who watched him on television Nitish Chakravarty Manmohan Singh as the “weakest by his spontaneous response to a prime minister” India has had? Was question. Dr. Singh adroitly turned Pension Reforms Can it only because Dr. Singh shares the table on Mr. Advani by pointing Bring Hope to Millions power with the Congress president out that while he himself still retained Bharat Dogra Sonia Gandhi or because it is a little his job, Mr. Advani had lost his more than mere sharing in the sense by trying to assert his power and AAP has tied itself in knots that Mrs. Gandhi commands more authority as president of a major Rajindar Sachar power than the Prime Minister? political party! The implication Unfortunately, whatever the basis clearly was that between the two, Mr. The Gender Insensitive for Mr. Advani’s assessment, Advani was the weaker! This was Leadership Dr. Singh cannot live down the an unsuspected display of political Rajindar Sachar description as long as he remains aggressiveness by the Prime Minister. A Case for Swaraj prime minister under the present Evidently, he has a hidden side to him! Uday Dandavate arrangement in which his position, Did Mr. Advani choose the word status and authority are subservient “weakest” after careful deliberation Give them a fighting chance to those of Sonia Gandhi. Since Dr. or was it just an off-the-cuff choice Kalpana Sharma Manmohan Singh has made virtue in the heat of a political moment? out of a necessity, he finds comfort Obviously, the latter. The term in the anamolous position he is in “weakest” implies that Dr. Manmohan Editor : thanks to an unusual conspiracy of Singh is the weakest among a line of G. G. Parikh circumstances. However, despite weak prime ministers. Mr. Advani his loyalty to the party and to its is second to none in loyalty to his Managing Editor : Guddi president, there must be moments own party. He could not have meant D-15, Ganesh Prasad, when the good doctor must be rueing that Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee, the the day he was forced to become a only BJP prime minister so far, was Naushir Bharucha Marg, mere naam-ke-vaaste prime minister. also a weak prime minister! If this Mumbai - 400 007. He may feel comfortable, but certainly thought had occurred to Mr. Advani, he cannot be enjoying the high office. he might well have described Dr. Email : [email protected] If he did, he will be less than human. Singh as the “weakest Congress That, notwithstanding his professed Prime Minister! In that, he may have 2 JANATA, February 9, 2014 been correct because Manmohan Between the lines Singh is the first Congress prime minister who is also not the president Communalism will be poll plank of his party and is having to share power with another centre of power. Mr. Advani has been long enough Kuldip Nayar in politics to have witnessed the performance of a number of prime The Congress is a late starter. enough period to make a dent into ministers in office right from It firmed up its campaign for the the country’s chronic problems Jawaharlal Nehru. Nehru had the April-May parliamentary elections of poverty, unemployment and longest innings, lasting 17 years. His only two months ago. The party was disparities. Prime Minister daughter ran close with 14 years in complacent till it was woken up by Manmohan Singh, a well-known two spells. Her son Rajiv Gandhi the dismal defeats in four of the five economist, has turned out to be an completed the full term of five years states during the assembly polls. astute politician. His forte does not in office, an achievement matched by seem to be economics but political one of his Congress Party successors The surveys conducted by manouevres. P. V. Narasimha Rao. In between,we different media hands confirm the have had six non-Congress Prime drubbing which the Congress is History may be charitable and Ministers, , V. P. all set to receive in 2014 general infer Manmohan Singh as only the Singh, Chandra Shkhar, H. D. Deve elections. The predictions are that it stalking horse. He should have quit Gowda, Inder Gujral and Vajpayee. may not even reach the three-digit in protest against the imposition (Have I left out anyone?). Of these, figures. Congress vice-president of certain decisions on him. Yet, only Vajpayee lasted the term. Which of these would Mr. Advani Rahul Gandhi, appointed as the not even once did he offer his describe as strong and which weak? head of the election strategy, was resignation. The real power was Since Dr. Manmohan Singh has a disaster in a television interview. concentrated at 10, Janpath, where earned the status of the weakest He made little difference because Sonia Gandhi and her son live. in Mr. Advani’s eyes, it will be he repeated the clichés that the She could have become the prime useful to assess the standing of all Congress has been harping on minister in Congress’ second term in or most of them in ascending order endlessly. He has unnecessarily 2009 but Sonia Gandhi did not want of strength and descending order revived the controversy of 1984 to revive the controversy of being of weakness. Strong and weak are massacre. Indian. Moreover, she wanted Rahul but relative terms and since there Gandhi to occupy the chair. Her is no yardstick other than public It looked from some of his recent thinking was that it would be taken perception, on what basis is one speeches that as if he has changed as a dynastic succession. Rahul to test Mr. Advani’s description in tone and tenor, tearing a leaf out Gandhi has built up the young cadre or in, Dr.Singh’s word “epithet”? of the Aam Aadmi Party’s book in the party. This was his plus point. In the case of Dr. Manmohan Singh, and talking about the participatory does public perception share Mr. democratic state. He has very The biggest problem that the Advani’s assessment? Was Dr. Singh little time between now and the Congress faces is to explain the strong or weak in sorting out the polls. Even otherwise, he could not scams which took place during its Goa and Jharkhand embarrassments revive the sagging fortunes of the regime. Corruption is palpable in for the party? Was he strong or weak in dealing with President Congress, first in UP and Bihar and, the Commonwealth Games, 2G Pervez Musharraf and President more recently, in Madhya Pradesh, Spectrum regarding mobiles and the Bush? Or in dealing with the Nepal Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and, finally, allotment of coal blocks. The Prime King? Or in concluding a civilian in Delhi. Minister cannot shrug his shoulders nuclear energy deal with President and say that he did not know about Bush? Or in ordering the Indian It would not be fair to put the them because the PMO has approved delegation at the IAEA to vote blame entirely on Rahul Gandhi. all the deals. against Iran? Or, in accepting Buta The fault is the non-performance Singh’s recommendation to dissolve of the Congress-led government The Congress cadres belatedly the Bihar assembly? at the centre. A decade is a long are beginning to be active, yet their JANATA, February 9, 2014 3 predicament is how to rationalize the corrupt deeds and non-governance. Public Policy Reports and No doubt, Rahul, a young face, is at Private aspirations the helm of party’s affairs. But the declaration that he was the party’s K. S. Chalam candidate for the prime ministerial position may have helped to some extent. However, it would have been The country is jubilant with the be no published document on the undemocratic to name him before triumph of the middle classes who formal policy recommendation of the elected candidates chose their are hurt with the insensitive attitude abolition of tax, but the people who parliamentary party leader. of the governments towards their are airing the issue are capable of needs. The business community, influencing the government polices In contrast, the Bharatiya Janata particularly the corporate houses are irrespective of the party in power. Party straightaway nominated happy that the effective consumer’s Both the ideas are being discussed Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra class are responding to their by public intellectuals in different Modi for the office of prime minister. market charms and would respond forums for quite some time. The RSS, the party’s mentor, insisted effectively with the increase in on it. Whatever the compulsions, their incomes in future. Then how The ‘Report of the Committee on the BJP has imposed Modi on the to get them engaged commercially Comprehensive Financial Services MPs who are yet to be elected. They is a business management problem. for Small Businesses and low have no other choice. Probably, the And we have in our country experts, Income House Holds’ under the BJP high command believes that scholars and commentators with chairmanship of Nachiket Mor Modi’s nomination itself will get political connections and external of RBI, known as the financial it more seats. The calculation may support to devise methods and inclusion report is just out. This is turn out to be correct. Yet there is policies that would make them a report headed by an economist no running away from the fact that mutually beneficial. Nevertheless, turned banker with Pennsylvania the procedure adopted to name the most of the public policies in recent university qualifications and academic rigor with the support of prime ministerial candidate smacks times became contentious and helped about a dozen experts in the field of autocracy. to escalate public protest due to their limited world view. which has recommended policies to be implemented by the RBI/ Indeed, Modi has drawn crowds Government. The terms of reference even in the South where the BJP It is fascinating to note that we of the report are basically related has very little base. His appeal in have readymade and convenient to framing a clear and determined the Hindi-speaking states has been policy packages and directives for vision of financial inclusion astounding. Still the argument that the government that is expected to occupy power soon in Delhi. and deepening, with a design of he has peaked too early has a ring of institutional framework to execute truth. Modi has had thin crowd when Already there seem to be debates on the need for abolishing all taxes so and monitor the implementation of he had visited a state for the second the policy. It seems the committee time. His slogan of development that it would act as an incentive for the business and corporate groups to is overloaded with private bankers does not hide his saffron plan to bring in more efficiency to double including the infamous Vikram polarize the society. our wealth in short period of time and Pandit of ex-Citi bank. It is reported that there was an internal dissent The analysis of last six speeches eliminate poverty altogether just in a decade. There is also an interesting over the recommendations and in by Modi and Rahul shows that both and sincere attempt being made all probability it could be due to the are playing with the emotions of to bring financial inclusiveness in wish list of the private bankers. people in the name of country’s the country through RBI appointed unity. The two are targeting committee of Bankers. These two The report has arrived at a corruption without realizing that six point vision consisting of the important issues though appear to they are making no impact on the following: be independent and parallel, are voters who believe that both are the economic agenda points for the 1. A Universal Electronic Bank (Continued on Page 8) future government. There seem to Account. 4 JANATA, February 9, 2014

2. Ubiquitous Access to Payments market conditions. Link the UDAI only on the topic and does not look and Deposit Products at Aadhar card with all bank accounts. at the linkages or the conditions Reasonable Charges. There are several other constructive or circumstances in formulating recommendations like linking the the problem and elucidating 3. Sufficient Access to Affordable, mobile phones with the customer one’s account of the topic. This is Formal Credit. in consultation of TRAI, insisting reasonable as it is the beginning 4. Universal Access to Investment on the credentials of the client, of a serious work and cannot be Products at Reasonable Charges. grievance redressal mechanism to adjudged as a comprehensive work. help the customer, and so on. But, policy reports that are adopted 5. Universal Access to Insurance by the government affect the lives of and Risk Management Products This is not the first time that millions, should be comprehensive at Reasonable Charges. a committee was constituted to enough to understand and conjecture 6. Right to Suitability. recommend inclusive financial the inter-linkages of milliard issues policies. In fact in 2008 RBI in a pluralistic country like India. The goals laid down by these six constituted a committee under C. India is not New York to get a Bank vision statements and the desired Rnaga Rajanwho defined inclusion outlet within 15 minutes’ walk, outcomes are: as “a process of ensuring access curtail agriculture, reduce real to financial services timely and transactions of people, monetise 1. Each Indian resident above the adequate credit where needed by tribal areas, and so on. It is not age of 18 will have access to vulnerable groups such as weaker just money matter; it is the whole financial services within fifteen sections and low income groups economy that the Report wants to minutes’ walk by 2016 within 1 at an affordable cost.” He had reorient. However, they have not Sq KM, for every 400 people. reviewed the situation and found looked at the fact that out of the 2. The credit to GDP ratio of 50% that 54 per cent of the households Rs7585.8 billion of broad money, will be achieved in every district did not have access to credit and M3, only Rs 1138.3 billion or 15 per by 2020. therefore recommended a National cent is with the public. May be the Rural Financial Inclusion plan. He bankers wish to raise the amount to 3. Universal coverage of risk found that the functioning of RRBs 30 percent. How does it help the poor management with reasonable were satisfactory with 33 per cent and the underprivileged in a country charges by 2016. coverage and to be continued. He where job cards of NAREGA are has also recommended SHG- Bank held by contractors and musclemen The recommendations that linkage scheme and revitalisation in the villages? Is it a good strategy enticed controversy are: All loans of cooperative system to ensure to control the economy and society given to landless labourers, small financial inclusion. Ranga Rajan with such a low premium? India is and marginal farmers are to be was RBI Governor and he kept diverse in several respects where counted as under Agriculture and the system of the economy as a many traditional transactions are still no direct subsidy to the farmer. CRR whole in mind while making the made in barter or other mediums that and SLR of RBI are to be abolished. recommendations. What happened are not necessarily involved with Definition of doubtful assets as of to the recommendations and why money. Do the priest, the barber, now as 12 months period is to be this report again? beggar carry swipe machines? revised. Current capitalisation of Further, we had bitter experiences foreign equity funding relaxed and The 265 pages report produced with the tyranny of micro finance, money laundering concerns should in three months, the shortest period Sahara, scams, chits and cheats be mitigated through measures of given to make recommendations, where the poor and the gullible are reporting by dealers and brokers. reminds one the kind of dissertations the victims. What would happen The priority sector lending is to that the young enthusiastic scholars to them if the whole economy is be raised to 50 per cent to fund in social sciences create. M.Phil. monetised and handed over to few godowns, silos, ware houses and dissertation is a basic exercise done corporate houses? Non-Banking Financial companies, by a scholar to take up serious NBFC, etc. The permission to fix study of the problem given by his Money is not only a store of price of farm loans below base rate supervisor who first concentrates value, a unit of account, medium should be withdrawn and Banks only on the topic nothing else. She/ of exchange, differed payment; be allowed to fix the rates as per he devotes all the time and pages (Continued on Page 10) JANATA, February 9, 2014 5 Wobbly Take Off for Third Front

Nitish Chakravarty

As the country sprints towards course with the CPI(M)-CPI agenda. The Congress at the national the 16th general election, efforts are How will Mulayam Singh square level is eager to have Trinamool on to string together a third (or is it with Tamil Nadu’s wily chief back in the United Progressive a fourth?) front of regional parties minister, J. Jayalalithaa, his oft- Alliance but other alliance partners and also of parties with a marginal articulated ambition to occupy the like the DMK having shown their presence across the country. Much prime minister’s chair? back to it and the Congress’ relations of the credit (or discredit) for with ’s NCP having giving shape to the wooly idea Deve Gowda, notwithstanding his plummeted to a new low, Mamata of a feckless third front belongs tiny outfit’s microscopic presence at knows there is no advantage to gain to the Communists who refuse to the national level, is also very much by jumping aboard Sonia-Rahul learn from past experience. They, in the race for the prime minister’s Gandhi’s leaky boat. Moreover more than others, are doggedly post which he once occupied. Then relations between the West Bengal pursuing the utopia of bringing there are other players waiting in Congress leaders and Trinamool under an umbrella disparate family- the wings to stake their claim to have soured resulting in the exit run outfits, masquerading as political the office of prime minister if and of the Congress from the coalition parties, enmeshed in mutual rivalry when the time comes. Without government they had formed after and contradictions. It was mainly at shared values, and with conflicting the 2011 state elections. This makes their initiative that representatives of personal egos and ambitions, can it even more difficult for Mamata to nearly a dozen parties met in Delhi the hunger for power be a cementing line up with the Congress. last week to flesh out the idea of a force? Many of these leaders have single bloc in Parliament, even as little respect for principles and BJP leaders have been trying to they do not share any common set of have a history of reneging on their woo Mamata back into the National values and agendas. The only thing promises. Democratic Alliance for some common about some of these leaders time, but they cannot be unaware is a burning ambition to become the Predictably , that Mamata is unlikely to cozy up prime minister of India. the irascible chief minister of to their party in the run-up to the West Bengal, is not a part of this national polls. So the BJP’s prime What does Mulayam Singh joint venture. And for obvious ministerial candidate, Narendra Yadav’s Samajwadi Party, for reasons. If circumstances compel, Modi, at an impressive rally in all practical purposes a family Mamata might share a room with Calcutta’s Brigade Parade Ground enterprise, have in common with, a tiger but will not be under the last week, gave a new spin to his for instance J. Jayalalithaa’s same umbrella with the CPI(M) no grand strategy to woo Mamata AIADMK? Or what values does matter how heavy it rains. There by offering her government help Naveen Patnaik’s Biju are other roadblocks to her joining to fulfil its development goals in share with Sharad Yadav-Nitish the emerging third front. Hence her exchange for her MPs’ support to the Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) or H.D. Trinamool will most likely stick BJP in running the government he Deve Gowda’s Janata Dal (Secular)? to her declared intention to go it hopes to head in Delhi next summer. The mutual contradictions, if not alone in the upcoming general Since Mamata is not in the reckoning antagonism, of these leaders are elections. A tie-up with Mulayam as far as the hobbling third front is so obvious that it is well nigh Singh appears to be out of the concerned, the possibility of her impossible for them to evolve a question for at least two reasons: tryst with Modi in case he romps shared agenda on any critical issue one, Mulayam ditched Mamata after home with credible numbers cannot facing the nation. Mulayam Singh’s consenting to her move to scuttle be ruled out. antediluvian views on women’s Pranab Mukherjee’s election as rights and reservation of seats in President; and second, both of them None of the opinion polls Parliament and other elected bodies are nursing the ambition to grab the conducted across the nation gives the places him on a head-on collision prime minister’s chair. Congress party even a slim chance 6 JANATA, February 9, 2014 of retaining power after the polls. Pension Reforms Can Bring Hope to Millions Narendra Modi’s daily shenanigans against Sonia and Rahul have set the Congress worrying, even as the Bharat Dogra outgoing MPs hurtle between hope and despair. The Congress appears to have lost the battle without putting For tens of millions of elderly citizens. However many states not up a decent fight. citizens in India, there is now at only cover only BPL or destitute least a glimmer of a new hope for families, but in addition provide very The much trumpeted first TV social security, thanks to a persistent low pensions, often less than Rs. 500 interview of Rahul Gandhi on campaign for over two years by per month. the Times Now channel has done Pension Parishad, a mobilization nothing to refurbish the image of of several social organizations and Most states cover only people the Congress party’s undeclared activists across the country. over 60 years of age as elderly, prime ministerial candidate; it has while in some states only those rather raised questions about his India has a population of over above 65 years are accepted. The perceptions and plans to deal with 140 million elderly citizens (defined overall result is that only a small the country’s multifarious and at all people over 54 years of age). percentage of those who need and complicated problems. Rahul’s A lower age is considered suitable deserve pension get some pension single point focus on empowerment in the context of pension as poorer at all. Even among those who get of women as the most important people tend to age early. Among pension, a majority get less than Rs. issue facing the nation has pushed these elderly people old age pensions 500 and an overwhelming majority unemployment, healthcare, under the National Social Assistance get less than Rs. 1000 per month. education et al to the back burner. He Programme (NSAP) reach only 23 Hence it can be said that less than has not clarified how would he take million people. 5 per cent of elderly persons in the forward the multi-faceted agenda unorganized sector get a reasonably of his party such as job creation, While the central government adequate pension. healthcare, education for all, to name contributes only 34 per cent of the only a few. annual expenses on old age pensions A note prepared by the Union The move to bifurcate Andhra estimated currently at about Rs. Minister for Rural Development, Pradesh has boomeranged. Not only 14,370 crore, the remaining 66 Jairam Ramesh, and sent to the several non-Congress formations per cent is contributed by various Prime Minister about NSAP also but numerous Congress workers state governments. But even after agreed that “the pension amounts and their allies outside of the adding up all the money, state plus cannot be considered dignified region are up in arms central expenditure, the overall under present cost-of-living against the Centre’s boorish stand. contribution to the social security of circumstances.” This note further Voters in Andhra Pradesh have elderly citizens remains dismal. This said that “there is no automatic remained loyal to the Congress over amounts to Rs. 83 per month per indexation of these pensions the past decades but the ongoing elderly persons for India. While the to inflation.” The beneficiaries developments have turned out to be a situation is somewhat better in a few under NSAP are restricted to BPL nightmare for the party. For the first states like Goa (Rs. 446), Rajasthan households while BPL lists are very time ever a Congress chief minister New scheme (Rs.272) and Haryana unreliable. Only a few states pay (Kiran Kumar Reddy) has declared (Rs. 272), this is extremely poor in pension on a monthly basis. war against his own party’s high Bihar (Rs.52) and Gujarat (Rs. 21). command. The Lok Sabha (at the The figure for Gujarat is glaring low. Keeping in view this dismal fag end of its five-year tenure) and state of old age pensions there is the Rajya Sabha have plunged into a In terms of monthly benefits a strongly felt need for reforming turmoil upsetting the government’s given, a few smaller states or union Pensions. plans to legislate on key issue territories are way ahead with Goa bearing on important concerns for and Andaman-Nicobar providing Rs. Pension Parishad is an effort of the nation. In the event economic 2000 per month to almost all senior social activists and representatives development has taken the back seat. JANATA, February 9, 2014 7 of elderly people all over the country to campaign for adequate, justice- AAP has tied itself in knots based universal pensions in the The Congress too is playing a devious game country. The lead for initiating this campaign was taken in 2011-12 Rajindar Sachar by some prominent social activists like Baba Adhav and Aruna Roy. As a result of this campaign elderly A political debate can be, and cultural organizations. At the same people from several parts of the should be, sharp, divisive and time he said, rather with tongue in country have come together at even personal. But none should cheek, that if they did something Jantar Mantar in Delhi in every deliberately try to vilify the personal illegal, action would be taken. session of Parliament since May character of the opponent unless What a convoluted explanation by 2012 to draw attention to their the facts are unimpeachable. Most the Chief Minister of Delhi! Surely, plight. Each time, the demands have of the newspapers, including he is aware that Khap Panchayats received unanimous support from some of the reputedly sober ones, in Haryana and Rajasthan have both within, and outside Parliament. recently flashed the news about a been responsible for harassing On November 27, 2013 elderly list circulated by Arvind Kejriwal young couples by questioning their people gathered at Jantar Mantar describing Central ministers and marriage. Khap Panchayats have once again (for the 6th time) for an other leaders of the Congress and exiled such couples from villages indefinite dharna which demanded the BJP as “corrupt”. — and even ordered their killings. that the government honour the The Punjab and Haryana High Court assurances made to them during the No, I am not against publicising and the Supreme Court have in budget session of Parliament. acts of corruption. But I would have many cases directed the prosecution expected some small factual details of members of Khap Panchayats The Pension Parishad demands of the corruption charges just as and many of them have even been that - 1. Pensions must be universal. those made public about the coal convicted. 2. The minimum monthly pension and telecom scams. AAP’s naming should be Rs. 2000 or half the of certain leaders as corrupt and One of the founding members of minimum wage, whichever is higher. criminal who are playing dynastic AAP, Madhu Bhaduri, has resigned, 3. The pension amount should be politics is an act of provocation. saying publicly that “she has nothing indexed to inflation. 4. The pension Notwithstanding the slander, to do with a party which humiliates amount must be paid to the recipient the Congress has continued to women……and that she wanted on a fixed date each month. 5. The give outside support to the AAP to distance herself from AAP”. pension delivery system should be government. Maybe the compulsion of Kejriwal transparent and the list of recipients is that his next target of election in each state must be displayed on Kejriwal took the rash step in the is Haryana. If AAP, which calls the website. 6. The government must hope that, stung by this, the Congress itself a different kind of political put in place a system for grievance would withdraw its support. As a party, courts organizations like redress. result, the AAP government would Khap Panchayats which violate resign and go to the people as every human right, how can youth, a wronged party, conveniently especially young women, trust it Janata Subscription trying to cover up AAP members’ with their vote? Annual Rs. : 260/- misbehaviour with African and Three Years : 750/- other women which had led certain Such being the compulsions Demand Draft / Cheque on women’s organisations and others to of Kejriwal, he is looking for an Mumbai Bank criticise AAP for its insensitivity in excuse to quit the government and in favour of these delicate matters. give a make-believe impression JANATA TRUST to the public that the dishonest D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir On top of this came the Congress was afraid of his steps Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 “enlightened” Kejriwal’s statement against corruption and, therefore, that Khap Panchayats are only has withdrawn the support. When 8 JANATA, February 9, 2014 the Congress did not swallow the and finally passed. That would to pay up their arrears or the supply bait of withdrawing support even be both democratic and people- would be stopped. NTPC is under after its leaders were called corrupt, friendly. As for watching debates, the Central government and it is hard AAP in order to further provoke the TV channels can cover each angle to believe that the threat could have Congress publicly included the name of the debate. AAP can even install been given without having cleared of Sonia Gandhi in the list of corrupt big TV screens throughout Delhi it first with the Central government, leaders. The Congress seems to have during the debate and passing of the more so when a CAG audit is going seen through his strategy and has not legislation and thus satisfy the test to be held to look into the allegation reacted. AAP is now cornered into of involving people in legislation. made by Kejriwal that there is a fulfilling its commitment to supply But if AAP is interested only in big tax evasion by the local power water and electricity as promised cheap gimmicks, then this latest companies. in better ways than the previous action of holding a public meeting government did. Thus the reality is in I.G. Stadium is on a par with Unfortunately, this devious game that AAP has tied itself in knots of that of the Roman Empire, which between AAP and the Congress can its own making. So we have a game used to hold gladiators’ fights and only bring misery to the average of chess being played between the killings in public. But that is not how Congress and AAP. People of Delhi democracies function. person in Delhi. The political scene are suffering, in the meanwhile. The is not encouraging. I feel that the public wants concrete action and not Of course, the Congress is movements by people who wish to an exchange of allegations between also playing its devious game. I bring about social change and fight politicians. am referring to NTPC, a Central gross inequalities in our country undertaking, putting pressure on should combine and play an effective AAP should also realise that the Delhi electric supply companies role in parliamentary elections. running a government is a serious (Continued from Page 3) business. It had announced before Why the Mahatama named Nehru elections that it would pass the hiding corruption of their respective as his successor was the image the Lokayukta Bill at the Ramlila party. The difference between the latter projected of being a national Ground. But the venue is being two is on secularism. Modi avoids and international figure. Nehru never abandoned because of the cost discussions on the subject and says deviated from the path of secularism of over Rs 2 crore estimated by that the development is inclusive. which the Mahatama infused in the police, apart from security Rahul Gandhi, on the other hand, the nation. Patel did say during the reasons. A switchover to Indira underlines that secularism is the migration following partition that Gandhi Stadium looks easy because country’s ethos. the Muslims will be pushed out of being a Delhi Government property, India in proportion to the Hindus it will only require certain book Modi is invoking the name of ousted from Pakistan. entries and no cash payment. A more Sardar Patel and Rahul is invoking serious question has to be answered. both Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira There is no doubt that the BJP Legislation in a democracy is not Gandhi, staying within the dynasty. will emerge as the single largest passed at rallies. There has to be a If he was serious on corruption he party. Even then Modi’s ambition serious deliberation on each part of should have taken up some of the to become the prime minister may the legislation. If the AAP members’ scams with the Prime Minister. elude him. Imagining that his party, plea of involvement of the public Coming back to Patel, he was a on its own gets 200 seats in the is so genuine, what stops them strong personality but his image Lok Sabha, he still will have to from holding even corner meetings was that of being anti-Muslim. By muster another 72 more to give or bigger public meetings where installing a tall statute of Sardar Patel the BJP an absolute majority. Then Kejriwal and his Cabinet colleagues in Ahmedabad, Modi is only playing a more acceptable face to placate can easily mingle with people and the communal card. Both Nehru the supporting parties may become have a discussion on each aspect and Patel were Mahatama Gandhi’s inevitable. The federal front which of the Lokpal Bill? And thereafter lieutenants and the picture of those is being revived by Bihar chief the mater can be taken up in the days shows them on either side of minister Nitish Kumar may become legislative assembly hall, debated the Mahatama. relevant at that time. JANATA, February 9, 2014 9 The Gender Insensitive Leadership

Sandeep Pandey

The comment made by Kumar into the privacy of women in the illegal activities, they could throw Vishwas on nurses from Kerala middle of night without women the society into anarchy. Rather than and the Delhi Law Minister’s police. The policemen who were taking the law into their own hands insistence that Delhi police raid a targeted are both men. In the end it would be better if they allowed the place which he alleged was being no proof of drug was found on the law and order machinery to function used to run a sex and drug racket body of Ugandan women. It is really independently with them playing have exposed certain weakness of a shame that when police refused to the role of watchdog. Otherwise, the AAP. Since it is a party created arrest the women, which they could they would be accused of the same in a hurry obviously its cadres have not have done legally, the AAP charge as every other political party not received any kind of training, workers manhandled the women in power – of abusing the police to leave aside ideological training. and forced them to go to AIIMS serve their own ends even though it Unfortunately the top leadership for check-up. How is this display may be for a public cause. The cause of AAP is bereft of any prominent of muscle power any different from has to be right and even the method female member or anybody with what other politicians do, though may has to be correct. feminist outlook. Otherwise such be not inspired by the zeal to punish things would not have happened. the wrong doers. But this moral It would do AAP party good Madhu Bhaduri’s (who has been policing could be very dangerous if Arvind Kejriwal got all his Arvind’s colleague since the days like we have seen some right wing volunteers, especially the ones he started his work on RTI about Hindutva organisations doing it. It is in responsible positions, oriented ten years back) resignation from the also a matter of curiosity that among towards gender sensitivity, right to party shows the gender insensitivity all places the minister chose to target choice, gay-lesbian rights and other among top AAP leadership. She this particular place where Ugandan such issues. has gone to the extent to say that women lived. This incident reeks of this party of men (aadmi) doesn’t racism and the act of the minister Somnath Bharti’s early morning respect women and behaves like a borders on fascism. The attempt by raid at Ugandan women’s place and Khap panchayat. These are serious Delhi government to take control of Arvind Kejriwal’s dharna on street allegations. Delhi police is a valid one but police to defend Bharti have seriously cannot be used to wreak havoc by dented AAP’s image. People who Kumar Vishwas was also unnecessarily harassing the citizens. were looking up to AAP as a viable making casteist comments in The sensitivity especially expected national alternative have started his first appearance in the anti- when women are involved was not having doubts. AAP has set out to corruption movement during Anna shown in this matter. redefine the way politics is done Hazare’s fast at Jantar Mantar in in India. The prevalent culture of April 2011. He had to be told to Imagine that AAP government mainstream political parties is that not make such statements. He is a was given control of police. Now, they defend the wrongdoing of their professional entertainer with little if every minister and MLA of the party workers. AAP is not expected social understanding who has been ruling party decided to use Delhi to emulate other political parties propelled into national leadership of police to carry out raids in their in this matter. In fact, it is hoped AAP because of the success of the enthusiasm to check corruption that they would take action against movement. and irregularities they could create their own workers if they commit a chaos. Since the time of Anna wrong. Somnath Bharti must pay a Now the Delhi police certainly Hazare there is a streak of fascism price for his intemperate ways and seem to be protecting the sex and in the movement which wants to AAP should force him to resign. drug mafia when they refuse to take publicly hang the corrupt on street He is a lawyer and he has exhibited an action upon instructions from a crossings. If they decided to extend ignorance of basic law relating to Delhi minister, but the minister must this thinking to people involved in women and acted in a highhanded also realize that he cannot interfere sex and drug rackets and other such manner. His action deserves to 10 JANATA, February 9, 2014 be condemned like we condemn the obnoxious behavior of other A Case for Swaraj politicians. Uday Dandavate One or two more mistakes like this and the AAP popularity can really take a dive. The danger is Sixty-sixyears after independence in seven sub-indices and overall that when the damage reaches out India has a long distance to travel Prosperity.” The report suggests of control then Arvind Kejriwal may in building a path to prosperity that development and progress just wind up the experiment. The for all of its citizens. A recent are not solely reliant on rapid party is in danger of frittering away survey by Legatum Institute has economic growth”. It attributes the gains it has made so rapidly. The profiled 142 countries along a performance of Bangladesh to its growth of the party has not been prosperity index. The countries success in poverty management accompanied by an evolutionary have been ranked along eight high through effective implementation of process and it may end up paying a level criteria (see the methodology micro financing. It also points out heavy price for it. used at http://www.prosperity. that relative to Bangladesh overall com/#!/methodology), Economy, loan portfolios for microfinance One hopes that AAP will learn Entrepreneurship and Opportunity, institutions across India shrank by from its mistakes and not put Governance, Education, Health, 33 perce3nt, from $5.25 billion inexperienced people in important Safety and Security, Personal to $3.52 billion, between March positions. His argument that if it Freedom and Social Capital. and December, 2011. The report is after all ordinary people who do Majority of the top ten countries concludes, various kinds of jobs then why can’t featured in the results are primarily they become MLAs and ministers social democracies (the United is flawed? Every job requires some States features as 11th and UK at the training or experience. He is able 16th positions). Norway ranks no. 1 in to aptly handle the job of CM prosperity followed by Switzerland because of his experience as an (2), Canada (3), Sweden (4), New administrative officer. He can’t Zealand (5), Denmark (6), Australia expect newcomers in his party to (7), Finland (8), Netherlands (9) and function at his level of expertise and Luxembourg (10). India ranks at understanding. 106th position even behind some of our neighbors, such as Singapore (at (Continued from Page 4) 18), Hong Kong (at 19), Japan (at but a sinew of political war in 21), Taiwan (at 22), South Korea (at modern times. It cannot be left 26), Malaysia (at 44), China (at 51), to the whimsies and fancies of Thailand (at 52), Sri Lanka (at 52), the market players. There is no Philippines (at 66), Indonesia (at doubt it would facilitate the big 66), Nepal (at 102) and Bangladesh corporate players to transact and (at 103). stimulate capital markets. But, they are only aspirations of a few private Even more alarming aspect of the findings of the Legatum individuals and the country with Institute’s research is that in 2013 30 crore poor people cannot afford Bangladesh has overtaken India on this at this stage. After all, RBI the Prosperity Index for the first or any Central Bank of a country time. The report concludes, “Over has the responsibility in providing the past five years, India has slid the direction and correction to the down the rankings in seven of the economy with monetary and fiscal eight sub-indices and in overall (taxes) policy. How is it possible Prosperity, while Bangladesh’s to regulate the market economy performance over this period is without CRR, SLR, subsidies, taxes, the complete opposite—rising loans and other instruments? JANATA, February 9, 2014 11

“India’s economic problems have of 177 countries, Incidentally there mapping of countries with different been compounded by governance is a significant overlap between levels of prosperity and corruption. failures. Since 2009, India has the countries identified as high I have also placed the ideal concept fallen 18 places on the Governance on prosperity index by Legatum of Swaraj in this model. sub-index to 54th. Over this period, Institute and those identified as faith in the country’s political class least corrupt by the Transparency The framework consists of has been shaken by high-profile International. The top ten ranked two dimensions - dimension of corruption scandals, including the countries (least corrupt) include governance (Trickle down versus selling of mobile phone spectrum Denmark (1), New Zealand (1), Participatory) and Dimension at below market rates and the Finland (3), Sweden (3), Norway of Social Mores (Elitist versus numerous instances of bribery (5), Singapore (5), Switzerland (7), Egalitarian). and incompetence associated with Netherlands (8), Australia (9) and the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Canada (9). A majority of countries with Events like these—and the fact highest prosperity and lowest that 14 per cent of the current India ranks 94th in this ranking, corruption fall in the quadrant that Indian parliament is accused of behind Sri Lanka (91), China (80) shows participatory governance and criminal activity, including murder, Malaysia (53), Mauritius (52), egalitarian social mores. Through clustering of countries based on kidnapping, extortion and rape— Taiwan (36), Israel (36), Bhutan their governance and social mores, may have contributed to declining (31), UAE (26)Japan (18), and Hong it became obvious that the lowest standards of governance as well as Kong ((15). The countries ranked prosperity and highest corruption is the largest anti-government protests more corrupt than India in the region found in dictatorships that practice on record, led by India’s middle include Thailand (102), Indonesia top-down approach to governance (114), Vietnam (116), Pakistan class.” and the rulers are prone to indulge (127), Russia (127), Bangladesh in elitism. Another source of information (136), Iraq (171), Afghanistan (175) to consider in this context is a and North Korea (175. The concept of Swaraj, which is report produced by, Transparency essentially based on participatory International which has developed Review of the data provided method of governance and aimed a corruption perception index by the two research agencies led at establishing an egalitarian through results of a global survey to creation of a model that allows society,will alone provide a perfect path to ensuring prosperity and reducing corruption. Egalitarianism does not mean redistribution of wealth within a stagnant economy. Cultivating egalitarian social mores and building citizens’ interface with the government through innovative participatory approaches will help cultivate people’s capacities and harness their imagination. Such an approach alone will help build a sustainable infrastructure for a prosperous and egalitarian society.

The example of Scandinavian countries stands as an initial proof for this hypothesis. For those who make excuses that small size has made it easier for Scandinavian countries to manage growth and contain corruption, the concept of (Continued on Page 13) 12 JANATA, February 9, 2014 Give them a fighting chance

Kalpana Sharma

In the midst of the raging introducing “immorality” into their that women face when surrounded debate over the Aam Aadmi neighbourhood. When power to the by the men tasked to “protect” them. Party’s actions, inaction and people is interpreted as this kind of reaction to various events, some vigilante justice, not just women but The deeper problem, however, fundamentals are getting buried. any minority group will feel unsafe. with the debates in the media and Some of these fundamentals have elsewhere is the issue of whether a direct relationship to questions There are hundreds of incidents “the people” can really participate of women’s safety and their status. across India of precisely this type of in governance. By focusing on an The intense media scrutiny to which lawlessness that cannot be justified individual, in this case the actions AAP has been subjected, and which in the name of democracy or of Delhi’s Law Minister Somnath some would argue is unfair and “empowering” the “people”. Surely, Bharti, and one incident, the excessive, has raised many issues when members of Raj Thackeray’s vigilantism displayed in Khirkee, that go beyond the future of this one Maharashtra Navnirman Sena there is a real danger that the baby fledgling party. (MNS) decide that “the people” are will be thrown out with the bath fed up of north Indians in Mumbai, water, so to speak. What is the basic premise that and go about demonstrating this by is now being challenged? AAP has roughing up poor street vendors, it For there is no question that campaigned for putting power in the is not an action that anyone who AAP’s attempt at being inclusive, by involving ordinary people in hands of “people”. It holds that the believes in democracy can support. decision-making and in politics, governance deficit can be overcome Unfortunately, so far, AAP has failed is something that is essential to if people are empowered, if decision- to put in place processes that check strengthen democracy. making moves from government vigilantism while still allowing a space for ordinary people to express offices to neighbourhoods; it The panchayati raj system, with their grievances and seek redress. believes that everyone has a right all its shortcomings, has been an to know and to have a say in how outstanding example of how this What would be the fallout of government should run and what it has worked, and women have been this for women? As Pratiksha Baxi should do. the principal beneficiaries of this. points out in a prescient piece on Of course, there are problems. Of the website Kafila (http://kafila. Within days of AAP coming to course, it is not perfect. But it is far org/2014/01/25/the-politics-of-raid- power in Delhi, we have witnessed better than top down governance. It some aspects of this being played governance-aam-aurat-v-khas-aurat- is far better than excluding women out. And those used to a different pratiksha-baxi/), AAP’s formulation from institutions of governance. It is way of business being conducted are of constantly referring to the women far better than concentrating powers legitimately uncomfortable. This is in Delhi as “ma, behen, beti” actually in the hands of a few. disorder, not order, they say. Who lays the grounds for problems for are “the people”? How can you let all women because whether they Even in the panchayati raj system, them decide? mean it or not, they are saying that it has not been easy to ensure that the as long as you are “their” women powerless, including poor women, The most unsavoury aspect of you are safe, but if you are not, actually have their say. In too many this, of course, was what happened in you are on your own. That is not instances, the powerful find proxies Khirkee village in Delhi, where “the the kind of assurance of safety that who run the show. people” chased and caught women any woman wants. In fact, even the who they had decided, without safety guaranteed if you “belong” to There is also the very real danger, any evidence, were soliciting and a group of men is hardly something especially in our cities, of “people’s therefore had to be punished for to celebrate given the insecurities power” being distorted into moral JANATA, February 9, 2014 13 policing, or into attacks against severely criticized by some in the socialism to pseudo capitalism. “outsiders”, whoever they are. media and ridiculed by most of the True intentions were always to traditional political parties. Those keep the levers of power and wealth What AAP is attempting, much who are used to centralized decision- concentrated in the hands of a small like earlier such experiments as making process; the concept of coterie of rulers. The ruling elite part of the Jayaprakash Narayan- citizens’ referendum appears as a managed to switch public mores led movement did in the 1970s, is threat to the authority at the top and from socialist era focus on equality complex and not just a convenient to the integrity of the republic. and social justice to capitalist slogan. It is something that should not era obsession with conspicuous be dismissed lightly or disparaged to India needs to followa consumption. participatory development path the point that even the kernel of good The advent of AAP on the it represents is crushed. that would involve grass root level development models on the lines political horizon of India provides an opportunity for ordinary citizens The danger of pulling this sapling of some of the social democracies that feature high on prosperity to replace the rulers who have never up from the roots before it has had cared for a participatory democracy index and low on corruption index. a chance to establish itself is that it with empathic, intelligent and Key to achieving prosperity lies in will lay the grounds for the demand creative problem solvers. We encouraging and cultivating in every for strong, centralised leadership, need to put AAM Aadmi (not citizen a capacity for pursuing his/ one strong individual who will the party) in the legislatureswith her curiosity, for engaging in critical sort everything out. India has gone amandate to implement the concept thinking and for innovative problem through that phase once. We do not of Swaraj. The goal should not be solving. Every citizen must have the need it repeated. to reverse people’s aspirations for opportunity to prosper irrespective prosperity, but to help them pursue (Continued from Page 12) of his/her caste, religion, gender, their aspirations with egalitarian Swaraj provides a befitting response. or economic status. The socialism values. We need to create abundant Swaraj envisions delegation of India practiced under the Congress opportunities for all, so we don’t governance to the smallest unit of rule was pseudo socialism - hollow have to fight for a piece of a small governance- the Panchayat. The promises of equality were made pie. Panchayati Raj envisioned in the only to capture vote banks. After concept of Swaraj has not been the collapse of Soviet Union the In Gandhiji’s words: The call for successfully implemented in India Indian government moved closer Swaraj represents a genuine attempt only because the rulers in Delhi to the United States. Under the to regain control of the self - our have been averse to giving up their garb of liberalization the Congress self-respect, self-responsibility and control over resources. party switched gears from pseudo capacities for self-realization In 2004, a group of political scientists, under the auspices of CSDS- Gandhi explained his vision of Lokniti, assessed the quality and texture of India’s democracy (along Swaraj in 1946, “What we mean with that of other South Asian countries — the study was subsequently and want through Poorna Swaraj is published as State of Democracy in South Asia). This year, that same an awakening among the masses, a knowledge among them of their exercise is being repeated. Initial findings suggest that satisfaction with the true interest and ability to serve that working of democracy in our country has declined from 55 per cent to 46 interest against the whole world… per cent. Support for democracy (as the only way of organising politics) Harmony, freedom from aggression has also declined from 49 per cent to 46 per cent. What is perhaps more from within or without, and a worrisome is that from 6 per cent in 2004, the proportion of those who do progressive improvement in the not mind non-democratic solutions in certain circumstances has risen to economic condition of the masses.” 11 per cent now. The craving for a strong leader has also increased. These initial findings need to be situated in the context of the political economy Recently Aam Aadmi Party’s of chaos, uncertainty and unresponsiveness that we have witnessed over decision to seek citizens’ approval the past few years. A robustly democratic society appears to have been for forming a government with losing that robustness over a period of 10 years. support of the Congress party through Muhalla meetings was –Suhas Palshikar, 14 JANATA, February 9, 2014 Report of fact finding and assessment – Muzaffarnagar and Shamli districts

1. From December 23-25, 2013, who have died in these camps are ii. Special ration cards for a team of 11 persons from Aman comparable to official statistics of victims to access entitlements Biradari, visited 8 camps of persons the government on the number killed under PDS. displaced by the recent violence in during the riots, including mostly iii. Special old-age pension Muzaffarnagar and Shamli districts. children as well as older women cards, disability pension The main goal of the mission was and men. Acute needs include cards and widow pension to understand the experiences and access to weather-proof shelter and cards every day conditions of the survivors sufficient bedding and clothing; of violence and those who have fled healthcare, particularly for pregnant iv. Identification documents that their villages in fear, so as to map and lactating women, children, include voter ID cards humanitarian needs. The team spoke the elderly, the disabled; food v. Camps must have community with women and men, children, security including proper nutrition run anganwadis serving hot- youth, the elderly, and persons and drinking water; sanitation cooked meals, childcare with disability, and witnessed first- needs; employment opportunities; support, mobile health hand, the situation of abject need education needs including remedial clinics, and on-site doctors, and neglect. For those who have learning; financial security; and prioritising needs of women. suffered violence – physical and/ addressing needs of those who have or mental – living in the camps suffered sexual violence. vi. Long-term psychosocial care in such difficult conditions is a and counselling for survivors continuance of that trauma. A related 4. Below are some specific and vii. Provide on-camp educational goal was an attempt to understand actionable recommendations made facilities (books, notebooks, the possibilities and challenges of by the report: stationery, bags etc.); long term justice and reconciliation. remedial classes for A. The State must officially recognise children taking their board 2. The study team heard from all camps that are functioning, in examinations, admission in survivors that after much delay, order to adequately provide for schools in the neighbourhood some government assistance reached the rights of affected persons and of camps. Accompany this them, but this was a case of too little ensure that the suffering is ended. too late. In the absence of adequate with awareness and advocacy drives around education for government interventions, NGOs B. It must stop all forced evictions girl child and against early and civil society organisations have from relief camps, as most people marriage of girls. been trying to intervene, but their have nowhere else to go. Indeed limited resources are a constraint Government must establish its viii. Need and skill based 3. Main findings: The majority of own camps, to house shelterless employment assistance and camps visited were unofficial camps victims, and provide the full range material aid to riot-affected located near Muslim-majority host of services there. men and women at the villages. State government has not earliest, to enable them to officially recognised the majority of C. Immediately, in all camps, the earn their living. range of entitlements under these camps and claims it is not in ix. State should make provision various provisions of law as well any way accountable to the people for emergency cash for different services be ensured, there. Consequently, survivors work to provide for the loss whilst prioritising the most are on their own and have faced of livelihoods suffered by vulnerable. Specific interventions neglect with respect to accessing people living in camps. basic necessities. They have done should include: D. Alongside, the following so during the harshest weather i. Adequate shelter in the measures are required, for all conditions including scorching form of weather proof tents, victims: heat, heavy monsoon rains and and pucca housing. harsh winter. The numbers of those i. Clear and transparent JANATA, February 9, 2014 15

guidelines on compensation Aman Biradari and MAJMA clear signal to all, public officials for loss of property. Little Muzaffarnagar Adhikaar Jan as well as society at large, that clarity exists on what the Manch (formed as an alliance of continuing exclusion of the criteria are in deciding civil society and aid agencies, victims already suffering much, eligibility of beneficiaries. for a collective and coordinated will not be tolerated and redress The list of victims too is response to the humanitarian must be provided urgently and contested. Victims need crisis in Muzaffarnagar) would effectively Given this scenario to be helped in securing welcome the opportunity to assist we appeal for volunteers from compensation. state government in this effort. all over India to undertake the ii. Sustained effort by the survey, relief and reconciliation F. To maximise administration-civil administration to create efforts in Muzaffarnagar and society partnership to ensure a secure environment, Shamli. effective delivery of relief and the absence of which is entitlements to victims, establish compelling people to not go We request people – both students a system of periodic (weekly) back to their home villages. from universities and working people This includes speedy arrest coordination meetings at the DM level, both in Muzaffarnagar and from across India – of all faiths and of the accused named in FIRs, communities to kindly volunteer irrespective of community Shamli, with MAJMA and other like-minded civil society partners. for periods ranging from ten days or social standing. This is to one month in End February and imperative in order to create G. The violence and its aftermath March, 2014, starting after the 25th an environment of greater in Muzaffarnagar and Shamli, of feb onwards. Those who wish to security and to prevent further resulting in continuing suffering volunteer kindly send a message outbreak of hostilities. Legal to Amin Khan : and amanbiradari. people in filing FIRs and blot on our common humanity. following those up. State government must send a [email protected] Harsh Mander, Admiral Tahaliani, Sharmila Tagore, Jazur iii. Security arrangements should Bandukwala, Ram Punyani, Navsharan Singh, Vijay Pratap, be made at victims; home- Sister Cyril, K. Anuradha, village and survivors should For Aman Biradari be assisted in rescuing/ securing items they left For further details, please contact behind. Also parents need to Amin Khan and Jeevika Shiv be encouraged to follow-up Mob: 09899023189, 9899572770 on the whereabouts of their Tel: 011- 41078058 missing daughters. Email: [email protected], amanbiradari.delhi@gmail. com, [email protected] iv. Efforts need to be made the Aman Biradari, 105/6-A, Adhchini,Aurobindo Marg, district administration for Opposite Cafe Coffee Day, New Delhi - 110017 long-term reconciliation by Ph 26535961/62 facilitating meetings between www.centreforequitystudies.org • www.amanbiradari.org leaders of the Jat and Muslim

community must be restarted and continued. Madhu Dandavate By E. Going forward, state government B. Vivekanandan must conduct an assessment of numbers of displaced persons, Price: Rs. 20/- losses they have suffered Janata Trust and what relief and services D-15, Ganesh Prasad, they have been provided, to Naushir Bharucha Marg, act as the basis for planning Grant Road (W), a comprehensive response. Mumbai 400 007. R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, February 9, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, February 9, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday February 12, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

Printed and Published by G.G. Parikh on behalf of Janata Trust. Printed at Mouj Printing Bureau, Khatau Wadi, Girgaum, Mumbai-400 004 and published at D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg (Sleater Road), Mumbai - 400 007. JANATA, February 9, 2014 17 18 JANATA, February 9, 2014 JANATA, February 9, 2014 19 Established 1946 Price : Rupees Five

Vol. 69 No. 3 Kejriwal plays politics February 16, 2014 S. Viswam

The speed and dedication with has not plunged it into a political Bus they missed which the Delhi Chief Minister is crisis. Kejriwal is surely spoiling for a Kuldip Nayar pushing through his anti-corruption fight, with the Congress, with the UPA agenda while using it as a vote- and with the BJP. The message he is getting instrument makes us caution sending forth to one and all is that he him: hasten slowly, Arvind! One is ready to sacrifice power in order to Consumer Electronics and can only speculate on how he would confirm his and his party’s image as Human Relations have behaved if the 2014 Lok Sabha crusaders against corruption. Indeed, K. S. Chalam polls were not imminent. Kejriwal’s it would almost seem that his every current strategies are centred on those step is aimed at goading the Congress polls, particularly as his Aam Aadmi into withdrawing its support to his Party wants to convert itself from a government. The Congress, for its Socialism of the coming age and purely Delhi party into an all-India own reasons, is not ready to oblige its foundation – III one by winning representation for the him, but that day may come, sooner Sisir K. Dhar in parliament. Since rather than later! the parliamentary polls are on the threshold, Arvind is attempting some Since Kejriwal is also out to prove multi-tasking political gimmicks that he is not the run-of-the-mill Communal Violence in 2013 - II which would make his party more politician and that his party is one of Irfan Engineer popular and voter-friendly. its kind, he feels he is not politically or morally beholden to Congress for Although Kejriwal proclaims its support. He keeps reminding the that he is not planning to provoke Congress that the said support was the Congress into withdrawing given without the AAP asking for Editor : its support to his government, his it. To demonstrate this, he lodged an G. G. Parikh actions belie him. He won 28 seats FIR against former Chief Minister Managing Editor : Guddi in the 70-member Delhi assembly Sheila Dixit in connection with a on an anti-corruption platform and is street light project implemented D-15, Ganesh Prasad, currently sustained in power by the ahead of the Commonwealth Games. Naushir Bharucha Marg, eight Congress MLAs. In fact, after Since the Delhi police is not under Mumbai - 400 007. the resignation of one AAP legislator the control of the state government, and another elected as speaker the Kejriwal had the FIR filed by the Email : [email protected] AAP government has been reduced to anti-corruption branch under the a minority one, but this development Prevention of Corruption Act and the 2 JANATA, February 16, 2014

Indian Penal Code. He deliberately Between the lines ran the risk of being accused of political vendetta and proceeded on Bus they missed the assumption that the erstwhile government was not serious about Kuldip Nayar combating corruption.

