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CONTENTS Cover Story Karyakarta Mahakumbh in ...... 7

Fortnightly Magazine Articles It’s Pranab Da, not Rahul, who saved the Situation Editor By LK Advani...... 14

Prabhat Jha, MP BJP opposed the Bill to enable convicted Legislators to continue By ...... 19 Executive Editor Right to Reject : A great step towards future electoral reforms By ...... 21 Dr. Shiv Shakti Bakshi Combat ideology and guns simultaneously Editorial Team By Balbir Punj...... 22 Maligned and ridiculed agency has last laugh Ram Prasad Tripathy Vikash Anand By Joginder Singh...... 24 Look beyond the economics here Creative Editor By Shivaji Sarkar...... 26

Dharmendra Kaushal Others Vikas Saini Vikas rally, Delhi...... 10 BJP Youth Conference in Trichy (Tamilnadu)...... 12 Subscription Memo to President...... 16

Annual Rs. 100/- Golden words from Aadhyatama...... 30 For 3 years Rs. 250/-

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Delhi-03. Editor : Prabhat Jha. Courtesy : The Hindu

3 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 lq[knq%[ks les ÑRok ykHkkykHkkS t;kt;kS A rrks ;q)k; ;qToL; uSoa ikieokIL;fl AA38AA Being equipoised in happieness and unhappieness, profit and loss, victory and defeat thereafter prepare for battle and in this way you will not incur signful reaction. —(Bhagavadgita : Ch.-II, 38)

Q “Since the incumbent UPA government has been “Mai Sevak Hoon aur Kal Bhi Aapka Sevak U pursuing a weak kneed policy against terrorism Rahoonga (I am a humble servant of the

for the past many years, the terrorists have ~~~~ people and will remain so in future).I am O been emboldened to strike anywhere in , not a Nath (divine ruler) but a Dasa

T almost at will.” ☯☯☯ (humble servant)” E - -Narendra Modi

S ~~~~

Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra) : 14 October, 2013

Durga Puja is the greatest Hindu festival in which God is adored as Mother. The Durga Puja is celebrated in various parts of India in different styles. But the one basic aim of this celebration is to propitiate Shakti, the Goddess in Her aspect as Power, to bestow upon man all wealth, auspiciousness, prosperity, knowledge and all other potent powers. Durga Puja or Navaratri commences on the first and ends on the tenth day of the bright half of Aswayuja. It is held in commemoration of the victory of Durga over Mahishasura, the buffalo-headed demon. During this period Her image is worshipped for nine days and then cast into water in the tenth day. The tenth day is called Vijaya Dasami or Dussehra. There is also a mythological belief that Lord Ram, worshiped Goddess Durga before going for a war with Ravana. Rama had invoked the blessings of Durga, who blessed Rama with secret knowledge of the way to kill Ravana. On the day of Ashvin Shukla Dashami, Rama defeated Ravana and found his spouse Sita. This day is thus also celebrated as Vijaya Dasami or Dussehra.

4 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 Lotus will bloom in every home

Karyakarta Gaurav Divas was a memorable event in 2010. Every BJP state unit in the country not only discussed it but praised the entire concept. The number of karyakartas was in lacs but the karyakartas who devote their entire life, a day should be earmarked for their glory was the main concept and that was why the program was appreciated and admired wholeheartedly. BJP state unit has really created a niche for itself in the country for unique experiments. 25 December 2013 Place: Jamboori Maidan, Bhopal Number of Karyakartas- More than 7 lac 21 thousand Occasion: Pt Deendhayal Upadhyay Jayanti Actually more than 7 lac 21 thousand Karyakrats paid respect to their ideologue Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay by coming together in a venue earmarked for the occasion. How can one fail to remember the father figure of BJP Kushabhau Thakre who weaved together the karyakartas of Madhya Pradesh BJP. Entire leadership and each and every karyakarta remebered him. Entire top leadership was present on the dais. And all those in front of the dais were the ones who use to fight with their sweat and blood on the polling booths during elections to make lotus bloom. It was a rare scene. The name given to the programme, “Karyakarta Mahakumbh” was becoming a reality in itself. Everyone said that never before such a huge gathering of karyakartas, the mahakumbh was witnessed in the lifetime. Everywhere heads and only heads were seen. Everyone was concerned with only one thing – how arrangment would have been made? It was really a wonderful arrangement. There was no mishap. Karyakartas were feeling proud. Karyakartas were proud to see the endless horizon of their party before their eyes. By seeing one’s own vasteness, self pride increases and false pride vanishes. Everyone has taken the pledge to make Lotus bloom for the third time in Madhya Pradesh and bring back BJP. All karyakartas are getting ready to create a new history. The sea of unity in diversity was seen everywhere. Different kinds of dress, attires, folk songs, music from different districts were fascinating everyone. On the dais while North India, Central India, Capital of India were registering their presence, how Editorial... could south be left behind. and Ananth Kumar were present from south. Dr. and Shri Rajnath Singh were making the presence of north felt.Umaji was representing both Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Advaniji was at the head of the event who inaugurated the Mahakumbh. BJP’s Prime Ministerial candidate Shri Narendra Modi was ruling the heart of everyone. Everyone greeted the leaders with the slogans like “Andhi nahi toofan hai- hai” which were renting the air. BJP State President Shri Narendra Singh Tomar welcomed the guests. and Arun Jaitley were representing both the houses of parliament on the dais. Dais was full of life. All main leaders of state unit were present. National and state level leaders had come together on Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 5 the dais. The cutouts of the leaders appeared lively. All leaders in one voice urged only one thing that BJP should be given opportunity to create history in Madhya Pradesh. No word can describe it in its entirety. That’s why Madhya Pradesh BJP has decided that it will send CDs to all leaders and karyakata so that they are also able to witness the event. The enthusiasm among the karyakarta, their fervour was for everyone to see. It was like festival of Deepawali and Dusshera and the sense of victory of these festivals can be read on the face of every karyakarta. The most important feature of this Mahakumbh was that the people of Bhopal had to face no traffic hassle due to Mahakumbh. People attending the event kept coming from routes outside the city. All the newspapers praised this arrangement. All karyakartas also enjoyed the food arranged by the grace of Ma Annapurna. All MLAs and ministers were engaged in this arrangement. It cannot be concluded without taking note of the tireless efforts and work of the karyakartas of Bhopal. Lastly everyone said – “Jamboori Jagega, Madhya Pradesh me Ghar-Ghar Kamal Khilega”. (Jamboori will rise and ‘Lotus’ will bloom in every home in Madhya Pradesh). Congress cannot make mockery of the country Mockery can be made of Congress but not of the country. Country doesn’t belong to any single party. Country belongs to all citizens. The highest executive of India is the Prime Minister. The world experiences the administrative capacity of India through Prime Minsiter. Rahul Gandhi can be a big leader internally for the Congress but he is not the Prime Minister. Dr. Manmohan Singh is the Prime Minsiter, not Rahul Gandhi. After all what had happened to Rahul Gandhi? Why he was not in control? There was no control over his words. Why he got engaged in such a disgraceful conduct? After all who had asked him to ‘awaken’ is conscience and show that Dr. Manmohan Singh is ‘nonsense’. Dr. Manmohan Singh is the Prime Minsiter of India and not of Congress. The ordinance brought on tainted leaders was a grave blunder of Congress. In any case the Congress which started from Mahatma Gandhi has become a Congress of tainted leaders by the time of Sonia Gandhi. But to save face this kind of ordinance should not have been brought. Once the first Speaker of wrote to the then Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru on 17 July 1954 that to bring ordinance is undemocratic. In response Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru wrote that we have been reluctant in bringing ordinances. Before bringing ordinances it is considered not once but for many times. Why Congress didn’t do that? Dr. manmohan Singh’s cabinet said that it was considered twice but why Congress was silent then? Somewhere there is something fishy that’s why Dr. Manmohan Singh is maintaining studied silence. He was on a foreign trip and Rahul Gandhi was roaring against him. After his return Dr. Manmohan Singh also roared but he could not act and finally he had to withdraw the ordinance brought by him. Congress will have to find out as to who is to be blamed – Congess or Dr. Manmohan Singh? But this has now become clear that there is a huge gap between Dr. Manmohan Singh and Congress. They are entitled to have that gap but the country should not be made to pay for it. Rahul Gandhi lost his cool when he felt that Congress was left behind in taking credit as BJP had already raised the issue by submittting memorandum to the President under the leadership of Shri LK Advani, Smt. Sushma Swaraj and Shri Arun Jaitley. It is also being said that had the President Shri Pranab Mukherjee not intervened the ordinance would have been imposed over the country. Rahul Gandhi developed a cold feet as he gauged the mood of the nation.When he felt that the issue was out of his hand, he lost control over his words.