Now, he has flung yet another Fifteen years ago in February Pakistan, had told me in a recorded challenge against the Centre. 1999, Atal Behari Vajpayee, the interview after the liberation of Seven months after the Centre has then Prime Minister, took a bus Bangladesh. adopted and is under the process to Lahore to normalize relations of implementing a national pricing with Pakistan. Nawaz Sharif was Bhutto said: “We can make the policy for supply of gas to the Pakistan’s Prime Minister. They ceasefire line a line of peace and let people, Kejriwal has accused a jointly issued the Lahore Declaration people come and go between the leading corporate and the Union which adumbrated several steps to two Kashmirs. After all, why should Petroleum Minister of corruption. overcome the differences that had they suffer? Let there be some free He has ordered registration by yawned the distance between the movement between them. Then the anti-corruption bureau of an two countries. one thing can lead to another. After FIR against Mukesh Ambani of all, simultaneously we hope that Reliance Industries and the Union I was one of those who rode there will be exchanges of visits, of Minister Veerappa Moily ( and also the bus. It was an exhilarating officials and non-officials.” Bhutto Moily’s predecessor Murli Deora) experience, pregnant with optimism. denied having said the “line of for colluding to raise gas prices. At least, I felt that the journey of a peace” when New Delhi took it up few kilometers from Attari to Wagah with him officially. Kejriwal told the press that the border would not be a long travel cost of production of one unit to bring New Delhi and Islamabad I wish that the Lahore Declaration gas was less than one dollar but nearer. to normalize trade and travel could as the Reliance Industries got the be implemented even now. What contract for gas production for 17 Unfortunately, this did not happen the two Prime Ministers achieved years, it pressured the government not because the Prime Ministers may seem very little in concrete to revise the rate to 2.3 dollars per of the two countries differed but terms, particularly when Pakistan unit in 2010. The rate was revised because the military in Pakistan weighed everything on the scales again to four dollars per unit and was against the rapprochement. of Kashmir. Even there Vajpayee the company proposed to raise it It was apparent when the three said, at least three times during his to eight dollars per unit from April service chiefs of Pakistan refused visit, that the problem of Jammu and 1, 2014. He accused the Congress to salute the Indian Prime Minister. Kashmir had yet to be settled and and opposition parties of favouring General Pervez Musharraf, then the that the two sides would continue the corporate. He also accused the army chief, had different ideas. His to have talks until they resolved it. company of creating a false crisis subsequent coup to oust the elected In other words, Vajpayee conceded of natural gas supply by suppressing Prime Minister bared his ambitions. that it was a dispute. The fact that he production and blackmailing the did not mention that Kashmir was an government to raise the rates. The bus journey was a courageous integral part of India during his visit step by Vajpaee because his Bharatiya was something which the Pakistanis The government’s latest pricing Janata Party was anti-Pakistan should have noticed. policy is aimed at introducing and pursued Hindu nationalism as market-determined pricing. The its sole agenda. Vajpayee went to Coming back to the bus journey, I adoption of this policy follows, the extent of having a time frame was one of the 22 “eminent” people according to government, expert within which the Kashmir problem travelling to Pakistan on a mission to advice and is of benefit to both the was to be solved. He had probably retrieve soiled relations. Punjab chief producers and consumers. Now that in mind what a chastened Zuflikar minister Prakash Singh Badal joined (Continued on Page 11) Ali Bhutto, then Prime Minister of us at the Amritsar airport. He hugged JANATA, February 16, 2014 3 me and said: Your efforts are bearing fruit.” Indeed, he was referring to Consumer Electronics our effort to lighting candles at the and Human Relations Wagah border since 1996 - to send a message of friendship to the other K. S. Chalam side. When Alexander Graham Bell The commercialisation of Badal disappeared in the crowd spoke to his Assistant Thomas scientific innovations and designing of tall, turbaned Sikhs awaiting Watson on 10th March 1876 on of products for everyday use has Vajpayee’s arrival. But some of us phone, the world rejoiced that enabled both the innovators and moved towards the bus, standing it would usher in fresh human the business corporations to get lonely near the tarmac. Flags of relations across the globe. Twenty mutually benefitted The competition India and Pakistan were painted on one year’s later in 1897 Guglielmo between two systems of government, its body. Thank God, there was no Marconi, an Italian, showcased the the USSR and the USA during slogan, which would have spoilt radio with the help of his butler the cold war period seems to have the bluish colour that stood out in Magnani. The humankind must helped the free society to spend more the afternoon sunlight. Dancing have celebrated both the occasions resources and energy on expanding and singing men and women in as the beginning of a new era of production on a large scale. In the colourful costumes provided an connecting people in different USSR, innovations were confined to ideal backdrop. Policemen looked geographical distances. Marconi defence and public sector, appeared out of place, even though they were was given the Nobel in physics to have limited and restricted use of not many. for 1909 when he was working technology. This may be one of the in the UK. Scientific innovations important factors for the USA and its As soon as Vajpayee sat in the were all found to be part of allies to expand the market beyond front seat, the bus began its journey physics and the discipline called their boundaries to capture more to Lahore. A ticket collector first gave electronics had not developed yet. consumers and pump in additional me a ticket and then tore half of it, The Second World War provided resources in to the R&D. Though which I retain as a souvenir. Another opportunities to develop several scholars might argue that it has attendant offered cold drinks. The devices and electrical equipments influenced the composition of capital TV and mobile telephones were that resulted in the innovation of of the corporations, it has not resulted there - all part of service as it would radar, sonar, radio engineering, in the collapse of the system as long be at the time of regular trips. Right etc. A new branch of engineering as it resulted in the expansion of the up to the border, a distance of 35 within electrical engineering and market and release of the effective kilometres, people were lined up in some places within physics (as in consumers from the ‘proletariat’ on both Andhra University) became evident increased. Along with this, there as an independent subject by 1960s. seem to have been changes in the sides. Children waving yellow The Institutes of Technology with traditional institutions like family, flags and bands playing loud tunes the support of corporations like class, educational institutions, reflected the enthusiasm that the the Bell Company have used the judiciary, faith and so on - entities meeting between the Prime Ministers electronic circuit to manufacture of the so-called superstructure. of India and Pakistan had generated. different products for everyday This needs to be debated. We are use. This has revolutionised the concerned here about the influence The mood in the bus was relaxed. communication, information of the consumer electronic goods But very few exchanged words with technologies and later ICT in the on the human relations, particularly one another. A feeling of expectancy world of commercial electronics. with reference to individuals, family hung in the air. Some nervousness Computer was designed as a and group. was visible and it got heightened device to perform some statistical with every kilometer-stone going and mathematical functions, but There seem to be a simultaneous past. How will the visit go was the got entangled with electronics to transformation of electronics thought writ large on everyone’s become an independent domain meeting the growing needs of people (Continued on Page 11) by itself. and helping individuals to become 4 JANATA, February 16, 2014 independent and autonomous - LinkedIn, YouTube, and the like is that figure. The average time spent not to rely on others - with the being used for marketing purposes per day on social media is estimated increase in income. The upshot of as 76 percent of ordinary people at three hours and on TV varies from this is the death of distance and and 95 percent of community 7 hours onwards. weightless goods. Some of the organisers are using these media. models of capitalist development The marketing executives and their The death of Sunanda Pushkar- as against the few or none in the research output feed the industry Tharoor is now attributed (by some) opposite camp enabled the earner with designs and desires that are to Twitter, a social media network, to become an effective consumer. kept under control with several apparently like the Princess Diana’s Economists tell us that a desire strategies including sponsorship of demise. It is a very rare sight now would become an effective demand programmes, infotainment, research, to see young people and even daily if it is matched with sufficient political parties, etc. In fact, it is a wagers (like sweepers) using both purchasing power. Therefore, the multidisciplinary programme in the the hands pleasingly to walk in free market system has developed academic world now - may be a post- public, as one hand is spared to hold models to create more consumers in modern academic offshoot. the mobile. The family members do the name of freedom (to consume) not have time to entertain visitors and not necessarily to choose a The positive impact of science and even attend to regular chores as people’s government as citizens. on society advocated by Bertrand some of them are addicted to TVs and The revolution of electronics chip Russell and several positivist everything is ordered on the net. It is has further facilitated the use of thinkers seem to have not considered reported that the values disseminated embedded software even in ordinary the consequences of commercial by most of the soaps stereotyping mechanical devices like washing electronics. May be it is the duty the traditional middle class/caste of the state to regulate. But, the machines, mixers, etc. In fact, these Sas-Bahu or fundamentalist beliefs impact of the consumer electronics, gadgets have liberated women are widespread. They are in a its overwhelmingly alluring more, than the social reformers, way complimenting the dubious commercial fragment, on the socio- and gifted them with more leisure bygone values against which our and less drudgery in the household. economic consequence is awful. The reformers fought. The impact of the Many had expected gender justice NSS has found that the per capita internalisation of the values could to evolve with this development, but expenditure on telephones increased be seen in terms of the breaking that became elusive when the surplus by 28 percent and TV by 141 percent families, old-age homes, family labour was squeezed in to capitalist between 2004-5to 2009-10. Out strife, cybercrime and what is called expansion. of the average income of Rs 1000 per year through NAREGA in the the advent of post-modern family. Technocrats with the support of rural areas, major amount is spent Here the siblings need not contribute corporations have devised methods on mobiles, alcohol, entertainment to the family income and are free to of product differentiation and and other sundry expenditure. It is choose a partner based on ‘love’ and brought in multiple combinations also noted that women spend three need not necessarily grounded on of functions in the electronic gadgets hours more on calls,four times emotional bonds. They are at liberty Computer, TV, mobile, camera larger on instant messages than men to part ways. It is very difficult to and several other permutations every month in India. We have 90.5 comment on this trend as some of the and combinations with the help of crore mobile users next to China values are embedded with corporate satellite communications have been and elbowing out America to third capitalism and several activists have introduced and made user friendly position. The TRAI has indicated written so much on this. But, it with internet. The manufacturing that the gross revenue from the seems to be a drifting deconstruction TNCs of the electronic products mobile operators amounts to Rs of the family that has evolved over have influenced the psyche of the 195442 crores from an average of a period of time through different consumer in such a way that a new Rs 104 per month per subscriber. modes of social existence. Is it to term “nomophobia” (no-mobile- TRAI report for 2011 mentioned liberate the individual to grow as a phone phobia) is identified by that the revenue of TV industry was customer to patronise the charms of scholars. The emergence of social Rs 32000 crores. FM Radio is also the market? Does it really help India media like Facebook, Twitter, generating revenue around half of to minimise the tyranny of caste? JANATA, February 16, 2014 5

Reprint Socialism of the coming age and its foundation – III

Sisir K. Dhar

An important question here exercise of effective control over system of education, mostly of the relates to the role of the state vis- the pace and direction of a modern brain, leaves a big gap in terms à-vis socialism, when the economy economy and the proliferation of of the major goal of education’ is getting globalized. Traditionally, public ownership.” Similarly, the i.e. “man making” or “character nationalization and central planning Austrian socialists, traditionally building”, as three great sons of were regarded as the two major favouring public ownership India, Vivekananda, Gandhi and instruments that accorded the state realized that “nationalization solves Tagore, felt. It is poor in social a preponderant role to lead the nothing”. It is effective control and ethical orientation. Of course, society in the socialist direction. over the pace and direction of even this existing education is Some amount of state planning the economy that is a strategic better than no education, while remains desirable so that the society value and efficient production and people uneducated are mostly moves in the desired direction. But pro-people distribution matter the uninformed and gullible, prone the central planning must not lead most. Further, in Swedish socialism to be bluffed, and servile to those to a ‘command economy’ over cooperatives play an important role who have education or power.) In which Gorbachev had to rue much, and this shows its ability to motivate the socialist programme, always encroaching on every aspect of life the people. of crucial importance is a healthy and crippling the initiative of the growth, of democracy. Education people, who should be innovative N o t w i t h s t a n d i n g t h e and organization of the masses will in a climate of freedom. developments above, there remains play a key role in this growth. As an important role for the state, to be democracy grows, masses become However, as Hugh Gaitskel emphasized in today’s context of more and more mature to shoulder asserted, “nationalization is not the liberalization of the economy. The their responsibility themselves, to socialist First Principle”. It seems, need for public expenditure with a shape their destiny: they become public ownership in general has constructive aim of upliftment of their own leaders, when outside not, for various reasons, produced the backward sections in society readership becomes redundant. any remarkable success and has is undeniable. (Despite all their Democracy has the greatest hurdle often caused a serious drainage of conservative rhetoric, Thatcher in a condition of poverty and lack public funds. Today, nowhere are the and Reagan also did not reduce of education. And education of the socialists much enthusiastic about public expenditure.) As has been people is invaluable both for their public ownership. The idea that is explained earlier, building physical intellectual and moral growth and gaining currency is that it is not the and social infrastructure is an material advancement. business of the government to be in important responsibility of the state business. Hence, as a rule, setting for development of the economy and All that has been said above is up of PSUs should be selective enhancement of the capability of the about the socialist programme in enough, adhering to the criterion people to stand on their own legs the context of the capitalist system that they should serve some definite when the private enterprises is shy as it has emerged today. It seems, in purpose not properly shouldered by to venture in these spheres. the coming years, there will be a co- others. Here the Swedish socialist existence of capitalist government in model is of guiding value. As We may add here that universal some countries and socialist or social Andrew Shonfield points out, “The education, preferably with a social democratic government in some Swedish socialists were among and ethical orientation, is the most others. The competition between the first to realize that there is no fruitful single catalyst for social and the two systems will, we hope, necessary connection between the individual progress. (The existing push both the systems to eliminate 6 JANATA, February 16, 2014 their deficiencies and to improve consumes 80 percent of the world’s civilization, promoting growth of them. If capitalism has changed resources (and the resources being large factories for creation of a sort for the better, for instance, in terms limited it is impossible to ensure of commodity-dependant happiness, of a better standard of living, it is the same degree of abundance to generates a limitless demand for much so because of the persistent all the people that the 20 percent commodities (violating what socialist movement, where it has enjoys); (b) this civilization has an nature could bear) also promotes been strong, pinpointing the evils extremely serious degrading impact simultaneously discontent for of capitalism. Thus, the ‘limited on the mental health of man (c) the insufficient fulfillment of demands. democracy’, with limited franchise process of creation of abundance is Most important, this civilization in the early days of capitalism causing a very serious environment creates a shallow and profligate life- becomes ‘larger democracy’, with pollution, most likely to become style, turning it much into a ‘greed’ a universal franchise, extending more threatening and (d) the process garbage and environment pollution itself from political to economic of creation of this abundance is producing civilization’’. To fight and social spheres. Similarly, the exhausting the limited natural all such evils of this civilization socialist movement has also led to resources, mostly non-renewable. is a major task before the socialist slackening of the hold of the owning movement today. class on the economic system in Of course, the modern industrial the ‘welfare state’. And, however, civilization has its positive contents, Never before has the need for the globalized economy or the but they need not be re-slated moral and spiritual awakening multinational corporations would here, as they are commonly so (the friend, philosopher and guide like to have it, the laissez-faire much publicized and well known. of human life) been so great as it system of the early days will today However, the negative contents, is today, when man is immensely face a degree of preponderance much less publicized, are extremely more powerful than his primitive of the government as erected in a pernicious and may even be ruinous ancestors (and powerless to control ‘larger democracy’ in a condition to mankind. These latter are gaining himself), with power that is of expanding education and this strength today, when it might appear becoming increasingly monstrous, preponderance will be responsive that the civilization is heading not the power to rouse noble spirits to the welfare of the people. In towards a ‘dark age’ if the trend in man. Today, people become more this situation, ultimately, a great is not arrested. The evils of this and more utilitarian and less and role devolves on the people: to civilization, which has a strong less idealistic, when success by be educated to have the needed materialist bias with a blatant any means, commonly for trivial understanding of problems and their indifference to the question of material gains, even destroying the solution, and to assert themselves. moral-spiritual elevation of man, grounds on which to stand, becomes are: (a) how the survival of this very the guiding principle. Fight against poverty and civilization is being menaced with deprival and injustice has been deployment of incomparably large It is easy to utter the word the traditional role of the socialist resources for creation, backed by ‘revolution’ with every breath, but movement. However, because of scientific research, of destructive the most radical revolution, the real its humanist-ethical character, the arms and weapons, compared to one, the ultimate one, and the most socialist movement of the coming much less resources given for difficult one is in the mind of men. age must, while formulating the promotion of health and education Years ago, at a meeting of Calcutta programme of action, also look at a or for meeting other primary needs University students, where I could larger context created by the modern of man; (b) how scientific and be present, Jayaprakash Narayan materialist civilization that hides technological advances have been said: there is no revolution if the beneath its hypnotizing glitter of regularly accentuating, ironically mind refuses to change, to elevate material abundance great evils. This along with an increase in production, itself. We may build institutions, abundance is defective on some very inequality in the distribution of constitutions, laws, programmes, important grounds : (a) it is not for all wealth (as has been happening and what not, for a good social the people of the world when, after since the Industrial Revolution structure. But all these human so much of economic growth, only itself; (c) how the ‘consumerist contrivances, though needed, serve 20 percent of the world’s population culture’, a major offspring of this little if the human quality behind JANATA, February 16, 2014 7 them is not good enough. Thus as As we have already noted, the be rich. “A man is but the product Jayaprakash Narayan wrote: “If Swedish Social Democrats have of his thoughts, what he thinks he the poor tried to establish equality done so much to raise the quality becomes.” (Gandhi). by merely distributing wealth of of life of the people. It is one of the the wealthy among themselves, five most prosperous countries of Gandhi was a pronounced idealist, without accepting the philosophy the world with the highest standards a spiritualist. I believe, Marx was also of life behind it, they would of living. Yes, these five countries, such, notwithstanding his ‘materialist soon recreate different forms of including Sweden, have the highest interpretation of history’. Basically, inequality amongst themselves.” He suicide rate, the highest combined socialism signifies a humanist and is emphatic that “Equality, freedom suicide and homicide rate, the ethical-spiritual movement. We have and fellowship can never become highest alcoholism rate. It is reported already indicated the opinion of Rosa realities unless the moral evolution that juvenile delinquency, various Luxemburg, a well-known Marxist, of the individual has been such that crimes and violence are on the on this point. (We need not use the he is voluntarily prepared to limit rise in Sweden. What is the good words ‘spiritual’ and ‘spiritualism’ his wants and his freedom in the of prosperity if the people lolling in an otherworldly or occult sense. interest of his fellow human beings. in comfort are inclined to commit Here, it means the supremacy of the A socialist society cannot be built suicide? Are these happy societies? spirit of man or man’s striving to up if every individual wants and There must be something wrong on overcome the barriers of physical hankers after more and more for the mental plane in these countries. life and of environment with a himself. Unless the individual learns May be, the life of the people in such noble, ‘Promethean’, urge). Marx’s the lesson of self-control and adopts prosperity - it is only a hypothesis conception of his ideal society in a way of life based on such control, – is becoming one of little or no which “the full and free development strife between man and man and challenge - dull and boring. “Turn the of each becomes the ruling principle” between groups, classes and nations, searchlight inwards,” Gandhi used reflects an ethical-spiritual ideal. He is bound to continue. An unflinching to say. People even in prosperous believed that man must be freed from idealism with a clear vision is the countries should do that: it is ‘not material impediments to develop best force of progress” by bread alone’. himself. Thus, Marx was an idealist while his theories – Marxism – were The evils of this materialist Rosa Luxemburg had once written rooted in material grounds. With a civilization that we have referred to to Franz Mehring that socialism was spiritual urge, with an unwavering are not just products of capitalism a cultural movement and not a mere commitment to an ideal, always though afflicting the capitalist plea for bread and butter. Himself in view, he courted persecution society: they may afflict a socialist an economist, Joseph Schumpeter and privation all along his life, society as well. And if the goal of averred: “socialism aims at higher transcending much the claims of the socialism is not just materialist in goals than full bellies.” The ultimate physical self to honour the demand character but is, more importantly, goal of socialism is, in short, good of his heart and his conscience. the elevation of human mind, humans in a good society - an Great men are great because they deepening and ennobling the mind, ethical-spiritual goal. Poverty and are above self-interest (in the usual it is most appropriate that the deprivation and injustice should be narrow sense of the term) guided socialist programme responds to annihilated. But more basic are the with a larger vision. human needs both on material and maladies of mind. If the mind acts mental planes, and it is necessary rightly everything valuable will Whether or not of material that the needs on the material plane be added unto man and the human impediments would ipso facto should be limited to the demands society will be a really human, change the value system or would of a simple decent life and the main humane society. In the words of build an ideal society, or an thrust of the programme should be Thomas Mann: “The mental state is additional direct approach would to empower more and more the always primary and ultimately the be needed is an important question. nobility of mind. From this point, motivating state. Political action is It seems, removal of impediments the material advance is something of second rank, reflex, expression, is important but not a sufficient, not auxiliary when decent humans are instrument”. The mind is the leader. a positive inducement. Here, we the goal. If the mind is poor, a society cannot may recall Jayaprakash Narayan’s 8 JANATA, February 16, 2014 views in the article ‘Incentive to Goodness’. Significantly, an Communal Violence in 2013 - II article in the ‘Beijing Review’, 2 May 1983, averred : “If we think Irfan Engineer only of economic reconstruction, forgetting the question of spiritual In the previous article (Janata, January 5, 2014), we examined the trends development, then men get addicted in riots and the all India statistics of communal riots provided by the Union to economic gains only. By this, we Government. We also described some of the communal riots in Maharashtra will be leading a rich but spiritually and Rajasthan. In this article, we now propose to describe some riots in J&K, meaningless life and, as a result of UP, MP, Bihar and Assam. this we will cheat others, loot and murder them.” Kishtwar, J&K All these views holds out the for stoking communal fire. The On 9th August after the Eid-ul role of Village Defence Committee essentiality of the moral-cultural Fitr prayers, there was sudden stone aspects of the socialist programme, members who have been provided pelting. There are two versions of and it may be suggested that the with fire arms was also brought into the incident. After the Eid prayers, traditional socialist programme must sharp focus during the riots. Most of the dispersing gathering was greeted enrich itself with the acceptance, for the VDC members are Hindus. with provocative posters depicting instance, of some invaluable ideas of hanging of Afzal Guru and Maqbool At the centre of the Kishtwar Gandhi, the ‘Mahatma’, whose life Butt. The other version says that communal clashes is vote-bank was his message, and of such other the dispersing mob was shouting rather than separatist politics, a thinkers. anti-India slogans, which infuriated sustained effort at polarisation that Actually, in a world that we have the sentiments leading to stone explains how a small fight escalated today, with a phenomenal growth pelting. The latter version seems into a frenzy so suddenly. The BJP of science and technology not hardly credible as Muslims in tried to politicize the unfortunate with much concern for elevation Jammu hardly identify with Kashmir incident by sending Arun Jaitley of humans (producing enormous nationalists for self-determination. to the spot and chose this incident power, but not wisdom, when 3 persons died during the riots and from among hundreds in Jammu man has conquered Nature but is 80 were injured in Hidyal village. and Kashmir where people have unable to conquer himself) - a world Among the dead was Arvind Kumar been killed and properties destroyed. ‘with islands of opulence’ in a vast Bhagat (23 yrs) who succumbed The only time when BJP sought to ocean of poverty, ignorance and to bullet injuries – Hindus claim increase the compensation amount fatalism’, world with hatred, bigotry, in private firing while Muslims paid to riot victims was for the intolerance, greed and selfishness, claim it to be from police firing. Kishtwar riot victims. Kishtwar was conflict and violence and risks of Bashar Ahmad Mochi was beaten known for cordial relations between ruinous wars - extremely relevant by a mob and later burnt alive. the two communities. Two agitations and constructive are the ideas Curfew was imposed in 8 districts had strengthened the bond – a joint propounded by Gandhi and such of Jammu region. Kishtwar has a struggle for carving out a separate other farsighted humanists. Lastly, delicate demography with Hindus district for Kishtwar, and one for a one thing is certain : the socialist path constituting 45% and Muslims 55% separate degree college. must be harmonious to the values of and known for its saffire mines and humanism, ethics, democracy and saffron. Minister of State for Home Before the militancy years, the rationalism. Socialism, by definition Sajjad Kitchloo, who hails from the BJP polled a mere 1,066 votes in is ‘value-based socialism’’. district alleged that preparations for 1983, and 3,309 in 1987 against riots were being done at least since a Bashir Kitchloo’s 18,044. In 1996, The article is adapted from a chapter month and armed mob was planning when the BJP made militancy a poll in the book “A Good Life in a to attack minorities. Home Minister issue, its candidate came second Sane Civilization” authored by late P. Chidambaram made a statement with 10,900 votes to the senior Shri Dhar, who was a frequent in Parliament blaming Bajrang Dal Kitchloo’s 17,889. But in the last contributor to Janata election, in 2008, the BJP’s Sunil JANATA, February 16, 2014 9

Kumar (16,783 votes) ran Kitchloo Majority of incidents in UP took incidents were used to create anti- (19,248) close, while the PDP, place on September 7 and 8. Total Muslim consciousness. They didn’t. contesting for the first time, polled 128 incidents of communal violence Police arrested several Muslims 10,403 votes to be number three. took place between 27th August and for murder of Sachin and Gaurav. The BJP had managed to consolidate 16thSeptember. 50,000 people were However, sting operations revealed the Hindu vote and Kitchloo would displaced and staying in appalling that the accused were released by have lost but for the SC votes. conditions in Muzaffarnagar. The the police on the Azam Khan’s Sunil Kumar, incidentally, had been state government did little to provide intervention. Then in violation of working with security agencies in for relief camps, even though paying orders prohibiting assembly, Muslim counter-militancy for almost 10 lip services. At least 40 kids died community was mobilized in which years before joining politics. in the relief camps for lack of MPs from BSP as well as SP were medical facilities, facing severe present and the SP himself received UP winter in tents without adequate the memorandum from the leaders of On 12-7-13 the Saffron Brigade number of blankets (Indian Express unlawful assembly. BJP then found objected to Namaz being performed dtd. 3/12/13). Till 6th October, it convenient to mobilize Jats calling on streets in Meerut during the 46 Muslims and 16 Hindus were for a mahapanchayat. The Jats month of Ramzan. There was tension killed. 57 Muslims and 11 Hindus gathered in thousands with arms and between both the communities, were injured in the Muzaffarnagar some even kidnapped Muslims along however, police force was deployed Riots, according to the official the way. The armed participants and escalation of the tension into figures (Indian Express 18/10/13). passed through the police posts and violence was prevented. Till October 13, 352 FIRs have pickets and nobody stopped them, been registered and 1,068 persons even the mahapanchayat even On 26/7/13, 1 died and a booked for incidents in 5 districts though there were prohibitory orders dozen were injured in Nanglamal – Muzaffarnagar, Shamli, Meerut, banning assembly. No attempt was village near Meerut in communal Baghpat and Saharanpur. 243 made to enforce the ban, even though violence. The conflict was over use persons have been arrested, majority the anger of the crowd assembling of loudspeaker outside a temple being from Hindu community. with arms was not hidden from situated near a mosque. However, 17,000 persons are still living in anybody. Provocative speeches elders from both the community Relief camps. The BJP MLA from were made and then riots started intervened and sorted out the matter Saradha, Meerut – Sangeet Som with the mob attacking Muslim amicably. An Iftaar party was going was booked under the National villages as they were returning. on when some persons under the Security Act, but soon released Police miserably failed in reaching influence of liquor started abusing by the Advisory Board as the case the trouble spots to control the riots, and this escalated into violent clash. was not made full proof either by except in few cases. During the clashes, bullets were fired collusion or due to negligence. and the police had to resort to baton BJP later publicly felicitated the Muslim miscreants waylaid a charge. One Sunil died of bullet MLAs and other accused from tractor of Jats returning to their injury and Shahid was hospitalized. their party after their release on bail village into nearby cane fields and The Muslim residents of the village encouraging the riot leaders. killed them. In other villages where accused that the police entered their Muslims were in majority, Hindus houses and destroyed the furniture The role of police in the were attacked. Sarpanch of Kharad and belongings and beat up people Muzaffarnagar riots was one of gross village saved lives of 150 Muslims (Sunday Express 28/7/13). negligence of their duty. Political by giving protection to them in his interference in policing made the house. On 16/8/13, 2 people, including situation worst. The Director General one woman, were injured in of Police admitted to inefficiency of Some riot survivors were offered stone pelting involving both the the police force (TOI dtd. 25/9/13). compensation of Rs. 5 lakhs if they communities. The fight was over The police could have intervened submitted an affidavit to the effect approach way to Kabristan land in when campaign against “love that they would not return to their Modi Mira village in Meerut Dist jihad” was ongoing to stigmatize villages and the state government (Sahafat 18/8/`3). the Muslim community. Small issued a notification to that effect. 10 JANATA, February 16, 2014

Such a notification was hitherto Chandan Nagar Thana in Indore. of Dist. Magistrate and the SP were unheard of, and is unsustainable Fight began over the result of a burnt. Curfew was imposed. The Constitutionally. Article 19 gives cricket match and carcass of an precession had political sub-text right to settle anywhere and the animal found near a temple, which and provocative political slogans executive does not have a right to turned into a slogan shouting by were being shouted against political “purchase” from the citizen their Sangh Parivar connected people. leaders like the Bihar Chief Minister, right to settle in their villages. The Shops were damaged and 100 the Prime Minister and Sonia Gandhi. Government finished the unfinished vehicles were set to fire and two This is aftermath of separation of task of the rioters of throwing them policemen were critically injured. JD(U) from the NDA. Lathi wielding out of the villages by ensuring men of Mahabir Akahada were through affidavit that they did not On 19/9/13, Communal violence leading the procession of tractors want to return. If anybody wanted started in Chhipabad of Harda and carrying political placards (The proof of collusion between the BJP district caused huge losses to several Hindu, 15/8/13). and the Samajwadi Party, here it was. residential properties and injuring 22 people, but the major impact Nawada witnessed bloody The Samajwadi Party seems seems to be on the psyche of the violence for over 48 hours between to be in collusion with the BJP as victims, especially women and groups of two communities leading to both the parties calculated their children. Miscreants from Bajrang death of two persons. The communal gains in Western UP. However, for Dal destroyed even foodgrains clashes started here on August 10, a the Samajwadi Party, the violence inside the homes of Muslims. day after Eid, when some Muslim escalated beyond its calculation Several homes were torched using youths objected to the presence of and now is more likely to harm petrol from a nearby pump. 60-70 burqa-clad Muslim girls at Baba their interests as Muslims are children stopped going to school ka Dhaba, owned by a Hindu, on already moving away from the and caused psychological problems the outskirts of the Nawada town. Samajwadi Party. Western UP and to a person. A mob had entered The youths attacked the dhaba and particularly the affected districts school asking children of Muslim damaged the furniture. Some of is stronghold of Rashtriya Lok community be handed over to them. the youths were captured by the Dal headed by Ajit Singh. Charan The authorities had locked these people of the majority community Singh consolidated Jat and Muslim students up safely and told the mob who had gathered there by then. votes and created a strong base for that they had returned home. A fact- Then a bigger group of minority his party. Communal polarization finding team led by L S Herdenia people reached the dhaba to secure would weaken Ajit Singh’s party as demanded immediate arrest of release of the captured youths, Jat votes would be chipped away Surendra Rajpurohit alias Tiger, who and this resulted into clashes and by BJP and by providing some allegedly was the main inciter of the arson at large scale. A big mob of compensation, Samajwadi Party violence and investigation into the the majority community, armed hoped to strengthen its Muslim base. role of the son of a local BJP MLA with firearms, came up from the Such cool calculations over human and to book all those guilty. The Bundelkhand locality and attacked tragedy seems to be unfortunate violence occurred over a Muslim on Moghlakhar locality dominated but a reality. When the SP could hitting a cow and the rumours of by the minority community. In fierce prevent 84 kosi parikrama, they death of the cow spread like wild fire stone pelting on either side several definitely could have prevented the with active participation of Saffron people were wounded. During the Jat mahapanchayat too! Not doing Brigade. Police were mute spectators clashes, gunshots were fired from the so was criminal collusion on part to the entire incident. It is ironic that majority community resulting in the of the SP and it must take primary human beings think they should death of one Md. Iqbal. The clashes blame for the Muzaffarnagar riots violently attack others in retaliation and gunfire happened in the presence along with the BJP. for death of a cow! of the police and the site of the violence was at stone’s throw from MP Bihar the police station. Soon after the On 20/8/13, 45, including 30 On 9th August, a Nagpanchami incident, the district administration policemen were injured in communal procession in Bettiah turned violent. clamped curfew in areas that fall violence in stone pelting incident in There was stone pelting and vehicles under police stations of Nawada JANATA, February 16, 2014 11 town, Mufassil and Sadar. Five were help realize the diversity that exists all. But for that to happen, we need injured during the riots. within each community and which a law that makes state accountable contributes to enjoyment of our for its acts and omissions and Locals said the curfew has wonderful lives and adds to better failures in controlling violence - A virtually imprisoned the minority understanding of our worlds. The legislation that provides for effective areas and taking benefit of that, prejudices against the other are procedures to punish the guilty and shops of minority community were the bonds that cement an imagined provide entitlements to survivors looted and burnt in majority areas. community and these need to be of communal violence for adequate Several shops of Muslims were replaced with bonds of humanity, standards of relief, rehabilitation and burned down and when the police love, justice and compassion for reparations. were trying to control the rampaging mob, one majority youth tried to (Continued from Page 3) snatch the gun of a policeman, face. Still they were conscious of changed into somberness. Pakistan forcing the police to open fire the history they were making. “It Rangers stood rows upon rows, to leading to death of the youth from was a bold step,” I remarked when attention. There was silence and the majority community. Nawada I sat next to the Prime Minister the air was heavy. Nawaz Sharif’s riots were the sixth communal riot briefly. He only smiled. I persisted smiling face broke the monotony. in Bihar since chief minister Nitish with my questions. “What made Some of his colleagues, dressed in Kumar parted ways with the BJP you respond to Nawaz Sharif’s off- achkan, too were a relief. “Kush in July. the-cuff remark to take a ride on Aamdeen” (welcome) to Pakistan,” the bus? What about your party, the were the first words Nawaz Sharif Assam BJP?” He said: “I thought, let me do spoke before he embraced Vajpayee. On 25 th August, meat was something to be remembered. After Pakistan ministers also lined up discovered near 3 temple areas which all, the Prime Ministership does not to shake hands with Vajpayee. sparked off communal violence in last long.” And then he mentioned People had lined up both sides of Rangpur (Cachar Dist.). 7 policemen the killing of Hindus at Rajori. He the road leading to Lahore. There were injured and army had to be was disturbed. “Certain elements were women without veil and many deployed. The Chief Minister Tarun always do it to sabotage the talks.” friendly hands waved towards us. Gogoi blamed the VHP and the BJP for the riots in which several shops I wanted to talk to him further I wish that their expectations and vehicles were burnt. but there was a long queue. There had been met. When the two Prime was the usual guard of honour, Ministers met I also thought that the Conclusion: a large contingent of policemen impasse between the two countries Slightest of provocation like on the other side. The guard of would be over. But it did not happen. a Muslim beating a cow, meat honour is a beaten path, covered There were too many vested interests discovered near temples/mosques, again and again even after 66 years and unseen elements coming in the teasing of women belonging to after the British rule. The mood way. No doubt, they have really another community, inter communal of abandon on the Indian side missed the bus. marriages/love affairs, political (Continued from Page 2) should welcome an investigation processions in religious garb, use of into the role of Reliance Industries loud speakers, dispute over restaurant an FIR has been filed, the Centre is in manipulating gas prices. bills etc. are used as provocations duty bound to order a thorough probe. February 13, 2014 to spark off riots. Police inaction Obviously, there is enough evidence and often collusion encourages the of a scam in operation that needs to Janata Subscription Annual Rs. : 260/- rioters and anti-social elements be exposed. So, Kejriwal’s action Three Years : 750/- and help them acquire religio- may result in good, but the nation political clout making them powerful Demand Draft / Cheque on would be stuck for want of assured Mumbai Bank politicians. While these issues need supplies at affordable prices. Since to be handles sensitively, the real in favour of those who have complained against JANATA TRUST challenge is in de-constructing the policy include some eminent D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir communal identities in a way that persons, perhaps the Congress Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 12 JANATA, February 16, 2014

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$+0('$%$'&+(11$,&2,0%$725(+<'(5$%$' .2/.$7$080%$,1(:'(/+,  JANATA, February 16, 2014 13 The Pipe Dream of Peace

Khaled Ahmed

The peace pipe Pakistan wished to e-Islami (JI). None of them is a to convict in scores of cases of smoke with the Taliban was turned member of the Tehreek-e-Taliban terrorism, held a separate press into a pipe dream after the banned Pakistan (TTP), which is a banned conference in the capital with scary- organisation issued, on February organisation. The new Taliban looking armed guards to say that 9, the following “to do” list for leader, a wanted criminal named “nothing short of [the] removal of Islamabad before it could think of Mullah Fazlullah, seemed to thumb democracy and [the] constitution a ceasefire: one, stop drone attacks; his nose at the state of Pakistan by itself would be acceptable as a two, introduce sharia law in courts; choosing his team from the politico- condition for peace.” three, introduce Islamic system religious mainstream. of education in public and private His Red Mosque was attacked institutions; four, release Pakistani The five members represent a by commando troops in 2007, after and foreign Taliban prisoners; five, Talibanised section of the country, he staged a number of vigilante restore property damaged by drone boasting old connections with incidents to force Islamabad to attacks and pay compensation; six, the Afghan Taliban and the TTP. become an Islamic city the way hand over control of tribal areas to The irony was crushing — Prime the TTP thinks it should be. He local forces; seven, withdraw the Minister Nawaz Sharif’s own team symbolises Pakistan’s trajectory of army from tribal areas and close contained people with pro-Taliban Islamisation since 1947 and causes down checkposts; eight, drop all and anti-American leanings. The the Pakistani mind to split over what criminal charges against the Taliban; idea was to win the confidence of the should be the next phase of state nine, release prisoners from both Taliban, but Mullah Fazlullah didn’t identity. By voting rightwing in 2013 sides; ten, grant equal rights for all, bite. The talks wouldn’t commit the against the ever-dwindling liberal poor and rich; eleven, offer jobs to TTP to anything. elements, the people of Pakistan the families of drone-attack victims; have joined the issue on the side twelve, end interest-based system; Another irony was that Fazlullah of the Taliban. Intimidation plays thirteen, end support for the US’s named Imran Khan on his panel, the part of a persuader more than is “war on terror”; fourteen, replace thus creating a situation where often realised. democratic system of governance the PTI would be talking to itself with Islamic system; and fifteen, end while pretending to talk to the TTP. After Imran Khan and the JUI-F all relations with the US. Mercifully, Khan begged off from opted out, Fazlullah reiterated this absurd scenario. After that, his disdain towards Islamabad by After deciding to talk peace Kifaetullah of the JUI-F too bowed proposing two replacements: the with the Taliban, Pakistan had out. The JUI-F is more vulnerable to chief reporter of a leading English- nominated a four-member “pro- the Taliban because of its location language newspaper, Ansar Abbasi, Taliban” negotiating team. The close to North Waziristan than whose reports read like sermonising Taliban responded by naming a Samiul Haq, whose seminary is close opinion pieces; and a serving senior five-member, equally “pro-Taliban” to Peshawar. Fazlur Rehman has bureaucrat, Oria Maqbul Jan, whose team, without consultation with escaped attacks from the terrorists, crazy advocacy of the Taliban them: Maulana Samiul Haq of the which means North Waziristan has upset all kinds of Pakistanis. Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Samiul Haq thinks him soft on the state of Both begged off, although their (JUI-S), Imran Khan of the Pakistan Pakistan. worldview on TV talk shows has Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Kifaetullah presaged the next mutation of the of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl Maulana Abdul Aziz, frontman Islamic state. (JUI-F), Maulana Abdul Aziz of of al-Qaeda’s policy of Islamic the Red Mosque of Islamabad and vigilantism in Islamabad, whom A debate is raging on TV Mohammad Ibrahim of the Jamaat- the judiciary is perhaps too scared about sharia. Almost all religious 14 JANATA, February 16, 2014 organisations — most of them former’s intimidatory hold over was asking the IMF for another loan with street muscle and some the media. Most opinion-makers of a half a billion dollars while the clearly aligned with the TTP — are in Urdu are already on their side Taliban had made a billion dollars in convinced that sharia is not in force, because of Urdu’s more unbuttoned 2013 from alone . and therefore the Taliban demand ideological message against the for dismantling the modern state is modern state. But the English- One reason the Taliban can’t think justified. An important presence on language newspapers are actually of peace is the money it is making the negotiating panel appointed by threatened into censoring themselves in Pakistan with almost zero loss the Taliban, the Jamaat-e-Islami, by removing the more convincing of manpower, setting itself apart has however decided not to support liberal-secular voices from their from the terror franchises in Yemen, the Taliban’s rejection of the current opinion pages. Somalia and Mali — dying states constitution. that don’t have the financial lucre to The “popular consensus” is thus attract terrorists. Pakistanis wonder The Jamaat clerics, however, against the state and in favour of who is financing the Taliban, often insist that Pakistan’s Islamic the terrorists. Of course, peace has blaming Saudi Arabia, America and constitution is not acted upon. They to prevail, but will the state accept India. have in the past rejected the modern its death that easily? Sharif will state’s punishment of “bad” conduct have to intervene and say enough The fact is that the Taliban is in (munkirat) under a penal code and is enough at some stage of this the process of emptying Karachi neglect of “good” conduct (marufat) unfolding farce. of its cash after leaching the city as pieties enforceable through of Peshawar dry. Out of the four punitive legislation. Starting in the In the first week of February, billion dollars the Afghan Taliban post-medieval period in Europe, the Finance Minister Ishaq Dar had to makes from heroin, at least one modern state stopped punishing the go to Dubai to meet the IMF team billion falls to the TTP’s share as the lack of piety and concentrated only because the multilateral financial “southern funnel”. Moreover, news on punishing crime. The Muslims of institution is unwilling to come to of shakedowns from Islamabad and the world, free to choose as in Egypt, Islamabad after being painted by Lahore is being suppressed because want it back. Already, Pakistan is the media as an enemy of Islam the well-heeled victims want to keep fast losing the distinction between and as an instrument of America’s it hush-hush. sin and crime. diabolical plots against Pakistan. Dar – courtesy: The Indian Express

The drive to get the arrested In the last few days Parveen Amanullah, minister for social welfare Taliban out of state custody remains for three years in the Nitish Kumar led Janata Dal (United) government on top of the Taliban agenda. So far, in Bihar left her position in the Bihar government and Janata Dal (U) they have broken two big jails under and joined the Aam Admi Party. Mrs Amanullah, whose husband is an the administered jurisdiction of the IAS officer and deputy secretary in the government of India, was a long- state and got their killers out — most time RTI activist before she joined the campaign of Nitish Kumar about of them returning piously to their job four years ago. In leaving her prestigious government position Mrs of killing innocent people. The Shia Parveen has demonstrated not only courage but also dedication to the remain in their crosshairs and don’t grassroots concerns of the aam aadmi and the future of the nation. She mind lying when it suits them to is now the highest ranking political leader from any party to join AAP. keep the common Pakistani deluded into thinking that the Shia are, in It is interesting that Mrs Amanullah is the daughter of renowned fact, being killed by America and Indian Muslim leader Syed Shahabuddin. Syed Shahabuddin who India. They have denied the killing was an IFS officer and India’s ambassador to Algeria too gave up that of Shias in a Peshawar restaurant prestigious position in 1978 to join the then Janata Party when he was earlier in February. younger than 50.