6 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 Pt. Deendayal Jayanti : 25 September More than 7 lakhs people attend Karyakarta Mahakumbh in Bhopal Narendra Modi calls for Congress Mukt Polling Booths to achieve Congress free India

ddressing the taking the wave in the minds of paid rich tributes to former BJP Karyakarta the people into the polling booth. President Shri Kushabhau AMahakumbh on the BJP Rajya Sabha MP Shri Anil Thakre and pointed that while occassion of Pt. Deendayal Dave announced that 7,21,083 he never got to see Pandit Deen Upadhyay's Jayanti in the people from all corners of Dayal Upadhyaya, through afternoon of Wednesday 25th Madhya Pradesh attended the Kushabhau ji he got to know September 2013 Shri Narendra Karyakarta Mahakumbh. how Pandit ji would be. Modi called for the fulfillment of Shri Modi paid rich tributes In a direct attack on the Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of to Pandit Deen Dayal Congress party Shri Modi said, dismantling the Congress Party. Upadhyaya and said that the “Congress ruled the nation for He called for a Congress Mukt manner in which the Madhya 60 years but never before did Hindustan and added that in Pradesh unit of the BJP has their leaders talk about inclusive order to achieve a Congress Mukt organized the Karyakarta growth. Now the Congress has Hindustan we have to achieve a Mahakumbh, it is the best tribute to accept inclusive growth Congress Mukt Polling Booth. He to Pandit Deen Dayal because wherever the BJP has inspired Karyakartas to ensure Upadhyaya. Shri Modi said that served, their Governments have that the Congress Party is wiped Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya delivered on inclusive growth. out at the polling both level itself. devoted every moment of his life The Delhi Sultanate has to talk The BJP’s Prime Ministerial to strengthening the about inclusive growth and the candidate noted that all surveys organisation. He added that credit for this goes to Shivraj ji.” are showing a clear BJP wave 2015-2016 would mark the 100th Referring to the anti- and are taking note of the birth anniversary year of Pandit development attitude of the popularity of BJP leaders such Deen Dayal Upadhyaya and the Congress Shri Modi shared that as Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Karyakartas of the BJP must take when the Congress came to know Smt. and Dr. it on themselves that there is a that the top 5 performing states in the states. At BJP Government in New Delhi in the 20 point programme were the same time, he stressed on when this happens. Shri Modi BJP or NDA ruled states, they

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 7 stopped the evaluation of the Humanism’ that made him misuse of Central agencies by the programme instead of telling understand Pandit Deen Dayal Government, Shri Modi avowed their Governments to improve. Upadhyay even better. Shri Modi that it is not the Congress that is Shri Modi showered praise pointed that whatever Shivraj ji fighting the coming elections but on the development works done spoke at that time, he has put the CBI that is doing so. by Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan into practice in the last many “Congress lacks the strength to in Madhya Pradesh and years while serving as the Chief defeat the BJP so they have put expressed confidence of the Minister of Madhya Pradesh. the CBI in the field,” he stated. BJP’s win in the state in the Shri Narendra Modi came At the rally Bharatiya Janata coming elections. He recalled down heavily on the Congress- Party National President Rajnath that the good governance that the led UPA for their discriminatory Singh lauded his party’s prime BJP Governments provided attitude against states that have ministerial candidate Narendra under Shri Sunderlal Patwa and elected non-Congress Modi at the “Karyakarta Shri Kailash Joshi was undone Governments. He pointed that Mahakumbh rally”, and said that by the Congress Government in both Atal ji and Advani ji ran a if the country worked together, nothing could stop the chief minister from taking over as the next head of government. “If we work together, there is no force in the world which can stop Narendra Modi from becoming your Prime Minister in 2014,” Shri Singh said, drawing massive cheers from the gathered audience. Shri Singh also lashed out at the Congress-led UPA Government, and praised the BJP’s tenure at the Centre, saying that it was the sole block of history in independent India Madhya Pradesh for 10 years, Government in Delhi but none when the country flourished. which put MP in the BIMARU of the states complained that “You are witness to the category. “Madhya Pradesh has their development is suffering condition of the country, ever once again risen under the due to the NDA. He gave the since the Congress party took leadership of Shivraj ji and we example of the Centre’s refusal over. Corruption is ever cannot let the Congress win at to build gates on the Sardar prevalent, security is threatened, this critical stage,” he affirmed. Sarovar Dam, which is affecting and the country is passing Shri Modi also spoke about the generation of 800 MW power through extremely difficult Shivraj ji’s achievements in the to the people of Madhya times,” Shri Singh said. power and other sectors of Pradesh. Likewise, he asked why “In independent India, if development. is it that Congress ruled Kerala there was a regime that could Sharing his own personal is getting money to build houses control inflation, it was experiences with Shri Chouhan, for the poor while Madhya Bharatiya ’s senior Shri Modi recalled that the two Pradesh is not? He affirmed that leader . Ever of them have worked shoulder the Government may be of the since this government has taken to shoulder a long time ago and BJP but the poor are Indians and over, there is a continuous trend that he had heard Shivraj ji talk that the Centre should stop of price rise in the country. about Pandit Deen Dayal playing with their lives. …During our tenure of six years Upadhyaya’s ‘Integral Commenting on the blatant at the Centre, no one could point

8 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 a finger and accuse us of any “Yeh chunao himmat ki hogi be the face of his party in 2014. corruption,” he added. (this election will be fought on “Rahul went to the houses Rajnath Singh also alleged courage). This is Mahabharat of of poor, but that is not that the Congress-led UPA Kaliyug and it is different of development,” she said. Sushri government was trying to Mahabharat of Dwapar Yug, Bharti said the coming together misguide the people of the have to ensure that each of party workers is god’s country with their facts, figures discontented voter goes to the blessing to make Modi the Prime and statements, and predicted poll booth,” She said. Minister. that this trend would lead to “Our party workers make us “The party workers have their downfall. win and form the government,” shown ‘Virat Roop of Shri “Taking the path of she said. Krishna’ to make Shivrajji the fabrication, this government is Leader of opposition in Chief Minister of MP and trying to misguide the people of Rajya Sabha Shri Arun Jaitley Narendra Bhai the Prime this country. …All of this has said his party will form the Minister,” She said. come into the open. …When a government at the Centre in 2014 “Narendra Bhai once told government tries to stay in under Gujarat Chief Minister me that Advani is such a leader power, on the basis of Narendra Modi’s leadership. that one starts to like him more fabrication, history is proof that Shri Jaitley also expressed and more as one gets closer to it always leads to a bad confidence that Madhya Pradesh him,” She said. eventuality,” Shri Singh said. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh The Karyakarta Earlier, at the event, veteran Chouhan will secure a third term Mahakumbh was organised to Lal Krishna Advani said his in office. commemorate the birth party will give the nation a stable “After Shivrajji retains anniversary of Pandit Deen government. power in November, we will form Dayal Upadhyaya, propounder “The BJP will give India a the government at the Centre of the Philosophy of ‘Integral stable government at the Centre. under Modiji’s leadership next Humanism’ The BJP has reached where it is, year,” he said, while addressing BJP Parliamentary Party not due to speeches but owing to the BJP’s ‘Karyakarta chairman Shri LK Advani, Lok the hard work of party workers,” Mahakumbh’ rally. Sabha MP Dr. Murli Manohar he said, while addressing the Shri Jaitley also highlighted Joshi, BJP National President BJP’s ‘Karyakarta Mahakumbh’ the rampant corruption and Shri Rajnath Singh,Leader of rally. inflation under the UPA Opposition in Lok Sabha Smt. Shri Advani praised Modi government to prove his point. Sushma Swaraj, Leader of and other BJP-ruled chief Sushri said her Opposition in Rajya Sabha Shri ministers for their creditable party will make India a true Arun Jaitley, Rajya Sabha MP achievements. superpower under the Shri Venkaiah Naidu, Madhya Expressing confidence about leadership of Gujarat Chief Pradesh Chief Minister Shri her party achieving a splendid Minister Narendra Modi. Shivraj Singh Chouhan,BJP victory in the 2014 general “Under Narendra Bhai, we National General Secretary Shri elections, Leader of opposition will make India a true Ananth Kumar and BJP in Lok Sabha Smt. Sushma superpower,” said Bharti, while National Vice President Sushri Swaraj said the upcoming polls addressing the BJP’s ‘Karyakarta Uma Bharti spoke on the will be fought on courage, and Mahakumbh’ rally. occasion. urged the people to vote “Let my elder brother All party Leaders including fearlessly to defeat the Congress. Shivrajji (Shivraj Singh BJP National Vice President Shri Addressing the BJP’s Chouhan) get a bigger mandate Prabhat Jha and Madhya ‘Karyakarta Mahakumbh’ rally, than in 2003 also,” She added. Pradesh BJP President Shri Smt. Swaraj invoked the Sushri Bharti also took a jibe Narendra Singh Tomar from Mahabharat to put the Congress- at Congress vice-president Rahul Madhya Pradesh attended the BJP electoral battle in context. Gandhi considered by many to rally.

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 9 VIKAS RALLY, DELHI Nation must choose between dynasty and democracy : Narendra Modi