One reason the TTP has more _ - Kaleem Kawaja credibility than the state is the JANATA, February 16, 2014 15 R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, February 16, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, February 16, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday February 19, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

Printed and Published by G.G. Parikh on behalf of Janata Trust. Printed at Mouj Printing Bureau, Khatau Wadi, Girgaum, Mumbai-400 004 and published at D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg (Sleater Road), Mumbai - 400 007. Established 1946 Price : Rupees Five

Vol. 69 No. 4 The 29th state February 23, 2014 S. Viswam

A new state is about to be born, but could have been smoother. As it is, Emergence of judging by the birth pangs it would we have all been shown how not to regional identities seem that things will get worse before do things rather than how to do them Kuldip Nayar they get better in Andhra Pradesh smoothly. which is to be bifurcated in order to There has always been a strong Telangana needs healing touch accommodate Telengana, the 29th case for the creation of Telengana. The Nitish Chakravarty state-to-be. Messy, clumsy, ham- handed and insensitive are the terms ideal way to have brought about its that come to mind for describing the creation would have been to include Yes, caste does matter manner in which the UPA government it as one of the items of reference in the subcontinent! handled the Telengana issue. At the for a second states reorganization K. S. Chalam same time, no political party involved commission to examine all existing in the processing of the issue has demands for new states. The NDA come out in flying colours. A painful failed to do this when it created Bangladesh at Cross Roads reminder of how division of a state three new states carving them out of Sandip Das or formation of a new state should existing states. The UPA I and the not be done. UPA II missed the bus too. However, there is no excuse for the way in A surge in India’s imagination Post-independent India is no which the UPA II dealt with the Uday Dandavate stranger to the creation of new states. Telengana demand. It will be no Indeed, the number of states in India exaggeration to say that the UPA was has risen in six decades from 14 to 28 influenced solely by electoral politics and those of Union Territories from in tackling the issue. It wanted to get three to seven. Telengana too could the maximum benefit in terms of Lok Editor : have been formed without hassles Sabha seats from both regions of a G. G. Parikh but for the fact that no political party divided Andhra Pradesh. Its greed Managing Editor : Guddi behaved honestly or sincerely or in made it blind to other realities. Its the larger interest of the nation. Every biggest shortcoming was in the failure D-15, Ganesh Prasad, party, the Congress foremost, indulged to access and address the resentment Naushir Bharucha Marg, in double-speak over Telengana and in the Seemandhra region against Mumbai - 400 007. always acted with an eye on votes. creating Telengana. Since the state has But for the electoral politics getting been under Congress rule all along, Email : [email protected] mixed up with the latest efforts to this failure is more pronounced. The reorganize Andhra Pradesh, things Congress failed to take warning from 2 JANATA, February 23, 2014 the manifest division among the Between the lines people on Telengana. Any political action that divides rather than unites Emergence of regional identities the people cannot be acceptable and ought not to have been supported. Kuldip Nayar But the politics of votes and seats tends to make the political class India may not be coming apart at governance which the two main partially blind. the seams but the polity is. Union parties, the Congress and the BJP, When Telengana actually comes Ministers are quarrelling among had perpetrated in the last three themselves. Feuds of bureaucrats decades. In a way, the AAP too has into being the leadership in both the are coming out in the open. Even become a regional party as supreme regions will be called upon to bridge intelligence agencies, the Intelligence in Delhi as are Mamata Banerjee’s the current emotional divide and Bureau and the Central Bureau of Trinamool Congress in West Bengal unify the people again. The messy Investigation, are at loggerheads. and Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata manner in which the new state was Understanding between bureaucracy Dal in Odisha. Indeed, politics of created has divided hearts as well and the rulers has been reduced to identity is the biggest danger to the as territories. While the latter will trivialities. So much so that Finance democratic governance. call for some “adjustments” here Minister P. Chidambaram tells a top and there and can be successfully official to improve his English and And this in no way is minimizing dealt with, the latter is problematic. the official, in turn, complains to his the harm the BJP is doing to the Wounds will take a long time to heal. minister. pluralistic ethos inherited from the Brothers have been fighting brothers, days of freedom struggle. Gujarat both sides forgetting the basic fact On top of it comes the manner in chief minister Narendra Modi is that the fight was for convenience which the bill to bifurcate Andhra getting large crowds by appealing in administering the state and not Pradesh was passed by the Lok to the Hindus to imbibe Hindu for the commencement of hostilities! Sabha. The Lok Sabha television nationalism. The rest of India would like the channel, showing the proceedings, brothers to unite as soon as possible was stopped from telecasting Muslims are justifiably feeling and live in their respective regions live which negates the claim of insecure because the soft kind of without hatred for one another. transparency. MPs in favour of a Hinduva is contaminating more united Andhra Pradesh were not and more people. To check this As for the Centre, it is not too allowed to participate in the debate dangerous trend, the Congress is too late for the UPA II to set up another because as many as 17 of them had weak and too clueless to show mirror states reorganization commission been ousted from the house a couple to the nation. Regional parties feel quickly in the wake of the passage of days earlier when they, including that they can fill the space vacated of the Andhra Reorganization Bill the Congress ministers, were making by the Congress. Probably, they can in the Rajya Sabha. This is a service the passage of the bill impossible. but it will be at the expense of India’s that the alliance will be rendering unity. The Constitution which binds to India. If the UPA II fails to I am concerned over the precedent all parts of the country together is do it, the incoming government, the Congress has set and the way being violated by some regional whether it is UPA III or the NDA the Speaker went along. Tomorrow parties both in letter and spirit. or the Third or Fourth Front, its if the Bhartiya Janata Party comes There is no option to the federal first priority should be a new states to power and decides to have a structure which the constituent reorganization commission. The legislation to put restrictions on the minorities, the party has only assembly cherished and enshrined incoming government also ought to point out that the then ruling in the constitution. Odisha is a to create whatever new states that Congress had suspended the basic typical example of how the are considered administratively norms of parliamentary democracy. Indian polity works. The state is and or economically viable with federal in character but dynastic speed and sincerity. The creation For nearly 50 days, there was in rule. It seldom defies the central of new states should not be vested the government of the Aam Aadmi government, however autocratic or (Continued on Page 7) Party exposing the status quo arrogant in its posture at times. JANATA, February 23, 2014 3

But chief minister Naveen Patnaik’s rule is personal and he Telangana needs healing touch follows the footprints of his father, the late Biju Patnaik who governed Nitish Chakravarty in capricious and corrupt manner. He is still remembered because he With both Houses of Parliament in deference to a multi-decade long gave identity to Oriyas who even passing the Andhra Pradesh movement in the Telangana region today are fighting for a place under Reorganisation Bill, the birth of for a separate administrative entity. the sun. Naveen continues to remind Telangana as India’s youngest The Telangana region comprises the people of his father’s legacy. I saw state is only a few days away. Telugu speaking princely state of during my visit to Bhubaneswar The highly contentious process Hyderabad ruled by the Nizam until hoardings all over the city with Biju of splitting up the Andhra people its integration with the Republic of Patnaik’s finger pointing towards into two states separated by the India. After toying with the idea Naveen as if he was reminding that Telugu language [to paraphrase of joining Pakistan or declaring his successor was his son. (There Churchill’s pithy remark, “Britain independence, the Nizam capitulated were also hoardings carrying only and America are two countries after a show of force, and signed the the photo of Rahul Gandhi without separated by the English language”] treaty of accession in late 1948. Four his mother, Congress president generated much heat and sparked centuries of the Nizam’s hukumat Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister a lot of violence in the twin cities Manmohan Singh on either side). brought about changes in the spoken of Hyderabad-Secunderabad and Just as in case of Sukhbir Singh language and other hard-to-define elsewhere. The legislative process in Badal in Punjab, Akhilesh Yadav in cultural traits of the Hyderabadi the two Houses of Parliament hit the UP or in Jammu Telugus. [The spoken dialect of lowest ever level of misconduct and and Kashmir, Naveen Patnaik’s every widely used language varies muscle power. Evidently the United parentage is his asset. The polls in from region to region; sometimes democracy are only up to elections. Progressive Alliance government, from village to village, and Telugu is Subsequently, people cease to having put so much at stake to push no exception.] So the princely state count during the five-year tenure through the bifurcation legislation, retained its separate identity even of the state assembly. With a clutch much against the wishes of millions after Rayalaseema and the coastal of bureaucrats Naveen rules the in the Andhra region and a sizeable districts of Madras Presidency were state, much to the misery and number of people in Telangana too, carved out into a separate Andhra helplessness of the voters. He is could not afford to backtrack and state in October 1953. worse because he has eliminated lose the game at the penultimate leading politicians from his party stage. In spite of recognising linguistic affinity as the raison d’etre for creating methodically. He has thus become Not only the UPA but the BJP too new states, the Nehru Government indispensible. In fact, Naveen’s has high stakes in Andhra Pradesh; did not merge Hyderabad with the strength is the absence of a leader hence the UPA’s deal with the BJP newly created Andhra state until after in his own party and his adversary, to give the legislation the semblance three years of agitation. Of course the Congress. Former chief minister of a joint endeavour. Telangana as the Hyderabadi Telugus did not JB Patnaik preferred governorship well as the rest of Andhra Pradesh share the enthusiasm of the Andhra of Assam to the ever increasing stood by Indira Gandhi even in times Telugus for Vishalandhra. The States wrangles in the Congress. of her worst misfortune in 1977 Reorganisation Commission did when much of northern, western What surprised me was that there and eastern India rejected her. not recommend a united Andhra was not even a hiss of AAP in the The 42 MPs elected from Andhra Pradesh. “One of the principal state. I thought that Odisha which Pradesh have a crucial role to play causes of opposition of Vishalandhra has no opposition worth the name in government formation after the also seems to be the apprehension would be an ideal place for AAP. upcoming general elections. The BJP felt by the educationally backward The party appears to have not gone is trying hard to make a huge dent in people of Telangana that they may beyond Delhi, western UP, Haryana the Congress bastion. be swamped and exploited by the and parts of Rajasthan. No doubt, its more advanced people of the coastal birth and success in Delhi evoked a Telugu-speaking they all are and areas”, said the SRC report. Three (Continued on Page 4) yet they have split down the middle years later, in November 1956, under 4 JANATA, February 23, 2014 mounting pressure from Andhra Fazl Ali Commission] of the 1950s tongue.] It has also stoked incipient leaders, the Nehru Government used for their recommendations movements in other parts of the unified the two Telugu-speaking which empowered the Nehru country for carving out new states states into Andhra Pradesh. Government to bring about major for minority ethic or linguistic changes in India’s political map. groups. The much hyped idea of In the later phases of the agitation It is true though that the States India’s unity amidst diversity has for separating Telangana from Reorganisation Commission did not suffered a setback. Andhra Pradesh the people have adopt a uniform criterion and took suffered a lot. Post-separation, into account varying circumstances Many states are under pressure creation of the administrative in different regions in making to concede separation to distinct infrastructure as well a thousand recommendations for redrawing ethnic groups who do not share other matters - setting up institutes state borders. the culture and language of the of higher education, medical and majority. Many ethnic groups technology institutes, scientific More than anything else, the in Assam and West Bengal will labs, etc. - will have to be dealt separation of Telangana from the surely use the Telangana example with quickly. Given the history of rest of Andhra Pradesh (for the to press their case for separation. bad blood between the two states, present the state is being bifurcated In Central India Vidarbha’s case sorting out issues will be ticklish. but the possibility of further splits for recognition as a self-contained Even routine matters will cause cannot be ruled out) has dealt a body state, a step recommended by the much heart burning, if not frayed blow to the concept of linguistic States Reorganisation Commission tempers. Attempts to hasten matters homogeneity as the main basis itself in the 1950s, has every chance will be countered by contrived for drawing state boundaries. The of gaining traction. The Gorkhas of delays. One would like to hope creation of Telangana challenges Darjeeling will be encouraged to that the political leadership on both the concept of a shared language intensify their agitation for raising sides of the state boundaries who being an enduring glue to keep Gorkhaland to full statehood. It will will shoulder the responsibility of people together. [Of course in many become more difficult to resist the handling post-separation issues parts of the world there are borders demand for promoting Bodoland to would avoid rancour and hostility. separating people sharing a common the status of a state. Mutual goodwill is the crying need of the hour. The two Telugu states (Continued from Page 3) deserve a healing touch. tinge of idealism. But then Arvind The AAP has done well in Linguistic homogeneity as Kejriwal became synonymous for exposing the central government on a unifying factor is not a post- the party. He did not allow anyone the price of natural gas. Even when independence concept in our country. else to grow. In fact, some of his the private company had signed a The Congress used linguistic contract to purchase gas for $2.5 Btu homogeneity as the criterion for antics have doused the aspirations of the intelligentsia which saw in till 2017, the price has been raised to defining the territorial jurisdiction of $8 Btu. It is obvious that Petroleum its provincial units in preference to him an alternative. Thank god, some Minister Veerappa Moily, who has the administrative boundaries of the other names who will contest the defended the increased price, must British ruled provinces. The Maratha Lok Sabha elections have come out. be mixed up with the scam, another majority areas and the Gujarat They should underline the need for in the Manmohan Singh regime, region of pre-independence Bombay a collective leadership. Dozens of left with two months in tenure. presidency had separate provincial NGOs, with more enviable record Corruption looks like becoming Congress committees. The Assam than Kejriwal, are distant from the the poll issue. The Congress with Provincial Congress Committee’s AAP. They should be persuaded to numerous scams will be the target. writ did not run in the Surma Valley, join the party which is, in fact, a then a part of composite Assam. Per force, the party has made platform for “thousands of mutinies” communalism the main issue. Both The concept of demarcating raging in the country. The AAP, corruption and communalism have the borders of India’s states in the however, needs to come out with its to be confronted with a plank of light of linguistic similarity was economic agenda because people cleanliness and pluralism. The AAP one of several criteria the States have essentially voted against the can plug these lines, provided it stays Reorganisation Commission [the Congress and the BJP. together. JANATA, February 23, 2014 5 Yes, caste does matter in the subcontinent!

K. S. Chalam

As the 2014 elections are fast economic potential of caste though political parties, media, associations, approaching, several issues that there are hundreds of studies on the social gathering, etc, we realise how attract the attention of the majority are history and social context, mostly far they are far from reality. Look being stirred up. Last week Janardan by the western scholars and their at Dwivedi’s party: who is there Dwivedi provoked the reservation Indian counterparts. In fact, very few to devise policies and influence communities with his statement knew about the ecology of caste and political manoeuvrings and their to end caste based reservations. its changing contours in different share in the population. Is it evenly Harish Rao of TRS has categorically parts of India. Perhaps no one is distributed? BSP, SP and other caste taken Jayaprakash Narayana of Lok interested to get rid of it as everyone and communal outfits are active Satta for voting TDP candidate in has a stake in the varna system (now before elections. The same is true Rajya Sabha elections as an issue caste) a phenomenon of reservation for other parties including some of caste angle. BSP, SP and other of occupations by birth. Andhras caste-based and progressive ones caste and community outfits are have very little knowledge about who consider class as a criterion active while Modi is entreating the castes in Odisha or Kerala and for mass mobilisation (not their for OBC tag.The Parliament has Punjabis do not have any idea as to leaders), started giving reservations witnessed the unprecedented brawl what kind of castes exist in Bengal in the party after Mandal to counter of MPs from Andhra Pradesh on while Maharastrians generalise their public criticism and not essentially the vexed issue of bifurcation, experience as universal without to make them to participate in which is seen as caste war between understanding its ubiquitous and decision making. Major share of dominant castes for control over diverse nature and so on. The the Corporate Media is held by Hyderabad city. The BCCI President Western social anthropologists few castes while the opinions are Srinivasan who is going to occupy like Kathleen Gough and Indian voiced by limited traditional castes. a premier position in ICC soon is scholar Madhav Gadgil have tried Though media delude all of us found in an obscure position with the to project some castes as ecology with the idea of freedom of speech, Supreme Court Committee report on dependent, but did not elaborate is it really representative of the the involvement of his son-in-law on the geography of castes. It was castes in the news coverage or Meiyappan in betting and passing only in the modern period that Rajni importance in proportion to the of information about the team in IPL Kothari and others have examined caste population? How are they to others. This is a much stronger the political potential of caste. There biased or involuntarily make stories relation than social bond of caste seems to be very few reflections on to represent their community point that has international implications. how caste was skilfully adopted of view? The Telugu media it is The discrimination and killing of by British to divide and rule India, alleged, is controlled by two castes the North East Indians in Delhi and and not in other commonwealth of a region, and have distorted other metros is being compared with countries. Thus, caste is a nasty thing news and compared Lagdapati Dalits of mainland. We may take the not only in social relations but even Rajgopal with Bhagat Singh for his above cases for academic reflection to consider it as an academic issue pepper spray. Is there any content here. for debate. Yet, our leaders initiate analysis as to how the channels in arguments occasionally, may be for Andhra Pradesh represented the Caste has been practiced by political purposes making many of recent bifurcation issue? Will the everyone in the subcontinent us to react. dispassionate channels be allowed consciously or instinctively as a to survive? The public space which habit (may be as a technique of Now look at the caste-based should democratically be available humiliation) but, invariably denies reservations. If we can look at the to all is ever representative of our it in public. Interestingly, there is practice of caste related biases in diverse caste groups? The answer very little understanding about the our democratic institutions like is obvious. 6 JANATA, February 23, 2014

There are serious reflections on as capitalists as in DICCI. But, the expert to come to grips with the caste issues by some academics. total asset value of all the dalits problem. Several attempts were The issue is: how is it possible to for instance including the few neo- made in the past to study the reasons annihilate caste when the economic corporates among them is not equal behind poverty. Some scholars found opportunities are seized by few castes to one day transactions of share that the analytical tools of political as against the multitude? Don’t we value of some Business Houses. economy were found to be very know the economic background of How long does it take to make at helpful in understanding why some some of the billionaires (particularly least 15 crore dalits (out of 20) and groups still live in substandard living in Andhra) about five decades back 5 crore Adivasis (out of 8) to become conditions. Political economy is and how they became super rich now? crorepathis, if not billionaires? basically concerned about policies Is it not due to caste mobilisation that are undertaken by a class state. Then what is the solution? Are or the so-called crony capitalism Goran Djurfeldt and Lindberg in caste-based reservations a solution suited to our conditions? People their study on poverty in Chengalput to ameliorate their conditions? talk about caste-based reservations district of Tamil Nadu found that No. Caste is used here as a socio- of let us say (15 per cent) scheduled the old caste ideology remained economic identity to target groups for castes. There are 175 lakh jobs in operative even in a new setting of some development programmes. Is government (state, union, local body, production relations. It was observed the society, including the mainstream public sector) where the caste-based that development projects in the political parties, prepared to face the reservations are observed. It means village did not bring any change in groups, if they are released from their that there will be 26 lakh dalits in the fundamental structure of social forced incubation. The politicians all categories to get employment. formation. Though the study was more than the beneficiaries of This is around one per cent (1.3) conducted about three decades back, reservations, knew the transforming of the 20 crore dalits in India. Yes, there seems to be no change in what of the traditional patron-client they represent the disadvantaged and they have observed. relations as development messiah may not as Dwivedi remarked, allow and aid recipient. The former being the poor among them to occupy the Given the history of poverty the upper caste person and the latter positions. This is what we call as alleviation programmes in India, any has always remained a dalit or a ‘phenomenon of circulation of kind of innovation or restructuring of OBC, etc. This has also facilitated families’. This is much worse in the the schemes would be appropriated the politics of rural development as case of Adivasis and the OBCs who by the political elite in the country. the schemes under DRDA, IRDP, have just begun. This is also true But some of the World Bank experts NRY, NAREGA, etc., came to the even among the dwija and shudra wanted us to believe few decades rescue of emerging politician to castes. This is a systemic dichotomy. ago that the restructured safety nets capitalize his fortunes on the basis would capture the disadvantaged of state sponsored aid to the poor There may be exceptions in like the dalits and wipe out their particularly, the dalit. The politicians the case of select castes that have destitution. The WB poverty report with the nexus of the bureaucrats mobilised and united their own on India cites examples from looked at these opportunities as group network for appropriating all Pakistan and Bangladesh as success objects of patronage to develop that is available for grabbing after stories in such experiments. Further, caste cleavages in the villages. liberalisation. How could they do it? the PRSP clearly show that the Each politician developed his own Is it not through caste mobilisation structural adjustment in South Asia constituency, particularly among the or what we call MCCs (multi caste continue with the four principles of poor on the basis of these so called corporations)? While the few broad based growth, investment in rural aid or reservations, subsidies, who do not have any reservations social capital, good governance and poverty alleviation schemes. They used their caste seizing all secular increased safety nets from 1999. But never wanted that the poverty of the opportunities, the reserved groups the safety nets prescribed for the masses to disappear, lest their vote complain that they are confined to vulnerable groups particularly dalits bank sinks. limited openings and stay insecure and adivasis in India have failed. in a market economy. Some of them In order to understand the poverty There are studies to show that the might argue that it would provide in India, the traditional and neo- rate at which poverty was declining conditions of possibility to grow classical theories may not help the among the groups is in anyway no JANATA, February 23, 2014 7 different from the pre-reform period. The recent events in the common man? Is it the same concord In order to address this question they Parliament shocked the nation as that submerged sub-caste differences mandated Tendulkar to manipulate to how this could happen? But, (started in Andhra) once the issue of the concept and data to show positive the fact is that the two or three abolition of reservations is initiated? results. If the data sets are adjusted castes in Andhra have mobilized That is the power of caste in India for 1750 and 2000 calories for their resources and captured power known to the ruling castes better 2004-5, is it not common sense to irrespective of the political party to than other groups. Yes, caste does use the same for pre-reform period harvest economic gains. They play matter today in politics and public forgetting for a moment the unwise political drama in the name of parties policy. Is there anyone to reorganise assumptions of change in stature of but get united on economic contracts and reform the society before it working class. N .C Saxena has used to share the spoils. (This is what is solidified once again through a different method and found that was demonstrated in Parliament). economic discrepancies that are there is little change. Occasionally as in the case of alien? Hyderabad city real estate, due to (Continued from Page 2) The politicians see an opportunity historical reasons (of huge enemy in the poverty of the dalits as it can be property), they get divided, but with emotional, sub-national or used as an alibi to approach the donor someone would get them to come (linguistic) passion overtone and agencies for funds. The leakages to their senses and bring about their undertones. Small states are in any from such funds are being used as unity. They have systematically, it is case better managed, and the case election money at the time of polls. alleged by another group, designed for more (smaller) states remains This would be a political investment everything particularly the media strong. The first target for division is of the ruling elite to win the elections to façade the reality with myths obviously Uttar Pradesh. Let us hope without any budgetary process. in the name of freedom of speech. that the division will be overseen by Perhaps the funding agencies wanted This is how the 21st century Indian the which will come the money to go that way so that democracy dazzled in the Parliament into being end May. the regimes which are favorable recently. After all, Andhra Pradesh to their terms and conditions are was chosen as the model state for Socialist Party will reelected irrespective of the political liberalization in 1991. This may be ideology (see the approach of USA true in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, contest 60 Lok towards Gujarat) so that the agenda Gujarat and other states. of SAP can be pushed through. This Sabha seats is a good strategy that helps both There seem to be another angle the parties. We do not know what to this. Were the dynamics of caste A meeting of the parliamentary is the take on this by the NGOs. any way different in the past or have board of the Socialist Party was In the process, the poor are further remained inert or the same? This held at . Pannalal Surana, marginalized and those who are on must have been the longstanding president, parliamentary board, the margin like the dalits and service convention in the subcontinent as chaired the meeting. List of the castes are severely threatened. In seen in Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Lok Sabha constituencies, sent fact, some politicians complain that etc. It is alleged by some activists in by state units, was placed and the poor voters need money at the South Asia that if the political elites discussed in the meeting. It was time of elections and they invest are disrobed of their cover-up, their decided that the party would and recover the same over a period real social background comes out contest 60 Lok Sabha seats in of time. It is also demonstrated that as poor cousins or counterparts of the coming general election. no one bothers, if an oligarchy of India. Therefore, no one is prepared Names of the constituencies and castes is formed to gulp and exploit to sacrifice this privilege of holding candidates will be declared soon. the natural resources, the provident power through caste. This appears It was decided in this meeting that fund of Adivasis. It is seen and to be the fact behind the bifurcation the Socialist Party would contest proved that few traditional castes are politics in Andhra Pradesh that from Ratanagiri Sindhudurg only involved in the lakhs of crores forged alleged unity among different and Shirur constituencies in of scams (coal, 3G, mines, Oil etc) political groups with same caste Maharashtra. and crumbs for others. heads getting united to hoodwink 8 JANATA, February 23, 2014 Vasudha Dhagamwar (1940-2014)

Vibhuti Patel

Vasudha Dhagamwar, legal courageous and consistent work for in place in India due to pressure activist and academician, passed the rights of displaced people. from women’s movement. Vasudha away on February 10, in Pune of played important role in this process multiple organ failure. Vasudha’s In 1985, she set up the MARG through her writings, speeches, mother Geeta Sane was a well- (Multiple Action Research Group) training programmes and debates on known Marathi writer and feminist in Delhi, which took up the most the laws concerning rape, domestic and her father, Advocate Naraimha challenging issues of land acquisition violence, discriminatory family laws Dhagamwar was active in the Indian and displacement arising out of the with respect to marriage, divorce, freedom movement. Vasudha studied Sardar Sarovar Project in Gujarat. maintenance, alimony, custody and at the Indian Law Society’s Law Under her leadership, MARG guardianship, land and housing rights College in Pune and taught at the produced the following valuable of women. Vasudha worked closely Department of Law of University publications: with the National Commission of of Pune. 1. The Law of Resettlement of Women as a legal expert. She was Project Displaced Persons in also a member of the Executive As a young lawyer, she fought case Madhya Pradesh Body of the Commonwealth Human of a teenage tribal girl Mathura who 2. Land Acquisition Act and You- Rights Initiative, Delhi NGO was gang-raped by two policemen in A Manual working to protect human rights in uniform at the police station in 1972. 3. Law, Power and Justice: The the Commonwealth countries. In this case, the Nagpur bench of the Protection of Personal Rights Bombay High Court acquitted the in the Indian Penal Code, 1993 Because of her down to earth accused and stated that the sexual 4. Our Laws/ Hamare Kanoon (a approach towards legal matters, intercourse was voluntary, since set of 10 manuals in Hindi and practical suggestions and solution the onus of proving that the act English) seeking approach, Vasudha was a was one of coercion, rested on the 5. Industrial Development and much sought after legal luminary. victim. After eight years of legal Displacement – The People of She was an excellent communicator, battle from 1972 to 1979 when Korba, 2003 spoke logically and convincingly. the gave 6. Women and Divorce, Somaiya Her stand on Muslim personal law misogynist judgment in the year Publications, Delhi, 1987 and Common Civil Code angered 1979, Vasudha along with three law 7. Reading on Uniform Civil Code many fellow feminists. But no one professors from Delhi University — and Gender and Child Just Laws doubted her integrity as a defender Prof. Upendra Baxi, Prof. Raghunath 8. Role and Image of Law in India of women’s right to dignified life. Kelkar and Prof. Lotika Sarkar – The Tribal Experience, 2006 wrote an open letter to the Supreme 9. Criminal Justice or Chaos?1997 From 1980 to 2006, Vasudha Court challenging the judgment worked in Delhi. She moved to Pune as well as demanding reopening Through her activist use of the in 2007. of Mathura Rape Case and urging law, she influenced two generations the court to bring about a change of feminists and activists of social Vasudha was suffering from in the Rape Law. This sparked movements of the marginalised cancer. In spite of painful existence nationwide anti-rape movement communities. Vasudha’s legal during last couple of years, she and influenced heated debates and activism was tremendous. She was translating the memoirs of her became the rallying point of an demystified draconian Land mother, Geeta Sane from Marathi active campaign on the issue of Acquisition Act. into English. Vasudha was highly gender-based violence. respected in Maharashtra. She has During the last four decades, left her permanent mark as a sincere, Vasudha was awarded coveted innumerable of legal reforms with committed, honest and pro-people Ashoka fellowship in 1982 for her respect to women’s issues were put lawyer of our country. JANATA, February 23, 2014 9 Bangladesh at Cross Roads – A spirited struggle for Secular Democracy

Sandip Das

To my knowledge Prof. Samar in our endeavors. Our activities militarily trained, and they played Guha was the only person, who were two-fold. We formed an open a wonderful role in the liberation had the privilege of spending organization, named Purba Paschim of Bangladesh. While the struggle considerable time in jails of British Sampriti Samiti. Many distinguished in Bangladesh was going on, I had India and in-post Independence academics, writers and cultural occasions to move around most of the Pakistan and India, including under activists were associated with it. border areas in West Bengal, Assam MISA during the Emergency. While We also published a fortnightly (including Meghalaya) and Tripura. in Dhaka, besides teaching in a journal named Epar Bangla Opar We had been working under the college, he was active in various Bangla. We used to publish writings banner of ‘National Co-ordination movements there. Coming to India of distinguished writers and give Committee for Bangladesh’ with in the early 1950s, in spite of his news of East Pakistan. We had M. C. Chagla as President and Prof. involvement in socialist movement some other activities, which were Samar Guha as Working President. here, he remained mentally attached not open. Prof. Samar Guha was our I was one of the secretaries and to the events in Pakistan. He began to leader and we were all very close to convener of field co-ordination sub- write books in support of independent him. However, we had to maintain committee. I feel I should mention East Bengal. a distance from him as far as East an incident. I along with Jahanara Pakistan affairs were concerned. Begum and Abdul Samad entered Some of us also had been My primary duty was to read most into Bangladesh through Chougacha following the happenings of East of the Dhaka newspapers, which border adjacent to Khulna district Pakistan almost from the early were not normally available after of East Pakistan. We stayed there sixties. We had a forum named ‘New 1965 war with Pakistan. We had for some time and collected all Left Forum’. Amongst the initiators to maintain paper cuttings from necessary information from the of the forum, there were late Pradip Dhaka papers and to preserve them horse’s mouth, so to say, about Bose, late Jatin Ghosh, Dr. Dwijesh subjectwise and partywise. The how the Pakistani attack would Dutta Majumdar, Mrinal Biswas publications from London based take place along with samples of and myself. I was the convener. The Purba Bangla Bhawan also came bullets of a particular machinegun. forum got involved in the affairs of to us. On occasions, we used to We communicated to the persons East Pakistan. Pradip Bose had many brief our senior socialist leaders. concerned in India. The result contacts in Delhi, both official and Prem Bhasin was one such leader. was when the Pakistani attack took non-official. His association with Premji had written in the Janata in place, the attackers were humbled the International Union of Socialist details on happenings in East Bengal in what is known as Navaran Battle Youth was also very useful. Jatin (Bangladesh). Along with Prof. miserably. Ghosh while doing his Bar-at-Law in Smamar Guha we had occasions to London, was secretary of the London discuss with JP and other leaders It may also be mentioned that Majlis. That was very helpful to including the then Prime Minister in 1968, I had the occasion to visit establish link with Purba Bangla Indira Gandhi about the events and few South East Asian countries Bhawan in London. Dr. Majumdar, problems of Bangladesh. in connection with a three-week as a scientist of eminence, was workshop in Indonesia. There I met known to many activists. In East Amongst our underground many socialist friends at a meeting Bengal, the person who acted as activities, we could involve many with Surendra Mohon’s message a whole timer for some time was Bangladeshi College Students to them, although socialist parties the late Ajit Roy, an associate of studying in colleges adjacent to the were not allowed to function till Netaji in his INA days. Dr. Jahanara border of West Bengal. Some of then. I also met socialist friends in Begum, Sasabindu Chowdhury and them were engaged in intelligence Singapore. Wherever I got chance some friends were other activists gathering work and some were I hinted that big change in East 10 JANATA, February 23, 2014

Pakistan was offing. One gentleman was that the Socialist leader Leela to him. They only prepared the gist who took me seriously was Late Roy’s birth centenary was observed and informed him about it. Like Dr. Herbert Feith, a renowned in Dhaka with great solemnity. I was the Britishers, neo- colonists and Australian Professor of Polities who invited on the occasion of the release international and national corporates was also a member of Labour Party of Leeladi’s centenary volume. somehow think that if the structure there. Two years later, as soon as In that function, the president of of secular democracy from the Third Sheikh Mujibar Rahaman declared the meeting, a very distinguished World can be destroyed, they would independence, he gave a speech professor Jiallur Rahaman gain. from Melbourne Radio in support of Siddiquee, while praising Leeladi’s Bangladesh’s independence. So far role in freedom movement and her Let us also consider the role of as I know, outside our sub-continent unique contribution to spreading Hindu fundamentalists in India. his voice was the first of its kind. womens’ education, referred to The Hindu fundamentalists claim He sent me the copy of his speech JP’s total revolution, as according that they stand for the interests immediately which was broadcast to him it was very relevant for the of the Hindus. Are they aware from Akashbani many times. sub-continent. Another incident: of the aftermath of their “great when myself along with Jahanara achievement” of destruction of I remember four political Begum and Abdul Samad met Abul Babri Masjid? How many Hindu personalities who had come through Hasim, the general secretary of religious temples were destructed hill border in Dinajpur immediately Bengal Provincial Muslim League in Bangladesh and how many after the declaration. Three of them in undivided India, he confessed Hindus were killed and how many were from Awami League and the to us that the “greatest blunder had suffered and were forced to other one, an old freedom fighter was committed in my life was agreeing cross the border? It was the great a leader of National Awami Party. A to the partition. My mistake might freedom fighter and Gandhiji’s senior friend and a veteran freedom be rectified if you make efforts to associate in Noakhali, Suhashini fighter late Madhab Chandra Roy unite us again”. Das who, with the help of broad escorted them to West Bengal mined Muslims reconstructed Socialist Party Office in Calcutta. Unfortunately after the killing many of the temples. From there I took them to our of Sheikh Mujibar Rahaman, the house. Next morning I took them to fundamentalists began to gain Recently in late March 2103, Prof. Samar Guha’s house, where strength. We must keep it in mind that I had been to Dhaka as a guest a Bangladesh’s flag was made and Pakistani fundamentalists could not of Bangladesh Government, who with this in Samarda’s open jeep forget the loss of East Pakistan. Not honoured some of us, including we went around in city. I cannot only Pakistani fundamentalists, but those from Pakistanis and other forget the enthusiasm of Calcutta’s at also their counterpart in Bangladesh countries, who had extended seeing them. We had also taken them and also in the Middle East and other to the concerned officials. countries are making intermittent support to their liberation cries for Islamic solidarity. But we movement. Since a month before No doubt Indira Gandhi played a know that even in Pakistan there is no that occasion, Bangladesh was great role at that time. But I can say dearth of progressive elements, who subjected to septic violence that preparation had started from had opposed all types of brutality through killing, loot and arson the days of . We during Bangladesh’s liberation by the fundamentalists. Besides must not also forget JP’s unique role movement. Many of them were minorities, secular Muslims were in generating international public arrested for this ‘crime’. However, also not spared. That the US opinion in support of Bangladesh. many remained undaunted. We met Government should have a soft With JP’s initiative, many Gandhian them recently in Dhaka. corner for the fundamentalists, and other organizations also arranged including war criminals tried relief work for Bangladeshis who The Britishers during the pre- by the Bangladesh Government took shelter in India. partition days always attempted to should not shock us, if we do not divide Hindus and Muslims and to forget the threatening presence of After the liberation of Bangladesh create communal fever. An incident US 7th fleet in the India Ocean, I visited Bangladesh several times. I may be mentioned here. Gandhiji when the people of Bangladesh feel many Janata readers would be from Aga Khan Palace wrote a letter were fighting for their liberation happy to know of two incidents. One to Jinnah, which was not delivered and secular democracy JANATA, February 23, 2014 11

Jamat-e-Islami, which all through struggle for liberation itself.” the existence of Bangladesh. Any had opposed liberation struggle encouragement direct or indirect of Bangladeshis, was responsible The independence of Bangladesh to the fundamentalists would also for killing many scholars, both was achieved and the United Nation endanger the fate of minorities and Muslim and Hindu, who were had recognized 21st February as the progressive Muslims and it would prides of Bangladesh. Now, the International Language Day, the date open the flood gate of Bangladeshi’s main opposition party, Bangladesh on which five young men in Dhaka influx into India. National Party of Khaleda Zia is laid their lives in 1952 for the cause hand-in-glove with them. It may be of their mother tongue’s recognition Again Shri Nayer has attributed recalled that Col. Zia who became in Pakistan. It gave boost to secular statesmanship of ‘visionary’ to Jyoyi General when he captured power nationalism in Bangladesh. Basu for Farakka agreement. Late had played an important role in the Jyoti Basu had played hardly any freedom movement of Bangladesh, Before that Dr. Sahidulla, an role in the Bangladesh’s liberation but turned anti-Mujib later on. outstanding scholar and leading struggle. Is Shri Nayer aware of at However, his wife Khaleda declined light of Dhaka University, in his what cost the agreement was made? support it and she was happy going Presidential address in East Pakistan Has he studied the reason for the with the Pakistani military junta. Literary Conference had stated destruction of Calcutta Port and Recently the Bangladesh Supreme (31st December 1948 – 1st January, possible destruction of Haldia. The Court banned Jamat-e-Islami 1949) , “It is true that some of us are DVC had already created a lot of contesting in the election. The Hindus and some are Muslims but it problems for the lower Damodar Jamat’s fellow traveler, Khaleda is greater truth that we are Bengalis, Valley and the Ganga itself. The declined to contest elections so long But mother nature has given us such urgent task now is that both India as a non-party interim government permanent stamp in our appearance and Bangladesh should ponder upon was not formedto conduct elections. and language that no rosary or the river issues not separately about Bangladesh constitution had pigtail or marks of sandel paste or Ganga or Tista but in totality with all provided for an all-party interim cap, lungi, beard can hide them”. the rivers that flow from Himalayas government to run the election But West Pakistan leaders and and be prepared to talk with Sikkim following this, other than Prime military junta systematically tried of India, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, etc. Minister Hasina, all the other to crush the Bengali language and I have observed that situation of the sixtyfive ministers had resigned. culture. Besides this, West Pakistan rivers of both Bangladesh and India Hasina tried her best to persuade rulers began to treat East Pakistan is far from satisfactory. India should Khaleda Begum to join the ministry. as their colony and tried to crush play a pivotal role in this regard. So After so many attempts by the Prime them economically. All these events there is nothing that can be called Minister Hasina, Khaleda Begum ushered in the 6-point programme visionary on the part of Jyoti Basu met her only once only to decline of Sheikh Mujibar Rahaman for the or the Government of India in this her offer. autonomy of Bangladesh. During regard. the liberation struggle, thirty lakh In 1971, during the liberation Bangladeshis sacrificed their lives I should also mention that when struggle a seminar on Bangladesh at the altar of freedom. President of India Pranab Mukherjee was organized by the Christian visited Bangladesh recently, he Institute of Religion and Society, It is, therefore, surprising and indicated his willingness to meet Bangalore at VP House in Delhi indeed shocking for persons opposition leader Khaleda Zia. But which was attended by many like me who worked a bit for a the lady could not spare time to distinguished persons in India and secular democratic Bangladesh meet him. This action of Begum Jhia Bangladesh. Acharya Kripalani that a journalist and intellectual indicates deeper maldy of which Shri inaugurated the seminar. In 1972, the of eminence like KuldipNayer Nayer does not appear to be aware papers were published in the form could characterize the problem of of. It is not merely a clash of egos of a book - ‘Profile of Bangladesh’. Bangladesh as the struggle of egos of two Begums but represents two This writer, in his paper, had stated: of two Begums. He should have different forces that are in conflict “The Emergence of secularism in understood that any action in India in Bangladesh. theocratic and dictatorial state like by the majority community and Pakistan is, from all points of view, also such loose talk may endanger I must say that Shri Nayer’s study no less epoch-making then the the secular democracy and even of Bangladesh is not adequate. 12 JANATA, February 23, 2014 A surge in India’s imagination

Uday Dandavate

Turn of events in Delhi continue not respond with overwhelming corrupt political order, challenge to be incomprehensible to those enthusiasm first to Anna Hazare the money power, reverse the top who have expert knowledge of and then to the AAP’s demand down model of governance and how democracy works in India. for Jan Lok Pal Bill, so they replace it with a new model that The Aam Aadami Party has could capture power in Delhi. Gandhi called Swaraj. defied expectations of experts on The genesis of AAP is in India’s Westminster model of governance, disenchantment with apathetic, Seasoned managers of political through its unconventional arrogant, and corrupt system that campaigns who are used to spending methods of handling important has eroded the dignity of ordinary hundreds of crores of rupees governance issues by crowd citizens and turned politicians on expensive media campaigns, sourcing citizen’s ideas through into pawns in the hands of rich for traveling in helicopters and Jan Sabhas and Street activism. industrialists. Kejriwal entered creating ostentatious displays of Rather than exercising his the swamp of electoral politics, gimmicky imageries at public power as the chief executive despite advice to the contrary meetings, Arwind Kejriwal’s of the state of Delhi from the by his mentor Anna Hazare, “So simple and unpaid omnipresence chambers within the secretariat, that he could flush the system in media is proving to be a massive Arwind Kejriwal continued to from inside”. The sight of a man headache. While the BJP might provoke popular imagination by flushing the gutter is ugly but pat itself on the back over its protesting against the corrupt the ultimate result promises to victories in Madhya Pradesh, nexus between the politicians, be desirable for the health of Rajasthan and Chattisgarh, where business and administration, in democracy. BJP was the only challenger to addition to taking quick decisions the discredited Congress party, on promises made during the All the three contenders to the Delhi election has given the campaign. For the political elite, national imagination today - Sangh Pariwar a lot to worry about Arwind Kejriwal’s behavior Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi in private. The BJP candidate smacks of irresponsible behavior and Arwind Kejriwal - want to lost to the AAP candidate in the of an elected chief executive; demolish status quo. Narendra constituency where Narendra whereas to the thousands of young Modi wants to demolish, what Modi addressed his first election citizens of Delhi, who throng to he calls pseudo secularism and rally, where crores of rupees were the streets at the beck and call of replace it with a Hindu nationalist spent in turning it into a mega AAP leadership, Arwind Kejriwal agenda for corporate sponsored show. Likewise in majority of represents an irrepressible Baagi development, Rahul Gandhi wants constituencies where Narendra (revolutionary), who they expect to demolish the old order in the Modi campaigned in Delhi, he was to first demolish the corrupt system Congress party (and he is doing unable to catch the imagination of and give people the participatory a good job of demolishing the the electorate. As Arwind Kejriwal power to rebuild a new approach Congress itself, in the eyes of unshackles himself from the daily to governance. people). He has not given a clear grind of governing Delhi, the picture of what he wants to replace enthusiasm for participating in a Arwind Kejriwal did not join the old order within Congress new kind of disruptive innovation electoral politics to govern Delhi. with, except his recent comment in democracy is bound to inspire Contrary to media campaign, Delhi that the Congress party needs to the 12 crore first time voters who citizens did not elect him just to learn from Aam Aadmi Party’s are going to be a decisive voter govern Delhi, but to start cleansing methods. Arwind Kejriwal on the segment in the next Parliament the system. Delhi citizens did other hand wants to demolish the election. JANATA, February 23, 2014 13

Indian election scenario The road not taken today stands polarized between The stormy government of the Aam Aadmi Party lasted for 49 days. A big a fumbling Rahul Gandhi, an question it leaves behind is - was a happier, more constructive alternative entertaining Narendra Modi, path possible, which would have better realised the big hopes reposed in and a revolutionary Arwind the new party by lakhs of voters, particularly the weaker sections? Kejriwal. The regional parties The AAP government was all the time taking the path of confrontation and are getting ready to consolidate controversy. At least in retrospect, it is possible to visualise a different path their traditional voter base, so that which would have given first priority to several non-confrontational issues they could emerge as a bargaining that were capable of giving significant benefits to weaker sections in Delhi. power in the eventuality of a hung It is not adequately realised that the living and working conditions of parliament. lakhs of poorest people in Delhi are very bad. They are deprived of very basic needs like clean drinking water, sanitation and sewerage. Displaced Two weeks before the Delhi people were deprived not just of housing but also of livelihoods near their elections, I wrote on my Facebook, former homes. Many of them still suffer from hunger and deprivation. The “Last week opinion polls gave homeless people including women and children have very serious problems. AAP 8 seats, this week it gave it 18 Apart from problems specifically of weaker sections, Delhi has very seats, with two weeks to go for the serious pollution and other environmental problems which affect all sections election-day and after witnessing of people and pose very serious health hazards. increasing enthusiasm in the The right path for the AAP government should have been to first take street, I believeAAP is bound to up very significant but noncontroversial issues which can provide genuine increase its tally at the same pace.” relief as well as stable benefits to lakhs of poorest people. At the same time The same scenaior will unfold as important steps should have been taken to reduce pollution and solve other AAP begins its campaign for Lok serious environmental issues, including taking up water conservation and Sabha. harvesting works in a big way. Those who are joining the This constructive phase should have lasted at least for six months or AAP are not seasoned politicians. so. At least this time was needed for well thought-out decisions and the necessary follow-up actions. Any confrontational measures considered They bring with them the same necessary by AAP should have come only after this phase of minimum six strengths and weaknesses that can months was over. be found in an average Indian. It will be the responsibility of the If this alternative path had been taken then the AAP could’ve brought genuine benefits to poorest people who voted for it with high hopes. Aam Aadmi Party to organize training for its cadres and its Unfortunately this golden chance was missed. Any relief which AAP elected representatives, so that the provided was only on the basis of its narrowly conceived election promises. energy unleashed by its promise of It was not based on proper prioritising of the needs of the poorest people, or the real needs of the city for environment protection. destructive innovation of India’s democracy is harnessed and - Bharat Dogra managed with the same sensitivity PS As reported in the Indian Express on February 18, Arvind Kejriwal, with which nuclear energy is while addressing the National Council Meet of the Confederation of Indian harnessed. Industry in Delhi on February 17 said, “Government has no business doing Delhi events are only a spark- business, it only has to govern. Business should all be held by the private the fire is bound to spread sector.” nationwide. Arwind Kejriwal’s Am I right in interpreting this to mean very little role for public sector, so-called irresponsible behavior if any, and huge room for privatisation of essential goods and services? can only be understood by those Also, as the Indian Express reported, “Kejriwal clarified his party is who can sense an irrepressible against crony capitalism not capitalism.” Kejriwal “praised industrialists surge of national enthusiasm for as the real engines of growth and appealed to them to become party to the a new future that is free from revolution.” corruption. 14 JANATA, February 23, 2014 HC cautions govts against privatising drinking water services

Citing example from Bolivia, and sanitation services to residents The judge said the National Water the Madras High Court has of Cochabamba in Bolivia. It was Policy-2012 suggested that water cautioned governments against to generate electrical energy and could be priced to fully recover the privatising fundamental sovereign irrigation water for the region’s cost of operation and administration responsibilities including providing agricultural sector. of water resources projects. drinking water to public. Following public outcry over Noting that operators in the While passing orders on 200 per cent increase in water private sector jumped into the fray to disputes over restructuring the rates, the company was thrown out fill up the gap between resources and stake-holding companies recently, of Bolivia. In November of 2002, the unwillingness of the government, Justice V Ramasubramanian Aguas Del Tunari demanded a he said “None of the states appears narrated the dangers of privatising minimum compensation of USD 50 to have drawn a lesson from what essential constitutional duties million from Bolivian government had happened in Bolivia and in such as providing drinking water and dragged it to the International Johannesburg”. to people and wondered how a Centre for Settlement of Investment company, which dragged Bolivia Disputes(ICSID), a mechanism of The judge said after water supply into international arbitration over the World Bank. was privatised in Johannesburg privatisation of drinking water, people became unable to pay their was involved in new Tirupur area Nearly four years later in January water bills. development scheme. 2006, Aguas Del Tunari agreed to drop their case in ICSID for a token “The private water supply The state government’s ambitious payment from Bolivia, which had agencies stopped supply of water, Tirupur development plan envisaged by then spent more than one million forcing residents to drink water several schemes including treatment dollars on legal fees alone. from polluted rivers. This led to and supply of potable water and an outbreak of cholera claiming treatment and disposal of sewage in Noting that there could be no hundreds of lives and thousands the city, and it engaged consortium dispute over the fact that water of people getting hospitalised,” the of international companies for the supply to people was an obligation of judge said. purpose. the state, Justice Ramasubramanian cited a Supreme Court ruling –PTI “It is an irony of fate that Bechtel, which said, “The right to life is a which was a member of Aguas fundamental right under Article 21 Del Tunari, the multinational of the Constitution and it includes consortium of private investors that the right of enjoyment of pollution- Madhu Dandavate was driven out of Bolivia, appears free water and air for full enjoyment By to be part of the consortium selected of life”. B. Vivekanandan by Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services Ltd for funding “Even internationally the New Tirupur Area Development obligation of the states to supply Price: Rs. 20/- Corporation Ltd project. water to its citizens is well recognised,” the judge said, adding, “I do not know if anyone is aware “admittedly, no law has been Janata Trust of this fact and anyone is aware of enacted so far (in Tamil Nadu). D-15, Ganesh Prasad, what happened in Bolivia.” On the contrary, the enactment Naushir Bharucha Marg, that was in force earlier- Tamil Grant Road (W), In October 1999, Aguas Del Nadu Ground Water (Development Mumbai 400 007. Tunari was awarded 40-year and Management) Act, 2003 - has concession rights to provide water actually been repealed recently”. JANATA, February 23, 2014 15 Signing for freedom

We, the undersigned, are appalled intellectual and artistic freedoms upholding freedom of expression by the recent settlement reached and the right to self-expression, is established, and in future between Dina Nath Batra for the as well as protecting against publishing houses, including Shiksha Bachao Andolan and Penguin insult and injury to communities, Penguin India, are able to Books India, to cease the publication and the incitement of communal publish works and support their of Wendy Doniger’s The Hindus: An hatred. We ask that lawmakers, authors without the threatening Alternative History(Penguin USA jurists and the legal bureaucracy prospect of litigation, fear and 2009; Penguin India 2010), and include necessary provisions in censure. withdraw and destroy remaining these laws to protect works of copies of the book on Indian territory. serious academic and artistic We believe that writers, scholars, merit from motivated, malicious artists, and publishers the world This case is only the latest in a long and frivolous litigation. over will stand in solidarity with series of outrage against freedom of the author Wendy Doniger. To expression. Academic, intellectual 2. That Penguin Random House at endorse our demands, append your and artistic expression of any kind the highest levels of management signature to this statement. We is becoming increasingly hazardous and decision-making continue to intend to send our petition along in India. What has happened to contest the Legal Demand # with all the signatures collected to Professor Doniger and many other 254/LN/0310 up to the higher the appropriate authorities in the scholars before her can happen to courts, so that a good precedent Government of India. any one of us at any time. Indian laws and legislation governing the Ananya Vajpeyi, Centre for the Study of Developing Societies, New Delhi; freedom of expression not only fail Sheldon Pollock, Columbia University, New York; to protect us from harassment and Partha Chatterjee, Columbia University, New York; intimidation, but in fact prevent us Patton, Duke University, North Carolina; from doing our work in a respectful, Romila Thapar, Jawaharlal Nehru University (Retd.), New Delhi; fair and democratic environment. David Shulman, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel and others. More worrying, the laws dealing with insult and injury to the sentiments of groups and Dr Ashok Khemka has remained dedicated to the task of serving communities (organised around the people of India in line with the ethics of the elite service that he religion, caste or any other form of joined. But that does not go down well with our politicians. He was identity) are routinely used to curb unfazed by 44 transfers in 22 years – and thrice in 2012 alone. Then the freedom of expression, both he did the unthinkable. He dared to question the land deals of Robert within the legal justice system and Vadra, Sonia Gandhi’s son-in-law, with the powerful realty giant DLF, in public discourse more generally. which magically transferred into humungous profits from Mr Vadra.

In our view, the way to respond When that happened, the government did not stop at mere transfer. to ideas one dislikes is not to censor It wants to crush and victimize him. The Haryana government, under them but to produce better ones. Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda has served him a chargesheet for Such was the practice of India’s great “having caused damage to the reputation of Robert Vadra and that intellectual traditions in the past. of DLF,” and also for “illegally” cancelling the land deal. It has also Litigation like this, undertaken in the started an investigation into Dr Khemka’s role as the MD of Haryana name of defending those traditions, Warehousing Corporation, designed to harass and intimidate him. In in fact profoundly demeans them. an unprecedented move, the state government has ordered an audit by We make the following demands: State Auditor General targeted only at him. 1. That there be a reform of –Sucheta Dalal Sections 153A and 295A of the Indian Penal Code—governing R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, February 23, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, February 23, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday February 26, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

Printed and Published by G.G. Parikh on behalf of Janata Trust. Printed at Mouj Printing Bureau, Khatau Wadi, Girgaum, Mumbai-400 004 and published at D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg (Sleater Road), Mumbai - 400 007. Established 1946 Price : Rupees Five

Vol. 69 No. 5 Alliances and fronts March 2, 2014 S. Viswam

Influence of armed forces As the 2014 Lok Sabha polls get some extent from Madhya Pradesh, Kuldip Nayar closer, it is but natural that there should Rajasthan and Orissa. However, be a spurt in the attempts to forge Paswan has come under pressure from electoral alliances and understandings his erstwhile colleague and electoral Telugu Seema-flanking among political parties with a stake in partner, Lalu Prasad Yadav, to remain North East or East Asia? the election outcome. Simultaneously, in the UPA and not change sides. It K.S.Chalam there has been a fresh momentum remains to be seen what given to the attempts to create a front of like-minded parties who are averse Paswan will eventually do. His to any kind of tie-up with either the plan to gatecrash into the NDA can be Rendition of Gandhi Katha Congress or the BJP. taken to reflect his lack of confidence Sandeep Pandey in the UPA’s ability to retain power for There are not all that many a third time. The UPA is on a shaky “unattached” parties to choose from wicket as the formation has lost both Working with masculinities for either the Congress or the BJP credibility and popularity along with Harsh Mander in order to expand their existing the decline of the Congress. alliances, the UPA in the case of the Congress and the NDA in the case of One should not be surprised if Locating Lohia the BJP. Indeed, it would seem that some of the constituents in the two in Feminist Theory both the major groupings have reason alliances decide to part company Jaya Shrivastava to be concerned with keeping their with the main bodies. Electoral existing alliances intact and ensure politics is currently in a state of that none of the constituents leave flux, with all parties calculating the alliance. The scope for expansion their prospects or otherwise in the is fortunately or unfortunately quite coming polls. The BJP has less to Editor : limited. worry in regard to keeping the NDA G. G. Parikh intact. The Congress has reason to be The only development of note worried. Sharad Pawar, whose party Managing Editor : Guddi in this area of electoral politics is the Nationalist Congress Party(NCP) D-15, Ganesh Prasad, the attempt by Ram Vilas Paswan’s has remained a steadfast partner to seek an entry spoke suddenly in conciliatory terms Naushir Bharucha Marg, into the BJP-led NDA. The BJP has about Narendra Modi. His remark that Mumbai - 400 007. good reason to welcome Paswan in the absence of court findings Modi into the NDA since he can bring a should not be blamed for the 2002 Email : [email protected] handful of seats from the backward anti-Muslim carnage in Gujarat was classes sector in UP, Bihar, and to highly disturbing for the Congress 2 JANATA, March 2, 2014 leadership. Fortunately, Pawar Between the lines backtracked soon thereafter and the alliance has been saved—for now. Influence of armed forces

The process of the creation of Kuldip Nayar the much talked-about Third Front has been quite interesting. Many “opposition” leaders—opposed to Another Lok Sabha, 15th in the by foreign secretaries of India and both the Congress and the BJP— series, has concluded its five-year Pakistan, our armed forces should have been paying lip service to tenure. Whatever business that have followed the decision but they the Third Front for many months was transacted in the house was, had it stalled. Instead of it being a now but the idea did not move indeed, exasperating and raucous. no-man territory the soldiers of both significantly forward till now. The Unfortunately the house representing countries at the glacier are suffering closest these leaders, acting at the the democratic system has fallen by due to the inclement weather and behest of the Left parties, came to the wayside practically in all Asian losing men at regular intervals. countries. a Third Front was to constitute a Take another example of the “group” which would function as In another three months, the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act a “block” inside the two Houses of Indian voters will once again queue (AFSPA) which empowers the army Parliament. Last week, there was a up before the polling booths to elect to detain or even kill a person on new development in that leaders of their representatives. Their quality suspicion without any legal action. nine regional parties and the Left has been wanting. But I am confident The northeast has been under it for Front met together and issued a joint that the next house will be better in years. A government-appointed declaration offering the electorate content because the emergence of committee found it "unnecessary" a democratic, secular, federal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has and recommended its withdrawal. pro-people development agenda. changed the political scenario in But the armed forces have had their This must be taken as the political the country to make it cleaner and way and the AFSPA continues to be philosophy of the Third Front when transparent. in operation. it formally comes into being and Jammu and Kashmir chief minister offers itself as an alternative to the Yet I do not like the increasing has officially asked Congress and the BJP. influence of the armed forces. New Delhi to free the state from Defence Minister A.K. Anthony the law's application. He has made Nine of the 11 parties were was correct in saying that there the appeal even publicly. But the represented at the meeting. The two can never be an army coup in the central government has not relented absentees were Naveen Patnaik of country. India's first Prime Minister, because the armed forces want the the BJD and Praful Mahanta of the Jawaharlal Nehru too had expressed AFSPA to continue. Even a marginal . CPM leader the same thoughts when India concession of releasing the political Karat said Naveen had a prior opted for the parliamentary way of prisoners as requested by the Jammu commitment and that Mahanta’s governance after Independence in and Kashmir chief minister has been mother was ill. However, these August 1947. His argument was that denied. the country was too large and too two leaders can be expected to caste-and-religion-ridden. More recent is the inquiry into the join the Front sooner or later. The "encounter" at Pathribal in Jammu success of the Front depends on My worry, however, is over and Kashmir. The army is alleged the commitment of its members the say that the armed forces are to have killed five "terrorists" while to promote their objectives with beginning to have in the affairs of the local villagers have said that due fervor and zeal. Two of its governance. Take the stationing the deceased were innocent. The objectives deserve popular support. of troops at the Siachin Glacier. Central Bureau of Investigation The first: throw the Congress out Was it necessary to do so, when (CBI) inquired into the matter and of power. Second, the BJP and the several retired top brass of the armed has submitted its report before the communal forces must be defeated forces said that it had no strategic Supreme Court. According to the and prevented from coming to importance? Even otherwise, when report, it was a cold blooded fake power. an agreement had been initialed encounter. JANATA, March 2, 2014 3

In fact, breaking his silence after 23 years then Kupwara deputy Telugu Seema-flanking commissioner S.M. Yasin said North East or East Asia? recently that he had been threatened and offered promotions to change K.S.Chalam his report on the alleged mass rapes in Konam Poshpora in February It is very difficult to reconcile the naturalresourcesand rewards of 1991.It is strange that the army that we are divided now. But, after the region as a separate state. has claimed that there was no such a moments’ reflection, we realise incident. The self-acquittal by the that nothing seems to have changed. The geographical location of top brass has only aggravated the We are thesame people speaking Telugu Seema looks like a huge sense of alienation and resentment the same language and maintaining lobster unlike that of Kerala, at among the people in Jammu and our longstanding relations not present considered as the Gods’ Kashmir. The Government of India only in Hyderabad but in different own country. The length of coast should still set up a judicial inquiry parts of the World.Yet, boundaries of Andhra (9 districts) is 972 KMs headed by a Supreme Court judge to of the new state now changed to nearly double the size of Kerala investigate into what are perceived have an international border on the with 580KMs. The comparison as fake encounters. East and Telangana on the West. is imminent now in terms of the The residual districts of Andhra beauty and economic potential of Hardly has the dust settled down Pradesh consisting of three regions, the new state. Telugu people seem on the Pathribal encounters when the Uttarandhra, Coastal Andhra and to have a historical advantage in story of a possible coup in January Rayalaseema are popularly called as the development of agriculture and 2012 has become public. Two army Seemandhra . industrial location of certain public unit s - one of which was an armoured sector units in the region. The battalion - moved to Delhi from We had a longing for a united entrepreneurial competence of the Agra. Any movement of troops in image for the state that our leaders Telugus is known throughout the the periphery of the capital has to be became unsuccessful to uphold. We World as Infrastructure developers with the prior permission. Still both must appreciate the Elders House like GMR, GVK, Lanco ,Nagarjuna units moved and were withdrawn for granting North East status to and in Pharmaceuticals, Health only when the Defence Secretary 13 districts. It is not out of place etc sectors. They are currently summoned the Director General to say here that the term Andhra confined to few and limited areas of Military Operations, Lt. Gen. Pradesh reminds us about the past. of operationwould get plenty A.K. Choudhary, at midnight and Therefore, we may consider naming of opportunities to develop the conveyed him that the top boss in the residual part as Telugu Seemato region as one of the most advanced the government was very unhappy give language identity to the people. states in India competing with and concerned. There were attempts in the past to Gujarat and may surpass it in few name the state as Telugunadu. Now decades. However, this needs to When a daily newspaper broke we have another Telugu state by be systematically planned under a the story, at that time, Defence name Telangana. We can say that democratic environment, without Minister A.K. Anthony rubbished the capability of Telugus to lead the which the people do not tolerate the it. So did some key army and South would improve with adept kind of hegemony of few Business civilian officials. Now Lt. Gen. A. handling. Nevertheless, the identity Houses deciding everything as K. Choudhary, after his retirement, of a region should depend ultimately in some industrial states today. has confirmed the story. More on the people and their ingenuity in Andhra Pradesh had seen several shocking is the confirmation by Air the development of the area as part movements and the people are Chief N. A. K. Browne, then heading of the nation/country. The people politically and socially advanced to the Air Force. He has said: “The of coastal Andhra as the ‘Telugu nip any such bravura behaviourto paratroopers were being moved to Biddas’ are known throughout the dominate the situation by covetous check out the possibility of their World with their ICT skills and others. The formation of the marrying with the C130 at Hindon leadership abilities in different state itself was precarious under air base, near Delhi.” knowledge based industries. Now, great emotional and economic an opportunity is created to broaden constraints. Therefore,keeping the (Continued on Page 5) the development with the support of socio-economic and Intellectual 4 JANATA, March 2, 2014 background of the new state, we must encourage a model that is inclusive Rendition of Gandhi Katha at the age of 90 enough to meet all socio-economic and geographical considerations. Sandeep Pandey

Telugu seema now consists of 4.94 crore inhabitants in a geographical Narayan Desai, at the age of 90 Rajasthan on the health of adjacent area of 142.5 thousand square years, gave the 115th rendition of population. Later they also studied kilometres is larger than Telangana his Gandhi Katha in Varanasi at the effects of radiation from both in extent and size of population. Kashi Vidyapeeth from 21st to 25th Uranium mining sites in Jadugda, It is bigger than about 10 states like February, 2014. When most people Jharkhand on the local, mostly tribal, Kerala, Odissa, and Punjab.Though at his age would be counting their population. the combined state was moderately last days or would be incapacitated, developed in different parameters he is moving around and narrating Gandhi, with his own ideas about of growth, the infrastructure of the Gandhi’s story in a popular format, education, didn’t let Narayan attend coastal region was neglected. Except usually used by religious people. The a formal school. The man who National Highways 5, 9 and 18 that narratives are punctuated by songs didn’t attend a school is today the cover some of the districts, the rural and bhajans conveying Gandhi’s Chancellor of Gujarat Vidyapeeth connectivity and the network of roads message. In fact he first studied located in Ahmedabad. He has also for economic opportunities are weak. some of the popular saints from won the Sahitya Academy Award Higher education and the quality Gujarat who deliver sermons and twice. He is a living example of institutes are located in Hyderabad then developed his Gandhi Katha. how a self-educated person can be and those who migrated to other There could not have been a better more wise and grounded than highly states for higher studies seem to have service to the Gandhian cause in the educated people. The self-propelled moved from there to USA or settled last phase of his life. man is still motivated to serve elsewhere. This situation would humanity at such an advanced age. appear to create some problems for He is probably among the last few the supply of human resources for people alive who got an opportunity In Gandhi Katha he doesn’t the development projects in the state. to live and work with Mahatma just narrate Gandhi’s story. He The amendments to the Bill-2013 Gandhi. His father Mahadev tries to convey the values lived incorporating some 50 institutes in Desai happened to be Gandhi’s by Gandhi. For example, talking Hyderabad for combined admissions personal secretary and therefore of Gandhi’s visit to riot affected would be a short gap arrangement. child Narayan grew up at Gandhi’s Noakhali he talked about the quality We need huge investment to develop Ashrams – Sabarmati in Ahmedabad of fearlessness which was necessary the infrastructure with financial and Sewagram in Wardha. Today to enter the communally charged packages from Union government. he operates from Sampoorna Kranti atmosphere. Explaining fearlessness Vidyalaya in Vedchi, Surat where he said it is not just being not afraid The industrial base of the region he presents model of an alternative of anybody but also not creating was created on the basis of the life style living with his medical fear in anybody else’s mind. Such requirements of the public sector doctor daughter Sanghamitra and a person can only be described as without augmenting the local IIT Kanpur educated physicist truely brave. Intimidating people is resources, might raise immediate son-in-law Surendra Gadekar. All not bravery. problems of scarcity of certain three of them are dedicated peace factors conducive for growth. The activists. They have been educating Concluding the Katha he said that agriculturally advanced 4 coastal people about the dangers of nuclear the purpose of the exercise was not districts are well entrenched in power since much before it became just to hear the story. The purpose farming operations and have not a common knowledge after the of the Katha would be fulfilled if we diversified due to several reasons, accident in Fukushima that it is quite imbibed some values of Gandhi and might display inertia in the a dangerous thing. They have been tried to live them. As the humanity beginning. The agricultural surplus part of national and international plunges into various kinds of crisis, of the region had gone out of the anti-war and nuclear disarmament the ways of Gandhi can redeem it. region for investment elsewhere campaigns. They pioneered a study as very little was reinvested. The to find the effects of radiation from Gandhi stood for the values of (Continued on Page 11) nuclear power plant in Rawatbhata, truth and non-violence. When we JANATA, March 2, 2014 5 are beset by problems of terrorism, blind industrialization. Today most company had already established the Maosim and separatism we are of the modern development projects, processing plant. desperately trying to seek peaceful whether they are big dams, mining solutions to complex problems. projects or nuclear power plants, Gandhi was an ardent frugalist. Governments realize that dialogue face local people’s opposition as He made good use of every resource and not the use of force are intelligent they are perceived as a threat to their and tried to use as little resources and humane ways of solving these life and livelihood. People have also as possible. The idea of anathema problems. The campaign to uphold started questioning the promotion against wastefulness is again gaining truth in the form of anti-corruption of inequity due to this model of popular support. Arvind Kejriwal’s movement has caught the attention development. rejection of VIP culture is a current of people. Anna Hazare in the mould example. of Gandhi became the symbol of Gandhi’s best known book is Hind fight against the corrupt and Aam Gandhi was against sexual Swaraj. Arvind Kejriwal is invoking Aadmi Party too upholds the value indiscreetness. Today when sexually the same idea to capture people’s of truth highly. These movements transmitted diseases have become imagination. Anna Hazare is a votary are trying to establish integrity in a major threat to human beings public life which had degenerated of the same philosophy. Self-rule is the importance of idea of restraint over years. the best rule is an idea whose time in sexual relationships is being has come. Last year Supreme Court realized. Through Satyagraha Gandhi has allowed a group of tribals in Odisha shown a way to fight against injustice. to have the final decision on whether Hence we see that the ideas of Today the method of Satyagraha is bauxite mining should be allowed Gandhi are probably more relevant used by most political organizations in their area, Niyamgiri, by a MNC, today than they were in his own time. when they register their protest Vedanta. The tribals ruled against He was a visionary who could see against the government policies and the mining project even though the many things beforehand. actions. Even individuals and other non-political groups use the method (Continued from Page 3) of Satyagraha to attract attention of Still the Defence Minister has and conviction when both Pakistan society. It is an effective method said that it was “a routine training and Bangladesh have swerved adopted by common people against exercise.” When after telling from the right path. The other two powerful opponents. This is probably the Director General of Military countries in the subcontinent have Gandhi’s single most important Operations, the government sends a had a similar training. Still they contribution to the fight for justice. chopper to check if the troops were threw out the elected governments. World over Gandhi is known as a on their way back, there is more Even today when the troops have crusader against injustice and has than what meets the eye. Since the gone back to the barracks, one became a hope for all struggling date synchronized with the appeal cannot underestimate the importance people. Leaders like Martin Luther to the Supreme Court by the then of the military. King and Nelson Mandela who army chief V. K. Singh’s on his birth fought against inequality derived date, the movement of the military The Indian military knows and inspiration from Gandhi. units was given importance beyond honours its place in a democratic proportions. polity. Still the examples I have given Gandhi had said that there are should serve as a grim warning. True, enough resources in this earth to The entire matter has to be the democratic temperament has got fulfill everybody’s need but not examined further by a team of top enough to fulfill even a single retired civil and military officials implanted on the Indian soil. But this person’s greed. At a time when threat to reach the bottom of the “routine could not be taken for granted. Even to environment was not perceptible exercise.” It cannot be left at the a small example of Bonapartism and the phrase ‘climate change’ was mere denial stage despite Defence should be probed thoroughly. The unknown to human beings, Gandhi Minister Anthony’s vehement denial. armed forces are for the country’s foresaw the problems of over- Even a limited say of the armed defence and the decision to use them exploitation of natural resources. forces in civilian matters is ominous. rests with the elected governments. This is something basic and no Gandhi was against the exploitative That the armed forces are compromise can be made in a model of development based on apolitical is a tribute to their training democratic structure. 6 JANATA, March 2, 2014 Working with masculinities

Harsh Mander

For the third year in a row, all people, women as well as men, Both the need to dominate and on Valentine’s Day when many it is imperative to work not just the inability to deal with failures celebrate romantic love, women with women but also men, not just lead men to be violent, and this and men in more than 160 countries with girls but also boys. Many fine is why violence across a large around the world danced, sang and organisations today are working majority of cultures is an essential rallied for another kind of love — with masculinities, or the ways that component of masculinity. Scholar one based on safety, equality and men socially construct the idea of Michael Kauffman observes that respect for people of all genders. It manhood. These include MASVAW ‘the imperatives of manhood (as is estimated that a billion girls and (Men’s Action for Stopping Violence opposed to the simple certainties women face violence at some time Against Women); Forum to Engage of biological maleness), seem to or the other during their lives. A Men (FEM); the MenEngage require constant vigilance and work, global call was therefore made for Alliance; and SANAM (South Asian especially for younger men. The One Billion to rise, and it caught Network to Address Masculinities). personal insecurities conferred by a the imagination of people around They work with boys and men to failure to make the masculine grade, the planet. help them introspect how their or simply, the threat of failure, socialisation pressurises men to be is enough to propel many men, Last year, the focus of the strong, powerful and potent, and particularly when they are young, campaign was to highlight the how a more gender-equal world will into a vortex of fear, isolation, anger, pervasiveness of many forms of also set them free. self-punishment, self-hatred, and gender violence, and this particularly aggression.’ resonated in an India wounded with For every woman who is tired of the brutal gang-rape of a student being called “an emotional female”, For every woman who is called in a bus in Delhi. This year the there is a man who is denied the right unfeminine when she competes, there global demand was for justice for to weep and to be gentle. is a man for whom competition is the survivors. This symbolic global only way to prove his masculinity. rising of people against violence Patriarchy is a system of social unites survivors of violence, breaks organisation fundamentally It has been my consistent down their sense of being alone, and organised around the idea of experience that only strong men can heals the battering not just of their men’s superiority to women, act with compassion and gentleness. bodies but also their spirits. while masculinity is the socially It is weak and insecure men who are It is often assumed that gender produced but embodied ways of violent. Today, many more women equality will make the world better, being male. But what happens are entering the labour market, safer, happier and more dignified when men cannot make the grade but on unequal terms of much for girls and women. What is of socially determined standards lower wages, greater exploitation, forgotten is that it will also make of masculinity? Not all men can vulnerability to violence and denial the world kinder, less violent, and suppress their soft natures, or of social protection. Even so, men less demanding for men as well. As be successful in earning money, feel threatened and confused, and Nancy Smith writes unforgettably: competing against other men (and violence helps them compensate for increasingly women) and supporting their insecurity and low self-esteem For every woman who is tired of their families. Men can and do fail and to hold on to the ephemeral idea acting weak when she knows she is financially, socially and sexually, of power. strong, there is a man who is tired but they often lack the emotional of appearing strong when he feels resources to cope with these failures. For every woman who is denied vulnerable. meaningful employment or equal For every woman who is tired of pay, there is a man who must bear If the world is to evolve into a being a sex object, there is a man full financial responsibility for fairer and less threatening place for who must worry about his potency. another human being. JANATA, March 2, 2014 7

Successful and powerful men, those wielding power of class, wealth, State of Bihar caste and race, use violence against women as an extension of their The first state convention of the Socialist Party Bihar Pradesh was held in overall sense of entitlement. Men on 1-2 February. 2014. Delegates, largely youth, came from 20 districts seek not only to dominate women of the state to attend the convention. Omkar Singh, national general secretary, but also other men. Suppressed and inaugurated the convention and Jai Singh Verma, senior party member from oppressed men learn socially to UP presided over the inaugural session. Bhai Vaidya, national president, Dr. reclaim their manhood by violence Prem Singh, national general secretary, Varsha Gupte, president, Socialist to women. Violence against women Mahila Sabha and Shyam Gambhir, special invitee to the national executive is the last resort of defeated men. addressed the convention. The following resolution was deliberated upon and passed in the convention: Many women today have imbibed the spirit of equality, and are battling all odds to follow their hearts and The Lok Sabha elections are precious resources − water, forests achieve their potential, in homes as about to be held in three months and land − to the corporate houses. in the country. All the established well as work-places. It is men who The source of all poverty and still need to learn much better to political parties are vying with and against each other to grab the corruption rampant in the system is give up their sense of entitlement, this very neoliberal system. Poverty privilege and power, and to recognise political power. All these political parties are trying to draft the poor and corruption cannot be eradicated that in so doing they are also setting without changing it. However, in the themselves free. and hardworking populace by misleading them through false name of ridding the society of these evils, some vested interests can be For every woman who takes a step promises, personal accusations/ seen indulging in the loot-game of toward her own liberation, there is a cross accusations, communal political power with the support of man who finds the way to freedom frenzy, casteism, language divide, has been made a little easier. regionalism, family-dynasty rule, corporate savvy mainstream media money and muscle power while and foreign money. This can be –Aman Biradari expressing phony sympathy towards seen in some international NGO them. Serious contemplation about masterminds starting a political the basic issues like poverty, the party. EVENUE UP 3 Times BUT deep divide between the poor and Employees Reduced 10% In 5 Years The only way to remove the rich, unemployment, illiteracy, http://goo.gl/9VUd9A RIL revenue poverty and corruption would be malnutrition, suicides by lakhs of was up from Rs.118,354 crores establishing a socialist system based farmers, suppression of citizen’s 2006-07 to Rs,371,119 crores in on democracy, decentralization 2012-13 but number of Employees rights, increasing insecurity of the and self-reliance as per the values declined from 25,487 in 2007-08 to tribals, dalits, women and minorities. of our freedom struggle and the 23,519 in 2012-13. In reality, all these parties have Constitution. The Socialist Party with consensus about the neoliberal unwavering faith in the fundamental If people of Gujarat have economic policies (implemented principles of socialism, inspired by even 25% equity in Gujarat since the nineties), globalization, companies their worth would be the thoughts and legacy of great market-driven consumerism, leaders and thinkers like Gandhi, Dr. Rs.2,50,000 crores assuming their centralization of power and blind current value at Rs.10,00,000 crores Ambedkar, JP, Dr. Lohia, Acharya nationalism. These parties form their Narendra Dev, S. M. Joshi, Yusuf but Companies neither trained policies keeping in mind the interests YOUTH nor Employed Them. Meharally, Achyut Patwardhan, of the national and international Kamaladevi Chattopadhyaya, It is SCANDALOUS to blame corporate houses following dictates , Karpuri Thakur and GOI for Cut in Social Expenditure – of the apex organizations of corporate Kishan Patnaik, reiterates its resolve It is entirely States Responsibility to capitalism such as the World Bank, in this convention to continue its implement Social Programs like Mid International Monetary Fund and total opposition to the neoliberal Day Meals or ICDS. World Trade Organization. In this system. Ravinder Singh, way, most mainstream political Convener, Mentor & CEO parties have been reduced to being In the recent months in Bihar, mere agents selling the nation’s the pell-mell and opportunistic 8 JANATA, March 2, 2014 ruling coalition between the JD the excesses of the government Under the rule of the current (U) and the BJP has broken. This and the corruption in the Biada Bihar government, the education coalition which lasted for 16 years land acquisition in Bhagalpur. system (from primary to higher) has managed to strengthen and Recently in Bihta, Patna, a sustained is almost in ruins. Parents bear a deepen the roots of communalism in movement about these demands lot of cost and risk to send their the secular land of Bihar. The secular of the farmers was organized, children, even school-going, out people of Bihar will have to wage where the farmers were on a fast of the state for education. The a hard and long struggle against for 10-12 days. The Socialist Party indecent and insensitive treatment this challenge. However, there is supported this movement. In various with the contracted teachers by the no fundamental difference in the regions in Bihar, movements are government is often visible. We have policies and actions of the erstwhile being organized to address the seen how the innocent children paid coalition government and the current problems of the farmers, farming the cost of corruption rampant in the JD (U) government. Instead of and land acquisition. The Socialist Mid-day Meal scheme. The Socialist trying to solve the actual problems Party demands that the farmers be Party opposes the appointment faced by the people of Bihar, this compensated in a just and timely of teachers on contract basis and government is implementing the manner for their land. At the same demands that the contracted teachers corporate capitalist agenda. The time, the party requests the farmers be made permanent with full salary. whole administration is riddled with that they should think long and hard The government formed a committee corruption and red-tapism. This before agreeing to sell their land of the famous educationist Prof. Anil means that the people are not able to for either a private or government Sadgopal and Prof. Muchkund Dube reap any benefits due to corruption project. on Common School System (CSS) in pervading the government schemes. Socialist Party Bihar Pradesh Umraomal Purohit resolves to struggle against the Comrade Umraomal Purohit, Secretary Staff Side JCM. National Council corruption and red-tapism rampant and President of All India Railwaymen’s Federation passed away in Mumbai from the block level to the state on February 27, 2014. headquarters. Umraomal Purohit had been active in the Indian trade union movement The land mafia, contractors and for over five decades. He started his career in Indian Railways and became the liquor barons are ruining the the General Secretary of the Western Railway Employees’ Union in 1958 people of Bihar. Liquor shops have at the age of 30. In 1962 he was elected as the Assistant General Secretary been opened even in the villages of the All India Railway Men’s Federation (AIRF). Purohit had also been as a result of which, the social leading the Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), a trade union body of socialists, atmosphere is deteriorating very since 1985, and had served as AIRF President since 1980. He had been fast. The youth, women and children associated with the ITF for over 40 years and was elected as its President in are most affected by this evil. The 1998 at the ITF Congress in New Delhi, and was chosen to serve a second land mafia is buying farmers’ land term in Vancouver in 2000. at low prices and reselling it at Comrade Umraomal Purohit had been a special invitee to the National higher prices, which have led to the Executive of the Socialist Party (India) (SPI) for two years and was active in creation of artificial inflation in land the formation the SPI three years ago at Hyderabad. The Socialist Party held prices. Socialist Party demands from a condolence meeting at its Delhi office today to pay tribute to the legendary the state government a complete trade union leader. Socialist comrades assembled at the condolence meeting ban on liquor and check on the land expressed grief and sorrow on his sad demise remembering his contribution mafia in the Bihar. to the trade union/labour movement in India and abroad. The land acquisition carried On this occasion Dr. Prem Singh, general secretary, said, since the out by the government under trade union movement is passing through its most critical times facing the various schemes is also steeped onslaught of corporate capitalism, demise of Comrade Umraomal Purohit in corruption and red-tapism. The is certainly a great loss to the labour fraternity. The Socialist Party pledges farmers have not been paid the to uphold and continue his struggle safeguarding the interest of labourers. right price of their land even years Renu Gambhir, president, Delhi state, remembering her association with after the land acquisition carried out Umraomal Purohit paid her tribute to him. She said that the fight against by the government. The Socialist corporate forces will continue taking inspiration from the struggle waged party has long been fighting against by Comrade Umaraomal Purohit JANATA, March 2, 2014 9

2005-06. This committee submitted price for their produce on a priority justice to the displaced people. its report soon to the government. basis. But far from implementing it, the The state of law and order in the government did not even deliberate The only road which leads to the state is not good. The party demands upon it. The Socialist Party demands prosperity and economic progress that the government should take that the aforementioned report of Bihar is through the small and strong action against the culprits should be deliberated upon and cottage industries. By establishing of the Farbisganj shooting incident implemented without delay to the agriculture based small industries and the law and order should be provide all the students in the state in the villages of Bihar, the life of strengthened in public interest and equal, free and quality education. rural Bihar can be made prosperous. to ensure women’s safety. The But because of the indifference of party further demands that the State The government in Bihar has the government, all the small and Roadways Transport Corporation recently enacted a law to start big industries have been shut down. should be strengthened and private universities in the state. The Socialist Party demands that extended to ensure that the public This is an attempt at privatizing the the industries of Dalmia Nagar, the transportation system is comfortable higher education. This will make jute mills of Katihar, the weavers’ and effective. higher education costlier and hence industry of Bhagalpur, the Khadi out of the reach of the ordinary Gramodyogs in various districts of Today the folk-arts and folk-artists citizens. The party demands that the Bihar, especially Madhubani, the of the state are in a dismal state due to government should put an end to sugar mills of Champaran should the indifference of the government. these attempts at privatization and be reopened without delay. At the The folk-arts and folk-artists are instead concentrate on improving same time, party demands that the not being accorded due honour existing state universities in the lichi-based industry in Muzaffarpur, nationally and internationally. The state which are on the brink of the banana and lichi-based industry various dialects and languages of disaster. More than half of the in Navgachhiya and Bihpur regions, Bihar are also in a bad shape. Various teaching positions in the universities the fisheries industry, by managing language academies are almost dead of the state are lying vacant which water resources, in Lakhisarai and and as a result, the litterateurs of immensely impedes the education. the banana-based industry in Hajipur these languages and dialects are in The Socialist Party demands that should be started. The party will start danger of being lost in the darkness the government should appoint a movement throughout Bihar to of anonymity. The Socialist Party teachers on permanent basis in the implement the agro- industry based is dedicated in the preservation of universities without further delay. policies. the cultural glory of Bihar. In this The government The party appeals direction, the party demands that to the government to develop The Socialist Party had made a the government should take special Vikramshila University on the demand to the central government to steps to preserve the folk-arts, to pattern of Nalanda University. enact ‘Full Employment Guarantee activate and revitalize the language Law’ to ensure employment to all academies and to establish a special The Socialist Party expresses eligible men and women. The party academy for Angika language. deep concern on the plight of the appeal to the Bihar government farmers and agriculture. There is a should to take initiative in this There is a great need for a creative great dearth of agricultural facilities direction. The government should youth policy in Bihar. A special and the farmers are not able to get also give Rs. 5000 per month committee should be formed to the right price for their produce. unemployment allowance to all give suggestions to the government The farmers are being exploited by unemployed citizens and pension to so that there is an increase in the the middlemen. The government senior citizens of Bihar. interest taken by the youth in ideas, is indifferent. The Socialist Party literature, art, culture, theatre and demands that the government should The displaced people of Baghmati sports. The government should make available basic facilities like dam have been agitating for a long formulate and put into practice irrigation, seeds, credit, haulage, time. The Socialist Party supports youth-oriented policies on the basis markets, storage among others for their cause and demands from the of the committee’s suggestions for the farmers and ensure appropriate government to give immediate the rural and urban youth.

–Dr. Bhanu Udayan (general secretary,Sachidanad Singh, Dr. Sushil Kumar, Renu Singh, Ranjit Mandal, Gautam Preetam, Neeraj. 10 JANATA, March 2, 2014 The BJP hype and the reality check

Faraz Ahmad

My analyst friends and their plus all the 11 from Chhatisgarh so And everyone knows that this is a surveys are giving the BJP, specially add another 40 to BJP kitty taking dream scenario for the BJP which is on account of Narendra Modi’s its tally to 87. Ditto for Gujarat, 26 not almost but actually impossible perceived popularity anywhere and 2 from Goa, taking the tally to to achieve. A more realistic scenario between 223 and 285 and in turn 115. In Maharashtra they won nine is that it is next to impossible for the Congress even 50-60 seats. I in 2009. In the Modi wave let us the BJP to cross 200, even if the therefore decided to do some of my assume it will now get 12 (though Congress is completely liquidated calculation, though I concede I am its ’s junior partner there) in 2014. not too good at it. taking the tally to 127. Add to that the AAP factor. In Let’s start with the BJP and see In Karnataka despite the return of Delhi Assembly elections three what is the maximum number of Yeddyurappa, even the BJP optimist months back, AAP completely seats it can get, in a dream scenario. concede they cannot win back the decimated the Congress party. But Let us start with Jammu and Kashmir 18 they won in 2009 so a fair figure if it caused 70 per cent damage to and accept for argument’s sake should be say 10 seats. That makes the Congress, BJP admits it dented there is a Modi wave. It is almost it 137. This covers almost all the big the BJP base as well though nowhere impossible, but let us give two out states where the BJP is in direct fight near what it did to the Congress, of six seats to the BJP in J&K. These with the Congress and therefore it if it caused 70 per cent damage to can only be Jammu and Udhampur. could sweep. Conceded? the Congress, it caused 30 per cent Even the die hard saffronised Sanghi damage to the BJP as well. Now of Now in UP the BJP claims it can’t give more than this to the BJP the 200 odd seats the BJP hopes to will get 40, granted taking the tally in J&K. Granted? win in its wave, if the AAP factor to 177. The BJP says it will get 20 works in the urban centres as is being Next come to Himachal Pradesh seats in Bihar, done. The figure goes forecast by most of the psephologists which has four seats. In 2009 upto 197. In Jharkhand the BJP won then that brings down the BJP tally BJP won three seats. It is almost seven in 2009 which was a very high by 60 seats. Even if the damage is impossible for the BJP to improve figure. Nevertheless say Modi wave only 15 per cent it means 30 seats upon that. But let us assume there is gives it another 10 of the 14 seats. a Modi wave and the BJP then gets The tally goes upto 207. Again in less. That brings down the BJP tally all the four. That makes BJP tally go Uttarakhand there are only five seats. to 160-170 and that is the figure the up to seven. Add all the five to BJP kitty the BJP insiders are actually calculating. figure goes upto 212. Then in Andhra Then in Punjab, the In such a scenario, it is well nigh Pradesh the BJP may score a duck. will contest eight and give three to impossible for Narendra Modi to the BJP. Give BJP all three, which is But for argument sake give them head the next government. A BJP led very unlikely. The tally goes upto 10. two. That’s 214. In Assam again NDA government is still likely but a BJP got four in 2009, give them six. Modi-led, unlikely. In Haryana, Congress won all ten This goes upto 220. Add one each seats. Even if Congress is down and seat from , Daman and Now let us look at the Congress. out there is the INLD of Chautala Diu and . We all concede that the Congress which would be the biggest gainer. That is another 3 seats, taking the is in bad shape and may do worse Nevertheless we give BJP five seats. BJP tally to 223. That’s it. Even with than it ever did in its entire political That makes 15 for BJP. In Delhi let such a dream run the BJP is stuck at career. us give all the seven to BJP taking 223. No sane person can argue that its tally to 22. the BJP will get a seat from Tamil The Congress was about to get Nadu, West Bengal or Kerala or the wiped out from Andhra Pradesh Rajasthan witnessed a wave rest of the North-East. where it won 33 seats under the against the Congress, so give all the combined leadership of Sonia Gandhi 25 to BJP, taking the tally to 47, same Now the best advocate of the BJP and late Y S Rajasekar Reddy. But for Madhya Pradesh with 29 added cannot give the BJP more than this! with Telangana given, it is now in a JANATA, March 2, 2014 11 position to reclaim some loss in the In UP people may say I am in Uttarakhand it may retain Harish 17 seats of Andhra Pradesh and so being too optimist but I gave them Rawat’s seat taking the tally to 92. In a fair assessment would be about 14 studying the seats the Congress Tamil Nadu it may score a duck. But 10 seats to the Congress from AP. could still win, for instance Amethi, it may still win its Puducherry seat, In Arunachal Pradesh there is no Rae Bareli, Faizabad, Gonda, going upto 93and one more from opponent so the two seats in 2009 Kanpur, Unnao and if Jayaprada Lakshwadeep taking the finally tally go back to it taking its tally to 12. joins Congress and Congress decides to 94. This is the worst case scenario In Assam Tarun Gogoi has proved to replace the no good Azharuddin for the Congress party. quite invincible. In 2009 Congress with Jayaprada the Congress may won seven, let us say this time it win both Rampur and Moradabad. Of the 544 Lok Sabha seats there Similarly Gonda has Beni Prasad will come down to three taking the are only 111 seats in HP, Delhi, Congress numbers to 15. In Bihar a Verma and in Firozabad, post Chhatisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, MP, tieup with Lalu Yadav will help it Mzaffarnagar the Muslims may Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Chandigarh, improve its tally at least marginally still stick by Raj Babbar. Anyway to three seats taking the tally to18. the figure is disputable. Nevertheless Andaman, D&N and D&D where In a fair assessment it should get at this makes it 85 for the Congress. there is a direct contest between the least one in Chhatisgarh, going up With a tacit understanding with the BJP and Congress and of that we can to 19; Goa zero and Gujarat where CPM to teach Mamata Banerjee a safely take out Delhi now for it will it got 8 in 2009 it may win only lesson the Congress can expect to be three way here. So that leaves two, with the total going upto 20. still win six seats in West Bengal only 106 seats. At best the BJP can Himachal Pradesh we can safely with its tally going upto 91. Similarly win all those 106 seats. What next? assume that Virbhadra Singh or his wife will anyway win their pocket (Continued from Page 4) burrough so that makes it 21. In haphazard and spurious methods of of the art facilities to be developed Punjab we give only three seats development that was initiated in on the Coastal Corridor. We have taking the tally to 24. In Haryana the recent past in the coastal region direct flights to Singapore from Congress won all ten seats in 2009. alleged to haveled to subsequent Visakhapatnam to reach in just 3 We give them only two which makes litigations. This might create now hours.Thailand is near to our coast it 26. J&K zero. Jharkhand this time a diffident atmosphere for new via Andamans. There are many in alliance with Lalu and JMM they entrepreneurs to come forward to Telugus from Prakasam in SriLanka. could improve their tally by say two invest. The kind of iniquitous growth Anantpur and Chittore close to seats thus getting three and taking that was unleashed in Hyderabad Banglore and . Thus East the tally to 29. There is still no benefitting few should be kept Coast corridor with its hinterland anti incumbency factor against the in mind in devising strategies of of Telangana, Chattisgarh, M.P and Congress in Karnataka, so even if it ‘scientific development’. Otherwise, other land locked states has huge does badly it can get 12 seats taking soon they might join the complex potential for growth. But, it is to be the tally to 41. Kerala it got 13 in North East, being part of East India. innovatively planned keeping the 2009. This time it may get only six emerging industrial needs of China jacking the figure to 47. Four from The nine coastal districts and and the neighbourhood. Madhya Pradesh against 11 in 2009 the hard working population of takes it to 51. In Maharashtra it got Rayalaseema would create If Mumbai and Gujarat coast are 17 in 2009. This can come down to magnificent conditions for the considered as nearby to the West, 7 totaling upto 58. Plus two from development. One important East coast should be developed as a Manipur, making it 60 and one each advantage of the new state is that proximity to the East Asia. Chennai from Meghalaya and Mizoram, it has a long coast close to South is in fact physically and culturally taking it to 62. In Odisha they got East and Far eastern countries like far off to Eastern countries compared six in 2009. There should not be japan, Korea, China, Malaysia, to Telugu East Coast with greater much of a loss in Odisha, but let us Thailand and others that have a cultural links with the South East, as give them only four taking the tally different development experience. Buddhism had gone to the East from to 66. In Rajasthan the BJP won five Singapore on the neighbourhood of this part with deep and historical and Congress 20 in 2009. This time East Coast has taken the advantage roots and archaeological attractions. in the reverse scene, Congress may of providing supply chain strategies Let us hope and wish our Telugu get only five with its overall figure and transhipment port can be slowly Seema would soon bloom on the going upto 71. attracted by East Coast with its state horizon of the East like a radiant sun. 12 JANATA, March 2, 2014 Locating Lohia in Feminist Theory

Jaya Shrivastava

Rammanohar Lohia is a noted Attempt is made to locate his promoting equality between men figure whose thoughts and ideas thoughts on Indian women on the and women in different domains, continue to have a powerful influence broad canvas of feminist theory. such as education, employment, on sociopolitical life in India. Though Accordingly, the article first briefly voting rights, and so on. In contrast, widely known as a socialist, Krishna touches on the major strands radical feminists essentialise and (1968: 1113) characterizes him as “a also glorify the differences between romantic who casts himself in the Of feminist theory and then men and women, considering the role of a non-violent revolutionary”. discusses Lohia’s thoughts on two biologically and emotionally The importance of his thought Indian women and the path desired different. They hold that patriarchy, emerges in the continued existence for their complete liberation from which has different scales of values and influence of sociopolitical patriarchal domination of all sorts. for men and women, and its social organisations, at least in some In this connection, it is noted hierarchies are responsible for male regions, claiming allegiance to his why he rejected both the liberal domination of women. They are vision of reconstructing India on modernist Nehruvian method and concerned with women’s rights socialist lines. But his radical and the Marxist approach, and advocated rather than gender equality. They insightful thoughts on the status a historically and culturally rooted reject the liberal premise and socialist path for the emancipation of Indian women and the path he commitment to sameness between of Indian women. The article closes envisioned for their emancipation men and women. For them, the with some concluding remarks. abolition of institutions representing are not all that well known in the patriarchy and women’s complete country’s sociopolitical space. Indian It may be noted here that autonomy from men is essential for academia has not paid much attention writings on Lohia are meagre. His ending male domination. to his thoughts in general and those main writings and speeches have on the Indian women in particular, been published but are not easily Socialist feminist theory (also called which are highly significant given available. Given this limitation, this the dual system theory) considers two the patriarchal domination of Indian article is largely based on his works systems, capitalism and patriarchy, women enmeshed in a pernicious such as The Caste System, Wheel responsible for the subjugation of caste system riddled with class of History, and Saptkranti (Seven women and advocates abolishing divisions. The political formations Revolutions), and P S Satoskar’s them through peaceful means for claiming allegiance to his vision Lohia on Hinduism. achieving women’s emancipation. do not seem to reflect much of his But Marxist feminists hold that the radical and liberating thought in their Feminist Theoretical Strands capitalist system based on private practices. Feminist discourse has at There are different strands in property and profit maximization is the large remained oblivious to Lohia’s feminist theory with their respective main cause of women’s subordination, rich, insightful, and radical thoughts sets of assumptions about men marginalization, and domination. on the patriarchal domination of and women, the causality of male Capitalism exploits the patriarchal Indian women, which he felt was domination over women, and the structure, uses women as a source inextricably entangled with the caste strategies and measures for women’s of cheap labour, and thus sustains system. emancipation. Liberal feminists and reinforces itself. It is argued that view the inequality in opportunities oppression of women is inextricably Keeping this in view, this between men and women as the linked to the capitalist order as women article provides a synoptic view of main reason for gender inequality are excluded from the public sphere and Lohia’s thoughts on the status of in society. They advocate a gradual remain unpaid workers in the domestic Indian women and the way to their introduction of measures, including sphere. Class-divided capitalist emancipation. An welfarist preferential policies, for society perpetuates gender-based JANATA, March 2, 2014 13 discriminations and inequalities. It is Thus, he adopts a perspective of that the two affirmed that women’s emancipation intersectionality while reflecting on will be possible only through a class Indian women. segregations of caste and gender struggle, which may involve violence, are primarily responsible for the geared towards establishing a socialist/ To begin with, Lohia notes that decline of the spirit of India (1979: communist society. As a result of the Indian women have not always been 1). He finds that Indian women struggle, patriarchal structures will be backward. He refers to the narratives suffer the most due to two destroyed, along with the class-based of Gargi, Matireyee, Razia Sultana, society resting on the institution of Akka Mahadevi, Meera and Rani structural formations – patriarchy private property. So, overthrowing Laxmibai, who in the past were or male domination, and the of the existing inegalitarian capitalist examples of female excellence in caste system. Indian women are system is considered essential for the the domains of knowledge, spiritual doubly deprived, dominated, and establishment of a socialist/communist attainment, leadership, bravery, and marginalised as the caste system and society where women will live, like creativity. Yet the status of women patriarchy are closely interlinked. men, an emancipated life. declined in course of time. Norms of purity and pollution form the cultural basis of birth-based Against this broad theoretical Lohia finds that all Indian differential valuation of different backdrop of the various frames of women suffer from a set of common caste groups and their hierarchy in feminist theory, we now examine deprivations and exclusions. the caste system, which also puts Lohia’s thoughts on the condition of Structurally, Indian women suffer certain castes in the category of Indian women, the factors he found from deprivations in terms of their untouchables. Similarly women are responsible for their domination right to property, their lack of seen as inferior to men by birth on by men in society, and the way participation in decision-making, the basis of their sex and are even to their emancipation from male and various other discriminations treated as untouchables during in sociocultural terms. He notes domination. certain periods of their life, such as how “her claim to a single standard menstruation and after pregnancy. Status of Indian Women with men in respect of marriage and They are confined to the kitchen. In his writings, Lohia delves property continues to be assailed” They do not even have control over into the structural, institutional their bodies, and they do not have and cultural aspects of patriarchal (Satoskar nd: 3). Societal and domination of women, which psychological differences and reproductive rights. have pervaded the socio-cultural, stereotyping of men and women Lohia holds that the status of all economic, and political life of the are socially constructed. Women Indian women has been bad as they people in India. He recognises are commonly viewed as inferior are viewed as inferior to men and they the prevalence of centuries-old to men. There exists inequality patriarchal domination over between the sexes, which is have remained backward in social, women in the country. However, the root cause of all types of economic, political, educational, his perspective is not essentialist. discrimination against women. and other attainments. But he does He considers Indian women as a Several social customs and not consider Indian women as differentiated and heterogeneous taboos are discriminatory towards one homogeneous category. He category in social, economic and women, and cultural constraints emphasizes the class factor because cultural terms. are imposed on them through he finds that the condition of poorer/ institutional mechanisms. These lower caste/class women, who form We cannot, in his opinion, centuries-old customs reduce the large majority, is far worse in understand gender – that is, sex- Indian women to a subordinate terms of material deprivations and based differential valuation, gender second sex. the unavailability of even basic inequalities, and male domination facilities. He specifically expresses – in isolation in the Indian context, The inseparability of caste and sex/ his deep concern over the sufferings but have to include the dimensions gender in Lohia’s conceptualisation of women in villages. In an important of caste, class, and such other social is very important to women’s issues piece on “Two Segregations of Caste factors because they all intersect. in the Indian context. He affirms and Sex”, he states. 14 JANATA, March 2, 2014

The problem of the majority of there is difficulty in paying out the of Indian women, which held that Indian women is the lack of water arranged dowry in full” (1979: 6). “both men and women are guilty taps and latrines. The Indian woman in varying measure” (1979: 5). He is condemned to the drudgery of The problem becomes more notes how women also become a drawing water often muddy and from difficult and complicated if parents party to sustaining gender-based distant wells or ponds and carries it educate their daughters. The amount discriminatory practices in India. It home every morning and evening. of dowry increases as parents is evident that most Indian women She must also save her modesty only obviously prefer to marry their follow, or are made to follow and by easing herself in the open fields educated daughter to an educated support patriarchal values, norms, either before sunrise or after sunset boy, who commands more money and practices, such as arranged (1979: 59). in the dowry market. So, keeping marriages and dowry. This happens a girl uneducated/less educated, or because they are socialised that way Further, he totally rejects the keeping her backward, proves to be since childhood and are thus fixed practice of arranged marriages, beneficial to parents. He states, “Just in the structure of society, which which affect all . as there are agricultural situations is patriarchal. According to him, He sheds light on the flourishing in which a person earns more by society is basically cruel towards marriage market in society and leasing than by labouring, a less women in India, and this turns equates arranged marriage with the educated girl is superior to a better some women into exceedingly cruel “cattle trade”. He comments, educated one, for her dowry is persons. He says, “It is annoying to smaller” (1979: 6). He also opposes see how married women behave and To arrange marriages on the sight extravagant expenses at marriage gossip about females, particularly if of a photograph or in the nervous ceremonies. they are unmarried, who go about atmosphere of a cup of tea brought with different males. With such cruel by a shrinking phantom is any day Another condition related to minds, the segregation of man from more ridiculous than the earlier an arranged marriage is that the women will not end” (1979: 7). marriages through the barber or the girl must be a virgin when she Brahmin. It is like buying a horse marries. A girl must remain celibate, Further, in his schema of “seven who is indeed brought before the irrespective of her age, protecting revolutions”, Lohia notes that gender buyer, but whose hoofs one may not her virginity till her marriage is inequality has so colonised the touch nor closely examine the teeth arranged. Or else her chances of consciousness of women that most (1979: 7). being married are jeopardised. This of them do not want equality, but is a highly oppressive norm, which are satisfied with ornaments and He holds that if anything can applies to women, but not men, and such things. This is like most poor be called a sin, the conditions it clearly reflects a discriminatory people not demanding equality, related to an arranged marriage are patriarchal double standard. In a way, but being satisfied with bakhsis sinful. Associated with arranged it violates the principles of natural (gifts) (Lohia nd: 17). Realising marriages is the practice of the justice. Lohia observes, “Celibacy the complexity and significance of bride’s family giving a dowry to is generally a prison-house. Who the gender conundrum, he makes the groom’s family, something has not met such imprisoned souls, equality between man and woman he sharply condemns. Dowry whose virginity shackles them and a very important constituent of the causes suffering to even parents who eagerly await a liberator?” seven revolutions. of moderate means. It demeans (1979: 8). women in general. His pithy Another important complexity he comment on the practice of dowry Lohia well recognised that the points to is the attitude and behavior is, “A girl without a dowry is a problem of male domination over of prosperous and sanskritised person of no consequence, like a women is complex. He refrains sudras (lower caste people) in cow without her calf” (1979: 6). from what he calls “the usual the perpetuation of women’s He shares his experience. “Parents feminist passion of piling it on subordination. In “A Letter to a have told me with tear sodden eyes men” (1979: 8). He appreciates Sudra”, he observes, how their daughters are maltreated Shakuntala Srivastava for writing With a little prosperity, the Sudras and sometimes put to death if a series of articles on the position are inclined to pick up the bad habits JANATA, March 2, 2014 15 of the Dvijas. No sooner does a of fire. The modern Vashishtha, stand was liberal and progressive. In Sudra acquire a little wealth, than he however, wants to remove all the reality however it was an expression tries to force his women behind the shackles that bind the Sitas, but so of the Western tradition which is a purdah. I have always maintained far as the Vasantis and Kushikas few hundred years old now and is that the Sudra women, who work [lower-caste women] are concerned, also called the tradition of modernity in the streets and the fields with their role continues as before to (1979: 58). uncovered faces, are far better serve the desires and pleasures of than the Dvija women, who keep Vashishtha. To them the doctrine of He adds, “This stand of the prime themselves shut up in homes. The equality does not extend (1979: 59). minister was in no way a big step Sudra should give this matter serious in the direction of equality between thought. The case of Harijans is not Lohia takes note of Nehru’s man and woman” (1979: 58). The so bad, but the backward castes who liberal ideas and his behaviour reason for this was, are not untouchables are gripped by towards women, but calls him a such notions. The educated and well- “fanatic Brahmin”. In “Vashishthas These laws are not at all relevant to-do amongst the Sudras are often and Valmikis”, he says, “If one for more than 80% of India’s women. were to enter the root of this matter, motivated by a sense of jealousy and To the extent that the present social the social atmosphere … aggravates symptoms of orthodoxy may be and economic system permits, they this feeling (1979: 19). found” enjoy them even now. They have a Rejection of Liberal Modernism (1979: 58). Specifically, in the meaning only for a few high caste and the Marxist Path case of Nehru, he comments, women in Brahmin, Bania and Lohia’s position on the approach Thakur homes. Again, the same to emancipate Indian women differs The liberal veneer is only group interests, the same hackneyed from both the liberal modernist superficial. The prime minister took desire for modernisation. … The and the Marxist paths. He offers some sort of a stand on the laws act was good but incomplete and a thesis of the “equal irrelevance” relating to marriage and property initiated by twice-born self-interest of capitalism and communism “in right of women. Apparently the (1979: 58-59). respect of the creation of a new (to be concluded) human civilisation” (1963: 486). The article was earlier published in Economic & Political Weekly His rejection of the liberal modernist perspective on women is evident in his criticism of the approach Understanding the nature and risks of the AAP’s decision to quit the Delhi and measures adopted by the then government requires understanding this historical moment. Indian politics prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru for is defined by two major narratives: plutocracy and paralysis. As William uplifting the status of women. He Bryan Jennings once said in a similar chaotic moment in American history, calls Nehru a “modern Vashishtha” “Plutocracy is abhorrent to a republic; it is more despotic than a monarchy, more heartless than an aristocracy, more selfish than a bureaucracy.” who neither understands nor bothers about the well-being of women The AAP is a reaction to plutocracy. The reach of that plutocracy has been belonging to the lower castes but corrosive. As Shekhar Gupta reminded us, the pepper spraying of Parliament cares only for upper caste women. is such a symbolic manifestation of plutocracy: the rich control politics, In “Vashishthas and Valmikis”, he they control the banks, and then spray pepper into peoples’ eyes. While observes, we protest Penguin withdrawing Wendy Doniger’s book as an assault on free speech, let us not forget that it is impossible to publish on companies in India. A book called Polyester Prince on a certain Indian tycoon was His [Nehru’s] concern is limited “made unavailable” a few years ago; journalists cannot write on Sahara to the Sitas and Urmilas [upper-caste and apparently ministers, to show how cutting-edge Air India is, ensure no women]. Five thousand years have analytical book on it is published. brought just one distinction. The Vashishtha of five thousand years Plutocracy is not just about money. It has corroded free speech and other ago ordained all possible restraints institutions. It has generated a politics of excess. for Sita and wanted innocence to – Pratap Bhanu Mehta, The Indian Express be proved each time by the ordeal R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, March 2, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, March 2, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday March 5, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