n the afternoon of Have faith in our work and in Modi stood up for Prime Minister Sunday 29th September the Karyakartas of our Party. We Dr. Manmohan Singh in the O 2013 Shri Narendra will never break your trust. We wake of reports that Pakistan Modi addressed the BJP’s Vikas will live for your dreams and if Prime Minister Mr. Nawaz Sharif Rally in Delhi. Shri Narendra need be we will give our lives for called him an old woman from a Modi presented a new ray of your dreams. We are coming to village. Shri Modi’s comments hope to the people of India and you on the basis of what we all come a time when even Dr. asked them to think ahead on have learnt from Atal ji, Advani Singh’s own Party is terming his the nation we want when India ji and Kushabhau Thakre ji.” work as ‘nonsense.’ He affirmed, completes 75 years of freedom in Striking an emotional note, “I have to say something that is 2022. He said that the nation Shri Modi said, “See the values very painful. The Pakistani PM does not want the dirty team of of the BJP, see the culture of the called some journalists for the UPA whose work the nation Party. A man who sold tea to breakfast. There Nawaz Sharif has seen for the last decade but make ends meet has been put said our PM is a Dehati Aurat. it wants a dream team that will here. Na Shasak Thaa, Na Shasak We have differences of opinion ensure that the elderly get Hoon, Na Banne Ke Sapne Dekhta with our PM at home but he is respect, the poor are well fed, the Hoon (I was never a ruler in the the PM of 125 crore Indians. poor have adequate housing, past, I am not a ruler now and I Nawaz Sharif yeh aapki kaunsi tribal communities get adequate do not aspire to be a ruler in the aukat hai? (How do you have the education opportunities. He future). Mai Sevak Hoon aur Kal courage to say that Mr. Nawaz inspired every village, every Bhi Aapka Sevak Rahoonga (I am a Sharif?)” district to dream big so that the humble servant of the people and Mincing no words, Shri nation can move ahead. will remain so in future).I am not Narendra Modi said that this Shri Modi asked the people a Nath (divine ruler) but a Dasa was an insult to the Prime of India to trust the BJP and its (humble servant). Minister of India and that the leadership. He said, “I urge the In a display of immense nation will not tolerate its Prime nation to have faith in the BJP. statesmanship Shri Narendra Minister getting insulted.

10 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 Referring to the Indian achievements of the states and too. There is an alliance and even journalists who attended the that the Centre has made a mess there we have Governments meeting with Mr. Sharif Shri of the subjects that are within Governments,” Shri Modi Modi said, “I want to ask those exclusively under its control. Shri avowed. He added that while journalists who were eating with Modi gave the examples of numbers make coalition, they are Nawaz Sharif, we expected you failure in railways, highways run by good chemistry that is to walk out. Yes, we may be and aviation sector to show what clearly lacking. He said that if opposed to each other at home the Centre has done to the there is a Chief Minister who is but no one can point fingers at departments exclusively under breathing most easy today, it is our nation. Prime Minister Dr. its control. He shared that 20,000 the Delhi Chief Minister who Manmohan Singh is elder to Mr. MW of power cannot be always has some or the other Nawaz Sharif in age at least produced because there is not authority to blame, leaving only respect that.” enough coal. Shri Modi declared ribbon cutting to do. He came Shri Modi attributed to this that good governance is the way down on the failure of the Delhi disrespect to the PM to his own ahead and while the world is Government on the issue of Congress Party not according him with clear respect. “His own party leaders call him nonsense then what do you expect?” asked Shri Modi. Narendra Modi came down heavily on the Prime Minister for telling President Barack Obama that India is poor and asked the Prime Minister if he is also one of those people who market India’s poverty to win laurels. moving forward, the UPA is women safety and even on the The BJP’s Prime Ministerial pushing us backwards. He CWG scam, which Shri Modi candidate categorically stated attacked the UPA for being said was not only about that the nation must chose immersed in Gandhi Bhakti of a economic corruption but between dynasty and different kind, which entailed affecting India’s image on the democracy. “Today there is a taking away all the notes with world stage. Former BJP conflict between Parivarshahi Mahatma Gandhi’s face on them. National President Shri Nitin and Lokshahi and the former is Shri Modi stressed on the Gadkari delivered a strong strangling the latter. Will we run need to attain Surajya, which speech on the misgovernance of on the constitution or on the was experienced during the the Congress and its failure to wishes of the prince? This is NDA Government under Atal control rising prices. Delhi State what we have to decide,” Bihari Vajpayee ji and LK BJP Co-incharge Shri Navjot affirmed Shri Modi as he even Advani ji. Sidhu, Delhi BJP President Shri questioned the allies of the UPA Referring to the poor Vijay Goel, Leader of Opposition whether they want democracy or governance in Delhi, Shri Modi in the Delhi Assembly Shri VK dynasty to run the nation. affirmed that the problem lay in Malhotra, former Delhi Mayor Referring to the lackluster too many Governments, each of Smt. Aarti Mehra, BJP leaders Dr. performance of the UPA, Shri which considers itself a power Harsh Vardhan, Dr. Jagdish Modi hit out against the in its own right. “Just see how Mukhi and Shri Parvesh Verma increasing corruption, price rise many Governments are there, also spoke on the occasion. The and unemployment among the there is a Government of the hovering clouds did not dampen youth. He said the departments Mother, there is a Government of the spirit of the people as a record that the UPA is saying are their the Son and there is a number of people came to attend achievements are actually the Government of the Son-in-Law the Vikas Rally. (FOC)

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 11 BJP Youth Conference in Trichy (Tamilnadu) “Man Se, Vachan Se, Karm Se, Congress divisive hai” : Modi Narendra Modi talks about close bond between Gujarat and Tamil Nadu ddressing the BJP Youth of lack of coal and gas. “The only consulted but nothing of that sort Conference in Trichy, want to do things where there is happened.” Furthermore, Shri ABJP Prime Ministerial corruption. Things of public Modi wanted to know if all candidate Shri Narendra Modi welfare do not interest them,” he Ministers of the Cabinet, all attacked the economic and avowed. departments were on board for foreign policy of the UPA, saying Shri Narendra Modi going ahead with this project. that it has failed to enhance strongly rebuked the Centre over Attacking the Central India’s prestige at the world the recent judgment by the Government for weakening the level and failed in giving Honorable Supreme Court on the economy, Shri Modi opined that opportunities to the youth. “Man Aadhaar Scheme. Shri Modi said due to the policies of the Centre, Se, Vachan Se, Karm Se, Congress divisive hai” (From their minds, in their speech and in their work the Congress is divisive) Shri Modi affirmed, adding that being divisive was in the DNA of the Congress. He shared that from administration, water sharing between states, language, that the nation wants to know industries are shutting down communities, caste groups, even how much money was spent on and small businessmen are villages and cities, the Congress Aadhaar, who gained from it and facing troubles at the hands of has always divided. Mincing no sought answers from the the Government. He pointed that words Shri Modi affirmed, “We Government on the issues raised the youth must be at the centre of have to save this nation and if by the Supreme Court. He himself any roadmap for development we want to take it ahead we need shared that for the past three and that their talent must be able Mukti from this divisive years he raised issues about to serve the nation. He even Congress.” He called for the Aadhaar to the Prime Minster but called for the strengthening of fulfilling of Mahatma Gandhi’s these issues were not addressed. crores of small-scale industries dream of dismantling the Elaborating, he said, “I said that that would give jobs to the youth. Congress and added that the Gujarat is a border state and if Shri Modi stated how experts are same must happen to all those you keep giving out Aadhaar predicting massive associated with it. cards like this then illegal unemployment if things go on Referring to the poor policies immigrants will take advantage. like this for the next five years. of the Congress, Shri Modi noted I said a National Security Shri Modi even took on the that 20,000 MW power capacity Council meet must be called and UPA for their failures in their has not been used only because Chief Ministers must be foreign policy. He wanted to