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Vol. 69 No. 6 What price democracy? March 9, 2014 S. Viswam

Pot calling kettle black Democracy is full of flaws but undermine its authority and majesty? Kuldip Nayar it is supposed to be the best among Whether parliament is effective or not available political systems. India ultimately depends upon its members chose parliamentary democracy as and what sincerity and commitment Does economic anarchy lead to the political system best suited to they bring to their responsibilities. In political chaos? the genius of its people. The general this aspect, we must record that the K. S. Chalam consensus, after six decades of general perception among the people freedom and the parliamentary system. is that the honourable members of is that India has been best served by it. the outgoing Lok Sabha (and the Figures tell a tale However, it has been an exasperating Rajya Sabha) have not discharged Mallika Sarabhai period of “experimenting” with the their responsibilities fully, fairly and system and as the nation is about to satisfactorily. Indeed, it would to be elect its 16th Lok Sabha, there will truer to say that they have not added to Contemporary Dalit Politics not be many takers for the proposition the glory and majesty of Parliament by and Ambedkar’s Goal of Caste that the system of parliamentary their sins of omission and commission Annihilation democracy is the best suited for India. within the two Houses. Ram Puniyani The to which It will be pertinent to quote here we are bidding farewell has been the observation of the Parliamentary Locating Lohia in adjudged to be the least productive. Research Service. It confirms that both Feminist Theory–II Whenever the term of one Lok Houses of Parliament wasted a lot of Jaya Shrivastava Sabha ends, a prayer goes up from time in disrupting the proceedings and democracy’s well-wishers that the holding up legitimate business. It says next Lok Sabha would be a better one inter alia: The extended winter session Editor : in all aspects. The same prayer will be of parliament had 12 sittings. The Lok G. G. Parikh expressed as the vast Indian electorate Sabha and the Rajya Sabha lost 79 and Managing Editor : Guddi participates in the 2014 general 73 per cent of the scheduled time to elections. Parliament represents the disruption, respectively. Both Houses D-15, Ganesh Prasad, collective will of the people. But together were productive for only 24 Naushir Bharucha Marg, this will be true and valid only if it is per cent of the total time. Question Mumbai - 400 007. allowed to function. What is the use of hour functioned for 11 per cent of a forum representative of the people its scheduled time in the Lok Sabha, Email : [email protected] if it has no role in shaping public with only eight of 220 listed questions opinion? Or if its members so act as to answered. No questions were orally 2 JANATA, March 9, 2014 answered at all in the Rajya Sabha. Between the lines Not a flattering account of how the nation’s central legislative body Pot calling kettle black functions! Kuldip Nayar A stage has been reached where It becomes news if parliament functions or is allowed to function Foreign rulers always claim that Bangladesh and India. I wish they smoothly. The Telangana debate their regimen is benign and helps would recall their sacrifices to tell perhaps brought out the worst the subjects. The British are no their people that they share the in parliament. Unruly scenes are exception. They say the same thing same history, the same heritage and quite commonplace, but during the about their governance. But if their the same agony at the hands of the proceedings on Telengana, the nadir atrocities were to be enumerated British. was touched. Pepper spray was used the record would be brutal. The by a member, ostensibly in self- credit for not defaming the British One glaring example of British defence, but as a means of terrorizing for their 150-year rule goes to the cruelty is that of Jallianwala Bagh fellow-members to coerce them into Indians who have taken the past in tragedy (April 13, 1919) - a milestone voting for or against the bifurcation their stride and have even joined the for the nationalists towards the of Andhra Pradesh. Hooliganism Commonwealth with the Queen as journey to the destination of was on open display. Tempers were the symbol of unity. independence. Brigadier-General frayed and discipline broke down Reginald Dyer, who was given the completely. An ugly precedent has Still the British have never control of Amritsar by Lt. Governor been set. Pepper spray! Indeed, what said or written a good word about of Punjab Michael O’Dwyer, will members think of next? India’s generosity in not raking up chose April 13, the day of harvest the past. However, the British go festival, Baisakhi, for his revenge. It is not as if the malady is on running down the movement To vent their protest against the confined to Parliament alone. State for independence and those who Rowlett Act, which gave the rulers assemblies are, unfortunately, no participated in it. the power to detain anyone without better. The same kind of unruly trial, some 20,000 people had scenes prevail there also. Indeed, The latest barb has come collected in the garden, called turbulence is more regular in the from a British historian who has Jallianwala Bagh, a stone’s throw assemblies, and there is a similarity characterized Bhagat Singh and from the Golden Temple. to the pattern of (mis)behavior of Chandrasekhar Azad as “terrorists.” members. Despite the maximum Both were hanged for their revolt Dyer set the police on the efforts, presiding officers are unable against the foreign rule. Obviously, gathering like hunters unchaining to enforce discipline. the British do not know the their ferocious hounds to bring the difference between a terrorist and pursued animal to bay. He purposely Does this mean that we abandon a revolutionary. In fact, the British blocked the garden’s only gate to the parliamentary system and opt come in the category of terrorists prevent anyone from escaping from for something else? Certainly not. because they killed thousands of the place. Targeted by machine Jettisoning the system in favour people wanting to rule themselves, guns, men, women and children of the presidential or any other a hallmark of democracy, which the had no escape or respite from the system will be like throwing the UK cherishes. bullets till the police exhausted their baby with the bath water. Whether ammunition. one likes it or not, the system is It is heartening to find Pakistan there and has come to stay. There allocating money to preserve the As many as 1,650 rounds were are many answers to the problem house in which Bhagat Singh lived fired. Scores of people jumped into of parliamentary disfunctioning, when he was young. Indeed, all the garden’s only well, mute witness but perhaps none is more pertinent those who suffered at the hands of to that barbarous massacre. Some Britain before partition are heroes 400 people died on the spot and more (Continued on Page 3) in all the three countries, Pakistan, than 1,500 were injured. London JANATA, March 9, 2014 3 too was horrified. It recalled Dyer martyrs. He said: “Bhagat Singh and to retaliate. Angry policemen then who, appearing before an inquiry his comrades have been executed started firing on them and went committee, said that he had done and have become martyrs. Their on doing so till their ammunition his duty. He expressed no regret. death seems to have been a personal was exhausted. Three men were Nor was he admonished. Some loss to many. I join in the tributes killed and many injured. Gandhiji in the British political hierarchy paid to the memory o these young withdrew the movement but did not rationalized that he had saved men. And yet I must warn the youth utter a word to condemn the police. Punjab from “anarchy.” of the country against following their example. We should not utilize The British should not rub salt Then a few years later the British our energy, our spirit of sacrifice, on our wounds. By denigrating hung hundreds in Balia, a town on our labours and our indomitable our heroes like Bhagat Singh and the border of UP and Bihar, for courage in the way they have Chandrasekhar Azad they only having declared independence on utilized theirs. This country must challenge the heritage of freedom Quit India day, August 9, 1942. not be liberated through bloodshed.” movement. They will be well Bodies were dangled on trees for advised not to do so. days to teach a lesson to the freedom Mahatma Gandhi was against fighters. The Indian revolutionaries violence in any shape. During (Continued from Page 3) were not deterred and recalled the non-cooperation movement Bhagat Singh’s execution. in 1920, when more than 30,000 than in electing the right type of people went to jail, the agitation candidates to the legislative bodies. The British rulers who which looked like defeating the After the pepper spray drama, one considered Mahatma Gandhi “an British was withdrawn. Students would think that the time has come anarchist” can go to any limit to renounced their studies, lawyers for a public debate on this issue. denigrate the freedom movement. their practice, doctors their clinics There is need for improving the The revolutionaries compared and civil servants their jobs and quality of the debates as well as the themselves with the insects which rallied behind the Mahatma from standards of behavior of honourable burnt themselves to keep the earthen all over the country felt cheated. members inside the two Houses. lamps alight. Had they not done so Foreign goods were boycotted. the thousands who went to jail or Piles of textile were burnt in public According to reports in two laid down their lives would not have to protest against imported cloth got the inspiration their martyrdom from Lancashire and Birmingham. leading Hindi newspapers Nai evoked. Gandhiji wanted the British to Duniya and Dainik Jagran “declare in clear terms a policy dated February 19, 2014, a Bhagat Singh, a prolific writer, of absolute non-interference with Parliamentary committee has had explained what did killing mean all non-violent activities in the found that 800 children in various to them: “We attaching great sanctity country.” schools associated with Asaram to human life, we regard man’s life in Maharashtra died during the as sacred...We would sooner lay Indeed, non-cooperation was the 12-year period 2001-2013. This down our lives in the service of biggest non-violent movement the is a very high rate of deaths of humanity than injure anyone.” Indians had ever launched against There was no revenge, no vendetta. the British. Gandhiji’s sudden school students and should be “These actions (killings),” he said, withdrawal of the movement was carefully investigated. Most of “have their political significance in because he did not approve of these schools are located in tribal as much as they serve to create a villagers from Chauri Chaura, areas. Most of these deaths have mentality and an atmosphere which near Gorakhpur in UP, turning been attributed earlier to snake shall be very necessary to the final violent. On February 12, 1921, they and scorpion bites as well as struggle. That is all.” took out a procession past a local diseases, but need to be probed police station to protest against further to find out the truth. Mahatma Gandhi, who was the British rule. Towards the end, against the violent methods of the procession was jeered at by - Bharat Dogra revolutionaries, admired these the police, provoking the people 4 JANATA, March 9, 2014 Does economic anarchy lead to political chaos?

K. S. Chalam

Anarchy is understood as a state has challenged some individuals and but to the whole society, it also of statelessness or disorder. It , corporate houses including media transforms the relationship between in fact, has a wider meaning and on this important issue and opened employees and employers who then historical background than what is a new front for his tirade. However, become equal… Both the managers generally conceived by Aam Aadmi what interests some of us is the and workers theoretically are or common man. When Aam Aadmi issue of economic idiosyncrasies owners of the means of production.” Party Chief Minister of Delhi created involved in the so-called political This objective was never realised flutter through his histrionics at anarchy. In the normal philosophical anywhere in India. In fact, violence Jantar Mantar a few weeks ago, discourse, anarchy looks at the and abuse of power were used in commentators started projecting moral legitimacy of state to control amassing wealth and property by him as an anarchist , if not a nihilist, or regulate individual freedom. some apparently using democratic radical and so on. We had also some Gandhiji had also questioned the process that created disharmony apprehension about the future of moral authority of the British of interests leading to chaos and the party as the promise that AAP to rule us and resorted to civil disorder. This is perhaps echoed in presented to the nation was really disobedience. This was termed as our Legislative bodies as a political prodigious at that time. Now, AAP grammar of anarchy. We are now manifestation, but the real motive is busy with its political strategies independent with a Constitution was economic gain. Therefore, it like any other Indian party, and one and parliamentary democracy to could be brought under the notion can expect their real blush when they guide our collective destiny. Is it of anarchy. take up fulltime activity of public really happening as envisioned by policy. Till such time we may defer our founding fathers? Is political We can go beyond the precincts using harsh epithets. democracy adequate for common of Parliament to notice the chaos in man to lead comfortable life? Does public policy. One of the important The pepper spray spectacle has it include economic and social issues flagged by AAP explicitly, diverted the attention from the considerations? and several others implicitly, are essential condition of the polity about the pricing of Gas, Oil and today, otherwise the record of The western scholars and other public sector goods or things events in the Indian Parliament and philosophers were involved in produced out of common resources. state Assemblies for the last few passionate debate on the question It is noticed that some high profile years had already reached a critical of freedom and rights in a capitalist politicians cum policy makers have phase of eventuality. Unfortunately, system. But, they seem to have not voiced their view on pricing of the blame is attributed to Telugu been entangled with the economic Gas, Oil, etc. in India. Surprisingly, politicians. The manifestation of basis of freedom, though Rawls and they have questioned marginal cost culpability of some in the Parliament Sen were instrumental in getting as the criterion to decide a good/ may be understood as culmination the argument stretched to include product, may be out of ignorance or of deceit, double standards and questions of inequality. However, arrogance? Economists have been unethical conduct irrespective of the our issue here is not about ownership using marginal cost, as an important party. What are the motives behind of property and distributional justice method of fixing price for public this trend? Is this an indicator of the in which Marxists were interested. sector goods. Marginal cost is the prospects for the 21st century? “For Marx, only public ownership cost of producing an additional unit of the means of production can of a product, reveals the efficiency In fact, the whole drama of guarantee distributive justice. at which the firm operates. This fighting corruption both on the social Because public ownership of the is different from average cost that net and media costing crores of means of production not only is equal to marginal cost arriving rupees appeared to be sponsored by transforms surplus labour from at average revenue in an ideal Corporates to divert attention from private owners to the state, so that condition of perfect competition. As real issues. For instance, Kejriwal it no longer belongs to individuals far as the issue of using marginal cost JANATA, March 9, 2014 5 pricing for Gas / Crude of Reliance is concerned, we all know that the Figures tell a tale situation is neither a condition of perfect competition nor it is the only Mallika Sarabhai firm in the oil industry. Therefore, the ideal method of pricing as indicated by some policy makers and experts, Anywhere one turns today, the Health expenditure in the state taking average cost or some other Gujarat Growth Model is being has fallen from 4.25 per cent in method seem to be not reasonable. flaunted. Be it in the print media 1990-95 to 0.77 per cent in 2005- This is not a product produced by the or on television, in debates or on 10. Gujarat comes second from firm on the basis of its own resources hoardings, the development of the bottom of all states in terms of but given a contract to supply the Gujarat is getting five gold stars. So expenditure on health. It also comes product at a price that is reasonable it is time to look a little beyond the last in the list of 20 large states in the to consumers and profitable to the hype and into the actual statistics of percentage of women with severe contractor. Therefore, it should this model. (All the figures quoted anaemia. It ranks 15th among states be administered or mark-up price in this piece are from government in children’s malnourishment, and arrived at by the government based sources only, and I would be happy 16th in children’s anaemia. Add on cost of production both variable to cite them to anyone who wishes to this 14th rank in rural infant cost and capital cost. It seems, to check them. mortality rates and 10th in urban it is here that several charges of infant mortality rates. manipulations against Reliance In the last 10 years, 60,000 small- including CAG Report and the scale industries have closed down in The Global Hunger Report ranks disciplinary action initiated against Gujarat. Counting on an average ten Gujarat 13th among 17 large states Sibal the then DGHC are cited. employees per industry, this comes and has declared it an ‘alarming This is what Kejriwal and his team to a staggering six lakh thrown out state’ along with Madhya Pradesh, including senior bureaucrats who are of jobs. Jharkhand and Bihar. aware of the facts are contending. In fact, the whole process of open Gujarat ranks 5th in foreign direct In 2001, 32 per cent of people auction, certification by independent investment and 8th in agricultural were poor. This rose to 39.5 per cent agencies about the genuineness of production. From 2005-06 to 2010- in 2011. According to NSSO, the rate investments involved, etc. are all now 11, growth in GSDP in agriculture of reduction of poverty has been the debunked due to the manipulation and allied sectors was 3.44 per lowest in the country at 8.6 per cent. of share market giving fabricated cent, not the double-digit growth The state ranks 10th in latrine use. information. Perhaps, Kejriwal being publicised. At 5 per cent, Twenty-nine per cent households being an Income Tax person knew all VAT on fertilisers is the highest in have to drink untreated and unsafe this or may be some other reason has the country. water. That makes about 1.75 crore got genuine issue for wider debate. people drinking dirty water. Of the 225 blocks in Gujarat’s 28 It is not only in the case of districts, 57 are dark, that is, without Gujarat has organised 3,716 Reliance, Coal, Spectrum, Power etc. electricity. As many as 4,55,885 employment melas. But 10 lakh contracts but, in several operations applications for power connections educated youth remain unemployed, in the private sector involving were pending as of 2011. with the total registered unemployed common properties, frauds are at 30 lakh. Growth in employment becoming order of the day involving In 1995, when the BJP came to has dropped to nearly zero in the last billions of rupees. The argument power, the state’s total debt was 12 years. that ONGC and other public sector less than Rs.10,000 crore. When units are also going to be benefitted Shri Modi took over in 2001, this A recent CAG report suggests by Gas pricing is not acceptable as figure stood at Rs.45,301 crore. that there are Rs.16,706.99 the surpluses of the public sector go By December 2012, it had risen crore worth of financial and land to the state exchequer while private to Rs.1,38,978 crore, and the irregularities leading to a negative profits or margins fatten individuals. government estimates it to cross impact on delivery on economic and Rs.2,07,695 crore by 2015-16. development fronts. (Continued on Page 7) (Continued on Page 7) 6 JANATA, March 9, 2014 Contemporary Dalit Politics and Ambedkar’s Goal of Caste Annihilation

Ram Puniyani

On 28th February, 2014 Ramvilas nationalism. Muslim nationalism manifesto of SCF ruled out “alliance Paswan of Loktantantrik Jan Party turned in separatist direction with any reactionary party such as joined the NDA alliance. Same and their demand for Pakistan Hindu Mahasabha and Jan Sangh Paswan had left the NDA twelve came to the forefront. Hindu (previous avatar of BJP) (quoted years ago with the beginning of nationalists accepted the religion from Gopal Guru EPW Feb 16, 1991, Gujarat carnage, saying that with based nationalism but denied the citing Ambedkar Letters to Gaikwad, the violence in Gujarat he cannot demand of Pakistan on the ground page 280-296). He was the one who be part of NDA. This time his son that this had been a Hindu nation could see the long term agenda of Jan formulated the face saver when from times immemorial. This Sangh-Hindu Mahasabha of Hindu he said that Modi has received whole formulation of Hindu nation Rashtra, the concept totally opposed clean chit in the Gujarat carnage. from ancient times is an invalid to secular democratic India. His basic Few days ago another dalit leader concept, as the very concept of motto was ‘educate, organize and Udit Raj directly joined BJP, with nation or nation-state is a modern struggle’, for caste annihilation and the assurance of being given a concept. So, in the revised edition for the values of substantive Liberty, ticket for forthcoming elections. of his book, ‘’, Dr. Equality and Fraternity. He was In Maharashtra, Ramdas Athwale Ambedkar opposed the formation aware that this process: educate and of Republican Party of India had of Pakistan on the ground that organize to struggle: is possible only become part of NDA, and succeeded formation of Pakistan may pave in a democratic set up, so alliance in being nominated for Rajya Sabha, the way for Hindu Raj and “If with Hindutva political outfits was Upper house of Parliament. There Hindu Raj becomes a reality then ruled out of hand. are many others dalits in the fold of it would be greatest menace to this BJP directly or in alliance with BJP country. Whatever may Hindus Today what is happening? Over to be in NDA, for pre-poll alliance. say, actually it does not make a the last several years a new dalit Most of these leaders claim to be difference that Hinduism is a danger leadership has emerged, which on working on the path shown by Dr. to Independence, Equality and one hand represents a faction of B. R. Ambedkar. Ambedkar was Brotherhood. Thus it is an enemy this group and on the other has also committed to annihilation of caste of democracy. We should make all personal-family electoral ambitions. and was totally opposed to the out efforts to stop Hindu Raj from So in short term they, for their concept of Hindu nationalism, as becoming a reality.” (Pakistan personal benefits, have been sitting propounded by the RSS-BJP. or Partition of India, Page 358). in the laps of communal parties. Here what Ambedkar is referring Namdeo Dhasal, the great poet During the freedom struggle to Hinduism is Brahmanical went with Shiv Sena, which had when three types of nationalisms Hinduism, the ideological ground created hell with the publication of were in vogue: Indian nationalism, of Hindutva, the agenda of RSS Amdekar’s ‘Riddles of Hinduism’. Muslim nationalism and Hindu combine. Ramdas Athwale is again with the nationalism, majority of the people communal forces who have given of India supported and followed Ambedkar did lay the foundations him the Rajya Sabha seat. Udit Raj the path of Indian nationalism. of dalit movement, and went on to has also embraced the party of Hindu Majority Hindus were for Indian form Scheduled Caste Federation raj and Ramvilas Paswan, guided nationalism, majority of Muslims (SCF) in due course; before more by personal political ambitions, were also for Indian nationalism. It conceptualizing the Republican rather than the long term benefit of was the elite, the landlords, kings Party of India. This SCF in 1951, on the downtrodden, has shamelessly who began communal streams and the eve of first general elections in allied with the BJP. In the short term were later joined in by a section 1952; which was to begin the process these dalit politicians may benefit but of affluent upper castes of those of adult suffrage, forged an alliance at the same time they will strengthen religions. The British manipulation with Praja Socialist Party (PSP) the politics of Hindutva-Hindu raj, kept fuelling the fire of religious led by Jayaprakash Narayan. The the system of inherent hierarchy of JANATA, March 9, 2014 7 caste and gender. up should continue as an internal receives glorification from Modi. spiritual activity for centuries. This There is denial of access for water A single example will tell us should have continued generation to the main pump at places. Cases about the approach of BJP towards after generation. It is impossible to of intimidation of dalits wanting the dalit question. Recently a book believe that their ancestors did not to convert to Buddhism have been penned by the BJP Prime Ministerial have the choice of adopting any reported from Gujarat. These are candidate Narendra Modi has been other work or business.” few of the phenomena prevalent withdrawn - Karma Yoga. Modi in in the laboratory of Hindu rashtra, his book wrote “I do not believe that On the same issue of scavenging, Gujarat. What should one say of they (Valmikis) have been doing this Dr. Ambedkar makes scathing leadership of dalits who compromise job just to sustain their livelihood. critique of the social order where the values of Dr. Ambedkar, the Had this been so, they would not a section of people have to do such values of long term goals of social have continued with this type of demeaning and humiliating jobs. justice and annihilation of caste for job generation after generation…At While claims are made about the their short term greed for electoral some point of time, somebody must development and ‘concern for all power for their own self? There is have got the enlightenment that it is communities’ the conditions of dalits a need for introspection by these their (Valmikis’) duty to work for in Gujarat are abysmal: temple entry leaders and their followers about the the happiness of the entire society is opposed at places, there is low rate opportunism and lack of principles and the Gods; that they have to do of conviction for anti-dalit atrocities, of such people in the positions of this job bestowed upon them by there is prevalence of manual leadership of the communities. Gods; and that this job of cleaning scavenging still prevalent and this

(Continued from Page 5) It is noticed that some of the huge beneficiary contractors are the ones goes against their private interests private gains are in areas where state who contested elections or put and create chaos and confusion has invested on R&D or society has their agents in Parliament to sit on either in Parliament or outside. Is it foregone its present consumption, judgement on policies. Naturally, not anarchy as they are insensitive to legitimately possessed by all. The they do not tolerate anything that the social good of majority?

(Continued from Page 5) And there is much more. I Statement about ownership and other particulars of JANATA knowingly leave out the figures on FORM IV (see rule 8) the glaring neglect of the Muslims, 1. Place of publication: Mumbai both students and businesses, and on the state of the state-run educational 2. Periodicity of its publication: Weekly institutions, Adivasis and land rights. 3. Printer’s name: G. G. Parikh My purpose here is to highlight Whether citizen of India: Yes Address: 33-A, Ganesh Prasad, aspects of misgovernment that Naushir Bharucha Marg, Grant Road(W), affect ‘people like us’. Because it is Mumbai 400007 ‘people like us’ that are taken in by 4. Publisher’s : G. G. Parikh the hype and hoopla. Whether citizen of India: Yes Address: As above Yes, Shri Modi has made many businesses and individuals much 5. Editor’s name: G. G. Parikh Whether citizen of India Yes much richer. And yes, he is a brilliant Address: As above speaker and creator of myths. But his model of development is Darwinian: 6. Names and address of individuals who Janata Trust own the newspaper and partners or D-15, Ganesh Prasad, the government will only support shareholders holding more than Naushir Bharucha Marg, the fittest. Let the others perish. So, one percent of the total capital: Grant Road (W), Mumbai 400007 will the readers of this column see I, K. G.G. Parikh, hereby declare that the particulars given above are true to the best through this model of lies only if of my knowledge and belief. they belong to the 950 million poor, Mumbai (G.G. Parikh) weak, unjustly treated? Is this the March 9, 2014 Signature of Publisher model for India? 8 JANATA, March 9, 2014 India’s Muslims: Waking up to change?

India is home to the world’s third largest population of Muslims. Muslims, who chose to stay in India in 1947 when the country was partitioned on religious lines, have struggled to keep pace with the majority community. Making up about 13 percent of the country’s total population, they are hugely under-represented in jobs and politics. They allege that they face widespread discrimination. A government committee in 2005 said that the presence of Muslims in top government jobs was as low as four percent. The economic reforms and privatisation during 1990s opened some avenues for the youth in the community, as opposed to the previous decades during which government jobs were hard to come by. Gradually, a small but significant middle class is emerging as new professionals join the fields of media, IT and management. The recently published book - India’s Muslim Spring: Why is Nobody Talking about It? by Hasan Suroor, a London- based veteran Indian journalist, focuses on the positive trends within the community. Another soon to be published book, Muslim Politics in Bihar: Changing Contours by Mohammed Sajjad, an assistant professor at Aligarh Muslim University’s history department, highlights the community’s response to challenges in the historical past, particularly during the partition. Al Jazeera’s Saif Khalid in an email interview with Suroor and Sajjad tries to get a sense of the changes happening in India’s Muslim community.

How strong is the churning Mohammed Sajjad: I would organising, mobilising and asserting within the Muslim community to prefer to use Muslim communities for their rights in accordance with the join the mainstream? Is the trend (and not the singular, community). Constitution and other institutional big enough to qualify as India’s The Muslims include many practices aimed at minimising “Muslim Spring”? communities - caste groups, tribes, inequities and discriminations. linguistic and ethnic groups - whose Intra-community movements, Hasan Suroor: It is pretty socio-economic location varies quite particularly pasmanda in Bihar, strong, but as I say in the book it perceptibly. despite their own pitfalls, are fighting is not an organised movement and for democratisation within the people are not going around waving This churning is indeed quite community as well as articulating flags or calling for a revolution. visible. The Muslim communities (and asserting for) their grievances of It is happening quietly. I have do have a very strong urge under-representation and exclusion. used the term “Muslim spring” to ride up the ladder of socio- metaphorically to stress the fact economic development and What factors are behind the that finally Muslims are waking political empowerment. Post-Babri decline of conservatism within the up to the need for a change in their Mosque demolition in 1992, there Muslim community? thinking. Under-representation of came a strong realisation within Muslims in education and jobs is a the communities of Muslims that HS: A sense of being left out different issue. The churning that I hitherto leadership kept pursuing because of wrong priorities, and a talk about is in fact a reaction to the their politics only around largely realisation that if the community community’s social and economic emotive issues of communal riots, wants to move forward it must shed backwardness which young Muslims personal law, linking Urdu with its regressive attitudes. blame as much on institutional public employment, minority status anti-Muslim bias as on Muslim for the Aligarh Muslim University, MS: In post-Independence India, leadership and previous generations etc. the most prominent factor is the of Muslims. The whole point is growth, even though too gradual, that they want the community to Consequently, in various provinces of educated middle classes among take charge of its own affairs and of India, but more vociferously in the communities of Muslims. The stop looking up to the state and a Bihar state, historically subordinated overall success of India’s democracy discredited leadership. communities (biradris) started in terms of land reforms, access to JANATA, March 9, 2014 9 education, health, social welfare minority are relatively more prone territorial separatism has to be taken expenditures, as also the ‘Open to feel thier religio-cultural identity as a non-conservative, progressive Passport Policy’ since 1980s, which is threatened. It may make a section outlook, then clerics (Mullahs) opened avenues of employment for of the people to become more have better record than the modern Muslims in the West Asian Gulf concerned about their identity. In educated leadership of colonial India countries, and the implementation India, Gandhiji and Maulana Azad testified by the fact that the Deoband of the Mandal Commission Report displayed all kinds of pluralism, clerics fought both colonialism and in the 1990s, which included many tolerance, forward looking politics separatism whereas the Muslim caste-groups of Muslims in public despite keeping themselves grounded League had its greater share of employment. Such developments in/with religious symbolism and leadership among the non-clerics. did enhance a greater sense of practices. inclusion, cohesion, cooperation The Muslim community’s and trust in the state and in the Is using the binary “Mullah electoral agenda has never really Constitution. versus Marxist” problematic? Are progressed beyond security of Mullahs only to be blamed for the life, as opposed to education, jobs New generation of Muslims backwardness of Muslims? and health issues. How have riots are more religious, but at the limited the aspirations of the same time more secular and HS: I have not blamed Mullahs community? cosmopolitan. Why do Muslims’ alone, and pointedly accused dresses and appearances draw so progressive Muslims of not wanting MS: I believe that keeping the much attention? How would one to dirty their hands. By virtually rioters unpunished has been the address it? detaching themselves from the biggest failure of the Indian state community they allowed a vacuum and of its criminal justice system. HS: I have said as much in the to occur which was filled by Mullahs Perpetuation of threat to life and book. That the trend among young and petty politicians pretending to be properties in the communal-religious Indian Muslims to flaunt their represent the community. strife has made the vulnerable religious identity is part of the post- Muslims less of a citizen to assert 9/11 discourse in the West. It is MS: Such reductionist binaries for all legitimate rights and more akin to the blacks in America trying are myths sprouting out of a vote bank to be patronised and to reclaim “blackness” as a badge misperceptions of less informed exploited by all kinds of leadership of honour and say: if we are black or uniformed intelligentsia. And - the ‘progressives’, as well as so what, we are Americans as well such misperceptions are put to the conservatives. Radicalisation and we are proud of being black worst political abuse by certain and entry into terroristic activities and American at the same time. vested interests like majoritarian is no monopoly of the Muslim Personally, I do not like wearing communal political formations for minorities of India. The majoritarian one’s cultural or religious identity on electoral polarisations. Dogmatism terrorism of Hindu right wing; and one’s sleeves but so long as it does is no monopoly of the Mullahs for very different reasons, the far not come in the way of progressive only. Exclusionary and conservative Left radicalism (Maoism/Naxalism) thinking it is not my business to politics is neither a monopoly of the among the poor peasantry and tribal tell others what or what not to do. Mullahs nor an exclusive preserve of population is also to be found, My own sense is that it is a fad - a the religious minorities. which is burgeoning due to neo- reaction to post-9/11 Islamophobia liberal economy and the resultant - and would pass. In fact, and for the truth be told, Corporate loot of Jal (water), Jungle compared to these modern educated (forest), Zameen (land and mines), MS: Commitment to one’s faith leadership, the Mullahs (contrary to and forced displacement of these and observing certain religious popular perceptions, not necessarily hapless populations. Yet the data callings should not and cannot all of them are conservative) were reveal that among the people booked be construed necessarily as more meaningfully connected with under the draconian laws such as the ‘conservatism’, ‘anti-national’, the commoners of the communities TADA, POTA, etc., a disturbingly ‘unpatriotic’. Religions do not sinking and swimming with them large proportion of Muslims are the necessarily breed conservatism from cradle to grave. prisoners under trial. and not necessarily teach hating other religious communities. In a Given the fact that resistance Is comparing Muslims with globalised neo-liberal economy, a to colonialism and to communal minority Parsi community flawed 10 JANATA, March 9, 2014 since Muslims face external Modi then they should go with recent case of pulping of a book discrimination? their instinct. At the same time on Hinduism by the publication voting for Modi does mean that house, Penguin, is a case in point. HS: The point of mentioning Muslims have no other choice if Parsis was to argue that if such they want to live and prosper in Is it simplistic to say that the a small minority group can have Gujarat. It is their way of sleeping elite section of Muslims had a enough self-confidence to flourish with the enemy to buy security. major role in the creation of in the way they have, why can’t a Pakistan, as opposed to a number 170-million strong community have MS: If at all there is really the same faith in itself. such a situation whereby out of of other factors? What about the so-called pragmatism, a section of role of communalists within the MS: My own understanding Muslims would be willing to accept ? about the Parsis is very limited, so I Narendra Modi, then, to the best cannot speak on this. of my understanding, it could be HS: I do not discuss the reasons only because of ominous limiting/ for Partition in my book. My limited However, I would like to say shrinking of alternatives. In short, point is that the reason why India that external discriminations it could only be an outcome of utter was left with the rump of the Muslim become significantly evident helplessness in the face of feeble community was because the elite with underrepresentation. Muslim resistance against the majoritarian migrated to Pakistan. localities most likely may not have communalism. Such a high degree public sector banks, government of political marginalisation would MS: This is one of the myths schools and hospitals. The overall be fraught with implications. of the historiography of India’s share of Muslims in loans financed by the public sector banks are Has the media’s stereotyping partition which my two forthcoming very low. The financial and of Muslims as “fatwa spewing” books have tried to explore with other supports of the state to and “book burning vandals” fairly large quantum of primary/ the unorganised sectors are very missed the larger picture of the direct evidences. Partition was a poor. The specialised crafts in community? result of competitive communalisms specific towns such as the silk aided by the British colonialism. And of Bhagalpur, brass works of HS: Yes, of course. In fact, the the communalism was not confined Muradabad, Zari of , first chapter of my book after the merely to the overtly communal embroidery in Delhi, etc., do suffer prologue is all about emphasising political formations like the Muslim from such discriminations where the diversity within the Muslim League and the Hindu Mahasabha- middlemen/merchants (mostly community. I complain against RSS. The provincial and district non-Muslims) squeeze away plenty the Muslim stereotype and argue of profits whereas the workforce that it is wrong to see Muslims as level leadership of the Congress (overwhelmingly Muslims) and clones of each other. had its own share of communalism even the manufacturers (mostly and this had its own roles in stoking Muslims) remain the losers or MS: S t e r e o t y p i n g i s a n separatism, as they often refused make marginal gains only. outcome either of willful, deep- to concede adequate share in the seated prejudice or of lack of evolving structures of power. Will Muslims’ acceptance of information. Most often media BJP Prime Ministerial candidate catches the attention only of those However, the secular pluralist Narendra Modi, who has been events which help them confirm commitment of the Congress’ top linked to the deadly 2002 a stereotype as it sells. What to leadership did not let any communal- Gujarat riots, mean a sign of say of media, even the rigours of divisive agenda be adopted by academia, as in the case of the pragmatism or a state of acute the Congress nor did it let India political marginalisation? historiography of partition, largely failed to see the voices of Muslims become a Hindu fascist state despite HS: Both. Individual Muslims strongly resisting the politics of having suffered vivisection on should be free to decide what is partition during 1938-47. Things those grounds, and it framed its in their best interest instead of have hardly changed since then. constitution with adequate provisions being forced to follow the herd. If “Book burning vandals” are there for the religious minorities and other pragmatism demands voting for among the Hindus as well, and the vulnerable sections. JANATA, March 9, 2014 11 Locating Lohia in Feminist Theory–II Jaya Shrivastava Lohia’s approach also differs (1985: 73). The struggle “need not men and women will not solve the from the Marxist feminist position. necessarily be violent and bloody problem of gender inequality. Special In a speech at the Backward Castes ... The struggle must necessarily measures are needed to uplift the Federation Conference in Rae be civil and non-violent” (1985: status of women. In Marx, Gandhi Bareilly in 1956, he said, “Socialism 85). In place of violent struggle, and Socialism, Lohia (1963) states, is a doctrine of equality”. But he has he suggests civil disobedience as “Providing equal opportunity will serious apprehensions about it and a “permanent attitude” and as the not undo the problem of inequality cautions, “Unless we are careful, it one and only weapon to “enable the between the sexes which has widened may deteriorate into a doctrine of individual to maintain his dignity in over centuries. The only way to bring inequality” (1979: 26). His socialist all circumstances” (1985: 86). He the woman into equality with others thought differs from other socialists strongly holds that a socialist society is through conferment of preferential who are concerned with achieving can be and should be built through opportunity.” He adds, “Women only economic equality, which in peaceful democratic means. His must be given equal rights with men. their opinion will automatically Socialist Party aimed at “destroying Really speaking they must even get yield social equality. In “A Letter to [both] caste and class through more if equality is to be obtained” a Sudra”, he says, “Many Socialists non-violent and peaceful means (1979: 58). honestly but wrongly think that it of propaganda, organisation and is sufficient to strive for economic struggle” (1979: 137). Commenting on the Indian inequality and caste inequality will scenario, he notes that the caste system vanish of itself as a consequence” Way to Women’s Emancipation has a 5,000-year history of selecting (1979: 20). Moreover, unlike Lohia suggests a distinct way to abilities. As a result, “Certain castes Marxists who focus only on class, he end existing gender-based inequality have become especially gifted”, holds both caste and class responsible and to achieve equality between such as the Saraswat Brahmin in for the oppression of the large mass men and women in India, a path that intellectual pursuits and the Marwari of Indian people, including women. has both long-term and short-term Bania in industry and finance. To end the oppressions, he does implications. In the long term, he So, he considers it absurd to talk not think a class struggle alone is stands for transforming India into about competing with these castes sufficient. He writes, “In a country a casteless, classless, and gender- unless others are given preferential cursed with the caste system, it is not just society. He makes man-woman opportunities and privileges. He possible to end feudal and capitalist equality the foremost goal in his affirms, “The narrowing selection of inequalities through class struggle scheme of “Seven Revolutions”. And abilities must now be broadened over alone” (1979: 137). in his essay on Hinduism (Satoskar the whole, and that can only be done nd: 7), Lohia emphasizes that caste if for two or three of four decades Violence is considered inevitable must be “completely erased from backward castes and groups are given in a proletarian revolution for the Hindu mind” and that a woman preferential opportunities” (1979: establishing a socialist society, which must be “treated as an equal being 127). Further, at the Third National will, it is believed, also be gender-just. with man”. Conference of the Socialist Party Violence occurs because the ruling (1959), it was declared, “Until the class does not give up privileges As a long-term strategy, he does system of caste is totally destroyed, without a bitter class struggle that not consider the liberal approach the reconstruction of India should often turns violent. Lohia does of affirmative preferential action have, instead of ability, preferential emphasise the need for a struggle to enough for promoting gender opportunity as its basis” (1979: 135). reconstruct society, “Nothing new equality. Moving beyond the liberal Lohia supports preferential treatment ever got born without a struggle” frame, he holds that a radical cultural for all the marginalised. He clubs (1985: 85). But he is not in favour of and structural transformation women with all other marginalized a violent struggle. In his view, “Class is necessary for enhancing and castes and groups, and suggests struggle has been so foully distorted equalizing women’s status with men “Sudras, Harijans and Muslims that error can be proved to lead to in Indian society. He firmly holds and women must be placed in high truth, murder to health, death of that the liberal modernist approach positions even though they may not democracy to fullness of democracy” of providing equal opportunities for be fully deserving” (1963). 12 JANATA, March 9, 2014

According to Kumar (2010: 67), offence of causing pain or hurt to be able freely to enter the world of Lohia identifies four areas in the another, which they should avoid as Dvija women. It is now essential lives of Indian women that needed far as possible” (1979: 8). Frontally that the Dvijas and the Sudras must immediate attention to “smash the opposing the mindset of blaming not only understand to define caste abominable segregations of caste and the victim in cases of rape, he points as comprising of those capable of sex”. These include (a) slavery of out that ancient Indian literature producing children of one another, the kitchen, and the lack of drinking underlines the inherent purity of but grasp the definition instinctively. water and toilets; (b) the hypocrisy women. He affirms, “Rape under Sudras and Dvijas are capable of involved in sex and marriage, coercion which could not be fought producing children of one another including dowry, birth control, and successfully brings the woman no (1979: 20). harm nor dirt, for ... she renews motherhood; (c) the need for greater But Lohia did not expect the dvija herself every month” (Satoskar nd: equality between men and women in (upper castes) would be in favour 7). education and property rights; and of abolishing caste, as is evident (d) preferential opportunities in the For overcoming caste and from tradition. In “Vashishthas and field of leadership, in politics, the genderbased discrimination, he Valmikis”, he says, “The Vashishtha armed forces, trade, and government suggests intercaste marriages and Dvijas … will never like it [abolition jobs. He considers women’s slavery providing government jobs to such of the caste system]. From mother- to the kitchen an abomination. couples. He favours the right of killer Parasuram to nation-killer women to divorce and remarry Lohia advocates radical cultural Nehru stretches the Vashishtha and their freedom to choose their changes to promote gender equality. tradition of fanatical justice” (1979: life partners. Going beyond the The system of arranged marriages 56). Also, he did not believe upper institution of marriage, he supports caste men would sincerely work and dowry has to be rejected. He unmarried motherhood and making states, “The giving and taking of for the emancipation of lower caste birth control facilities available to women. The large majority of dowry must, of course, be penalised, all men and women irrespective of but a change has to take place in the women suffer from not having basic their marital status (cited in Kumar amenities. However, he observes, mind and its values” (1979: 7). He 2010: 67). So, he affirms the free adds, “It is no responsibility of a “The modern Vashishtha probably expression of female sexuality and does not know all this hell of water parent to marry his or her daughter; rejects the notion of onesided chastity the responsibility ends at providing and lavatory. If he does he gives it – a double standard entrenched in no thought. Even if he thinks, he a good education and good health” Indian culture. (1979: 7). He suggests a halt to does so with the rings of his tobacco extravagant shows at marriage Lohia stresses ending endogamy, smoke” (1979: 59). Upper caste men which is an integral feature of the ceremonies, and stands for full are concerned with raising the status caste system. The caste system, freedom for both boys and girls in of upper caste women. As already including endogamy, prevents men choosing their life partners, which mentioned, Lohia says that as far as and women from freely interacting requires a normative shift. He states, lower caste women are concerned, across caste boundaries in an intimate “If a girl knocks around and elopes their role continues as before to serve manner. To enhance the freedom and mischances into illegitimacy, that the desires and pleasures of the upper of both men and women, Lohia castes. Hence, the liberal doctrine is all part of the bargain to achieve emphasises the need to break down normal relationships between man of equality of opportunity does not caste barriers in personal relations help them. He affirms that it is only and woman and no stain at all” between men and women belonging (1979: 7). lower caste people who will uplift to different castes. In “A Letter to a lower caste women. “A Valmiki Moreover, the cultural norm Sudra”, he remarks, would have thought of the other 80% requiring girls to protect virginity I have often felt that, unlike the women [lower- caste women] also. and remain celibate till marriage has Dvija women, the Sudra women He would have applied himself to to be discarded. He says, “It is time have an immense aptitude and love find a way to uplift them from their that young men and women revolted for a free atmosphere and innocent drudgery and privations” (1979: 59). against such puerilities,” and opines, pleasure. If the barriers of caste are Thus, Lohia believes in a strategy “They should ever remember that broken or even loosened, many Dvija of self-empowerment for the lower there are only two unpardonable young men would be attracted to castes, not sponsored empowerment crimes in the code of sexual conduct, Sudra women, and bring happiness in which the lower castes depend rape and the telling of lies or breach to themselves and the country. In a on the upper castes for uplifting the of promise. There is also a third like manner, Sudra boys would also status of their women. JANATA, March 9, 2014 13

Concluding Observations vision of socialism means not only advocates the need for putting an end Lohia stands apart from all the a classless but also a casteless and to the moral/ethical double standards feminist streams of thought in gender-just society, implying the to do with men and women, and thus diagnosing the status of Indian complete abolition of gender-based putting every individual morally women and in his vision for their inequalities and discriminations. and socially at peace with herself or emancipation. He rejects the liberal In Lohia’s thought, there is a clear himself and with society. He is far modernist approach, which is recognition and affirmation of the ahead of his time in his thoughts on concerned with providing equal identity, autonomy, and dignity Indian women. It is observed that the opportunity to both men and women of women, and the need for their status of a section of women in India and introducing legal, educational, emancipation in terms of expression has improved after Independence and other reforms to gradually reduce of free will and the fulfilment as a result of the liberal modernist discrimination and restrictions of all their needs and desires – approach to uplift their status in a against women. He holds that the social, physical, psychological and gradualist/reformist manner. But liberal approach is not sufficient to emotional. In this sense, Lohia’s most women still remain oppressed, emancipate women and promote thoughts signify anti-feudalism, dominated, poor, and backward in gender equality in India, though it anti-capitalism, and anti-patriarchy. the country. To respond to this, there can gradually improve their status On Indian women, he is holistic is an urgent need for Indian feminist in society. He appreciates Nehru for and intersectional, with a solid discourse to turn towards Lohia’s his liberal policy approach towards understanding of the Indian social vision for emancipation of Indian Indian women, but calls him a setting, especially of the caste system women, which will free them from “fanatic Brahmin” who wears a and its nexus with patriarchy, in the bondage of patriarchy, caste, “superficial liberal façade” while addition to the class factor. His and class. This is a huge challenge symptoms of orthodoxy still prevail thought transcends all fixed strands of not only for feminists and Lohiaite in Indian society. feminist theory, but would certainly socialists, but also for all others who enrich a feminist understanding of stand for realizing liberty, equality, Lohia also differs from radical the Indian setting. and fraternity in India not merely in a feminist thinking, which treats the We can say that Lohia is “a legal/formal sense, but in substantive two sexes as antithetical to each terms in everyday life. The question other, rejects patriarchy, and suggests socialist feminist of the Indian variety” because he emphasises is whether we are ready to take the dissociation of women from men plunge to reconstruct Indian society for their liberation while leaving ending not only capitalism and the socio-economic structures of patriarchy, but also the pernicious References dominance intact. He is at variance caste system for ensuring full gender Bondurant, Joan V (1964): Pacific Affairs, justice. Socialism in general is about Book Review, 37 (3), Autumn. with Marxist feminism in which the Krishna, Gopal (1968): “Ram Manohar Indian reality of caste does not matter effecting a speedy reconstruction of society along egalitarian lines. Lohia: An Appreciation”, Economic much and a focused struggle against & Political Weekly, 3 (26/28), Special patriarchy remains marginal. He also Likewise, Lohia’s vision of (Indian) Number. socialism is not about small recognises a class struggle could take Kumar, Anand (2010): “Understanding gradualist reformist changes, but Lohia’s Political Sociology: violent forms, breeding another kind about a complete transformation Intersectionality of Caste, Class, Gender of discrimination and domination in of Indian society – from a feudal- and Language”, Economic & Political society. Weekly, 45 (40). capitalist gender-unjust social order Lohia, Ram Manohar (1963): Marx, It is not easy to fully equate to a fully egalitarian and gender- Gandhi and Socialism (Hyderabad: Nava Lohia’s thoughts on Indian women just social order. He is in favour of Hind Publications). with any particular strand of feminist radical societal reconstruction – both – (1979): The Caste System (Hyderabad: theory and philosophy. Bondurant structural and cultural – by virtue of Ram Manohar Lohia Samata Vidyalaya Nyas), first published 1964. (1964: 324) describes him as an which women will become equal to – (1985): Wheel of History (Bombay: “irrepressible Indian socialist”, men in all respects. In sum, it can Sindhu Publications), first published 1955. but his thoughts on Indian women be said that Lohia is grounded in – (nd): Saptkranti (Seven Revolutions), are not akin to socialist feminism. Indian social reality in diagnosing published (in Hindi) by Radha Kant Yadav Lohia’s larger vision is to establish the multifarious problems of Indian (Patna: Hunkar Press). Satoskar, P S (nd): Lohia on Hinduism an egalitarian socialist society that women and in his vision and strategy (Bombay: Parivartan Prakashan), ensures full gender justice and for their emancipation. He stands reproduced from Lohia’s Fragments of eradicates gender blindness. His for full freedom for women. He World Mind (1950).. The article was earlier published in Economic & Political Weekly 14 JANATA, March 9, 2014 Without jobs, India’s demographic dividend will be a disaster