12 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 know why has the Centre keeper C Rajagopalachari was misgovernance of the UPA and allowed the soldiers of the nation from Tamil Nadu. He also its failure to control prices. He to be killed by terror, why does it mentioned the large number of urged the youngsters to register allow neighbouring countries to Tamil people on Maninagar, themselves as voters. Talking take our fishermen or allow who supported him in the about the good work during the Italians to kill fishermen? “Every elections. NDA, he pointed that the NDA citizen asks why we are so weak BJP President Shri Rajnath kept prices under check while that our neighbours can do what Singh delivered a strong speech the same has not happened they want and we keep our eyes in which he spoke about the under the UPA. shut and our mouths locked?” questioned Shri Modi. Shri Modi questioned the Rajnath condemns terror attack on people at the public meeting if the PM should hurry towards Indian forces in Jammu meeting Pakistan when our The BJP strongly condemned the terrorist attack launched 26 soldiers are killed, innocent September on the police and security forces in Jammu region. These people are killed and terror terror strikes on Indian soil are carried out by anti- India forces operating troubles the people. When the from Pakistan. BJP National President Shri Rajnath Singh said “Since the audience responded with a incumbent UPA government has been pursuing a weak kneed policy thunderous NO, Shri Modi against terrorism for the past many years, the terrorists have been affirmed, “Pradhan Mantri ji, emboldened to strike anywhere in India, almost at will.” this is not me or the BJP speaking. “Contrary to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s belief there It is the people of Trichy, the is no signs of improvement on the ground in Pakistan as the ISI and youth of Trichy telling you this.” Pakistan army continue to play its active role in destabilising India’s He told the Prime Minister, internal and external security.” “Let the newly elected government led “Pradhan Mantri ji, you are in by Miyan Nawaz Sharif be given some time to prepare the ground for USA, the nation wants to know talks by taking strong action against anti-India forces operating from is the nation’s pride more Pakistan. Therefore the scheduled meeting of the Prime Minister Dr. important or to look nice & hurry Manmohan Singh with his Pakistani counterpart at New York later this to talk is your priority.” week should have been immediately be called off.” At the start of his speech Shri He added “As per media reports the Prime Minister has shown no Modi talked abut the close bond indication to cancel his appointment with Pakistan PM. Ever since the between Gujarat and Tamil UPA government has come to power it has adopted a compromising Nadu. He lauded the state of Pakistan policy. Be it ‘ Havana Declaration’ or the ‘Sharm al Sheikh’ Tamil Nadu for their progress in fiasco the UPA govt has considerably weakened India’s position in Indo- industry and added that the Pak bilateral relations.” When the NDA was in power we had engaged Tamil people are hardworking, Pakistan from a position of strength and achieved the ‘Islamabad sincere and above all loyal. He Declaration’ in which Pakistan promised to us that terrorist activities pointed that the Tamil language would not be carried out from Pakistani soil. The UPA government has is one of the oldest languages lost that diplomatic edge. Pakistan should be pursued and compelled and that he is very fond of to implement ‘ Islamabad Declaration’ signed on January 6, 2004 before knowing about Sangam initiating any meaningful dialogue. literature. “Due to the hardwork “Pursuing a spineless diplomacy at this juncture will present India and dedication of the people, as a ‘soft state’ which could be pushed around by any big or small Tamil Nadu is one of the most country. The Prime Minister and the UPA government seems to be in a advanced states of the nation,” hurry to initiate dialogue with Pakistan. It also gives an impression as pointed Shri Modi. if he is motivated by certain conservative political motive instead of Shri Modi said that safeguarding our national interest. The BJP believes that there should Mahatma Gandhi was from be no talks with Pakistan unless the environment is conducive for Gujarat while his conscience dialogue.” (FOC)

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 13 It’s Pranab Da, not Rahul, who saved the Situation By L.K. Advani

ranab-mukherjeeWith the Cabinet? In contrast, when on September Cabinet deciding on 4 After all, Rahul Gandhi had 26 evening, accompanied by our POctober to withdraw the not given a single argument why leaders in the two Houses, Smt. Ordinance as well as the Bill he felt the Ordinance was wrong. Sushma Swaraj and Shri Arun pending before Parliament in Jaitley, I went to Rashtrapati ☯☯☯ respect of convicted MPs and ~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~ Bhavan, and presented to the MLAs yet another ugly chapter After all, Rahul Gandhi had President a four-page in the unflattering history of the not given a single argument representation, our memo UPA Government has ended. why he felt the Ordinance elaborated why we of the BJP That most of the media regarded the Ordinance not only reports on this development have was wrong. In contrast, unconstitutional and illegal, but described it as a victory for Rahul when on September 26 also immoral, besides being Gandhi is a comment on how evening, accompanied by procedurally wrong inasmuch superficial the media generally our leaders in the two as the Bill which the Ordinance has become these days. Houses, Smt. Sushma sought to replace had been sharif1barrack-obamaIn already referred to a Standing fact, when just before departing Swaraj and Shri Arun Committee of the Rajya Sabha. from the U.S. after his meetings Jaitley, I went to Rashtrapati Arun-jaitleysushma-swarajI with President Obama and Pak Bhavan, and presented to recall that it was on Tuesday 24 P.M. Nawaz Sharif, Prime the President a four-page September that the Cabinet Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh representation, our memo approved the Ordinance to observed that he would discuss protect convicted MPs, MLAs, in with his Cabinet after his return elaborated why we of the effect negating the Supreme what the party’s Vice President BJP regarded the Ordinance Court’s order. The first reaction has said about the Ordinance, I not only unconstitutional from the Opposition was commented to a friend that all and illegal, but also Sushma’s tweet that BJP would that Rahul Gandhi had said immoral, besides being oppose the Ordinance. She about the Ordinance in his three- consulted me shortly thereafter and-a-half minute speech was procedurally wrong and we decided to approach the that the Ordinance was inasmuch as the Bill which Rashtrapati and urge him not to “complete nonsense” and the Ordinance sought to sign the Ordinance. When she deserved to be “torn” and replace had been already sought an appointment from “thrown away.” referred to a Standing Rashtrapati Bhavan, she What was there in this gathered that the President had outburst which the PM could Committee of the Rajya gone to Puducherry and would possibly discuss with his Sabha. return only on September 26 at

14 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 4.00 pm. hurled at the Cabinet approved President ! We met him at 5.30 pm that ordinance cannot apply only to TAILPIECE day and were with him for 45 the P.M. and His Ministers. The concluding paragraph minutes or so. At the end of our Soniaji must also share of THE INDIAN EXPRESS meeting we got the clear responsibility. editorial mentioned in the above impression that he was Dr-manmohan-singhsonia- blog reads as follows: convinced that the situation gandhiSpeaking to Barkha Dutt Manmohan Singh has ruled merited his intervention. (NDTV) on board P.M’s Special out the possibility of leaving When shortly thereafter TV Aircraft on his way back home, office, but there is no missing the channels began relaying that he Dr. Manmohan Singh stressed sense of resignation about the had summoned Shinde and that the Ordinance had been rest of his term. Rahul Gandhi Sibal, and still later, Kamalnath, cleared at a meeting of senior has not followed up his ambush it became evident that things had Congress leaders including the with a fuller explanation of his started moving. Party President Sonia Gandhi, position on these bills. His views Rahul-gandhiIt seems these held on September 21. The victory on matters of governance are Ministers were told that the that has come to the country by unknown, but his capacity to President had reservations about withdrawal of this illegal and disrupt the government’s signing the Ordinance. This immoral ordinance has thus been decisions has been proven. Now, must have alarmed the Ministers. thanks only to the Rashtrapati, his silence will only seem louder The President returning the who has proved that U.P.A. and more suspenseful. Whether Ordinance to the Government would err seriously if it assumed or not this move pays off unsigned would have been a that like most other Congressmen politically for the Congress in the major setback for Government. who had earlier occupied the upcoming election, for its It is then perhaps that Soniaji high office of President, he too remaining term, its government may have thought of doing some would remain a rubber stamp has effectively lost face. damage control using Rahul for the purpose. It is obvious however, that no one advised UPA government is indulging in him how precisely he was to divisive tactics : Venkaiah Naidu carry out this task. The objective ormer BJP National President Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu accused the would have been fully served if Union government of indulging in “divisive tactics”, referring to Rahul had simply said that the F Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde’s recent letter to Chief Ministers decision taken by the of all States, asking them to ensure that no “innocent Muslim youth” is Government needs to be wrongly detained in terror cases. It was time for the United Progressive reviewed. What he said instead Alliance government to “wake up” in the light of arrests of two terrorists has made The Indian Express in Puttur of Andhra Pradesh. “The arrests were just a tip of the ice berg. (October 3, 2013) write a caustic If the Union and State governments have the determination to act, a editorial captioned “Losing strong message could be sent to Pakistan which was harboring terrorists,” Face”. The sub heading runs: he said. Pakistan was trying to destabilise the country’s economy by “He may have won, but Rahul sponsoring terrorist activities. Terror outfits, albeit in different names, Gandhi has rubbed off more of continue to carry out their acts to disturb peace in the country, he said. the U.P.A.’s authority.” Demanding an explanation from the Union government on the happenings Rahul’s victory is really in Kashmir, while Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was holding talks with confined to rubbing off U.P.A’s his Pakistani counterpart, he said, “The country should be given a clear authority, and not merely the picture of the entire issue.” Prime Minister’s. From Day One, Releasing a booklet, “NDA v/s Congress-led UPA”, comparing the U.P.A. has always meant Dr. rule of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance government and the Manmohan Singh and Smt. Congress-led UPA government, Shri Naidu challenged the Congress Sonia Gandhi. leaders for a debate on the achievements of the two governments. So, the ‘nonsense’ slur

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 15 Memo to President Stop government from legislating unconstitutional legislation : BJP BJP submits memorandum to the President of India over ordinance on convicted MPs & MLAs

Thursday, 26 September 2013 Mananiya Rashtrapati ji, Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.

We encroach upon your busy schedule to bring to your notice an issue of public interest which deals with probity in public life and improving the quality of politics in India. Criminalization of politics and politicization of criminals have been a matter of grave concern for the Indian democracy. India is still grappling with the problem of allowing politicians charge- sheeted with offences involving moral turpitude who contest elections and get elected to legislative bodies. The credibility of politics, public life and governance has suffered. The Judgement of the Supreme Court dated 10th July, 2013 striking down section 8(4) of the Representation of Peoples Act 1951 as ultra vires was an opportunity for political parties to take at least one step forward. The UPA Government, has suggested through an Ordinance an amendment to the Representation of Peoples Act and substituted the original ultra vires section 8(4) with a new formulation. The new formulation entails that the disqualification of a convicted member of a legislative body would be deferred and the member would continue to be a law-maker with a restriction that he cannot draw his salary or vote in the process of law making. A question has been asked – why should a convicted person be a law maker? The moral dilemma People expect a convicted person to be in prison. However, the original section 8(4) required that if a person is a Member of a legislative body his conviction would not take effect for a period of three months and if within that period such a person files an appeal or Revision then his current membership would continue till the appeal or revision application are disposed of. The contrary view is one based on probity, ethics and morality. If a person is convicted why should such a person be continued as a law-maker. Many in the past have questioned the rationale behind this principle. The presumption of innocence cannot apply once conviction has already taken place. This provision has been justified on the ground that an elected person is a class apart—a separate class from an ordinarily convicted person. The ordinarily convicted person’s rights would be governed by the appeal and the interim or final orders passed. However, an elected representative has been given a statutory protection so that during the pendency of the appeal there is no bye election which is necessitated. The Supreme