Jobs in India grew by just 50% of GDP. equal pay for equal work. We should 2.2% between 2010 and 2012. do the same — the difference in Economist Alakh N Sharma, director For the first time, agriculture’s wages is one of the main reasons for of the Institute of Human Development share in employment is going widespread labour unrest. and principal author of India Labour down in India. But those moving and Employment Report 2014, out of agriculture are migrating But can India afford to increase spoke with Rema Nagarajan about to low productivity employment. wages? why unemployment is rising, the Ideally, they should move into the people it hits hardest, manufacturing manufacturing sector. That’s what India seems to believe in being as a remedy and how competitiveness happened in most countries. But the competitive in the international goes beyond wages: manufacturing sector in India is just market by keeping wages low — that not robust enough to absorb them. is totally wrong. How serious is India’s unemployment? How has growth impacted In China, wages are up to two employment? and a half times those in India. Yet, Unemployment among the China is more competitive than India educated is very high. As people Employment growth was just in the international market. How do get more educated, unemployment’s 0.5% per annum from 2004-05 to they do that? only growing. It’s highest among 2011-12, the period that saw the women graduates at about 60%. highest growth of GDP by 8.5% per Wage cost is a small share of the After 10 years, 40% of all girls will annum. total cost of production. Wages as a be matriculates — but India has proportion of the total cost of organised the lowest female employment rate But for the first time in 2011-12, manufacturing is falling, from 47% along with Pakistan and Middle we’re seeing growth in the organised in 1981-82 to 25% in 2011-12. Eastern countries. employment sector. There’s also How you organise production, been a rise in wages, even rural casual infrastructural arrangements and wages. However, the proportion technological innovation are factors of informal employment in the that give you a competitive edge One-third of our unemployed organised sector actually increased — we don’t become competitive are graduates and above. If we from 41% in 1999-2000 to 58% in by saving on labour costs and don’t create enough jobs for 2011-12. So, there’s deterioration in impoverishing workers. them, we won’t be talking about a the quality of employment created. demographic dividend — it will be –TNN a demographic disaster. What is the effect of rising informal employment? Why aren’t enough jobs being Madhu Dandavate created? About 92% of India’s 470 million By workers are informal workers. B. Vivekanandan There’s overemphasis on services Informal employment is insecure, and neglect of the manufacturing poorly paid and has no social sector. The service sector provides security. There’s also a difference Price: Rs. 20/- only 26% employment but between wages of regular workers contributes 58% of GDP. We need to and informal or contract workers. increase the share of manufacturing The latter constitute one-third of Janata Trust in GDP. It’s currently 16% — workers in the manufacturing sector. D-15, Ganesh Prasad, compared to South East Asian Naushir Bharucha Marg, countries like China, Korea and In China, they’ve done away Grant Road (W), Indonesia, where the share is 40%- with the wage difference, mandating Mumbai 400 007. JANATA, March 9, 2014 15

Shatrugan PUCL welcomes the historic ShivaChauhan Kirti vs Union Singh of built India’ on the expansion of human rights law, and landmark rulingth of the principles evolved in ` the SC also held that it was open Supreme Court of 18 February, saying to the Tamil Nadu Government 2014 commuting to life sentence that the unexplained, undue to consider exercise of powers the death penalties awarded and inordinate delay of 11 years under sections 432 and 433 to Murugan, Santhan and in rejecting the commutation Criminal Procedure Code to Perarivalan, convicted in the petitions by the Executive would grant remission to the three Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. amount to torture, constituted prisoners if they approached This judgment of the`Shatrugan Supreme a violation of Art. 21, the right the government for premature Court,Chauhan and vs Union the 21stof India January, to life, and is ground enough to release or remission, by following 2014 judgment in commute the death sentences. the due procedure of law. By doing ’ marks so, the SC has demonstrated its The SC also rejected the most a watershed in the evolution of ability to stand statesmanlike preposterous argument of the death penalty jurisprudence in above the blood thirsty demands Attorney General of India, G E India and restores the primacy for retribution and revenge which Vahnavati, that there was “not a of a constitutional vision imbued has occupied public space and word of remorse” and that the with a sense of humanity and media coverage on death penalty three prisoners were “enjoying compassion. The ruling also cases in recent times. life, attending music concerts and emphasizes[the] brooding an horrorappreciation haunting of were not in any sort of agony”. the rightprisoner to life in inthe the condemned context of The SC’s ruling is a momentous The SC pointedly emphasized “cells for years” ruling for asserting that human that agony did not mean physical values and humane justice should torture and that in law, there as a consequence ultimately be the cornerstones of was no requirement for the of prolonged delay in deciding modern, constitutional India. We prisoners to prove suffering or mercy petitions. hope this will mark a significant to demonstrate the specific ill step towards eventually abolishing effects of imprisonment or agony The unanimous ruling the death penalty altogether from in prison. delivered by the Hon’ble Chief our law books. Justice of India, P. Sadasivam Continuing the trend of a and Justices RanjanPrabhakar Gogoi Sinha,and visionary, path breaking judicial V. Suresh, President, General Secretary, Peoples Union of Civil Liberties

This refers to JD(U) aside objections against the decision spokesperson KC Tyagi rightly put on file by the bureaucrats. raising concern on Sachin Bharat Ratna conventionally Tendulkar appearing in commercial- binds an awardee with some saint- advertisements even after being like traditions which may not be honoured with country’s highest practically possible to be followed civilian honour, this being perhaps in rest of long span of life of a young Janata Subscription the only such case amongst all the awardee. Annual Rs. : 260/- awardees of Bharat Ratna so far. Three Years : 750/- There were some unwritten norms, Now since the honour has been Demand Draft / Cheque on conventions and practices being done, it will be better for Sachin Mumbai Bank rightly followed for awarding Bharat Tendulkar if he himself graciously in favour of Ratna, one of these being to avoid surrenders Bharat Ratna to lead a honouring a person with nation’s life without any conventions which JANATA TRUST highest honour at a young age. should be followed by a Bharat D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 Unfortunately much hurry was shown Ratna awardee. Or else, Union by political rulers in taking decision government should officially advise to honour Sachin Tendulkar with Sachin Tendulkar not to appear in Bharat Ratna that too by brushing commercial advertisements. - Subhash Chandra Agrawal R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, March 9, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, March 9, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday March 12, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

Printed and Published by G.G. Parikh on behalf of Janata Trust. Printed at Mouj Printing Bureau, Khatau Wadi, Girgaum, Mumbai-400 004 and published at D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg (Sleater Road), Mumbai - 400 007. Established 1946 Price : Rupees Five

Vol. 69 No. 7 Third Front collapses March 16, 2014 S. Viswam

The run-up to the general elections communist parties were the first to brings out the worst and best in proclaim that if Jayalalithaa won 40 A visit to Pakistan politicians. And, perhaps for this very seats (out of 40 seats) in Tamil Nadu Kuldip Nayar reason, the most interesting periods in and Pondicherry, she could become India’s post-independence political prime minister without challenge. history are seen immediately before Though Jayalalithaa has jettisoned the communists, she has won an expected Role of Telanganain the voting. Also, the electoral scene changes all too frequently. Last week, ally. Mamata made a statement last K. S. Chalam we saw the attempts at forging fronts. week without anybody’s prodding or This week we are witnessing the pressure that she did not mind allying collapse of fronts and the emergence with Jayalalithaa and Uttar Pradesh Common Concerns about the of a different kind of electoral politics BSP leader Mayawati. Since Mamata Aam Aadmi Party in which old adversaries are becoming had earlier managed to secure the Uday Dandavate friends and new friends are parting blessings of Anna Hazare, her new company with one another. stance was noteworthy. How and why Anna chose Mamata to shower An economy that will meet The two communist parties are his blessings is not known, unless basic needs of all without trying to play a role in creating an his action was a throwback to his ecological ruin alternative to the Congress and the aversion to Arvind Kejriwal’s politics Bharat Dogra BJP. In that quest, they struck an and the popularity he is drawing for understanding with Jayalalithaa. This was supposed to be the beginning We witnessed near fantastical of the birth of a secular Third submission before the Supreme Front. However, within a week, the Court. Attorney General G. E. understanding faded - what happened Vahanvati and Additional Solicitor- Editor : to it, pray? - and the two communist General K. V. Viswanathan G. G. Parikh parties were holding the corpse of maintained that the reason why a still-born baby in their hands. An fresh elections had not been called Managing Editor : Guddi earlier informal get-together of like- 8in Delhi “is because it is possible D-15, Ganesh Prasad, minded parties, 11 in number, which that the Congress and the BJP Naushir Bharucha Marg, was formed in order to function as a may come together to form a separate bloc in parliament has also government.” Mumbai - 400 007. been quietly dissolved. –A. S. Panneerselvan, Email : [email protected] There has been a focus-shift in The Hindu another direction also. The two 2 JANATA, March 16, 2014 himself. So, now, we have some more Between the lines candidates projecting their suitability to occupy the prime minister’s chair. A visit to Pakistan Modi, Rahul Gandhi, Jayalalithaa and latest, Mamata. But the story Kuldip Nayar does not end there.

We have to take note of a few I was at Lahore when Pakistan The defence area has expanded more prime ministerial aspirants. defeated India in the Asia Cup to accommodate the rich and the Lalu Prasad again stressed his cricket match. There were upper middle class people. Here old ambition to become prime celebrations and firings in the air. the extreme disparities between the minister. He refused to be put off This is understandable because a rich and the poor are visible like any by the experience he has had in country which is one seventh of metro in India. spending time in the state prison for India feels elated by vanquishing it corruption. He is currently on bail. Punjab—Lahore is its capital— Where his political ambitions are in some field. Even otherwise, there concerned, there are no constraints is no love lost between the two. What remains the backbone of Pakistan. or restraints apparently. Then, we surprised me was the running theme Sindh is disturbed, primarily because have Nitish Kumar. In what way, in the talks about victory that India of ever quarrelling Shias and Sunnis. he wants to know, is he any the less has not accepted Pakistan. This is not Baluchistan has a national liberation suited to be PM? Indeed, compared true and politicians in Pakistan raise movement demanding autonomy. to the present hopefuls, his record this slogan to frighten the voters for During my five-day stay, I saw is better, since he has what we may their candidature. But why should pictures in newspapers and television call all-round political experience Pakistan seek recognition from channels of marchers from Queeta to as MP, Union Minister and Chief India for its identity is beyond my Islamabad to voice their demand for Minister, and a senior position in the comprehension. independence. It had taken them Janata Dal United. Let us not forget three months to reach Islamabad. Mulayam Singh Yadav who can When Prime Minister Atal Behari India is blamed for supplying money claim eligibility on par with Nitish! Vajpayee visited Lahore he assured and weapons to sustain insurgency Pakistan that it did not have to look in Baluchistan. The North Western Granted that we have prime for recognition because the country Frontier Province is too engaged ministerial talent in abundance, is its own identity. Vajpayee, still in fighting the Taliban from the but who is to bell the cat? It is not the most popular Indian in Pakistan, area adjoining Afghanistan to have enough to be suitable. The aspirant also went to the Minar-e-Pakistan, respite for development. has to be backed by a major alliance the place where the 1940 resolution which controls enough number for the creation of a separate Muslim I asked a leading lawyer: what of seats to dictate terms or apply state was passed in a Muslim League kept Pakistan together? He said pressure. Manmohan Singh became session. I too went there and heard straightaway: it was the military. PM since he was backed by the Vajpayee repeating the words that This may well be true. Yet I do not UPA. Earlier Vajpayee became solidarity and integrity of India was think that there can ever be another PM because he was backed by the coup. The process of democratic NDA. Modi is in the field with the dependent on the solidarity and governing is deepening all the time backing of the BJP which expects integrity of Pakistan. It is regretful to be the dominant partner of the that some extremist groups washed and it looks impossible to undo it. NDA. Rahul is the UPA candidate. the Minar-e-Pakistan to “purify” it People would come to the streets to Is it enough for Jayalalithaa and after his visit. resist a military dictator. Mamata to be backed by the Third Front alone? Stalin wanted to know Lahore has expanded eight times Nonetheless, the military counts how many divisions did the Pope since independence. The city is in the affairs of Pakistan. Prime have! In the case of any regional prosperous and shops are full of Minister Nawaz Sharif’s repeated leader aspiring to be PM, the front goods and buyers. Still there are calls for talks with India cannot many beggars roaming around. The be without the consultation of the (Continued on Page 14) famous Mall Road is “down town.” military. I believe it has drawn a JANATA, March 16, 2014 3 Lakshman rekha beyond which Role of Telanganain the government cannot go. In fact, if one were to follow the media in Pakistan, one would come to the K. S. Chalam conclusion that both newspapers and television channels stay away from The people of Telangana are of such efforts would become the any mention of the army. Otherwise celebrating the formation of a common legacy of all of us. One bold and strident, the media would not cross the Taliban path too. Nawas new state while the politicians are of the important burden of duty Sharif favours talks with them. quarrelling on different tactics of or obligation of the Telangana how to capture power. Yet, the whole intellectuals and writers appears Pakistan’s biggest problem is world is watching what is in store for to be: protecting and enriching terrorism. What was created to the people of the state who had a very the chaste Telugu and the folk (it harass India in Kashmir has become exciting historical background in the should be called people’s) so rich in a Frankenstein to trouble the country. recent past. One need not establish this state. They have an advantage Both civil and military authorities once again that they are a distinct now being an independent state to are harassed by the Taliban from people with a different experience. promote the people’s culture. Some Afghanistan. Adding to their attacks But, one should not forget that the linguists roughly say that Tamil and by the Taliban in Afghanistan is the mother tongue is either Telugu and/ Malayalam are the same except that home-grown group called Tehreek– or Dakhini. It seems the unique the accent and influence of Sanskrit e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). They can dakhini language is more influenced is more in the latter. Does it result strike at anytime, anywhere and kill by the alien or Indo-European group in an analogous situation with the the ones they want. Fear of terrorists than the Telugu unlike the Andhram formation of a new Telugu state? stalks the land. Lahore or, for that or classical Telugu of dominant Personally I am against such drift. matter Punjab is by and large safe. Seemandhra (it is an unsettled question to be debated). Some of A distinct identity is ascribed to It is said that state chief minister our friends used to contend that the state not only due to culture and Shahbaz Sharif has entered into the Andhras have taken loan words language, but also of the exuberant an understanding with the TTP from Telangana to enrich their lingua role of cultural troupes like Gaddar, and “rewards” it for sparing the franca, without looking at the fact Balakishan and others and writers province. But some Taliban are that the court language itself was an like Kaloji, Jayashanakr in the not bothered about a dialogue with offspring of Indo-Iranian. Though, Telangana movement. Nevertheless, central government. The lower it is the domain of the linguists to it is beyond that. The recently courts at Islamabad were attacked talk about it, as social observers it concluded conference on Socialism by suicide bombers even when both is necessary to know to what extent and Telangana in Hyderabad brought the government and the Taliban had the new generation would protect the out new visions before the leaders declared a one-month ceasefire. real Telangana people’s language or and builders of modern or new dialect spoken in the rural areas. The Telangana with social justice as an Pakistan had once declared Adivasis (tribes) of Telangana like agenda. The subjects of Socialism, Afghanistan to be part of its strategic the Gonds and several others have Social Democracy and Democratic depth. In a briefing to the press, their language identities that had Socialism as distinct categories are the army chief has reportedly told submerged in the dominant court known to many. But, if the people of the media about the change in language/Telugu, might get some the new state wanted to build within the policy. There was no strategic reprieve now. the framework of the Constitution depth, he has conveyed. Maybe, sincerely, unlike others, there are this is because of Pakistan’s inward- Though, some government sufficient provisions under Articles looking policy. The country faces a tribal institutes, and departments 38 and 39 and the preamble to guide host of problems. The lengthening of languages in universities are them. The state had a chequered shadow of fundamentalist is only doing significant work, the new history with one of the oldest socio- one of them, however important. state would definitely throw some economic revolutions to liberate the (Continued on Page 12) light on this problem. The outcomes people from all kinds of dominance 4 JANATA, March 16, 2014 before and after independence. The slogans of social justice and surpluses or union government In fact, the people of the state are economic equity are to be analysed in grants or by foreign investments. well entrenched in the quagmire the context of democracy, socialism It is also possible by the voluntary of several struggles and are aware and development. The democratic contributions and sacrifices made of the need for a different kind of methods used in the movement to by the proletariat of the former development model inclusive of achieve separate state by integrating communist countries. Telangana all social groups popularly voiced all marginalised groups in a region had hidden treasure in the form of as Samjika Telangana. The role of that has witnessed armed struggles, real estate property in Hyderabad the left parties in the past and in the is not a mean achievement. It is city that belonged to the locals. It recent separate battle is remarkable precisely for this reason, the new was alleged to have been slowly and that might remain as mainstay state has a historical responsibility appropriated by outsiders, which of people’s emancipation. to make it a success otherwise; the could now be harnessed, is sufficient experiment would be looked down to fund reconstruction of Telangana. The world had witnessed different as a failed model. The world cannot However, it all depends on how the kinds of experiments with Socialism, afford this now. people look at the situation and the Communism, Capitalism, Mixed kind of upcoming government that Economy, and they are sufficiently The population of the state is might take reins of power and its echoed here. Further, they have around four crores . This is much ideological commitment. also seen the experiments made higher than any of the 26 odd Latin with the above ideas in different American countries (except Brazil The investment environment as states of India. In fact, one of the and, Mexico) where different kinds projected by some is not vitiated reasons that hastened the process of of models of development are and therefore the brand value of bifurcation according to some is the in vogue now. Cuba, Venezuela, Hyderabad is to be marketed not only type of development pursued in the Bolivia, Peru and few others where for the city but also for other districts. combined state and in Hyderabad the socio-economic conditions The district per capita income of city. Neo-liberalism does not care required them to adopt a variant Adilabad (Rs32271), Nizamabad for your internal friction; it aims at of the kind of economy India had (Rs30608), Mahabubnagar surplus and moves on wherever it is about three decades ago. It is called (Rs29888) and Warangal (Rs28953) possible. If there are any aberrations as socialism by some and social is lower than the combined state like poverty, inequality, etc they can democracy by others. But people are average. The industrial output is also be tackled, the protagonists argue, interested in Democratic Socialism lower in Warangal, Mahabubnagar through safety nets. This has created as in Venezuela where the means of and Nizamabad within the Telangana social upheaval; regional tensions production is under the control of state. The Hyderabad city region has and political breakdowns not only in the state and workers are controlling squeezed most of the resources of the Telangana in Andhra Pradesh, India, the major chunk of the economy. Is neighbouring districts and did not but in several third world countries. it possible here? allow any investment to percolate to The creation of three new states often the backward areas. If the agricultural cited in debates is different, as they The socio-economic conditions income of Karimnagar, Medak, were small adivasi/ tribal clusters in Telangana in terms of low Nalgonda, Warangal and pockets separated from the main states. But, literacy rate, unique caste groups of other districts is compared with the new state has a historical role to and Adivasis, who according to the agricultural output per hectare, play, given its past history, social some activists, do not own property it is only Rs.20200 in Telangana composition and resource base to might pose serious complications. compared to Rs. 33000 in coastal show that it is different. It cannot Then who are the owners of land Andhra. The cropped area in both the afford to fail, lest the future record and other assets to mobilise for regions is almost the same 50 million one more betrayal. the development of the state? The Hcs (53 in Coastal). But Telangana existence of natural resources has exhausted its ground water The peoples’ struggles including alone is not sufficient to bring in through well irrigation. This will the left in Telangana are very development; we need capital and be a serious threat to its sustenance significant issues to be reflected human resources. It should come as phenomena of 21st century. either from the state out of its own (Continued on Page 15) JANATA, MarchFebruary 16, 16, 2014 2014 155 6 JANATA, March 16, 2014 Common Concerns about the Aam Aadmi Party Uday Dandavate In the spirit of addressing concerns of some of the Aam Aadmi Party supporters, I invited people to express their views online. Here are my comments on some of the key points that came up during our interactions. 1. Why is Aam Aadmi Party so is learning from its mistakes and has organizations for the sake of votes”. impatient in going national? It gained confidence from its successes. Arvind Kejriwal also clarified, should have first set example of ““Khap Panchayats are a group of For the Congress party, which good governance in Delhi before people who come together. There is is used to propping up minority going national. no bar on people to assemble in this governments, and arm-twisting them country … (But) whenever they take Since the beginning of the anti- into submission, the experience a wrong decision, whenever they corruption movement the focus and of supporting a non-submissive take an illegal decision, they ought appeal of AAP has been pan-India. AAP government was indeed an to be punished.” Unlike the All Assam Student Union unexpected experience. Instead or Telagu Desam Party, Aam Aadmi of offering the Congress party Banning castist or communal party was not formed with a state protection from their corrupt deeds organizations is not a solution to level mandate to protect local pride. the AAP government provided the eradicating inequality in Indian Most AAP supporters voted for Delhi citizens a quick trailer of their society. The difficult path of social the party because they want AAP earnest desire to keep the promises reforms chosen by people like to change the culture of politics in made during the campaign and to Ambedkar, Jyotiba and Savitribai India. start the process of punishing the Phule and more recently by Narendra AAP did not get a mandate to corrupt, howsoever powerful they Dabholkar stands greater chance of govern Delhi. AAP won 28 seats might be. success in challenging the orthodoxy whereas BJP won 31. Once it and rallying progressive forces. became clear that BJP was unable 2. Supporting the Khap Panchayats A secular democracy must fight to form a government. AAP took and Somnath Bharati’s midnight regressive ideas through public the opportunity to use a brief stint in activism have revealed Aam Aadmi education. While several progressive the government to test its concepts party’s regressive social outlook. minded people were initially alarmed by the reports of AAP support for in participatory democracy, despite This controversy surrounding Khap panchayats, a closer look at criticism from both the media and Khap Panchayats was raked up after what Yogendra Yadav and Arvind a section of its own supporters. Yogendra Yadav’s statement to the Kejriwal actually said clarifies their Rather than letting the assembly be press. It is important to understand secular and progressive credentials. dissolved after the BJP declined to what he said. “All castes tend to have form a government, AAP decided their social organizations, which Likewise, midnight activism by to treat Delhi as a laboratory for do internal dispute resolution. We Somnath Bharati against alleged sex experimenting the concept of certainly acknowledge the right of and drug trade in Delhi created similar Swaraj, knowing fully well that the all such organizations to exist. They outrage amongst progressive Indians. experiment would last only as long have a right to exist and perform a The claims of African women have as the Congress party would allow legitimate role because we do not not been verified yet. The videos from it to last or until AAP leadership want every social dispute to go to the media and those released by the decided it was time to extend the the court of law. The problem arises AAP do not support the claims of the experiment to a larger canvass when the dispute resolution is done women that Bharati led a mob or an - India. 49 days was not a long through coersion…when the law of assault on them. The matter has been enough time to govern in a traditional land is broken or when killings and investigated through independent sense, but it was enough time to murders are defended in the name of and impartial judicial inquiry and a discover the challenges of building some adjectives like honor killing, report has recently been submitted an organization and cultivating a etc. We are absolutely opposed to the Lt. Governor of Delhi. Most disciplined cadre to translate beliefs to compromising any coercion, local citizens attribute police’s into action. When AAP gets a clear violation of law or any killing.” refusal to follow Somnath Bharati’s mandate to govern Delhi, it will be He clarified that “AAP will not fall orders to connivance between better prepared and wiser because it before the feet of these community the police and local drug and sex JANATA, March 16, 2014 7 trade. If, if the inquiry proves quickly apologized for the acts of arms only as a last resort to re-claim Somnath Bharati or other people AAP volunteers. The fact isthat Aam their dignity. It is obvious that the guilty, they should face the legal Aadmi Party is a product of people’s same anger against the oppressive consequences. restlessness with the corrupt system state machinery is driving weaker and AAP leadership is determined sections of the society to the AAP. 3. Recent violent spat between to train its impatient cadres in non- They perceive in the AAP a hope the supporters of AAP and the violent Satyagraha. for dismantling the corrupt system, BJP in Delhi and Lucknow makes which is thriving with the connivance people wonder if at all there is any 4. In its ranks Aam Aadmi of both the BJP and the Congress. difference between the Congress, party has supporters of Naxalite the BJP and the AAP with regard movement. If AAP were to occupy 5. AAP leaders only know how to hooliganism in politics. power, naxalism will grow. to protest, how will they govern Indulgence in violence is On the contrary, if Aam Aadmi India? unacceptable. Keeping the cadres Party were to play a key role in The ruling party and the opposition in check is the responsibility of shaping public policies, the Naxalite share equal responsibilities in making political leaders. The apostle of movement will recede. There is a democracy work. Unchecked peace - Mahatma Gandhi also had a direct link between unchecked governance, howsoever efficient, to suspend his agitation when it exploitation of the poor by the state will inevitably lead to unchecked took a violent turn. AAP did not sit machinery and growth of Naxalism. misuse of power. The emergency silently after violence broke out (as When the government machinery era during 1975-77 has proved Modi did during anti-Muslim riots failed to serve the weakest sections that in the absence of opposition in Gujarat), nor did AAP justify the of the society and instead became Indira Gandhi’s administration violence as Rajeev Gandhi did the an exploitative machine, the poor committed atrocities that could be massacre of Sikhs in 1984. Kejriwal and the landless were driven to compared to atrocities committed by dictators worldwide. Shaping Besides, it was clear that the Congress had all but lost the general election. The national discourse through dialogue AAP and its convener needed to revise their strategy, which they did by expanding and dissent is a critical aspect of their field of vision to include the BJP, and especially its prime ministerial candidate. The BJP had reaccommodated B.S. Yeddyurappa, whom the party outsted citing establishing a clear vision and a corruption, and, of course, the elephant in the room was Mr. Modi’s corporate consensus for national development. links. The Congress party through its dynastic politics and Narendra Mr. Modi’s opponents, including the Congress, attacked Mr. Modi relentlessly and yet spated him where he was possibly most vulnerable. Mr. Modi through his authoritarian style Kejriwal’s trademark deredevilry meant that he would go where the others have only facilitated fast decline of didn’t. democracy in India. On the other hand, within a very short time of The AAP convener has done the smartest thing he could by bombarding its founding the AAP is already Mr. Modi with daily posers on his alleged Ambani-Adani connection. Mr. Kejriwal has brought in Mukesh Ambani via the KG Basin gas pricing and dictating the national discourse for he has wondered at the meteoric rise of Gautam Adani coinciding with the clean politics and setting public Chief Ministership of Mr. Modi. And he has done this in NaMo’s Gujarat, policy benchmarks for other state thereby earning enormous credibility. governments to follow. Mr. Modi has so far been censured on the 2002 anti-Muslim violence. But The AAP represents a true this has become an overplayed card, with the BJP being able to cite a favourable dissenting voice of India and is Gujarat lower court ruling on Zakia Jafri’s complaint against Mr. Modi and 61 providing provocation for alternative others. That the appeal process in the case is still to be exhausted is evident models of development. Regardless enough. Yet the ‘‘clean chit’’ has become the most potent weapon in the Modi campaign’s armoury. The ``clean chit’’ has also been seized by political parties of who will form the government in styling themselves as ``secular’’ but nonetheless wanting to keep the door open Delhi, AAP will be in a best position for future business with Mr. Modi. to serve as the major opposition party that can hold the feet of the Mr. Kejriwal, on the other hand, revels in his isolation. He is who he is because ruling party and the administration he has the audacity not to want to do political business. If there is an element of exaggeration in what Mr. Kejriwal says, it does not matter because electoral politics to fire and engage the imagination is shaped to a great extent by public perception. of everyday people. The AAP is the only party will keep the interest of –Vidya Subrahmaniam common citizens at heart. The AAP 8 JANATA, March 16, 2014 has made the commitment to engage famous quote “You can fool all the 8. AAP has a narrow program citizens in dictating public policies people some of the time, and some focused on corruption. Governance and in serving as watchdogs against of the people all the time, but you is more complex than just blaming corruption. cannot fool all the people all the time. the corrupt. Corruption touches every aspect 6. With people like Medha Patkar 7. AAP is only an urban phenomenon. of life. At the same time the AAP in its ranks AAP comes across Howsoever compelling its mission leadership is cognizant of the need as anti-development, whereas of eradication corruption, the rural for social reforms and sustainable Narendra Modi has the ability population has not yet bought into and fair development. A number of to cut red tape and implement AAP’s vision. professionals who are drawn to the projects efficiently. The need for a party that will AAP are engaged in studying models Greed for consuming nature’s not sell itself out to the corrupt is a of governance that have helped resources and scant respect for pan-India dream. Based on previous countries around the world bring the rights of native population, experiences - such as the movement prosperity to its citizens through has led humanity to the brink for Total Revolution launched by participatory democracy. Young Jayaprakash Narayan in mid-1970s, of ecological disaster. National volunteers who have taken a break and the anti-corruption movement Alliance for People’s Movement from careers involving state of art led by V.P. Sigh, it is clear that (NAPM) an alliance of grass root knowledge and technologies manage when an icon of hope catches the level organizations who champion AAP campaign. While focusing on imagination of the masses, craving the need for a just and sustainable defeating the corrupt Cngress and for getting out of the abyss spreads development has been instrumental BJP AAP is committed to harnessing fast. It is a fact that with the fast in ensuring that megalomaniac leading edge ideas and technologies policy makers are restrained from declining credibility of the Congress party, Narendra Modi appeared to establish a new development upsetting ecological balance and model. forced to respect the human rights on the political scene of India as of communities being displaced an alternative. However, as the AAP’s support base comes to by mega projects. The NAPM has anti-corruption movement gained a large extent from the younger joined the AAP campaign and has momentum and ordinary citizens, generation. The first time voters in offered to serve as the watchdog traditionally averse to participating Delhi formed the core constituency of AAP’s policies to help make in politics, took to streets to assert of the AAP. This generation is less India a world leader in sustainable their point of view, the Aam Aadmi concerned about pre-conceived development. Just as without Party’s bold stand against the corrupt models and ideologies and more Martin’s Luther King Jr. movement establishment began to resonate with eager to eradicate corruption and it would have been hard to envision people’s simmering anger. People give their imagination a chance. African American population of the realize that both the Congress and They have access to the Internet US getting equal rights, or without the BJP are a part of the same system. and have got accustomed to the Ralf Nadar’s activism it would have A number of police officers, Open Source model of contributing been difficult to imagine passing who traditionally have great their own ideas for a larger good. of laws for protection of consumer respect for a clear line of authority, Crowd sourcing has become a rights, watchful activism of Medha have begun to flock tothe BJP. reliable method of finding patterns in Patkar and her colleagues from On the other hand, a number of people’s needs and aspirations, more NAPM has made India cognizant social workers, representatives of reliable than any expert opinion. of the need for environmentally NGOs, intellectuals, entrepreneurs, In this background the youth are responsible policies. On the other professionals, academicians and less loyal to centralized control and hand Narendra Modi has surrendered creative people are drawn to the delivery mechanism and more tuned his administration to the interests of idea of disruptive innovation offered into the fuzzy space of collaboration a small group of industrialists. He by the AAP. The results of Delhi and co-creation.As long as the has diverted natural resources to help elections have demonstrated that intent to harness the imagination them conduct their business without AAP’s appeal cuts across caste and and energy of youth and wisdom interruption. A large crowd gathered religious divisions. Its message has of the honest citizens remains at in Ahmedabad recently to listen to already reached rural India. As the the heart of AAP’s agenda it may Arvind Kejriwal has made Narendra campaign picks up AAP’s prospects be destined for successes beyond Modi very nervous. He must be will improve just as they did during anyone’s imagination, because the remembering Abraham Lincoln’s the campaign for Delhi elections. awakening of nation’s conscience JANATA, March 16, 2014 9 will define AAP’s future role in serving the nation. An economy that will meet basic needs of all without ecological ruin 9. Instead of exercising his power as the chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Bharat Dogra resorted to street demonstrations in Delhi causing hardships to the citizens of Delhi. Keeping in view the perpetuation this basic requirement should be Street demonstrations are a part of large-scale poverty and the voluntarily and happily given up to of Delhi life. Every political party colossal ecological ruin wrought by more needy persons, or else (if it is worldwide resorts to mobilizing the existing economic system, the possible to do this entirely honestly) public opinion through street creation of an alternative economic held as a trusteeship to be used for demonstrations. The position of the system has become one of the most weaker sections or for other equally Delhi Chief Minister is different urgent issues of our time. worthy causes such as the protection from other Chief Ministers in India. of environment, preventing cruelty The police do not report to the Chief For all households a basic right to animals et al. Minister, Delhi Assembly also has to and a basic duty should be stressed. seek permission of the home ministry through the LT. Governor before The basic needs of all families This is the value system that enacting a law. The Congress chief should be met. In other words should be spread among as many minister Sheila Dixit campaigned everyone should be able to get clean people as possible to lay the for changing this situation without drinking water, adequate and healthy foundations of a good economy. success through her entire ten year- nutrition, access to basic health and The emphasis on voluntary giving long tenure as the Chief Minister. education facilities as well as to such up of excess wealth and income Recognizing the strong grass root clothing and housing as will at least does not mean that the government level support the AAP has generated protect them from weather extremes. will not use various levels of force to amongst the people of Delhi, Arvind Further, to meet these basic needs, obtain the excess resources of those Kejriwal used a public venue to bring the household should not be forced who refuse to give it up on their focus on an issue that remained a to carry out work which destroys own. However while conceding this part of futile backroom negotiations health. right to the government we should during Sheila Dixit’s tenure. Rather nevertheless stress the voluntary than becoming a puppet holding Having met these basic needs, a aspect so that appropriate values a Chief Minister position at the household should further feel free can be created among the people on mercy of Congress high command, to add such small and inexpensive a large scale. Arvind Kejriwal demonstrated that items of consumption which will he was irrepressible when it comes bring some comfort and colour in The propagation of these values to exercising his powers as the Chief their life, and satisfy some strongly Minister, to serve his constituents. should be based on facts and logic, felt special needs which are not instead of rhetoric and dogma. It is socially harmful. 10. Arvind Kejriwal is a polarizing necessary to keep our consumption figure. He likes to point accusing Having reached this level of within limits to save environment, finger at people, instead of taking basic needs plus small comforts, and there is no better gift that we everyone along. however, it is equally important for can leave for our children and India is not in a mood to a family to voluntarily and happily grandchildren than to give them a collaborate with the corrupt. People stop yearning for more. In particular clean and safe environment. Aspects have lost faith in existing system a family should strive to avoid as such as these which are likely to to deliver justice and want AAP to much as possible the consumption touch a soft corner of ordinary take a bold stand and demolish the of those goods whose adverse impact people should be emphasised. corrupt system mercilessly. People on (individual and social) health and have a real bad attitude about the environment is well known. It is often believed that it will established political system and be difficult to convince people to Arvind Kejriwal’s no nonsense style Any income and wealth that consume less. Actually the desire of reflects the mood of the nation. a family may have in excess of many people to lead a simpler, less 10 JANATA, March 16, 2014 consumerist life style is often grossly reasonable use... But think, I beseech noticed in the three remaining underrated. The Times of India you, of the produce of England, the children. Far from squabbling, reported on August 13, 1996 that even workshop of the world, and will you they seemed to seek out and enjoy in that heartland of consumerism, the not be bewildered, as I am, at the each other’s company - although USA, a lot of people are questioning thought of the mass of things which they clearly believed they were the values of consumerism- “Last no sane man could desire, but which suffering. Their mother Carol said, summer, the Merck Family Fund our useless toil makes - and sells?” “All sorts of things we had kept commissioned a nationwide public putting off doing, got done. Bikes opinion survey on consumption, In a recent article in The Daily got mended, book shelves sorted, materialism and the environment. Telegraph (October 26, 1995) Nicola rooms tidied, hamsters cleaned out. It found Americans questioning Tyrer says, “Among the sons and Tanya and Ashley started to play such seemingly entrenched values daughters of the war generation, things together, like scrabble and as financial security and career there is a creeping suspicion that sevens, they even read stories.” Their success. Ninety-one per cent of many of the inventions acclaimed father David was most impressed by those interviewed agreed that “the as lightening life’s burdens may the peace. He felt that having to ‘buy now, pay later’ attitude causes not be quite what they seem; that, plan their own entertainment did the many of us to consume more than paradoxically, they could be adding children good. He said, “If it weren’t we need.” More significantly, they to our workload or subtly destroying for the fact that I’d be lynched, I’d were acting on their growing unease things we hold dear. Take the washing throw all the televisions away.” with overconsumption. Asked if machine, now a fixture in more than during the last five years they had eight out of 10 British households. These examples indicate that voluntarily taken steps to make How many women find themselves if an adequate effort is made, it less money, 28 per cent said yes. filling and emptying it every day as should be possible to convince many “We were shocked at this particular fashion-conscious children change people to reduce their consumption finding”, says the fund’s executive from one clean outfit into another on voluntarily. Jeremy Seabrook writes, director, Betsy Taylor “In the focus a whim? Emptying the dishwasher “Politicians in the West insist that the groups people displayed a real now falls solely on the woman in one thing that is sure to guarantee hunger to simplify their lives. Once most households, while 50 years electoral defeat is to talk about they started talking, many didn’t ago, washing up was a chore shared radical change, about renunciation, want to stop.” The No. 1 reason among the family. Meanwhile, about lowering the standard of they gave was the desire for a more television and the microwave have living. This is, I believe a mistake.” balanced life.” joined forces in many homes to drive out the family meal as each He explains, “The truth is that In a survey by the British Social member eats when he or she likes. human resources are as vital a Research Council (during the Children who have television sets component of our growth and early 1970s), a good home life and and personal computers in their development as monetary ones; and contented outlook were rated as bedrooms may indeed fight less, it is this simple lesson which needs important by more people than the but in their isolation are possibly to be relearned by a West which can quantity of consumer goods they forgoing vital lessons in tolerance price everything and know the true had. and play.” value of nothing. If the people of the West were to be awakened to this - In fact for quite some time some Further this article in the Daily to obvious - truth, just imagine how social critics have been trying to Telegraph gives the example of a they might become freed from their articulate the growing unease of six-member British family which addictive devotion to the marketed people at having too many consumer has nine TV sets and was asked to compensations and consolations items which do not really add to switch off all televisions for three which they must buy to alleviate their utility. William Morris, English days. The eldest 17-year old child their value-added unhappiness! And artist and poet did this as early as was so appalled by the suggestion once this happened, how much more 1876 - “Wealth is what Nature gives that she simply refused to join generous they would become in their us and what a reasonable man can the experiment. However, clear desire to share with the poor of the make out of the gifts of nature for his behaviour improvements were earth!” JANATA, March 16, 2014 11

“They will rediscover all the powers to restrain individuals from beyond this should be regarded things that human beings can make excessive consumption as well as as not only unnecessary but also and do and create and invent and wealth accumulation. undesirable. give freely to each other - things that have been enclosed, marketed and To meet the needs and small In particular it should be possible sold back to us in the West. They comforts of all people, the private to avoid a lot of unnecessary activity will learn, not how little you can and public sector should be relating to transport and advertising. do without a lot of money, but how combined together in a creative way, The base of the economy should be providing as much creative space much you can do with very little, villages which are self-sufficient to for small scale private entrepreneurs which is the valuable instruction a large extent in meeting many of as possible while also maintaining which the poor of the world can their basic needs. In addition these a significant government presence offer them. This does not mean villages should be able to meet most in heavy industries, public health, impoverishment in any way : it of the food needs of nearby towns transport and communication and a means a lesser reliance on the market and cities. Hence the transport few other areas. place for the satisfaction of need, expenses of basic needs can be reduced very substantially. thereby releasing material resources However both public and for those whose absolute most basic private sector industry have to be William Morris wrote about the needs go unanswered each day. What responsible towards strong public prevailing method of distribution a life-giving act of generosity that interest groups representing the that it “is full of waste, for it employs would be.” interests of consumers and the whole armies of clerks, travellers, interests of environment protection. Well-to-do households need to shopmen, advertisers and what In addition their labour policy should have no fears that a less profligate not, merely for the sake of shifting be based on welfare. perception of basic needs will money from one person’s pocket to reduce their happiness. Instead Agriculture should be in the another’s; ...” This waste has been it offers them a real chance to hands of small farmers cultivating noted by many observers, but it has increase their happiness as the small plots of land of around 2 to been difficult to curb it. However pretentious, transient happiness of 10 acres each, depending on the in an economy where most of the more and more material acquisitions productivity and availability of land. production is confined to basic is replaced with the real and lasting If they voluntarily choose to work needs, and most of the basic needs happiness of deeply affectionate and as a cooperative or collective, they are locally produced, it is clearly caring human relationships. should be free to do so. Or while possible to make this saving. Let retaining their individual identity, me hasten to add that both large- A reduction of material they can take up cooperative and scale heavy industry and trade acquisitions is hence not a time collective action at various levels. across longer distances, including of mortification but instead an international trade, will continue opportunity for a more meaningful A creative competition among to exist even in this system but to a life of diverse interests. As we farming and industrial units should much smaller extent. move away from the greed for be encouraged regarding energy use more material acquisitions, we’ve efficiency, environmental protection Similarly advertising will not be time, resources and opportunities methods, quality of products, etc., needed for a lot of goods, as in a for more meaningful pursuits - and rewards given to those who largely self-reliant local economy, creative work of various kinds and achieve good results. consumers and producers know above all improvement of human each other. In any case there is a relationships, with special emphasis Growth should cease to be an clear need for redefining the role of on reducing distress all around us. essential objective of the economy. advertising and sales tactics. The objective is to meet the basic The role of the government is to needs (and if possible the small It is important to reconsider what extend a helping hand in spreading comforts) of all people and also to is good salesmanship. Ability to sell this value system, ensuring the some extent the materials needed even the products of most dubious availability of basic needs to all for repairing environmental damage utility has come to be regarded as people and then using its various already done. Economic activity good salesmanship. This should be 12 JANATA, March 16, 2014 replaced by a different definition - on largely self-sufficient villages providing creative and satisfactory good salesmanship means taking a which have small-scale farmers and employment compared to the good product wherever it is really crafts persons supported by a few existing economy. In addition it is needed. The present-day distorted small industries in nearby small also capable of checking ecological definition of efficient salesmanship towns and mixed rural-urban areas. ruin, including meeting the most and advertising pushes too many low Almost all villagers have at least vexing requirement of reducing utility products on consumers who some resource-base, and there is a the greenhouse gases the extent do not really need them. This is bad great deal of equality. Probably the recommended by the International for environment, equally bad for the ratio of the income of the lowest 20 Panel on Climate Change in 1991. objective of meeting the basic needs per cent to the highest 20 per cent It is possible for such an economy of all. Advertising has a legitimate is not more than 1:2 or even less. to meet these stiff environmental role to play in giving easy to read, This is supported by heavy industry requirements even while meeting the nice to hear, fun to watch but at the and long-distance trade but their needs of all because most production same time also accurate and proper role is much smaller than today. activity is confined to village units information about products which The main emphasis is on meeting using very low amounts of fossil fulfil real needs. When it crosses the basic needs of all people, and fuels and conditions are more this limit and particularly when it a few small comforts as well. This conducive for decentralised removal uses life-style images to sell a lot of economy is much more capable of of energy sources. low utility, sometimes even harmful (Continued from Page 3) goods as being part of a desirable What disappointed me most in narrative before partition—the life-style, then the very success of Lahore was the absence of protests Hindu India and the Muslim this advertising is damaging for against human rights violations. Pakistan—has not changed. Deep society as it promotes wasteful Liberal voices are hardly heard. down it is the same thinking that affluence. Nobody dares mentioning the killing religion identifies the nations. of Punjab governor Salman Taseer As far as possible the scale of who voiced his opposition to the Even after 67 years since production should be decided in blasphemy laws. independence India has not been favour of small scale production able to implant secularism as and cottage scale production, even Back home, as many as 69 firmly as it has done in the case though as I’ve said earlier, the Kashmiri students at Meerut from of democracy. Pakistan has little need for large-scale production the Vivekanand University were minority problem because the ethnic in a few areas is conceded. For suspended for cheering the Pakistani cleansing in the country has been meeting many basic needs small- cricket team. They were first booked substantial. Therefore, the quarrels scale production is capable of for sedition. The suspension evoked are confined only to the Sunnis and providing more colourful diversity, so much criticism that the students Shias. The Ahmedias, declared non- more creativity, more flexibility, had to be taken back. However, this Muslims, bear the brunt and their more employment, meeting more indicates the mindset on Kashmiris graves are being dug to throw out specific needs, providing more as far as India is concerned. job satisfaction, reducing waste the remains. and ecological ruin, strengthening The authorities which suspended community ties, better utilising the students were either a bigoted As for relations between India and existing skills including those of lot or a set of people who believed Pakistan, the hostility has worn off, old and infirm people. However that they would be applauded for giving way to a desire to befriend small-scale producers will also their anti-Pakistani step. Nothing India. Were there to be relaxation be required to remain responsible like that happened. There was no of visa, the visitors from Pakistan to the consumer and environment reaction and even the media inured would come in thousands. This holds movements, and abide by the laws to sensationalize, did nothing beyond good for India as well. The problem of labour welfare. reporting the university’s step. at this end is that the extremist fringe represented by the Jammat-e-Islami In other words our vision of Both incidents, the celebrations and Hafeez Sayedd is taken as the an alternative economy is based and suspensions, emphasize the prevalent mood in Pakistan. JANATA, March 16, 2014 13

With Best Compliments from

Well Wishers 14 JANATA, March 16, 2014 Klling of security personnel

The PUCL condemns the killing It is very important that Adivasi houses destroyed due to the violence of 16 security personnel, including groups like the Adivasi Mahasabha, by Salwa Judum cadres, operating 11 CRPF personnel, 4 policemen Sarva Samaj and other representative with the support of the state. Despite and a civilian, in a land mine blast organisations of Adivasis need to be the Supreme Court’s orders they followed by indiscriminate firing by included in the talks to end violence, have not got justice, and the state Maoists at Tongpal village in Sukma apart from the two sides, the Maoists continues to be in contempt of the district of Chhattisgarh on 11.3.2014. and Government. orders of the Supreme Court. PUCL regrets the loss of lives in the latest incident, which is part of We would once again like to We would like to point out a continuing and seemingly endless reiterate that the middle ground that there are sufficient number of series of bloody and violent attacks in the peace discourse needs to studies of the National Planning and counter attacks by security forces be restored, which also has been Commission which have pointed out and Maoists in the state. a casualty in this war because that the only solution to dealing with of the “`with us’ or `against us’” the Maoist issue is land distribution, The unending spiral of violence Government policy in the affected implementation of the Forest Rights is what concerns us most for it has area. It is only mediation by a Act, acknowledging the rights of led to the killings and maiming of group of concerned and independent the tribals to forest and to stop thousands of tribals who have been citizens which can take the process mindless plundering of the natural caught in the cross fire. We are of peace and justice forward. resources in the tribal areas which clear that under no circumstances have destroyed the livelihoods can violence be justified. But The most tragic part of the spirals and habitats of the tribal people. our response cannot stop at mere of violence is that apart from the The best way to restore faith in condemnation. deaths of scores of security personnel democracy is by integrating human and Maoist cadres in the numerous rights, equity and social justice The PUCL would like to reaffirm offensives and counter-offensives, considerations into all government its position that the only way out thousands of innocent tribals and policies, plans and programmes and of the present context of vicious villagers have paid a heavy price. abandon militaristic solution. violence is for the Government to They have been subjected to severe initiate a process of unconditional human rights violations at the The PUCL, through this press ceasefire, which could end hostilities hands of security and police forces, release appeals to both the security on both sides and create the ground implicated and arrested in false forces as also the Maoist forces for talks. We appeal to the Maoists prosecutions and spent years in jails to immediately announce an also to agree to an unconditional without trial. Hundreds of tribals unconditional ceasefire, stop armed ceasefire and engage in talks. have been killed, women raped and engagements and to engage in talks Dr. V. Suresh, National General Secretary, Prof. Prabhakar Sinha, National President, Dr. Binayak Sen, National Vice-President and President, Chhattisgarh Sudha Bharadwaj, General Secretary, Chhattisgarh

(Continued from Page 2) Janata Subscription Annual Rs. : 260/- that can command enough seats to so many are saying so many things? Three Years : 750/- form the government will only be No front has yet taken off and no Demand Draft / Cheque on in the position to get him the throne. front shows signs of doing so. Mumbai Bank Right now, it is a free-for-all in the in favour of Which brings us back to the prime ministerial race. May the best JANATA TRUST question we raised at the outset. candidate win! D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Where is the Third Front of which Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 JANATA, March 16, 2014 15 Landmark ruling

PUCL welcomes the historic and not mean physical torture and that in procedure of law. By doing so, the landmark ruling of the Supreme law, there was no requirement for SC has demonstrated its ability to Court of 18th February, 2014 the prisoners to prove suffering or stand statesmanlike above the blood commuting to life sentence the to demonstrate the specific ill effects thirsty demands for retribution and death penalties awarded to Murugan, of imprisonment or agony in prison. revenge which has occupied public Santhan and Perarivalan, convicted space and media coverage on death in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination Continuing the trend of a penalty cases in recent times. case. This judgment of the Supreme visionary, path breaking judicial Court, and the 21st January, 2014 expansion of human rights law, the The SC’s ruling is a momentous judgment in `Shatrugan Chauhan vs SC also held that it was open to the ruling for asserting that human Union of India’ marks a watershed Tamil Nadu Government to consider values and humane justice should in the evolution of death penalty exercise of powers under sections ultimately be the cornerstones of jurisprudence in India and restores 432 and 433 Criminal Procedure modern, constitutional India. We the primacy of a constitutional vision Code to grant remission to the three hope this will mark a significant imbued with a sense of humanity prisoners if they approached the step towards eventually abolishing and compassion. The ruling also government for premature release the death penalty altogether from emphasizes an appreciation of or remission, by following the due our law books. the right to life in the context of “[the] brooding horror haunting Prabhakar Sinha, V. Suresh, the prisoner in the condemned cells President, General Secretary Peoples Union of Civil Liberties for years” as a consequence of prolonged delay in deciding mercy (Continued from Page 4) petitions. in future, if the aquifers are not The unanimous ruling delivered replenished. by the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, P. Sadasivam and Justices Modernisation and diversification Ranjan Gogoi and Shiva Kirti Singh of agriculture seem to hold the key built on the principles evolved in in meeting the immediate demand `Shatrugan Chauhan vs Union of for jobs. It can be in the form India’ saying that the unexplained, of Operation Barga of Bengal undue and inordinate delay of 11 as a transitory solution with the years in rejecting the commutation expansion of infrastructure of not petitions by the Executive would only roads, buildings, power, etc, amount to torture, constituted a but provision of education and skills violation of Art. 21, the right to life, to create more jobs. However, this and is ground enough to commute is possible with the commitment of the death sentences. the government and sincerity of the bureaucracy with a socio-economic The SC also rejected the most agenda of equality of opportunity. preposterous argument of the As the state has long reservoir of Attorney General of India, G E ideologically oriented political Vahnavati, that there was “not workers and development activists, Price: Rs. 20/- a word of remorse” and that the it is possible to usher in a socialistic Janata Trust three prisoners were “enjoying life, pattern of society with the active D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir attending music concerts and were involvement of people as partners of Bharucha Marg, not in any sort of agony”. The SC development. Let us wish our Telugu Grant Road (W), Mumbai 400 007. pointedly emphasized that agony did brethren a joyful future! R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, March 16, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, March 16, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday March 19, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