16 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 Court has struck down this provision vide its judgement dated 10/7/2013 as ultra vires Article 102 and 191 of the Constitution. The Judgement of the Supreme Court is final. The Review Petition against the judgement has been dismissed. This Judgement lays down a law applicable to the whole country unless the Supreme Court on a future date take a contrary view. The moral question being asked is once a provision has been held to be unconstitutional by the Supreme Court should the Indian Parliament exercise its’ legislative jurisdiction to enable convicted persons to continue as a law maker. Even though he cannot vote , his participation in the debates certainly influences the course of law making. Should the Indian Parliament not have utilized this opportunity to allow a provision of this nature to be wiped from the statutes. On Procedure The Billl was introduced before the Parliament . It is pending before the Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha did not consider it appropriate to take up the matter for consideration. The Bill has been referred by the Chairman Rajya Sabha to the Standing Committee. Having been referred to the Standing Committee all stake holders and those holding contrary view will all get an opportunity to influence the opinion of the Standing Committee. What was the urgency that the Government was compelled to bring this legislation through the Ordinance route? The only compelling reason for bypassing parliament and taking the ordinance route is to help a class of tainted politicians who have been already convicted or are apprehensive of a court judgement in near future. That a government can be pressurized by the logic of the tainted speaks volume of the lack of integrity of this government. Procedurally it is improper to bring an ordinance in a matter which is already pending before the Standing Committee. The Ordinance is unconstitutional Article 102 of the Constitution clearly provides that the disqualification applies to a person ‘for being chosen as or for being member of parliament’ if he is disqualified by a law made by the Parliament. Article 191 similarly deals with State legislatures. Section 8 of the Representation of Peoples Act 1951 disqualifies a category of convicted persons mentioned in section 8 (1), (2) and (3) of the Act. The Supreme Court in the case of Lily Thomas vs. Union of India in its’ judgement delivered on 10/7/2013 has clearly held as under:- Articles 102(1)(e) and 191(1)(e) of the Constitution, on the other hand, have conferred specific powers on Parliament to make law providing disqualifications for membership of either House of Parliament or Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council of the State other than those specified in Sub-clauses (a), (b), (c) and (d) of Clause (1) of Articles 102 and 191 of the Constitution. We may note that no power is vested in the State Legislature to make law laying down disqualifications of membership of the Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council of the State and power is vested in Parliament to make law laying down disqualifications also in respect of members of the Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council of the State. For these reasons, we are of the considered opinion that the legislative power of Parliament to enact any law relating to disqualification for membership of either House of Parliament or Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council of the State can be located only in Articles 102(1) (e) and 191(1)(e) of the Constitution and not in Articles 246(1) read with Entry 97 of List I of the Seventh Schedule and Article 248 of the Constitution. We do not, therefore, accept the contention of Mr. Luthra that the power to enact Sub-section (4) of Section 8 of the Act is vested in Parliament under Articles 246(1) read with Entry 97 of List I of the Seventh Schedule and 248 of the Constitution, if not in Articles 102(1)(e) and 191(1)(e) of the Constitution To put it differently, if because of a disqualification a person cannot be chosen as a member of Parliament or State Legislature, for the same disqualification, he cannot continue as a member of Parliament or the State Legislature. This is so because the language of Articles 102(1)(e) and 191(1)(e) of the Constitution is such that the disqualification for both a person to be chosen as a member of a House of Parliament or the State Legislature or for a person to continue as a member of Parliament or the State Legislature has to be the same.

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 17 The result of our aforesaid discussion is that the affirmative words used in Articles 102(1)(e) and 191(1)(e) confer power on Parliament to make one law laying down the same disqualifications for a person who is to be chosen as member of either House of Parliament or as a member of the Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council of a State and for a person who is a sitting member of a House of Parliament or a House of the State Legislature and the words in Articles 101(3)(a) and 190(3)(a) of the Constitution put express limitations on such powers of the Parliament to defer the date on which the disqualifications would have effect. Accordingly, Sub-section (4) of Section 8 of the Act which carves out a saving in the case of sitting members of Parliament or State Legislature from the disqualifications under Sub-sections (1), (2) and (3) of Section 8 of the Act or which defers the date on which the disqualification will take effect in the case of a sitting member of Parliament or a State Legislature is beyond the powers conferred on Parliament by the Constitution The law declared by the Supreme Court thus clearly is that there is an express limit on the power of parliament which cannot wholly or partially allow the convicted legislator to continue to exercise any rights of a legislator. The right to attend and participate in the proceedings which the proposed Ordinance confers on a convicted legislator such a right.. The parliament in view of the express language of Article 102 and 191 cannot confer such a facility to an otherwise disqualified legislator. The proposed Ordinance amending section 8(4) of the Representation of Peoples Act 1951 is as unconstitutional as the original section 8(4). We, therefore, request your Excellency to advise the Government that it ought not to legislate an Unconstitutional legislation. Your Excellency should, therefore refer this Ordinance back to the Government.

(L.K. ADVANI) (SUSHMA SWARAJ) (ARUN JAITLEY)

BJP opposed both bill & ordinance, Congress spreading lies : Sushma Swaraj In a series of posts Leader of Opposition Smt. Sushma Swaraj said that at an all-party meeting held to discuss the proposed legislation, four choices were placed before the leaders but there were divergent views and no consensus could emerge. Charging Congress with spreading “complete falsehood” about her party’s stand on the controversial legislation on convicted lawmakers, Smt. Swaraj said her party has consistently opposed both the Bill and the ordinance. In a series of posts on the social networking site Twitter, she said that at an all-party meeting held to discuss the proposed legislation, four choices were placed before the leaders but there were divergent views and no consensus could emerge. She further said that after the all-party meeting, Finance minister P Chidambaram and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamal Nath had told her that all the four options should be sent to the Standing Committee for thorough deliberation. “After the Bill was introduced in Rajya Sabha, Law Minister Shri Kapil Sibal met Shri Arun Jaitley and me in my Chamber and we made our opposition very categoric and clear. We told Kapil Sibal that the Bill was wrong and unconstitutional. It was because of our opposition that the Bill was referred to the Standing Committee,” Smt. Swaraj said. She said when the ordinance was approved; BJP had voiced opposition on day one and requested the President not to sign it. “We said the ordinance was immoral, illegal and unconstitutional. We opposed the Bill. We opposed the ordinance. What Congress is spreading is complete falsehood” she said.