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Vol. 69 No. 8 The elusive majority March 23, 2014 S. Viswam

Hide and seek over We have had a few opinion polls Chief Minister Mayawati. They hold Brooks’ report thus far but none of them project an between them as many as 80 plus 42 Kuldip Nayar outright majority for any political plus 39 plus one (total of 162) Lok grouping. For yet another term, Sabha seats, a sizable number to Rule by ordinance the post-poll government that will influence government formation. Rajindar Sachar succeed the UPAII will necessarily have to be one led by a coalition of The three women are more or less “like-minded parties”. In fact, the of the same age group. Jayalalithaa is AAP like other parties term is a misnomer since no two the most senior in terms of age (she Sandeep Pandey parties are alike in their political is 66), while Mamata is just behind outlook. Indeed, one party which with 59 and Mayawati trailing with hopes to make a fair showing in the 58. Each of them has administrative The Search for polls, namely, the Aaam Aaadmi experience in varying degrees but will a genuine alternative Party, does not even boast of an not find the first post in the country Sandeep Pandey ideology. Parties are in the fray only too challenging, although in the case to seize power, ideology given only of Mayawati, the English language may be a problem. But there are New Class War the second place. Pannalal Surana dozens of women prime ministers and No one is surprised, used as the ministers and senior administrators in Indians have become to elections, the world who do quite well, thank Election Manifesto by the fact that there are as many you, without even a smattering of of Socialist Party (India) prime ministerial aspirants as there English. So, language is not really a are political formations. Every leader bar. Then, you talk of political base. is a potential prime minister, or so You are talking here of each of these Editor : he claims. Some like Lalu Yadav women having crushed powerful G. G. Parikh and Mulayam Singh give public men political leaders in the polls, all expression to their aspirations; others three of them having gained glory Managing Editor : Guddi less vocally. Today, we have not less by chucking out well-entrenched than six leaders who have made their administrations lock, stock and D-15, Ganesh Prasad, prime ministerial hopes public. And, barrel. Their political base is stronger Naushir Bharucha Marg, this is something to be welcomed, than those of many senior political Mumbai - 400 007. there are at least three women leaders stalwarts. There are now good signs who are openly in the race. They that each of these three are all set to Email : [email protected] are Chief Ministers Jayalalithaa play a leading role in the post-poll and Mamata Bannerji and former scenario. 2 JANATA, March 23, 2014

Let us examine Jayalalithaa’s Between the lines chances first. With 39 seats in Tamil Nadu, and one in Pondicherry, Hide and seek over Brooks’ report Jayalalithaa is playing for high stakes, she has publicly declared Kuldip Nayar that she is hoping to win all the 40 seats and make a bid for the Prime Minister ship. Indeed, if she captures I was the correspondent of The when the former had not shoes for the entire state on her own, her Times, published from London, the soldiers who were moved from claims for the high office cannot when Neville Maxwell was its South Kashmir to face the Chinese. be brushed off lightly. If she cannot Asia correspondent. He operated form the government on her own, from New Delhi and we often I was then the press secretary she will play king-maker and have discussed matters concerning India to Home Minister Lal Bahadur a vital say in government-formation. and other countries, particularly Shastri and knew his unhappiness There is of course no question of China. over building up China’s Premier whether or not she will fill the bill. Chou En-Lai by Nehru. The latter She is a good administrator having That he was anti-India would introduced him to the world figures ruled Tamil Nadu as chief minister be an understatement. His hatred and took him to Bandung at the for more than one term. Even if towards the country was patent in first non-alignment conference. she fails to hit the 40 mark, her his dispatches. For example, he Nehru was never the same after the importance will count even with 25 wrote after second general election defeat and died early because he to 30 seats. No alliance can afford to in 1957 that it was the last polls of felt personally betrayed. Although ignore her in that case. Her equations the country because democracy was Sardar Patel had warned him through with the NDA are better than those not suited to India’s genius. a letter not to trust China which with the UPA, and hence she will be would one day attack India, Nehru in a good position even if Narendra I have not seen any of his writings was obsessed by a Socialist country Modi were to seize power on behalf to admit that his reading was which he, to his grief, could not of the BJP-led alliance. Her case incorrect. He reminded me at times transform India into that mould. presents the most interesting study of British die hearts who exploited in the coming polls. She has good India to make their country rich and Maxwell has released part of the chances of realizing her aspirations. indulged in unspeakable atrocities to report by Henderson Brooks. I am Her past experience of aligning with inclined to believe that he has done the BJP has made her cautious this keep us a colony. so to give some mileage to the anti- time. She has also steered clear of Both Maxwell and I often the two communist parties and other Congress forces. That Nehru did not compared India’s development with Dravida outfits. prepare the country and misjudged China’s. Otherwise for progressive the Chinese designs is an open Mamata is another political leader democracy, he praised China’s secret. I have had a long interview who has displayed caution in forging authoritarian regime. He honestly with General P.N. Thapar, the then alliances for 2014. She has burnt her believed that it was India which chief of the army staff. He had given fingers because of being part of the attacked China and therefore titled in writing that India would face BJP set-up in 2004 and the Congress his book as India’s war on China. defeat if there was a war between in 2009. Single-handedly she threw India and China. Thapar submitted out the Left and has captured West The utility of the book was the a long note for the procurement of Bengal on her own. For such a leader reproduction of certain portions weapons and raising up more troops. it comes but naturally to say she of reports by Henderson Brooks, Nehru told him that the note was hopes to win all the 42 seats this time appointed by the government to never put up to him. in the Lok Sabha. She well might! probe into the reasons for India’s debacle in the 1962 war against New Delhi went into the Why Anna Hazare decided China. He reportedly blamed New disputed areas to establish its to sponsor her candidature for Delhi, particularly Prime Minister claim. I remember the former Home Jawaharlal Nehru, for “shoving” Secretary, B. N. Jha, telling me (Continued on Page 4) India into a war against China that it was “a bright idea” of B.N. JANATA, March 23, 2014 3

Malik, the Director of Intelligence, to establish police posts “wherever Rule by ordinance undemocratic we could,” even behind the “Chinese lines”, so as to “register our claim” Rajindar Sachar on the territory. “But,” then he said, “Malik does not realize that these isolated posts with no support from There was recently a frantic to the broad contours of the Bills - I the back will fall like ninepins as race among Congressmen: how to myself have been a public signatory soon as the Chinese push forward. persuade the President of India to to a statement demanding that before We are unnecessarily exposing the issue a couple of ordinances because the dissolution of the Lok Sabha, policemen to death. Frankly, this is the young master, Rahul Gandhi, the Bills on public grievances and the job of the army, but since they desired it. It is a different matter whistleblowers be passed. But have refused to man the posts until that none of the proposed laws somehow it did not happen. With full logistic support is provided, we were opposed by the Opposition. time having run out, democracies have placed the policemen.” Had the House managers done their cannot resort to devious methods. homework, Parliament could have The posts ran in a zigzag line; passed some of the pending Bills, I am aghast at the drama of 41 of them were established, a few including the Grievances Redress ordinances for all these weeks in policemen here and a few of them Bill and the Whistleblowers Bill. the Press. If the government was there, sometimes like islands in The self-flagellation and ego of the genuinely keen on having these the multitude of Chinese predators. Congress combined with antics of the Bills passed, what stopped it from The massive Chinese attack and Opposition turned everything topsy- extending the session by a few our puny efforts to cope with it turvy. The Telangana Bill, with both days? Unless the ruling party was were now plain for all to see. The major political parties indulging in maneuvering to acclaim Rahul government decided to play down political maneuvering, was passed Gandhi as the sole Mr. Clean of the news of reverses which were by voice vote, embellished by a India, in the melodramatic repetition pouring in endlessly. It was treating peppery spray and a shameless of the 1940 movie of Hollywood it like the September 8 intrusion in failure of live TV coverage of the decades back, namely “Mr. Smith NEFA (North-East Frontier Agency) proceedings of the House (one Goes to Washington” and the more which was officially described as the does not yet know the villain - the recent Bollywood version equally “appearance of some Chinese forces government has not held an inquiry). well crafted and starring Amitabh in the vicinity of one of our posts.” Bachchan, “Main Azad Hoon” — I And pray, how come Rahul is fail to understand why his followers I remember the first time I heard so insistent on the ordinance route did not insist on extending the of the Sino-Indian border dispute when in the matter of disqualification session for a couple of days to pass was in the Union Home Ministry of convicted legislators, he had these Bills which certainly would in early 1957. I was complaining publicly shamed the Prime Minister have received no opposition. Of to a senior official about the East and his government by tearing the course, if the real intent was to seek Pakistan border bristling with ordinance! a mileage, then unfortunately the dangers. He feigned ignorance. move has backfired. But his one remark, even though Can the President accept an cryptic, was significant. He said: ordinance when both Houses are Even if the President had been “Why Pakistan alone? You will not going to meet before the general persuaded to issue the ordinances, have trouble with China very soon.” election in May 2014 and there these would have had no validity or He did not elucidate but in reply to is going to be a new Lok Sabha? life and the new Lok Sabha would my insistent queries he did add that It would amount to shredding the have to pass them afresh. Was this there were vague reports of China Constitution if the President were fuss worth even a penny? building a road through Sinkiang. to approve the ordinances, which in The Ministry of External Affairs law were never deliberated by the A vibrant democracy is not had been informed of the reports members of the Lok Sabha. Are the governed by ordinances. This many times. newly elected Lok Sabha members provision is an anathema to a expected to initiate their work with democratic republic. I feel that (Continued on Page 4) old Bills? I have not much objection the ordinance issuing power is an 4 JANATA, March 23, 2014 anachronism dating back to the news items indirectly to gauge almost tearful lament of Foreign colonial Acts of 1919 and 1935 the reaction of the President if the Minister Salman Khurshid, saying and it should be deleted from the ordinances were sent to him. how the rejection has come in the Constitution. No other parliamentary way of Rahul Gandhi’s vision. democracy has such an undemocratic We have the answer. Democratic Salman Khurshid should not take provision. norms and conventions in the it to heart because the coming country have at last been reiterated general election will give all the The Supreme Court has firmly eloquently by the quiet, dignified opportunity to Rahul Gandhi to test held in the Wadhwa case (1987) and steadfast stand of President his vision. Now that the question of that the power conferred on the Pranab Mukherjee in refusing to ordinances is over, I hope Rahul and Governor to issue ordinances is in give consent to the ordinances, his seasoned advisers will remember the nature of an emergency power notwithstanding the frantic legal the old admonition: “Be you ever so for taking immediate action when erudition of P.Chidambaram. The high, the law is above you”. the legislature is not in session. President was not moved by the The primary law-making action under the Constitution is with the legislature and not the executive. The (Continued from Page 2) power to promulgate an ordinance the Prime Minister ship and then However, on her own, we can credit is essentially a power to be used jettisoned her midway is a mystery her with the capability of winning to meet an extraordinary situation yet to be solved. But we may learn at least 25 seats. With even such a and it cannot be allowed to be the reason sooner rather than later fewer number, she can play a major “perverted to serve political ends” as the poll dates in West Bengal role in government formation. She (emphasis supplied). “It is contrary approach closer. can dictate terms to both the NDA to all democratic norms that the and the UPA. executive should have the power to Mayawati is the dark horse serve political ends”. that can win all 80 seats if luck May all the three of them have the favours her, but this is unlikely as best of luck! A similar provision empowers the competition is rather severe. the President under Article 123 of the Constitution. This is a hangover (Continued from Page 3) from the colonial period but then I still cannot understand why Delhi is happy to lock the gate after we have retained gleefully many the government is keeping the the animals have bolted. remnants of the British law like Brooks’ report as classified. The sedition, applicability of which is defence ministry’s reasoning that the I vainly tried to get the report causing havoc in the lives of young divulgence of the report would make made pubic. First, I approached the activists, especially those belonging public certain “tactics” which are Defence Ministry which said no. to minorities. This power of issuing still relevant. The tactics and even Ultimately, I tried to seek the report an ordinance has no place in a weapons employed in 1962 have through Right to Information. The democratic country. no relevance today. Former chief matter went up to the top. But it of army staff General V.P. Malik rejected my plea. I have appealed Consider the ground rules of the has said that the 1962 operation is to the High Court which is sitting situation. The general election is to not relevant today. He has asked on the matter. After many years a be held in a couple of months. On a for the publication of the report. brief reference came early last year conservative estimate a minimum But the Congress-led government of half the existing members of is under the wrong perception that when the judge remarked: “So you the Lok Sabha are going to be Nehru’s image would be damaged want all country’s secret to be made defeated. Should these rejected and so would be that of the ruling public?” I wish there had been a politicians forestall the right of the party. Now that the excerpts of the decision on that. Unfortunately, new members either to accept or report are already on the Internet, there is none. The matter rests there modify radically the said legislation? the government sounds churlish and the government doggedly sticks It was unseemly for the government and undemocratic when it insists to its archaic stand that the public has to start stray winds of gossip and on keeping the report secret. New no right to know even after 52 years. JANATA, March 23, 2014 5 AAP becoming like other parties

Sandeep Pandey

When BJP came into existence Except for few distinguished So many people’s movements take they used to claim that they were a people like Medha Patkar, Rajmohan place in this country. Irom Sharmila party with a difference. They meant Gandhi or Ashish Khetan the party has been sitting on fast in Imphal that they were free of corruption and while selecting its candidate is for the last over 13 years. Before criminalization. After some time they giving more importance to the citizens of the country either haven’t stopped making that claim. They criterion of winning ability rather heard about her or don’t understand could not stop their criminalization than honesty. This has sowed seeds her issue very well. Medha Patkar, and take over by corrupt element. of serious discontent. now in AAP, probably the most Now AAP has arrived on the Indian recognized social activist of this political scene making a similar Howsoever much Arvind country before Anna’s 24 hour claim about being a different kind Kejriwal may talk of democratic coverage in April 2011, has sat on of party. But in less than a year and decision making, the fact of the many long fasts. But the media has half it is struggling against things matter is increasingly becoming never given her space compared which it is ideologically opposed to. transparent that AAP too is bereft to Anna’s movement or Arvind’s of any internal democracy. Recently party. Hence Arvind Kejriwal has The difference between AAP AAP Political Affairs Committee has no right to complain against the and other political parties is fast taken a decision to empower itself media unless this is also part of his disappearing. The grassroots to be able to change any state level strategy. He has put media in a fix by workers are dissatisfied with the or district level office bearers or blaming them for accepting money leadership. They are unhappy with committees. Now this goes against from Narendra Modi for giving him the fact that intellectuals, journalists, the philosophy of ‘Swarajya’ which more coverage. Now if the media social activists, people who have Arvind Kejriwal has espoused. In stop Arvind’s coverage then Arvind left corporate jobs are being made fact, who, when becomes part of will be proved right. Hence he has candidates for the upcoming general decision making is a mystery in created a situation that media has to elections whereas people associated AAP. Like other parties decisions cover him even though he may speak with the party since the beginning are first taken and then gotten out against the media. are being ignored. endorsed by committees. It is also Arvind is proving to be a very becoming clear that Arvind Kejriwal smart politician. With much less The genuine question that the has no real commitment towards the resources and human power he workers raise is if decisions about concept of Swarajya as its values has been able to challenge both the party candidates were to be taken don’t reflect in his working style. Congress and the BJP. He used his in Delhi then what was the need It is a tool which serves politically and his colleague ’s for making people fill forms and expediency. NGO funds to build a movement - conducting interviews. In any case, IAC. Anna was successfully used for party has now gathered a huge data His latest salvo is against the this purpose. Then using the funds base of grassroots level potential media. He has accused media of generated for the movement he built supporters who could become the giving more coverage to Narendra a party. Initially his focus was only voter base. Each candidate coming Modi in exchange for payment against corruption so that he could for an interview was asked to bring received from him. But Arvind must attract the middle class youth. Many endorsements from hundred people remember that he too is a creation of gave up their jobs, some in abroad, from each of the five Vidhan Sabha media. It is still unclear why when to join his movement and party. He constituencies falling in their Lok Anna Hazare sat for the first fast in used the middle class educated youth Sabha constituency. AAP and earlier April 2011 at Jantar Mantar the TV to campaign and create a base among IAC have very effectively utilized channels were there even before the the SMS to mobilize their supporters. fast started for 24 hours coverage? (Continued on Page 7) 6 JANATA, March 23, 2014 The search for a genuine alternative

Bharat Dogra

There are a large number of till 1860. “The people used to take complexities of our villages have voters who are committed to the decisions and kings used to follow been ignored. Some of these ideas values of equality, justice and peace these decisions. This continued till can work in those villages where (particularly communal harmony). It 1860. Village affairs were directly almost all families are those of small is easy for these voters to reject both controlled by people.” The only farmers. But the complex situation in the big banners of NDA and UPA. example to support this sweeping many villages where inequalities and However it is not yet clear to them statement on history by the writer oppression exist in a big way need what is the real alternative to these is a story that the people of Vaishali more careful planning. The solutions two big political formations. wanted their ‘nagarvadhu’ to stay presented in ‘Swaraj’ suffer mostly in the king’s palace and the king from over-simplification of issues. One possibility has appeared accepted their decision! This may in the form of the Aam Aadmi have been unethical, the learned Decentralisation is emphasised Party (AAP). But can this be writer says, but this reveals the time and again by AAP, and rightly regarded as a genuine alternative? people’s power! so as properly conceived and Its overall ideology is not yet clear, implemented decentralisation can but one aspect which has attracted It is strange that a book with play a key role in solving many many people is its emphasis on such sweeping and questionable of our country’s serious problems. decentralisation. statements has been widely However often AAP has used these recommended to AAP’s activists concepts in a very loose sense by This emphasis on decentralisation and candidates as almost a required saying ‘let people decide’ without is certainly welcome, but many reading. On the book’s front cover clearly stating the core values questions emerge when AAP’s is a strong endorsement by Anna which decentralisation should take decentralisation agenda is examined Hazare which says, “This book is our forward. After all if people in a in detail. This is available in the manifesto for changing the system village (or even in a city ward) are form of a book ‘Swaraj’ written by and opposing corruption and this is in the grip (even if temporarily) of Arvind Kejriwal which is a highly also our effective model for bringing communal frenzy, or if they support recommended reading for AAP ‘real swaraj’. honour killings, no one can say ‘let activists and candidates. This book the people decide’. While Anna Hazare has now starts by denying any achievements distanced himself from Arvind in the post-independence period. This is why it is so important to Kejriwal, nevertheless this strong To quote (translated from Hindi), be clear about core values while statement shows the great importance this book says, “During the last 60 taking decentralisation forward. given to this book titled ‘Swaraj’. years we’ve tested every party and This will help to put in place critical every leader, but there has been no However the basic message of safeguards. But this is possible only improvement (sudhar).” On the the book that gram sabhas should if there is clarity about ideology and other hand, the USA is presented be strengthened in villages and a wide range of mutually consistent as an example of real democracy mohalla sabhas should be formed in policies are in place. where people’s will prevails. Arvind cities is absolutely right. At the same Kejriwal writes, “In America at time, there is nothing new about it. The Times of India (February, 18 the local level, at the level of city, Almost all the policy statements on 2014) reported a recent speech of municipality and county no decision improvement of panchayat raj have Arvind Kejriwal, “Mr. Kejriwal said is taken without the agreement stated this. we are not against capitalism, but (marji) of people.” we are against crony capitalism.... However the details of this He said it was not the business of Even in India, the author argues, strengthening given by Arvind government to do business, but everything was working all right Kejriwal are open to debate as many rather focus on governance and JANATA, March 23, 2014 7 create enabling policies. He listed in capitalism as such; Capitalist organisations. They have to end their three factors that would encourage path is OK. narrow differences and establish business including simplifying broad unity to contest elections as taxes and processes, creating an  Role of public sector needs to well as to confront other increasing enabling policy environment and be curtailed further; almost all challenges. As they are likely to reducing litigation... Underlining industry and business should be retain their separate identity at least the “extortionist” attitude of the in private hands. for some time, some co-ordinating UPA-led Centre, Kejriwal said force or agency has to be created so government should reduce its role  While rationalising tax structure that this broad unity can be achieved. in several sectors but play the role there is a case for further reducing The first task of such an agency of a regulator to ensure that private the tax rates for the rich. will be the formation of a common companies follow rules.” programme as the basis of this unity. Clearly, such view cannot be Then it’ll co-ordinate various efforts In an interview published in accepted by those who believe in the for united action, including unitedly The Economic Times on the same path of equality and justice. contesting elections on the basis of day (February 18) Shri Kejriwal this common programme. has said, “The government has no The second alternative is business to be in business. Our job is presented by the left parties trying (Continued from Page 5) to provide safety to citizens, a good to form an alliance or a third front the poor living in slums. Then he judicial system and a corruption with some regional parties. But took stand against communalism free environment. After that it is some of these regional parties have which some of this middle class the job of the business community not performed much better than upper caste youth may not have been to do business.” On his business the NDA and the UPA parties in comfortable with. But now it doesn’t related agenda, Shri Kejriwal said, terms of their violation of the key matter. Even if people leave, and “AAP wants to do two things. One principles of equality, justice and some have left successively as the is to visit the entire procedures and peace, and hence this alternative movement and party has proceeded, administrative laws and remove also cannot be accepted. At various more are willing to join because obstacles in the way of setting up times these parties have behaved in of the bandwagon effect. The only new businesses. And secondly, we a very opportunistic way and so this danger is that there may be no want to set up a positive environment formation also cannot be accepted as stability in the process since people so that a trader or industrialist can an alternative. have not come with an ideological run his business honestly.” commitment. And neither is Arvind The third alternative exists in making any effort to ensure that they When asked about his views on the form of some political parties stick around. The totally centralized taxing the rich, Arvind Kejriwal told known for their commitment to these decision making and ad hoc party the Economic Times, ‘Our tax slabs principles as well as their dedication structure is not going to help Arvind for the rich are one of the lowest in and honesty. The Samajwadi Jan Kejriwal take his party too far. the world, however, I don’t think it Parishad and Socialist Party can be needs to be raised. 30% is sufficient, included in this category. There are but it needs to be enforced properly. I no doubt some other such parties. think we can afford to remove some But all these political formations are Janata Subscription exemptions, reliefs and rebates, still too small to provide an effective as they are given at the behest of alternative on their own. Voters at Annual Rs. : 260/- lobbies. If we rationalise this then the national level are looking for Three Years : 750/- tax rates for the rich can come down effective alternatives. Demand Draft / Cheque on even more. Mumbai Bank So the question remains what in favour of Summarising these views, Shri then is the genuine alternative. JANATA TRUST Kejriwal clearly says that Clearly this can be created only D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir by the unity of many left political Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007  There is nothing inherently wrong parties, other left formations and 8 JANATA, March 23, 2014 New Class War

Pannalal Surana

In the nineteenth century, Karl And, mind you, Great Britain, of Delhi and Mumbai. A 54 days Marx had visualized a class war at present, is under the rule of the old AAP government asked the between the private owners of Conservative party. There are a CAG to audit the accounts of factories on the one hand and number of measures under way to that corporate to which the group innumerable proletariat on the other. protect the ordinary consumers from had reacted strongly. The same the machinations of the speculators corporate giant had pressurized the In the twenty-first century, it has in the real estate business. become moneyed handfuls versus Central Government by reducing the production of gas much below the vast multitude of consumers - David Cameron, the Prime stipulated levels. And the Energy labourers, peasants, self-employed Minister has asked the industrialists Minister Veerappa Moily meekly artisans, vendors and the middle to train the unemployed youths submitted, on the spacious ground of class, all put together. as apprentices and make them capable of standing on their feet facilitating investment in petroleum Corporates who are catching the within a period of a year and that sector. He agreed to enhance the hold of common natural resources the government will pay for their price of gas from $ 4 to $8.Would but call themselves service subsistence allowance. any sane person agree to double the providers are exploiting all the rate, to be applicable in future? And, consumers. In the great Britain, The world had witnessed the why in dollar? The Godavari basin six big energy firms, including strange spectacle of “shutting down from which the gas is to be extracted the giant British Gas, have been of the American Government” due is in India. It is to be sold to Indian put under investigation over their to delay in passing the legislation consumers and payment to be seemingly excessive profit margins. authorising the salary payment of The Government has asked the received in rupee. And yet the rate the employees caused by the Tea competition watchdog to investigate is fixed in dollar currency. Why? - Party Group within the Republican their profits, and asked it to consider Because dollar is becoming costlier Party. President refused to be cowed all possible corrective measures. day by day. So, without increasing down. The Tea Party was asking the price, the company would get the The European Union has reduction in outlay over medical bounty. So very clever on the part of announced a series of measures insurance for common citizens to our great energy minister! to rein in the banking sector, facilitate reduction in taxes on the including a cap on bankers’ bonuses. rich. Public pressure forced the Tea Arvind Kejriwal must be Many banks are imposing various Party to see reason and clear the congratulated for the FIR being filed exorbitant charges on the account required legislation. Afterwards, against Mukesh Ambani, Veerappa Obama expressed his firm resolve to holders. Nearly 6000 bankers, Moily, Murli deora and a few others. brokers and financial advisers take measures to reduce inequality have been sacked or suspended in the economy. The moneyed class may for “rogue” conduct in the past six contribute substantially to election In a number of countries, years in Britain alone—amounting funds of the two main contenders corporates have monopolized supply to “three every day”, The Times for power in the coming Lok Sabha pointed out. of water and minerals. Water charges are increased off and on. Great unrest elections. But it would be for the The assault on banks is a part of a is simmering all over the world. voters to choose new government. larger campaign said to be designed They should gather courage in to shape a “new economy” aimed Nearer home, Reliance has both hands to defeat both the UPA at easing the “cost of living crisis” been indulging in increasing and NDA alliances. Unseating the facing millions of common people. electricity charges to consumers corrupt is a most constructive step.. JANATA, March 23, 2014 9 Election Manifesto of Socialist Party (India) Lok Sabha Elections 2014

Socialist Party (India) appeals to the eighty-crore Indian voters in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections to bring in socialism by defeating capitalism and to uphold secularism against communalism.

Prices of daily use commodities are the last child, the last woman and the are basically anti-poor and anti- rising. Unemployment is increasing. last man as envisaged by Mahatma development. The Socialist Party Corruption is rampant. Gap between Gandhi and the recognition of equal will discard the western capitalist the rich and the poor is widening; citizenship of all Indian people model of development and evolve as also between cities and villages as conceived by the makers of Indian model with Full Employment and between the metro centers and Indian Constitution led by Dr. B.R. as its objective. As two-third of vast rural areas. Environment is Ambedkar. The Socialist Party, in our people are dependent on being polluted contributing to global its policies, will be informed by agriculture and allied occupations, warming. Violence of the state as the Antyodaya principle that in high-speed program of expanding of the criminals and the extremists/ the progress and well-being of the infrastructure of communications, terrorists is escalating. Women’s last person lies the welfare of the irrigation, electricity, credit supply lives and honor are not safe. Tension country as a whole and be guided and marketing in the rural and persists on the pretext of caste and by the high ideals that motivated our coastal areas will be done. Interest communal disputes. Culture is freedom fighters, socialist thinkers charge for agriculture loans will not being vulgarized by the corporate and Constitution makers. exceed 4 per cent and remunerative controlled media and young minds prices will be assured to their are being corrupted. In keeping with the traditions produce. Cooperative system/ of its early founders, the Socialist management will be promoted in Unbridled capitalism is the root Party would be a party of all the production, marketing and credit cause of all this malady. To end this Indian people and not merely of supply. The Socialist Party will all-round misery and exploitation, sections of it. The Socialist Party accord priority to the eradication the voters of India should take will treat as its special trust the of hunger and establish proper courage in both hands and elect need to attend to the problems of facilities for storage of food grains representatives who are committed the deprived sections of the society, in every district of the country and to usher in an era of socialism that including the dalits, tribals including strengthen the Public Distribution ensures equality and prosperity. the nomadic tribes, backward System (PDS). Agricultural lands classes and religious/ linguistic will not be allowed to be taken Living concept of India minorities. The party will strive to over for industrial purposes. New Socialist Party (India), a party eliminate gender discrimination and ventures should be located in barren with a proud heritage stretching will support affirmative action in and remote areas so that regional back to establishment of the all India favour of women in all legislative imbalance is minimized. Equitable socialist movement culminating in and other institutions. The party distribution of agricultural lands formation of the Congress Socialist stands for responsible politics and will be undertaken. Lands of the Party (CSP) on 17 May, 1934, will take steps to ensure that the tribals that had been taken away in the midst of national freedom parliamentarians and legislators do from them will be restored to them. struggle with which it is privileged not misuse/subvert the institutions All-out development plans for to have been associated, would like to which they are elected. forestry, fishery, dairy, poultry will to reaffirm its positive faith in the be prepared and implemented with living concept of India and in the Agro-industrial model of their active participation. goal of socialism. The Socialist Party development and decentralization believes that nationalism and swaraj The neo-liberal economic policies The party will stress the need for are words bereft of meaning unless which facilitate the capitalist- development from below according they entail primacy to the welfare of consumerist model of development to the agro-economic conditions 10 JANATA, March 23, 2014 prevailing in each region and The party will formulate people on religious-sectarian lines sub-region of the country. It will comprehensive and time-bound and will uphold the secular concept ensure equitable management and plan for provision of safe drinking of Indian nation as fostered by our distribution of water resources. The water, latrines, housing etc. It will freedom movement. party will set time-bound goals for stop privatization of water and the provision of essential needs of ensure equitable distribution of Annihilation of caste the people. It will carry out a massive water resources. The Party will work The Socialist Party believes in the program for those without adequate towards making India less dependent annihilation of caste, an institution roof above their head. on vagaries of the monsoon. It will which Acharya Narendra Deva, the work towards the establishment of doyen of Indian socialist movement, The constitutional rights of the scientific drainage and irrigation described as anti-democratic. The Panchayats and the Municipalities, canal systems and development of party believes that such destruction rd th ensured by the 73 and 74 watersheds for conservation of soil of caste will come about through Amendment Act, to decide about the and water. multiple revolutions that the great utilization of natural resources like socialist thinker, Dr. Rammanohar land, water, minerals, flora and fauna The Party will strive to improve Lohia, envisaged in his pioneering falling in their jurisdiction, will India’s urban and rural environment work, ‘Saptakranti’, and by Dr. B. be scrupulously safeguarded from and lay stress on proper sanitation R. Ambedkar in his book, namely encroachment by the Central and and provision of well-maintained ’Annihilation of Caste.’ The party public conveniences with due State Governments and the profit- suggests an amendment to the importance being given to the needs hungry corporate houses. To achieve Constitution so that the opening of the individuals and families. Both this goal the constitutional validity sentence of the Preamble would read towns and villages will be greened. of status and role of the Planning as “We, the people of India, resolve Commission will be examined. The needs of India’s cities will be to establish Sovereign, Secular, examined from this point of view Socialist, Casteless, Democratic Cottage and small scale and provision made for walking Republic of India…..” industries, with adoption of optimum areas with construction of foot- technology, will be allowed to be paths so that pedestrians have the No to commercialization of developed in the rural areas. The first priority on the public streets. education party will expand and strengthen The party will improve inter-city banking network in the rural areas and intra-city bus systems. Private The Socialist Party will seek and enable women to have easy cars will not be allowed to enter educational and particularly access to the banking services. busy areas. schooling reforms that ensure good Deposits from the rural areas will neighbourliness and a common not be allowed to be transferred to Upholding secularism sense of peoplehood. The party will urban areas. Heavy and large scale The neo-liberal-communal set to itself the goal of elimination of industries will be run in the public nexus went on strengthening after child labour and the transference of sector. imposition of the new economic India’s labouring children to schools policies and the demolition of the in a time-bound manner and will The party will work towards Babri Masjid in the beginning associate itself with campaigns to complete road connectivity for all of 1990s. The threat has become achieve that end so as to eliminate all villages and their electrification. The catastrophic as the communal child labour from the country. The party will discourage use of fossil fascist forces have overtaken the Socialist Party will ensure that free, fuel and encourage eco-friendly Constitution. The Socialist Party will equal and quality education from KG sources like solar and wind power. uphold the constitutional doctrine of to PG be provided by the state. The Natural disasters and their mitigation secularism. The party believes that party opposes commercialization will be treated as a common burden the dignity and security of minorities of education in any form including on all the Indian people and expenses must be safeguarded as this is basic PPP. The party stands for greater on this account and for relief and to a civilized nation. The Socialist flexibility within the structures of rehabilitation will be met mainly Party will combat the efforts by higher education in the country. It through central funds. certain groups to divide the Indian would like more attention to be given JANATA, March 23, 2014 11 to the study of languages, Indian and medical insurance and old age Party will support effective framing and foreign, applied sciences and pension for all men and women and implementation of the much mathematics in addition to ongoing workers above 60 years of age, talked Lok Pal as per the spirit of natural sciences, social sciences, engaged in unorganized sector, will the Constitution. commerce and humanities subjects. be provided. The party believes that Indian Defense education needs to be released from Draconian laws to be repealed The Socialist Party is committed to the thralldom of the Anglo-centric The Socialist Party would take the territorial security of the country countries and made to open itself, strong measures to instill confidence believing that vigilant citizens, in addition to other linguistic and among the citizens that they would particularly in the border areas, cultural traditions of the world that be treated fairly by state institutions are the best defense to any threat would pave the way for a greater including the administration, the posed by any country. The party interaction between India and Asian, police, and the judiciary and that will try to keep defense expenses to African (including Francophone such fair and equitable treatment is the minimum. The indiscriminate Africa) and Latin American a right accruing from citizenship. purchases of arms and equipments countries. To give concrete shape to Repressive laws like Armed Forces from foreign countries will be its educational vision, the Socialist Special Powers Act (AFSPA) against discontinued. Their production will Party would endeavour to see that which Irom Sharmila of Manipur is be made in India in the public sector. in given clusters of every seven holding indefinite fast for the last The country will not enter into arms contiguous districts in the country 14 years, sections in IPC regarding race, let alone of nuclear arsenal. there are established in each district sedition etc. will be repealed. The Colonial practice of treating trained in each cluster at least one of the party will take steps to prevent extra- jawans, attached to officers, as following : (a) university of science judicial killings on the part of the menial servants will be discontinued. (b) university of mathematics (c) police, army and self-styled Khap university of medicine (d) university Panchayats. The party will amend Foreign Policy of languages (e) university of social election laws to prevent entry of The Socialist Party will strive for sciences/humanities (f) university of criminals in politics. friendly relations with all countries commerce (g) university of forestry on mutual honorable terms and and agriculture (h) university of Eradication of corruption will continue its tradition of close sports. New elements in current day contacts with India’s neighbours. mainstream politics are the new It will further strive for a world Legitimate rights of the working disclosures about corruption, scams sharing for mutual benefit the fruits classes to be safeguarded and the active or passive involvement of international development. It will The Socialist Party will initiate of the entire machinery of the struggle against anti-humanitarian changes in labour and corporate government. Parties have busied ideologies and will extend its laws to ensure that the legitimate themselves in the competition to sympathy to oppressed people rights like guarantee and timely prove each other more corrupt than everywhere. Maintenance of world payment of minimum wages, safe one-self. The Socialist Party will peace by honouring everyone’s working conditions, collective take stern steps towards eradication human rights will be the guiding functioning and peaceful agitations of corruption from public life. The principles of the foreign policy. The be safeguarded in all industries party views this objective as part of party will strive to convert the UNO and industrial zones including the need to ensure greater accountability into a truly representative World private sector. The tendency of not only of the state, including police Government. the employers to dispense with authorities, but also of the political the services of permanent workers parties, corporate houses and non- Policy for youth and use casual/contract labourers governmental organizations. The The Socialist Party feels a great will be dealt with sternly. All such party will constitute an independent need for a creative youth policy measures will be made applicable inquiry commission to look into the in the country so that there is an to those engaged in construction, wealth of all the main players, be increase in the interest taken by transport and other similar activities. they in the company sector, political the youth in ideas, literature, art, Social security measures like life parties or bureaucracy. The Socialist culture, theatre and sports. The party 12 JANATA, March 23, 2014 will formulate and put into practice All youths, particularly the Political parties be brought under youth-oriented policies for the rural Muslims, put in jails without trial RTI ensuring transparency in their and urban youth. be released immediately. accounts.

Agenda for immediate action The Women’s Reservation Bill Citizens’ right for time-bound Right to employment be made a be passed. service in the government offices Fundamental Right to ensure full be assured. employment. All bills prepared to allow opening Pension of at least Rs 2,000 of foreign universities be withdrawn. p.m. be paid to all female and male FDI in Retail, Defense, Banking, workers above 60 years of age in the Insurance and Pension be banned. Four Year Undergraduate Program unorganized sector. (FYUP) imposed in Delhi University Import of gold be barred. be scrapped. Number of cars allotted to officers Reduction of disparity be included of the central and state governments in the terms of reference of the 7th Adequate supply of equipment be reduced drastically. Pay-Commission. and medicines be made in the PHCs and public hospitals. All cars be put off the roads once Recommendations of the Sachar in a week and public transport be Committee report be implemented. PDS be strengthened and run buttressed. efficiently protecting children and Politicians and government The Anti-Communal Violence women from malnutrition and employees found corrupt be Bill be passed without delay. providing food security to all. punished severely. Thus stands the Socialist Party Upholding brotherhood and equality

–Dr. Prem Singh, general secretary, Socialist Party6 (India) Gandhiji’s attitude I refer to “Between the lines” by save them from gallows even though the country by at least 10 years”. veteran journalist Kuldip Nayar in so many of the top leaders urged him As against these fulsome praises, the Janata dated March 9, 2014. to intervene. Gandhiji had opposed Netaji to the utmost, even by putting up It was nice to be reminded of our Netaji was Pattabhi Sitaramaya against Netaji great revolutionaries, once in a way at another example where Gandhji’s for Presidentship of the Congress, least, so that the younger generation non-voilence had overtaken when he was in India. is informed of the supreme sacrifice his humanitarian outlook. On (not of Prime Ministership) made by 23rd January, 1947, he (Gandhiji) This attitude of Gandhiji therefore, the freedom fighters. was at Naokhali in East Bengal had embolden Shri Nehru (Pt. Nehru, where thousands of Hindus were though Nehru himself disliked The silence of Gandhiji on Police massacred after Jinnah’s Direct calling him Pandit), his heir, to say brutalities in Chauri Chaura was in Action Call of 1946. Gandhiji had that INA consisted of patriots but keeping with his usual stance. He then said “Subhas has proved to the “misguided” in the postscript to his would praise them and extol their world that might becomes right” Discovery of India. I am yet to come sacrifices but would do nothing to referring to the Hindu-Muslim unity across any laudatory statement from help them out of Police brutalities. in the Indian National Army. On the Nehru about Netaji Subhas Chandra In the same way he did praise Sardar same day, Dr. had Bose. Those in the know, like Kuldip Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar said “Netaji has single handedly Nayar, may kindly enlighten me, and Azad and Rajguru, but did nothing to advanced the independence of I shall be grateful to them. –B. M. Rao JANATA, March 23, 2014 13

Socialist Party (India) Delhi Office :11 – Raj Pur Road, Delhi - 110091 Phone/Fax : 011-23972745 Mob. : 9810503939 Central Office :41/557 Lohia Mazdur Bhawan, Dr. Tufail Ahmad Marg, Narahi, Lucknow - 226001 Phone: 0522-2286423 Email: [email protected] Web : www.spi.org.in • Blog: socialistpartyindia.blogspot.com Appeal for election fund Dear friends The Socialist Party has decided to field candidates from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Assam, Nagaland, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala for the Lok Sabha elections 2014. We request you to extend financial help to meet the basic expenses of the elections. You may send your cheques/drafts in the name of Socialist Party (India) or Socialist Party (India) Delhi at its Delhi office (11- Raj Pur Road, Delhi - 110054). You may also transfer the amount directly in the account of Socialist Party (India), Allahabad Bank, Ahemdabad, Bank Ac/No. 50065914767, I.F.S. Code Alla 0212227 or in the account of Socialist Party (India) Delhi, Nainital Bank, Vikas Marg, Delhi, Bank Ac/No. 1001054, I.F.S. Code NTBL0DEL065. The details of the collection/expenditure will be provided to every contributor by the treasurer of the party. With this appeal we would like to remind you that the decision to re-establish the Socialist Party on 28 May 2011 at Hyderabad had been motivated by a strong desire to build a new, committed socialist India, and to safeguard the freedom. India’s Constitution and sovereignty have been facing danger posed by the neo-liberal onslaught for last two decades. Most of the mainstream political parties, during this period, have ignored the basic philosophy of the Constitution that seeks to insure equality and progress in all areas of life for all its citizens. Instead of following the Directive Principles of the Constitution, governments in India are following the dictates of World Bank, IMF, WTO and multinationals/corporate houses. The consequences are obvious: suicide by lakhs of farmers, large scale displacement, scams, price rise, unemployment, illiteracy, disease, crime and fundamentalist tendencies that threatened the country’s internal and external security. The control of neo-liberal forces over the country’s economy, politics, culture and education is becoming increasingly dangerous. Our independence, achieved after long struggle and sacrifices by lakhs of Indians is under great threat. India was enslaved and looted for 250 years by one East India Company. Now the precious resources of the country are being looted by hundreds of multi-national companies that have infiltrated into every sector including the Defence. Instead of confronting the neo-imperialist invasion, India’s present political establishment, already hounded by corruption, communalism, casteism and family rule etc., has becomes its agent. The Socialist Party is committed to the idea of establishing alternative politics and system based on the legacy and philosophy of freedom fighters and socialist thinkers like Acharya Narendra Dev, Jayaprakash Narayan, Dr. Rammanohar Lohia, Achyut Patwardhan, S.M. Joshi, Yusuf Meherally, Sane Guruji, Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, Aruna Asaf Ali, Madhu Limaye, Kishan Patnaik and Surendra Mohan. We hope that you will join hands with us to make this long and difficult struggle successful by contributing some amount out of your hard earned money.

–Bhai Vaidya (preisdent), Justice Rajindar Sachar (senior member) Kuldip Nayar (special invitee to national executive), Pannalal Surana (chairman, parliamentary board), Sandeep Pandey, Akhai Achumi, Balwant Singh Kheda, Mohammad Shoab (vice-presidents), Dr. Prem Singh, Omkar Singh, Nurul Ameen (general secretaries), Jayanti Panchal (treasurer), Dr. Abhijit Vaidya (president, Socialist Yuvjan Sabha), Varsha Gupte (president, Socialist Mahila Sabha), Girish Pande (president, Uttar Pradesh), Renu Gambhir (president, Delhi Pradesh), Bala Saheb Patankar (president, Maharashtra), Rajshekharan Nayar (president, Kerala), Dr. Sri Ram Arya (president, Rajasthan) 14 JANATA, March 23, 2014 Liberty, equality, efficiency

Paul Krugman

Most people, if pressed on the the United States and Britain is At this point someone is sure subject, would probably agree much more unequally distributed to say, “But doesn’t the crisis that extreme income inequality than it is in France, Germany or in Europe show the destructive is a bad thing, although a fair Scandinavia. It’s less well known effects of the welfare state?” No, it number of conservatives believe that this difference is primarily the doesn’t. Europe is paying a heavy that the whole subject of income result of government policies. Data price for creating monetary union distribution should be banned from assembled by the Luxembourg without political union. But within public discourse. (Rick Santorum, Income Study (with which I will the euro area, countries doing a lot the former senator and presidential be associated starting this summer) of redistribution have, if anything, candidate, wants to ban the term show that primary income — income weathered the crisis better than “middle class,” which he says is from wages, salaries, assets, and so those that do less. “class-envy, leftist language.” Who on — is very unequally distributed knew?) But what can be done about in almost all countries. But taxes But how can the effects of it? and transfers (aid in cash or kind) redistribution on growth be benign? reduce this underlying inequality Doesn’t generous aid to the poor The standard answer in American to varying degrees: some but not a reduce their incentive to work? politics is, “Not much.” Almost lot in America, much more in many Don’t taxes on the rich reduce their 40 years ago Arthur Okun, chief other countries. incentive to get even richer? Yes and economic adviser to President yes — but incentives aren’t the only Lyndon Johnson, published a So does reducing inequality things that matter. Resources matter classic book titled “Equality and through redistribution hurt economic too — and in a highly unequal Efficiency: The Big Tradeoff,” growth? Not according to two society, many people don’t have arguing that redistributing income landmark studies by economists them. from the rich to the poor takes a at the International Monetary Think, in particular, about the toll on economic growth. Okun’s Fund, which is hardly a leftist ever-popular slogan that we should book set the terms for almost all organization. The first study looked seek equality of opportunity, not the debate that followed: liberals at the historical relationship between equality of outcomes. That may might argue that the efficiency costs inequality and growth, and found sound good to people with no idea of redistribution were small, while that nations with relatively low what life is like for tens of millions conservatives argued that they were income inequality do better at of Americans; but for those with large, but everybody knew that achieving a sustained economic any reality sense, it’s a cruel joke. doing anything to reduce inequality growth as opposed to occasional Almost 40 percent of American would have at least some negative “spurts.” The second, released last children live in poverty or near- impact on G.D.P. month, looked directly at the effect poverty. Do you really think they of income redistribution, and But it appears that what everyone have the same access to education found that “redistribution appears knew isn’t true. Taking action and jobs as the children of the generally benign in terms of its to reduce the extreme inequality affluent? impact on growth.” of 21st-century America would In fact, low-income children are probably increase, not reduce, In short, Okun’s big trade-off much less likely to complete college economic growth. doesn’t seem to be a trade-off at than their affluent counterparts, Let’s start with the evidence. all. Nobody is proposing that we try with the gap widening rapidly. to be Cuba, but moving American And this isn’t just bad for those It’s widely known that income policies part of the way toward unlucky enough to be born to inequality varies a great deal European norms would probably the wrong parents; it represents a among advanced countries. In increase, not reduce, economic huge and growing waste of human particular, disposable income in efficiency. potential — a waste that surely acts JANATA, March 23, 2014 15 as a powerful if invisible drag on affluent would lose more from Senator Santorum). economic growth. higher taxes than they gained from better economic growth. But it’s In short, what’s good for the 1 Now, I don’t want to claim pretty clear that taking on inequality percent isn’t good for America. And that addressing income inequality would be good, not just for the poor, we don’t have to keep living in a would help everyone. The very but for the middle class (sorry, new Gilded Age if we don’t want to. –New York Times Middle class

If you took a stab at defining and cars PCs and ACs define ‘rich’ million consuming households. So the middle class based on durable consumption. India added one or more Australia ownership lifestyle and use TVs, of consumers of packaged biscuits, refrigerators and two wheelers Based on all these, perhaps shampoos, mobile phones in five ownership as the basis, (table 1) , 40 we should think of the size of years. million households or 200 million “upper class consumers” to be 6 people, about half in rural India, million HH today; “middle class All this co exists alongside is the number. If you consider just consumers” to be 40 million HH; and increasing inequality of consumption. TV and mobile phone ownership, “consuming class consumers” to be The IRS report calculates an at least 122 million households 125 million HH (all classes include ownership and consumption index qualify, with ownership numbers the class higher than them, i.e. are called HPI based on penetration of tipping towards rural India. In cumulative.). a large number of categories. the days gone by, we would use If we stop obsessing about the watch, bicycle and pressure cooker label of the middle class, we can Between 2005 and 2010, ownership to determine those who see that each consuming group will the richest 5% or so of Indian cross the ‘baseline’ to be counted as increase its income substantially households have increased their HPI consumers It is interesting to think in the next decade, with the rich (consumption) by a CAGR of about that now it is the TV and cellphone increasing the most. 14%; the next 20% or so by 10%, that define baseline consumption. the next 35% of income by 8% and Refrigerators, two-wheelers and The magic of rural India is that the last 40% or about 93 million even washing machines define the every 10 percentage points increase households, mostly rural, by just 3%. next higher tier of consumption, in rural HH penetration adds 16 –Rama Bijapurkar

Bharat Ratna This refers to JD(U) spokesperson KC Tyagi rightly raising concern on Sachin Tendulkar appearing in commercial-advertisements even after being honoured with country’s highest civilian honour, this being perhaps the only such case amongst all the awardees of Bharat Ratna so far. There were some unwritten norms, conventions and practices being rightly followed for awarding Bharat Ratna, one of these being to avoid honouring a person with nation’s highest honour at a young age. Unfortunately much hurry was shown by political rulers in taking decision to honour Sachin Tendulkar with Bharat Ratna that too by brushing aside objections against the decision put on file by the bureaucrats. Bharat Ratna conventionally binds an awardee with some saint-like traditions which may not be practically possible to be followed in rest of long span of life of a young awardee. Now since the honour has been done, it will be better for Sachin Tendulkar if he himself graciously surrenders Bharat Ratna to lead a life without any conventions which should be followed by a Bharat Ratna awardee. Or else, Union government should officially advise Sachin Tendulkar not to appear in commercial advertisements.

- Subhash Chandra Agrawal R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, March 23, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, March 23, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday March 26, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

Printed and Published by G.G. Parikh on behalf of Janata Trust. Printed at Mouj Printing Bureau, Khatau Wadi, Girgaum, Mumbai-400 004 and published at D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg (Sleater Road), Mumbai - 400 007. Established 1946 Price : Rupees Five

Vol. 70 No. 9 The Varanasi war March 30, 2014 S. Viswam

The coming electoral confrontation defeat the two of them, there will be a between the BJP’s Narendra Modi and political earthquake, “ says Kejriwal. A voter at sea the Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind According to Kejriwal, the defeat Kuldip Nayar Kejriwal has been aptly described in of the Congress and the BJP the media as “the mother of all battles”. candidates by the AAP might lead Indeed, the outcome at Varanasi will to political instability but it would be politically far more significant for lead to another election within one M. N. Roy the state of democracy in India than year when honest Indians would be A Philosopher of the results in all other constituencies. able to get elected to parliament. Contemporary Relevance Rekha Saraswat In Varanasi, Kejriwal is the challenger, Assessed in the background of the kind and hence the outcome is of crucial of politics that the AAP has adopted, importance to his aspirations for Kejriwal’s stand makes perfect sense. humbling the official prime ministerial The AAP, incidentally has yet to adopt Vote for principled politics: candidate of one of the two political an ideology for itself. For the present, Use NOTA effectively parties against whom he has been its main and only electoral plank is waging a war since the last few years. the campaign against all forms of The other party that is his target is the ’s political, social, Congress. He wants both the parties economic and cultural life. The AAP Education Manifesto to be defeated so that “there can be a drew inspiration from Anna Hazare’s for General Election, 2014 new kind of politics in the country.” campaign for political cleanliness The two parties, Kejriwal says, are and scored its first major and surprise basically the same, the two sides of victory by winning a substantial the same coin, and both needed to be number of seats in Delhi. It also ruled decimated. There must be lakhs of Delhi for 49 days before demitting Editor : citizens in India who may be sharing office on the plea that its government G. G. Parikh Kejriwal’s view. Certainly, both the was not able to enact a special Lokpal Congress and the BJP have been Bill of its liking. An advantage with Managing Editor : Guddi taking turns at ruling the country since which the AAP has started its political a third alternative is not yet available. career is that unlike the BJP and its D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Kejriwal feels that the AAP may well allies, Kejriwal’s party is secular, and Naushir Bharucha Marg, fulfil the role of the alternative. For has no racial or communal biases. Mumbai - 400 007. this reason his party is also fielding The sooner it gives unto itself an an AAP candidate, Kumar Vishwas ideology consistent with the issues Email : [email protected] against Rahul Gandhi in Amethi, also it has raised for public debate the in Uttar Pradesh like Varanasi. “If we better will be its political credibility. 2 JANATA, March 30, 2014

Given the media hype surrounding Between the lines the candidature of Narendra Modi, a great many politicians in many A voter at sea parties might have been tempted to challenge him at Varanasi. We will Kuldip Nayar soon know how many others will dare to bite the bullet as Kejriwal For some years, the activists the ‘outsiders’ without mentioning has done. There is still time for filing from India have been trying to their names for his humiliation. It nominations for the Varanasi poll. persuade Pakistan to pay homage to is obvious that he is talking about The constituency is the BJP’s choice Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh for a second contest for Modi, who is who went to the gallows in the (RSS) which is directly taking part also contesting for a Lok Sabha seat nineteenthirties to strengthen the in politics instead of staying in the from Vadodara in his home state. struggle for freedom. The change background and using the BJP as an Varanasi is regarded as the BJP’s has come about in Pakistan. There instrument. stronghold in Uttar Pradesh having was a candle light vigil at Lahore The RSS reportedly feels that returned many party stalwarts to the on March 23, the day Bhagat Singh the BJP, particularly its leadership, Lok Sabha from there. Dr. Murli was hanged, along with his two has compromised with the ideology Manohar Joshi who has held the comrades. The Pakistan media also of Hindutava. This explains why seat for the BJP from 2009 had devoted programme in the memory RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat was to be arm-twisted by the party to of Bhagat Singh. vacate the seat for Narendra Modi. present at the BJP’s central election Since the decision to field Modi This is a bold defiance to the committee meeting selecting the from two constituencies is that Jammat-e-Islami which considers party’s candidates. every non-Muslim a kafir I have no of the BJP’s, the party is under a Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra doubt that one day, both India and moral obligation to get its prime Modi fits into the framework RSS Pakistan, would jointly celebrate ministerial candidate elected from has in view. He refuses to say ‘sorry’ the martyrdom of Bhagat Singh and both. Strictly speaking, even if Modi for the killing of Muslims in his state his comrades. wins from Vadodara but loses from in 2002. And he proudly flaunts Varanasi, both he and his party will Regretfully, India, which over ‘Hindu nationalism’ instead of Indian be under the moral obligation to claims Bhagat Singh, took no nationalism. Development which withdraw from the prime ministerial notice of the sacrifice by the three. Modi emphasizes is a state subject. contest because there is a challenger The media was conspicuous by its This is the reason why the Planning in Varanasi who can claim the silence. There was no meeting held Commission calls for the meeting moral victory if he wins the seat. in their memory much less lighting of chief ministers to the National This is why we said at the outset candles. True, the Indian society Development Council, which gives that the outcome in Varanasi is of has ousted the value system. But I approval to the 5-year plan. enormous political significance for had never imagined that even the There is no Modi wave. memory of those who made today’s the state of democracy in India. People want a change from the democratic polity possible would get The immediate reaction of the BJP, Congress, associated with scams no mention. at least its Varanasi unit, was to and mis-governance. They want throw ink and eggs on the challenger. One other development which is an alternative. The BJP is no better Officially, the party spokesmen have beyond the realm of my conjecture and its rule is remembered by the refused to accept responsibility for is the bickering in the Bhartiya scandals at that time. I feel dismayed this outrage, claiming that it is yet Janata Party (BJP), known for its when even liberals are taken in by to be proved conclusively that it cohesion and solidarity. When even the propaganda that the country was the BJP ranks that indulged in a stalwart like Jaswant Singh, who needs a national leader to set things hooliganism. The incident however headed finance and foreign affairs in right. Indira Gandhi also raised the shows that the party is insensitive the BJP government, is denied ticket Garibi Hatao slogan and imposed to challenges. It perhaps wants a from his old constituency, Barmer, the Emergency to suspend even the walkover for its candidate in both there is something wrong with the constitution. India is a federal polity the constituencies he is contesting party. Jawant Singh broke down and has no place for the presidential from! The millions of anxious before TV cameras. He has accused system of rule. (Continued on Page 10) (Continued on Page 4) JANATA, March 30, 2014 3 Vote for principled politics: Use NOTA effectively

As the voting dates for the Lok killing of RTI activists and social or Koodankulam anti-nuclear plant Sabha election, 2014 come closer, workers and others. struggle in Tamil Nadu or anti- the entire country is witnessing Polavaram struggle in AP – the list the naked drama of corrupt, caste- The rise of political intolerance is endless. communal oriented, immoral, is not just a threat to fundamental unprincipled alliances amongst and freedom of right and expression Increasingly it is becoming between political parties with the but undermines the very basis clear that big corporate lobbies are only intention of somehow coming of democratic politics – which financing political parties. Many to power. Irrespective of whether it is the RIGHT TO DISSENT. sections of the media are also is an alliance led by a national or This is particularly crucial when controlled by corporate interests. All regional party(ies), alliance logic increasingly corporate interest are this seriously threatens democracy is based on unprincipled, ethics- controlling policy making and and democratic way of life. less and immoral considerations. development policies are turning anti-people. Development has become People’s Union for Civil Liberties destructive, for most ordinary through this statement, wishes PUCL would like to bring to the Indians. None of the political to bring to the attention of the attention of citizens of India, that parties are worried about or talk people of India, the serious threat across the country, all governments about devastation of ground water to democracy itself and the human are using the police as weapons tables, chemical and air pollution, rights challenges posed by the and abusing the law as a means to contamination of water bodies, electoral alliances and calls upon break down people’s struggles by destruction of eco-systems including the common citizen of India to rise violently suppressing them, arresting fisheries systems and a malnutrition up and challenge all the political them under draconian laws like time bomb which is making India a parties about their commitment to anti-sedition laws, UAPA and other nation of stunted people. democracy, rule of law, equitable anti-people laws. and sustainable development and PUCL would like to stress that the welfare of the common citizen. 2. Destructive Development a close scrutiny of the `Gujarat and the murder of Directive development’ model or the UPA’s 1. Challenge to democracy: Principles of State Policy! growth story both disclose the story Threat of Fascism and of crony capitalism, destructive consolidation of a police state Irrespective of whether it is BJP or Congress or regional parties like development and open and collusive PUCL is extremely worried the SP, BSP, AIADMK or TMC looting and plundering of natural that the type of electoral alliances one common factor in all their resources of the people of India. That and the total lack of choice to state policies. It is the open support both the political formations are no the people of India. The human to a development policy which different is revealed by the silence of rights record of none of the major supports big industrial and mining both the principal national parties – alliances inspires confidence that projects which throws out farmers, BJP and Congress – and their allies if they come to power they will tribals and rural and urban poor, to making public the Justice MB respect the rule of law, the Indian enables total capture of all common Shah Commission report on coal Constitution and human rights. resources like land, water, minerals mining in all the states of India. In the last 6 months itself, across and other resources by corrupt 3. Development with dignity and India, we have witnessed ugly face and venal industrial interests and of violent, communal intolerance, democracy: The Promise of the criminalises local people who fight Indian Constitution whether it is in the demand to ban against these unjust, unfair laws and history books (as for example Wendy policies. PUCL would like to stress to the Donniger’s books on Hinduism) or citizens of India, that the Directive the opposition to films or dramas Agitation against Mithi Virdi Principles of State Policy demand on communal considerations or the nuclear plant or the extreme ground that state policies do not increase murderous rise of Khap Panchayats water pollution in Baroda, Vapi or divide between rich and poor and with all the major political parties Bharuch industrial zones in Gujarat do not increase the concentration remaining collusively silent or the or the POSCO struggle in Odisha of wealth in the hands of a few. 4 JANATA, March 30, 2014

The Indian Constitution repeatedly Representatives - Call to the and the Indian constitution or supports highlights that the right to life, to citizen to use widely a pro-people, pro-environment live with dignity, right to health, PUCL calls upon all citizens to sustainable development policy, they environment and water and other come out and cast their vote and can express their displeasure through basic rights are fundamental rights that they are not entirely powerless using NOTA. not to be mortgaged or sold away by to counter corrupt political parties PUCL was also responsible for the governments to corporate interests. who view elections as a once in introduction of NOTA. We feel that 5 years gamble. Today the citizen PUCL calls upon the citizens to be NOTA is an important right available has the right to make known their vigilant and to vigorously question to the voter from this election. This opposition to unprincipled politics all political parties on their support will eventually lead to the next step by using NOTA (None of the Above) to pro-people, sustainable, equitable of electoral reform – recalling of button in the voting machine. development policies. What is at elected representatives, if they do stake is the future of India. We would like to point out not live up to their promises, by the voters in their constituencies. 4. NOTA: First step to Recall of that wherever citizens do not find candidates who respect human rights Prabhakar Sinha President, National PUCL V. Suresh General Secretary, National PUCL

(Continued from Page 2) I am amused over the remark tumbled out of the cupboard. Many ideological clarity more so, in the that the coming Lok Sabha election more may come out if and when a foreign policy field. is a contest between corruption non-Congress government assumes The challenge before the and communalism. Both are evil. power at the centre. nation is lack of leadership and How does it matter if a candidate is A new phenomenon has emerged corrupt or communalist? I believe governance. The Congress has in the shape of Aam Aadmi Party been found wanting in both. The that the distinction is a brainwave of (AAP) which once evoked idealism some candidates who are corrupt and party has wasted the 10 years of its and provided a non-Congress and governance. Even now the Congress want to hide their sins by mouthing non-BJP alternative. But the party the slogan of pluralism. is miles away from the leadership it is losing sheen because it lacks provided till the nineteenseventies. ideology and projects only its However, the entire discussion Probably, the initial thrust was leader Arvind Kejriwal. Too much is of little consequence because the because of the people who had two main parties, the Congress and authority is concentrated in him and he flaunts it. gone through the fire of national the BJP have fielded tainted and movement. They followed a value extremist candidates. (Thirty percent Which party he/she chooses is a system. What is the Congress today of the candidates have a criminal dilemma before an ordinary voter. except the people who want power record). The Congress is more to With Modi, there is every chance by hook or by crook? Even their blame because its ideology is that of an autocratic country, although body language reflects arrogance. of secularism. The BJP makes no the growth oriented India would bones about the pro-Hindu stance be more centrally controlled and The party has committed the since it wants to polarize the society. less democratic. A slight dip in his unpardonable sin of linking politics Congress president Sonia Gandhi is popularity graph indicates that more with the state. When ministers right when she says that the BJP is and more people are seeing through are on the take why shouldn’t sowing the seeds of poison. the façade of progress Modi has underpaid government officials do The Congress, with Rahul Gandhi created. likewise? No doubt, the BJP has as its leader, may claim to be pluralist When I listen to Rahul Gandhi come to occupy more space than the in his outlook. But this does not I vainly seek direction. He has Congress. When some top officials condone the numerous communal improved in the last few weeks. join the party after retirement or by riots during the Congress rule in But the nation cannot be entrusted resigning from the service, there has the country on one hand and the to him. Perhaps he would have to be a serious study to know why corrupt deals in which the party has matured by the general election it is so. I think such officials were been involved in its 10-year rule in 2019. At present he is trying to inclined towards the BJP philosophy on the other. Many skeletons have please everybody. He too is lacking even when they were in service. JANATA, March 30, 2014 5 Education Manifesto for General Election, 2014 All-India Forum for Right to Education

In context of the forthcoming and the Trusts/ Societies operating uniform, computer and internet General Elections, we “the people them since their assets have been usage, transport, extracurricular of India” belonging to various created only through student fees activities and hostels; organizations, groups, unions, and other community resources in associations, professions, religions, the name of education; 7) Allocate a minimum of 6% castes, gender and physical/mental/ of GNP to education and also provide visual disabilities hereby endeavour 3) Withdraw the ‘offers’ made additional resources to fill up the to solicit time-bound commitment to WTO to make higher education cumulative gap of public expenditure of all-India and regional political a ‘tradable service’ to be regulated building up since 1986 due to under- parties on the below-mentioned in perpetuity by the GATS regime. allocation and low spending through pressing educational demands: These ‘offers’ would become Union and State Budgets, and ensure irrevocable ‘commitment’ if not required funding thereafter for 1) Withdraw of the policies withdrawn before the conclusion of continuing improvement of state- of commercialization of education, Doha Round of trade negotiations. funded education system; which include privatisation of All the reforms in the field of state educational institutions, self- education that the government 8) Immediately provide financing courses, outsourcing, intends to bring are merely aimed at adequate professional training to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and establishing a legal and institutional all Para-teachers and non-formal profiteering in education, voucher framework for implementation of teaching personnel (guest teachers/ schemes, ‘school choice’ schemes, agreements related to education contract teachers/Shiksha Mitra/ development grants and tax under WTO-GATS regime; Guruji etc.) and, wherever required, exemption to both managements and support them to acquire essential parents of children enrolled in private 4) Put a Constitutional bar on eligible qualifications in order to educational institutions, provision of any form of commercialisation in merge them in regular teacher cadre; free or subsidized land, electricity, education by amending Article 19 water, transport and other facilities (1) (g) to read “All citizens shall have 9) Provide entirely state-funded or services to private educational the right to practice any profession, and free holistic early childhood care, institutions. Neoliberal policies of or to carry on any occupation, trade pre-primary education, elementary Public-Private Partnership (PPP) of or business, provided that the right education and secondary and senior all forms, including the provision of to carry on an occupation, trade or secondary education to all children ‘reimbursement’ of fees to private business does not apply to education, up to age of 18 years. Provide all schools under RTE Act, should also health, water and other fundamental government schools with sufficient be immediately withdrawn from entitlements of the people”; number of nursery classes. All education at all levels. Public funds habitations and neighborhoods should be used only to strengthen 5) Reverse through judicial should be provided with full-time public education system and shall process or an appropriate crèches and anganwadis; not be siphoned to private agencies Constitutional amendment under whatever nomenclature; the Supreme Court’s TMA Pai 10) Repeal the farcical Right to Foundation Judgment (2002) Education Act, 2009 by a new Act 2) Enact a law prohibiting which opened a floodgate for that (a) unambiguously upholds the transfer of land, building, commercialisation of education; the Preamble to the Constitution equipment or any other facility of an in relation to education; (b) educational institution belonging to 6) Redefine ‘free education’ guarantees Fundamental Right to the government or local authorities from ‘KG to PG’ to include, apart education read with the relevant to any corporate house, religious from tuition-fees, exemption Directive Principles of State Policy body or NGO, irrespective of the from all other direct or contingent holistically; (c) bans all forms of circumstances; similar law is also expenses such as miscellaneous commercialization of education, required in the case of private aided fees and charges, cost of text-books including PPP; (d) acknowledges or unaided educational institutions and supplementary texts, stationary, inter-linkages of multiple sources 6 JANATA, March 30, 2014 of bias and discrimination in in High Schools with reasonable appoint regular employees in society with issues such as workload; requisite numbers for non-teaching curriculum, pedagogy, medium work in schools; Recruit 10 percent of education, teachers & teacher 12) Recognize mid-day-meal extra teachers so that students do education and negative impact of workers and other non-teaching staff not suffer academic loss in case of market on educational quality; (e) in schools as public employees. Pay teachers’ rightful long-term leaves; excludes disparities and optimizes them statutory wages and offer them diversities; (f) binds the state legally full employment for taking up other 18) All contractual employment to provide adequate resources in work in schools if they so desire. be stopped in schools, colleges order fill up the cumulative gap Provide them wages for vacations and universities, whether among and meet the new demands; and and paid leaves. teachers or among non-teaching thereby (g) builds a fully state- staff as it militates against that funded ‘Common School System 13) End the multi-layered school sense of social security, bonding and based on Neighbourhood Schools’ system and replace it with Common identification with the school which within a specified time frame. The School System. Provide equal is essential to give the institution a RTE Act, 2009 has deliberately infrastructural, institutional and human, personal face, continuity and misconceived Neighbourhood academic support to all government a feeling of long-term commitment School such that the state is at schools, minimum on par with which has been proved by researches liberty to provide inferior quality present Central Schools to begin. to be a great strength for schools as schools in the neighbourhood of the Merge the special categories of human spaces; vast majority of the downtrodden schools within government school 19) Strengthen the academic and the dispossessed classes system at the Centre level (e.g. basis of the inspectorial system, and castes, thereby legitimizing Central Schools and Navodaya making it more dialogic and discrimination and status quo. In Schools) and at state-level (e.g. interactive between the teachers contrast, the Neighbourhood School Model Schools/Pratibha Schools/ and officials, by an institutionalized of the Common School System is a Super 30 or whatever names they collaboration with SCERTs and transformative concept since it calls might bear) in the Common School University departments. At the same for a legislative provision under System; time, decentralize the process of which each school - government, exams, giving more autonomy to local body or private - would have 14) Take over all fee-charging teachers and schools in pacing the a prescribed constituency and all private schools, colleges and curricular schedule and evaluation the families residing within the universities and place them under while following a common constituency would be obliged to democratic, decentralized and curriculum; send their children to the concerned participative governance at par school, irrespective of their class, with state-funded institutions; in the 20) Raise the level of all caste, gender, religion, language, meantime, strictly regulate private government schools, to begin with, region or disability. In the case educational institutions; as per the norms and standards of the of a sizeable concentration of a Central Schools as a pre-requisite particular community in an area 15) All fresh appointments to be for building a National System of (e.g. a dalit or tribal locality in of only qualified and professionally Education. Ensure that all schools villages or urban ghettoisation), it trained teachers on permanent basis provide education in all streams would be obligatory under law for only in the regular teacher cadre; (including arts, science, commerce the prescribed authority to draw the and others); constituency such as to optimize 16) Apply all-India pay scale diversity; and service conditions equitably 21) Every child must have equal for all teachers appointed ‘from KG opportunities to study music, arts, 11) Abolish multi-graded to PG’ and also replace the present crafts and other creative streams as teaching and bring legislation for pension scheme with the old pension well as computer and IT. Facilities Pupil-Teacher Ratio (PTR) of 1:20 scheme; for this should be provided in every at all levels of schooling and ensure school. At the same time, keep all one teacher for one class/section and 17) Abolish the practice of schools free from the humiliating provide a separate room for each burdening government school and invasive use of surveillance class/section in elementary schools teachers with non-teaching which further degrades children’s and one teacher for one subject responsibilities of any kind and privacy and trust in teachers; JANATA, March 30, 2014 7

22) Provide well-equipped 27) Guarantee all necessary 33) I d e n t i f y a n d s e e k libraries and IT-services in all support including provision of expurgation of all communal, schools, colleges and universities professionally trained teachers fundamentalist, patriarchal, for children and teachers. School for disabled children within the sectarian, superstitious, unscientific teachers should be provided Common School System. Provision and anti-disabled practices from necessary support for academic and for special schools should only be the curriculum and pedagogy of all intellectual development; considered in extreme cases with a educational institutions (including lot of care and as interim strategy those of teacher-training) and 23) Declare a time-bound plan to alone; their systematic replacement by end the anomalous and educationally practices that promote scientific unjust and deleterious system of 28) Replacement of multiple temper, historical consciousness, double shift schools; Boards of education by a single exploration, reasoning and respect Board in each State/UT along with for equality and human dignity; 24) All material, curricular a common language education and moral support required by the policy founded on mother tongue 34) All obscurantist courses child, such as note books, work as medium of education in dynamic like astrology to be replaced at all books and along with text books, interface with multi-linguality; levels by socially orientated secular access to computers and internet, and scientific courses. Courses participations in games and sports, 29) Do not allow the State/UT like training in priesthood should learning art, music and performing governments to use the inferior not form part of the educational arts, nutritious food, regular health norms and standards of the RTE curriculum which should be firmly check-ups and medical support, Act, 2009 to shift teachers and grounded on the need to promote clothing, gender-sensitive and infrastructural facilities from their critical, scientific practices; disabled-friendly resources and present location on the ground of facilities, and such other elements these being ‘extra’ in light of the 35) Undertake programmes must be guaranteed to every child schedule of the Act; for strengthening all state-funded without any distinction in order to educational institutions in order to enable everyone to study in regular 30) P u t a n e n d t o t h e restore their credibility in the public schools as a full-time student up practise of shifting government’s mind; to Class XII and fulfil the required responsibilities of providing curricular goals. The exclusionary education and related matters on 36) Reject the present policy provision of home-based education NGOs of any kind and at any level of substituting the Constitutional should be replaced with full support and in any form whatsoever; principle of equality and social to all children for studying and justice by the neo-liberal concept learning in full-time regular schools; 31) Nullify all gender-based of ‘inclusion’ which is designed streaming in schools whereby to include a handful of children 25) Provide tiffin on arrival, girls and boys are pushed and and youth as per the dictates of the Mid-day Meal (cooked and not encouraged to take stereotypical market, after having excluded the pre-packaged) and milk at the courses which reinforces gender masses; end of the school up to senior inequality and discriminates against secondary level and establish a full- girls by affirming violent notions 37) Reject the Eleventh and fledged independent and transparent of masculinity and domesticated Twelfth Five-Year Plans’ redefinition procurement, storage, cooking and notions of femininity of educational goal of designing delivery mechanism for every school education (and knowledge) as a such that it does not disturb the 32) Put a ban on communal means to build ‘slavish and skilled’ teachers at all; bodies interfering in educational workforce for the global market; and institutions in any form and at any reject the present form of National 26) Provide secure residence level. Communalisation including Skill Development Mission which and/or safe transport absolutely free, dominance of any religion, caste, attempts to reduce education to mere to all children who require them class, gender, culture, language, ‘skill formation’; and restore the to enable them to study in regular region or that of so-called ‘normal’ Constitutional vision of education schools as a full-time student up body should not have any place as a means to transform and build a to Class XII and fulfil the required in education system in any form democratic, secular, egalitarian, just curricular goals; whatsoever; and enlightened society founded on 8 JANATA, March 30, 2014 plurality, fraternity and democratic society. At the same time, it should (PPP) designed to siphon public freedom; also be borne in mind that any funds and transfer public facilities reform in educational courses and assets to private agencies, 38) Expand the scope for dissent, will be counterproductive without (c) strengthening government debate and democratic struggle in all abolishing commercialisation of universities and colleges by educational institutions; education; providing necessary infrastructure and appointing qualified teaching and 39) Respect and protect the 44) Stop all Private University non-teaching personnel in adequate internal mechanisms of educational Bills in the states and withdraw the numbers, (d) democratizing and institutions essential for maintaining Bills on higher education designed decentralizing administration in the their democratic character, adherence to pave the way for WTO-GATS field of education, (e) universalizing to laws and accountability, such agenda; Six Higher Education Bills school education up to age of 18 as the Stalf-Councils, Faculties, were introduced in the Parliament years and constantly increasing Academic and Executive Councils, from the year 2010 onwards to opportunities in higher education students’, teachers’ and karamcharis commercialize and commoditize to meet the aspirations of the youth unions; higher education. These include, and needs of the society, and (f) (1) ‘The Foreign Educational building an education system in 40) Establish at least one Institutions Bill – 2010’; (2) ‘The conformity with the basic values of Comprehensive (i.e. multi- Educational Tribunals Bill – 2010’; the Constitution; disciplinary and interdisciplinary) (3) ‘The National Accreditation Public-funded University, with Bill – 2010’; (4) ‘The Prohibition 46) A minimum of 40 percent provision for access to institutions of Unfair Practices Bill – 2010’; (5) of the relevant age group (i.e. 18- of advanced studies in all areas ‘The Higher Education and Research 24 years) should thereby have fully of knowledge, in all districts Bill – 2011’; (6) ‘The Universities cost-free higher and professional throughout the country. Studies for Research and Innovation Bill education by the end of the XII rooted in the district’s socio-cultural, – 2012. If enacted, these Bills Five Year Plan (2012-2017) in full environmental and developmental would, (a) open floodgates to FDI conformity with Constitutional context should be encouraged and in higher education and reduce obligation of social justice and adequately funded; education into a tradable service; money shall not play any role; (b) tribunalise justice in the field of 41) Hostels, with free boarding education and marginalize access to 47) E n a c t a l a w t h a t and lodging facilities to be courts; (c) privatize assessment and unambiguously bans all forms of provided for all institutes of higher accreditation process resulting in child labour; education in order to enable poor, widespread corruption; (d) reduce rural, disadvantaged and disabled the misleading concept of ‘education 48) Initiate the process for students to pursue and complete their service’ to one of transparency a review of 86th Constitutional education; which allow transparent plunder; (e) Amendment Act (2002) and, if establish an ‘Independent Regulatory required, its repeal followed by a 42) Implement the policies of Authority’ in Higher Education in fresh Constitutional amendment affirmative action with urgency and line with WTO guidelines to be to guarantee unconditional full spirit in educational institutions; called National Council for Higher Fundamental Right to entirely free Education and Research (NCHER). education of equitable quality for all 43) Scratch the arbitrary This NCHER will be independent children up to 18 years of age (i.e. imposition of Four-Year from democratic pressures of up to Class XII), including Early Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) the people and regulate ‘trade in Childhood Care and Pre-Primary in Delhi University and reverse education service’ in the interest Education for children below six moves to impose such courses in of foreign and domestic corporate years of age; the amendment shall other universities, reverting back houses; trash Article 51A (k) through which (as an interim strategy) to the earlier the state has managed to shift course-structure and initiate a proper 45) The long overdue pro-people its Constitutional obligation for nation-wide discussion with the reforms in higher education require provision of elementary education view to reconstruct the system of to be directed at (a) abolition of trade to the parents; the amendment will higher education in accordance in education, (b) abandoning the further place an obligation on the with the needs of the people and so-called Public Private Partnership state to provide equitable access JANATA, March 30, 2014 9 to free higher (including technical) 51) Mother tongue along with minorities to have the option of education within ten years of such an its multi-lingual context as medium switching to State’s language amendment. The 86th Constitutional of education should be introduced as their medium of education in Amendment Act, 2002 debauched forthwith in all government and all subjects until they complete the Supreme Court’s historic private schools across the country. senior secondary education; judgment (1993) making education One of the significant commonalities however, in case of languages of of children up to the age of 14 of the Common School System will at least the Eighth Schedule, the years a Fundamental Right. This be the plurality of mother tongues children must also have the option amendment denies Fundamental in dynamic interface with multi- of continuing education in their Right to early childhood care and linguality of child’s neighbourhood. mother tongues in all subjects pre-primary education to This would duly include Braille and at all levels, including higher Sign languages as well. According to education, and 17 crore children under the age this radical and dynamic conception of 6 years, made the Fundamental of language education, mother • In light of the perspective Right of the children in the 6-14 tongue with a multi-lingual interface on medium of education and year age group conditional to the is acknowledged as the most potent language education elaborated requirements of the market and medium of education to enable the above, the State/UT governments shifted the obligation to provide child to (a) think, analyse and act; (b) may consider, if necessary education to the parents/guardians; acquire, internalize and transform and appropriate, introducing 49) Until a consensus is arrived modern knowledge critically; (c) other languages in schools at to restore education to the state learn other languages, including at pedagogically appropriate list, build public opinion that the English, proficiently; (d) catalyse stage(s), in accordance with concurrent status of education should cultural and literary renaissance; the aspirations and needs of the be utilized to involve all states/UTs (e) negotiate with the dominant people to be consulted through in a collective nation-wide plan with process of alienation with advantage, debates organized by both the a sense of ownership for establishing thereby avoiding to be pushed- state and non-state bodies. a democratic, secular, egalitarian, out; and (e) question and resist just and enlightened system of oppression and explore the path However, the Central and State/ education, rather than to impose of emancipation. Since the mother UT governments are required to the Centre’s decision over those of tongue of the child may not be the jointly undertake the following the States/UTs, as is the prevailing State/UT language, the language additional and urgent measures practice; policy of Common School System, with a view to make Indian keeping in mind Article 350A of the languages a powerful tool of 50) Initiate a policy debate on Constitution, requires that the State/ learning, knowledge generation, the issue of payment of inadequate UT governments, cultural advancement and wages to the vast majority of parents exploring an alternative model that prevents them from exercising • provide all necessary support of development by: their Right to Life with dignity as for equitable development of per Article 21 read with Article 43 the languages of the linguistic • Ensuring that a common (living wage, decent standard of minorities as curricular languages, language education policy, life, full enjoyment of leisure, social at least in the early years of with the inherent diversity as & cultural opportunities), thereby elementary education, indicated above, is implemented depriving their children of healthy in all schools, government or and secure childhood [Article 39 • envisage Braille and Sign otherwise, throughout the country (e) and (f)] as well as opportunity languages as ‘languages of and gradually extend the policy to devote themselves to pursue the linguistic minorities’ and in a planned manner to higher education without being compelled provide all necessary support, education (including technical to be engaged in child labour and including IT-related technologies education) as well, domestic support activities; In the and appropriately trained staff, interim period, provide sufficient in order to develop them as • Creating a fully empowered scholarship to all students from poor, curricular languages, and well-resourced National Dalit, OBC, minority communities Translation Commission that and to all girls students and physically • develop appropriate pedagogy would have the mandate of or mentally disabled students; to enable children of linguistic identifying and translating the 10 JANATA, March 30, 2014

highest form of literature, texts, and demands without any delay of our country to achieve egalitarian documents or research papers in and by doing so to fulfil the long education paving the path of their any discipline from each of the suppressed aspirations of the people emancipation. Indian languages of at least the Eighth Schedule into the rest of the languages and also doing the same from all major languages Arrest of the alleged IM suspects of the world and bringing global knowledge into all languages The Socialist Party (India) should not have mentioned in public of the Eighth Schedule, to expresses its deep concern about the that the suspected terrorists were begin with, and later into other manner in which the police authorities reportedly planning to attack BJP’s languages as well, are creating an atmosphere of fear PM candidate Narendra Modi. The • Implement a time-bound and distrust among the citizens of police should have dealt with this programme to ensure use of the a certain community regarding the alleged threat in a discreet manner. Eighth Schedule languages at all arrests of the alleged operatives of levels of legislature, executive, Indian Mujahideen in Jaipur on 23 Such acts of the police could judiciary, science & technology March 2014. In this connection, two create communal feelings. The and business, young men were arrested by the Election Commission of India police in Okhla, Delhi, leading to a should direct the police authorities, • Accord political attention and spontaneous protest by the residents including the National Investigating financial resources to make IT of that area. The arrested youth were Agency (NIA) and the Central friendly to all Indian languages released later following the protest Bureau of Investigation (CBI), not on a priority basis so that but the action of the police has to make ‘revelations’ which could the prevailing difficulty and spread a deep sense of insecurity and flare up communal passions during discrimination in using IT for anguish among the residents. Indian languages, in comparison the election times. The provisions to English, is eliminated, The police, in its press conference of the Representation of the People and statements, has presented the Act, 1951 applied to the political • Formulate/ design all required arrested persons as if they have been parties, leaders and candidates must laws, programmes and schemes proved guilty already simply because be applicable to the governmental to ensure that no citizen faces they had been arrested. It seems that authorities/agencies as well. discrimination while her/ his the police, by declaring the names knowledge in mother tongue is The Socialist Party further appeals evaluated for higher education of the alleged suspects in the press to the present government to ensure and/or employment and the conference and narrating stories same is accessible through one’s about their unlawful activities, have a free and fair atmosphere among mother tongue in interface with not kept in mind that it is also the the public so that more than 80 crore multi-linguality, time for the Lok Sabha elections. voters all over India can cast their The Delhi Police Special Cell vote with dignity and responsibility. • Based upon the above Dr. Prem Singh, commitments, a ‘Common General Secretary National Policy on Indian Languages’ is formulated and implemented. (Continued from Page 2) Janata Subscription AIFRTE and its member- and observers of the Indian political Annual Rs. : 260/- associate organisations appeal to all Three Years : 750/- scene these days will wish good luck Demand Draft / Cheque on political parties affirming faith in to both the candidates and appeal the Constitutional vision of making Mumbai Bank in favour of India a democratic, secular, just and to the Varanasi voters to choose the candidate who will serve the nation JANATA TRUST egalitarian nation to immediately D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir declare their commitment to fulfil and its democratic and secular ideals Bharucha Marg, Mumbai 400 007 and implement the above approaches better. JANATA, March 30, 2014 11 Medha Patkar for Lok Sabha Born to a family of socialist Dear friends, activists (Vasant and Indu Khanolkar), Medha Patkar is an alumnus of Ruia College and Tata You must be already aware of Medha Patkar’s candidature for the Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Lok Sabha elections from North East constituency of Mumbai. This is a excelling both in academics and critical fight since after 38 years of social activism, Medhatai is stepping co-curricular activities. Upon her into electoral politics for the first time. We feel this election is very crucial post-graduation in Social Work, she from the point of view of all people’s movements as well as the citizens joined the faculty of TISS briefly. who wish to change the face and culture of politics in this country.

Before starting Narmada Bachao This Lok Sabha constituency, stretching from Mankhurd to Mulund Andolan (NBA) in 1985, she worked which includes Govandi, Ghatkopar, Vikroli and Bhandup , consists with organisations like CASP-PLAN of six assembly constituencies and 36 Municipal wards, with the voter and UNICEF. She led relief activities population about 20 lakhs. during the devastating cyclone in Andhra Pradesh (1977) and Gujarat Consistent with Medhatai’s simple life style, her emphasis is always on earthquake (2001). maximum utilization of minimum resources. Her campaign strategy is to During its nearly three cover most of the areas through padyatra and hundreds of self-motivated decades of existence, NBA raised volunteers are busy with door to door campaign. Handbills are used in issues of displacement without large numbers to reach to the voters, social media is also being used. rehabilitation, wastage of public money in mega projects which Effective campaign in a huge constituency with large number of will benefit only the politicians and be possible only if you extend a generous hand. Please send by post/hand/ contractors and not the people, courier your contribution cheques in the name of AAM AADMI PARTY exposed corruption to the tune of –LS-MUMBAI NORTH EAST along with your name, full address, PAN crores of rupees, and advocated for no., phone no e-mail ID, if available, to the following address. a more decentralized, participatory development, where the government Medha Patkar, is accountable and transparent to ‘Prasanna’ 1st floor, the people. Without NBA, fate of lakhs of people would not have 11th road , Chembur east, Church road, been any different from other big Mumbai projects of the past, where the poor Phone—022-25212555 displaced people became destitute. Medha Patkar is also a founding Ramdas Bhatkal, Vidya Bal, Chaya Datar, Sumitra Bhave, member of National Alliance of Neera Adarkar, Urmila Pawar, Vijaya Chauahan, Suniti S. R., Sanjay People’s Movements (NAPM), M. G., Prakash Bandre Sharad Joshi, G. G. Parikh comprising of over 250 social movements and trade unions from the length and breadth of the country. to look at the issues around big by NBA and in 1993 led to the These movements and trade unions dams. Then South African Minister withdrawal of Bank from the project. raised issues of social injustices, for Water Resources, and Nelson Both the review and withdrawal was labour and women’s issues, dalit Mandela’s close colleague Kadar first in the history of World Bank. and tribal rights, and protection of Asmal headed the Commission. The review led to the formation of environment. Inspection Panel at the Bank – the It was due to the intense campaign first permanent grievance redressal She was a member of World mechanism in any development led by Medha that World Bank Commission on Dams. Supported banks in the world. by institutions like World Bank reviewed Sardar Sarovar (Narmada) and UNEP, and members from the Dam in 1991 – a project they had dam construction industry and civil started financing in 1985. The review Medha took upon the fight against society, it was a unique attempt confirmed all the concerns raised (Continued on Page 15) 12 JANATA, March 30, 2014 M. N. Roy A Philosopher of Contemporary Relevance

Rekha Saraswat

A perceptive person, sensitive in servitude to any person or idea, had joined forces with the Marxists, to his surroundings, when begins and, therefore, never surrendered in the first place. to express his disquiet with the his own independent thinking and inequities around him either analysis of either of them. Whenever He came to India in December becomes a poet, an artist, an author he was introduced to any preset 1930 (where he was imprisoned for or a philosopher and leaves his notion of amending the prevalent six years in 1931 for “conspiring deliberations for posterity to assess norms of society and state he applied to deprive the King Emperor of his and acclaim or disgrace. his own mind and logic before sovereignty in India.”) still believing agreeing to its basic concepts and in the socialist objective of Marxism A philosopher is always the then tried to put it to practice to test even after his disillusionment with product of his circumstances; his and prove its functionality. the modes of obtaining it applied past and his present and Manavendra by the descendants and successors Nath Roy, the revolutionary He did the same with all sincerity of Marx and Lenin in the name of philosopher from India, was no to fulfil his vision of getting rid of Communism. And as it culminated exception to it. the British yoke on Jatindranath and deteriorated further in the form Mukherjee’s nationalist- of a dictatorial regime of one man We all know his long journey of revolutionary line of thought and Stalin, Roy began to further question pursuit for freedom first for his nation action in 1915-16 and stopped not the basic tenets of Communism, and finally for each individual human only when the mission could not which undermined the very concept being. His various transformations progress due to lack of support from of individual freedom of thought and from a nationalist revolutionary to a without (from the Germans and action vis-à-vis the collective entity radical humanist with long intervals the Japanese) but when he began of a state or nation. in the international communist to realize that independence of a movement and a small stint inside nation from foreign bondage was He became equally apprehensive the Indian National Congress, every not a necessary and natural corollary about the success of representative time had an honesty of curiosity and of the freedom of its citizens from form of parliamentary democracy a sincerity of faith in his endeavours servitude and exploitation. in which political parties and their to bring relief and betterment to the leaders at the apex played a decisive existing predicaments of the ailing He then tried all the practical role in getting candidates selected humanity around him. methods of Marxism through and elected from the constituencies the international communist to form governments in the Centre Coming from a Brahmin family organisations that were set up in his and states. He saw the practical of hereditary priests in West presence in Europe under the general outcome of the unfair use of populist Bengal (being born on 21st March supervision of Lenin and extended methods by established political 1887) Roy underwent a complete to Asia and India with his own parties and prominent leaders during metamorphosis in his personality specific propositions. He continued his own and his Radical Democratic by developing into a rationalist to work upon them from 1917 till Party’s unsuccessful attempts in humanist during the final years of 1930 with all earnestness till his contesting elections and dissolved his life. disenchantment with the undue the RDP. repression of the vast majority of the The continuity in the momentum downtrodden and deprived people Many scholars accuse him for of his thought process, from one (caused by the practical application advocating a party-less form of conviction to the next, could be of the technique of dictatorship of the democracy because of his own possible only because Roy was never proletariat) for whose betterment he failure as a leader of his party in JANATA, March 30, 2014 13 helping it win elections during the He realised that it was too early One can provide evidence process of Indian independence. for the Indian common men to that Roy was a philosopher with The blame may be lessened and understand the meaning and value contemporary relevance by citing our criticism mellowed out if we of participatory democracy because the following two examples, one remember that he was witness to they were seeped in the feudal from the past and the other from the the sincere dreams and truthful tradition of monarchic hierarchy present. efforts of Lenin and other leaders as well as in the customs of in trying to ameliorate the pitiable patriarchal society. They were also It was in June 1974, twenty th state of affairs of the working class psychologically accustomed (and years after Roy’s death (on 25 and how miserably they failed to do considered it their destiny) to being January, 1954) when his idea of so through the Communist Party and born in higher or lower classes forming People’s Committees at its followers. because of their belief in the theory the grass-root level, giving them of past life’s karmas. power to legislate, opine and vote He was again seeing history on issues of personal and national being repeated before his own eyes Even Roy’s persona, while importance as well as to recall the in the heightened expectations and enigmatic to some, was erring members of legislatures, blind faith of the common men in unapproachable, awesome and thus, rendering political parties leaders of Indian political parties alien to most in his native land. He useless (all described, in detail, in his Draft Constitution of Free who were expected to improve their had gone far beyond the cultural pathetic living conditions and bring India) was picked up by Jayaprakash and intellectual horizons of the betterment to their lives, as if with Narayan in his concept of Total traditional Indian thought process. a magic wand, without themselves Revolution and this time the youth His writings also, were beyond knowing how to go about it. The rose to the occasion. It was that comprehension for all those who innocent people had no clues that new generation of Indians which read them with a traditional bias. they were being exploited first in the had not been directly reared in name of religion and communalism the pathos of foreign or inland The basic purpose of any and later in the name of caste monarchic slavery. It was that new philosophy or ideology is to find and region and these sectarian age group which had gathered self- solutions to the contemporary sympathies and partisan emotions confidence by learning to exert its social, political, economic and were being used simply as tactics for political rights in an independent cultural problems of the society. seeking their votes to win elections sovereign state and had also begun Roy canvassed for a scientific, and attain political power, creating to compare its own conditions with huge hiatuses between people’s democratic egalitarian and above the political developments in other expectations from an independent all rationally humanist solution for parts of this world. Rapid growth and state and the political leaders’ them. But for the few educated, advancement in the communication ambitions for governance, in the emancipated minds the country was technology also helped them do so. process. (Partition of the country not open to a cosmopolitan approach Naturally, when Roy talked of this later on and its criminal repercussions towards life. Technology and its kind of confidence in the minds of were a natural outcome of this dramatic innovations were yet to people two decades earlier, people egotistic craving for power of the influence the lives of Indian people. failed to recognize his reason. He few at the top.) was much ahead of his times and One wonders, had scientific because he refused to compromise And when he and his partymen advancements reduced the distances with the scientifically irrational or tried to reach out to the masses and narrowed the differences ethically unsound tenets of practical to counsel them against this between nations of the world in the politics being practiced then he paid impending injustice their views were 1940s like they have done today a heavy cost of being neglected not accepted by the latter and his would Roy have succeeded in by both the political leaders and whole group failed to identify with making his points clear to the Indian the common masses. He failed to the masses’ psychology and were masses in a better way through gain either’s attention to become a alienated from the ensuing historical means of modern social media? The populist leader of the masses. And process of change in the country. answer is definitely ‘yes’. honestly therefore, Indian history 14 JANATA, March 30, 2014 had to pay a heavy cost for this attitude and an enlightened awareness is sumptuous but distribution is still disregard of his farsightedness. and suggest ways of his amelioration partial; where science has conquered himself. The situation is very grim. irrationality but religion is still Taking the second example from It is just like asking a child to take propagating myths and superstitions the present, after sixty years of charge of a speeding train in his and where technology has brought Roy’s absence from the scene, a own hands. Chaos and anarchy humanity closer but nationalism is new movement and party AAP will definitely let loose because the still instigating wars and terrorism. has once again, taken refuge in the traditional feudal government bosses One may read with benefit M.N. goodwill and consensus of mohalla are impatiently waiting for this turn Roy’s books like New Humanism – samitees, a term again being equated of events to disprove the concept A Manifesto, Beyond Communism, with Roy’s concept of People’s of participatory democracy in India Politics Power and Parties, Committees. There are some, from challenging the ability and maturity New Orientation, Materialism, the Radical Humanist group, who of the voters to do so. From Savagery to Revolution, are desperate, once again, as they Revolution & Counter revolution were during JP’s movement to claim Roy’s expectations of ushering in in China, Reason, Romanticism appreciation and advantage from this a scientific renaissance and rational and Revolution, Scientific Politics, new development of the so-called reasoning in the minds of people, Science and Superstition, Men I met, masses’ party, AAP. as a prerequisite of true democracy his Memoirs and The Historical Role of and by the ethically emancipated of Islam. But, I beg to differ with them. J.P.’s people, is still nowhere to be seen. clarion call for a ‘total revolution’ I may have gone beyond the and AAP’s ‘mohalla samittees’ Some may say that Roy would expected length of my article but consensus’ both are missing the have made improvements and I must write its crux in the end major basic tenet of Roy’s radical alterations in his own line of thought that philosophers and thinkers, humanist party-less democracy: the and action had he been present today from the olden days till date, have ‘inculcation of values of renaissance because he did not categorically contributed to the refinement of and reformation in the citizens’ suggest solutions to the problems human knowledge; science and minds’. What to talk of the common of corruption in politics and technology, in the modern ages, have man these values were missing even administration. Anyone who would given facilities of comfort and ease in the leaders of J.P.’s movement. have gone through his vast writings to human existence but frauds and And see to what level they have on the ill-effects of communism, deceptions have tried to spoil true brought the Indian political scene! parliamentary democracy and the human progress in all areas of the menace of political parties would world’s living humanity. I repeat I wrote in my editorial of the not blame him for omitting the again, that Roy’s principle of ethical- January 2014 issue of The Radical hazards of corruption in power politics and rational-social morality Humanist and I repeat it here politics. He wrote ruthlessly and is the only everlasting solution for that the ‘educators are still not extensively since the beginning the salvation to human strife. properly educated’. Those who of Indian independence struggle are approaching the people in the on these issues, even at the time mohallas are still not clear about when India was basking in the the humanist concepts of politics glory of following a Westminster Madhu Dandavate and philosophy. They themselves model of representative democracy. By have, so far, not suggested ways out He had, in all his manuscripts, B. Vivekanandan of sectarian, caste and class based published or still waiting in the Price: Rs. 20/- regional and religious politics. national archives in New Delhi to be Janata Trust They themselves do not seem to published (the most famous of them D-15, Ganesh Prasad, have, hitherto, risen above these – ‘Philosophical Consequences Naushir Bharucha Marg, divisions. They are yet not rational of Modern Science’) claimed that Grant Road (W), in their approach. But the irony is political morality is the only solution Mumbai 400 007. that they are expecting the voter in for the modern human crisis because the mohallas to maintain a scientific we live in an age where production JANATA, March 30, 2014 15

(Continued from Page 11) big corporations and builder lobby has delivered lectures at national Her contributions were recognized long back. In 1997, she filed a case and international universities and nationally and internationally. She at the Supreme Court against the conferences, and has travelled was awarded the Right Livelihood government giving away Panna widely both within and outside the Award (also called the alternative and Mukta oil fields to Reliance country. Nobel Prize), Goldman Environment Industries. She led the protest Prize, Green Ribbon Award against the Enron power project in Despite facing police brutality for Best International Political Ratnagiri. She joined the struggles many times in her public life, jailed Campaigner by BBC, Human Rights of Bhopal gas victims and the one for different duration for leading Defender’s Award from Amnesty against Coca Cola companies in protests, she remained a strong International, Barrister Nath Pai Kerala and Varanasi, and Singur advocate of non-violence and peace. and Nandigram struggles in West Her weapons of protest remained Award, Basaveshwar Award, Justice Bengal. She was instrumental in dharnas, fasts, padayatras and mass K.S. Hegde Foundation Award, exposing the Adarsh land scam actions all through her three decades Mahatma Phule Award, Deenanath which revealed the builder-politician of public life. She was a close Mangeshkar Award among others. nexus. associate of Baba Amte, Sunderlal Bahuguna, Mrinal Gore, Kishen Medha composes poems, tunes Medha has been a member many Pattanayak, Rajni Kothari and L. songs of protest and likes to cook governmental committees. She C. Jain. whenever time allows.

Rural India Focus

PRESENTING THE NATION WITH A REPLICABLE MODEL OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

ADIVASI WEEKLY EYE RUNS THREE GIRLS CAMPS AT HIGH HOSTEL THE YMC SCHOOLS AT TARA, HOSPITAL, PANVEL TARA, PANVEL

YUSUF MEHERALLY CENTRE FINANCE A CATARACT SURGERY AND YOU 10 to 15 eye operations are performed There are ways in which you can join the at the weekly eye camp held at the YMC movement in bringing education, Maharashtra State Government funded healthcare, women empowerment, hospital building. Sponsor a cataract employment generation, relief and growth operation for Rs. 15,000/-. to our rural villages. Visit our Centre, volunteer your help, buy our products, CONTRIBUTE TO THE SCHOOL become a Life Member. You could also CORPUS support the cause by donating to our various initiatives. YMC runs 3 high schools - 2 Marathi, 1 Urdu medium. With only 2 of these on SPONSOR AN ADIVASI GIRL'S HOSTEL goverment aid, the Centre needs Rs.1 STAY crore as corpus to run the 3rd and maintain, conduct extra-curricular It takes Rs.15,000 per year to meet the activities in all 3 and finance its building expenses for supporting a girl child's stay at expansion plans. Give generously. the hostel in Tara, Panvel Taluka.

Yusuf Meherally Centre Visit www.yusufmeherally.org, D-15, Ganesh Prasad,1st Floor, Call: (022)-2387 0097, Naushir Barucha Marg, Fax: (022)-2388 9738 or Grant Road (West), E-mail : [email protected] Mumbai 400 007 Space donated by a well wisher R.N.I. NO. 1855/1957 16 JANATA, March 30, 2014 P.R. No. MH/MR/WEST/275/2012-2014. Published on Sunday, March 30, 2014 & Posted on Wednesday April 2, 2014 at Mumbai Patrika Channel, Mumbai GPO-1

Printed and Published by G.G. Parikh on behalf of Janata Trust. Printed at Mouj Printing Bureau, Khatau Wadi, Girgaum, Mumbai-400 004 and published at D-15, Ganesh Prasad, Naushir Bharucha Marg (Sleater Road), Mumbai - 400 007.