18 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 BJP opposed the Bill to enable convicted Legislators to continue By Arun Jaitley

he Supreme Court Government wanted to discuss of a convicted legislator under delivered two Judgements a series of issues including the section 8(4), The Judicial Tin quick succession. The Judgement of the Supreme Court Appointment Commission first Judgement dealt with the in the All India Institute of legislation, the Judgement of the question of debarring the Medical Sciences case, the Supreme Court depriving the candidates who were in police disqualification of membership right of a jailed person from custody from a right to vote and voting or contesting and ☯☯☯ consequently the right to contest. ~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~ measures to be taken for the All political parties including On the issue of a smooth functioning of both the BJP felt that this Judgement if houses of Parliament. allowed to stand could be convicted legislator’s On the issue of a convicted destructive of the democratic right to continue his legislator’s right to continue his process. ‘Law and order’ is a present membership, present membership, various State subject and all the State various proposals were proposals were discussed. At police has to do is to arrest a few the end of the discussion the candidates on the eve of filing of discussed. At the end of impression conveyed to us was nomination papers and subvert the discussion the that the Government would the electoral process. The law impression conveyed to finalise the proposal and refer amending section 62(5) of the the matter to a Standing Representation of Peoples Act us was that the Committee for formulation of has already been passed. Government would opinion. The Government has The second of the two finalise the proposal and tried to convey an impression Judgements dealt with a more that the BJP was in full support serious issue. Should a person refer the matter to a of the legislation which was convicted of a criminal offence Standing Committee for proposed. In fact, only various which entails disqualification of formulation of opinion. options were discussed. I am the membership of the The Government has tried constrained to set the record Legislature be allowed to straight on account of his continue as a member till his to convey an impression disinformation being spread by appeal against the conviction is that the BJP was in full the Government. disposed of? The Supreme Court support of the legislation After this meeting, on 15th struck down section 8(4) of the August, 2013 I was told by the Representation of Peoples Act as which was proposed. In Union Law Minister at the being violative of the fact, only various options conclusion of the Prime constitutional provisions were discussed. I am Minister’s speech at the Red Fort contained in Article 102 and on Independence Day, that the Article 191 of the Constitution. constrained to set the Government was contemplating On August 13, 2013, the record straight on a Constitution amendment. This Government convened an All account of his was conveyed to me in the Party meeting in the Parliament disinformation being presence of the union Finance House. Mrs. Sushma Swaraj and Minister. I expressed my I attended that meeting. In the spread by the apprehensions at the proposal. meeting we were told that the Government. My apprehensions were that

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 19 public opinion would General Body of the BJP Representation Act should not disapprove the fact that Parliamentary Party met, I be approved. Parliament was amending the explained this to my colleagues We felt that it was morally Constitution in order to enable why this amendment was questionable and convicted persons to continue as unconstitutional. I further stated constitutionally invalid. The Parliament was originally The Union Law Minister came to the chamber of Mrs. Sushma expected to adjourn sine die on Swaraj in the Parliament. On receiving the message I also 6/9/2013. The sitting of the reached her room. There was at least half an hour discussion/ Parliament was extended by one argument between the three of us as to why this amendment to day to enable the passage of certain Bills including this Peoples Representation Act should not be approved. We felt amendment. Mrs. Sushma that it was morally questionable and constitutionally invalid. Swaraj and I categorically The Parliament was originally expected to adjourn sine die on informed the Government that 6/9/2013. The sitting of the Parliament was extended by one day we were opposed to the passage to enable the passage of certain Bills including this amendment. of this amendment. In view of a Mrs. Sushma Swaraj and I categorically informed the Government divided opinion the Government that we were opposed to the passage of this amendment. informed us that this was being referred to a Standing Committee. a law maker. In any case there that this was morally We were shocked when the are no more than a handful of unacceptable to a large section Ordinance was issued even people who fall in this category. of public opinion which found though a Bill was pending We can easily live with this the very idea of enabling consideration before the Judgement and it was not convicted persons to continue as Standing Committee. We necessary to amend the law makers as objectionable. The opposed the issuance of the Constitution to overrule this fact that I had raised an objection Ordinance on several grounds. Judgement. The Law Minister against this amendment and There has been a series of informed me that he would now also the amendment in relation discussions in relation to this start examining if amendment to to the non-applicability of the RTI Bill. The BJP had opposed it all the law was possible rather than a Constitution amendment. We were shocked when the Ordinance was issued After a few days the even though a Bill was pending consideration before the Government conveyed to us that Standing Committee. We opposed the issuance of the they were contemplating an Ordinance on several grounds. There has been a series of amendment in section 8(4) of the discussions in relation to this Bill. The BJP had opposed Representation of Peoples Act. I had examined this matter and it all along and conveyed its opposition to the Government. consulted various informed The above is a record of some of those conversations. persons including several legal experts. My own understanding to political parties was widely along and conveyed its upon reading of section 8(4) reported in the media. On the opposition to the Government. which was being proposed was same day the Union Law The above is a record of some of that such a provision would Minister came to the chamber of those conversations. suffer from the vice of the Mrs. Sushma Swaraj in the I am making the above facts unconstitutionality which the Parliament. On receiving the known publicly since a original section 8(4) suffers. I message I also reached her room. campaign of disinformation has had conveyed this myself to the There was at least half an hour been launched by a beleaguered Law Minister. discussion/argument between Government. On Tuesday, the 2nd the three of us as to why this (The writer is Leader of September, 2013 when the amendment to Peoples Opposition in Rajya Sabha)

20 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 Right to Reject : A great step towards future electoral reforms By Narendra Modi

he Honourable Supreme Party opposed it tooth and nail. Mahatma Gandhi what are the Court directed the Election The bill was passed twice, in fundamental rights of the TCommission to include 2008 and in 2009 but it was then people? Gandhi ji said that it is negative voting by allowing the withheld by the Honourable not about the fundamental right voters to reject all the candidates Governor. but the fundamental duties of the in an election. Compulsory voting too, has people. When we do our duties I wholeheartedly welcome several advantages that can properly, the rights will be this. I am sure it will have a long make our democracy automatically safeguarded and lasting impact on our polity and stronger. It will even mitigate if we do our duties properly, our will be a great step in the fears about elections democracy will be safeguarded. direction of further electoral becoming display of money But friends, while it is good reforms that can make our power. Many citizens are to talk about Right to Reject and democracy even more vibrant disturbed by the large Compulsory Voting, this debate and participative. amounts of money being will be meaningless if you are Friends, for a very long time spent on elections. However, not registered as voters! I am told I have called for a provision for by bringing compulsory that a large number of youngsters a right to reject in elections. voting, mindless and who are 18 to 24 years old are Without it, there was something extravagant expenditure on not registered as voters. There is lacking in the system. Right now, elections will not happen as nothing more unfortunate than if there are ten candidates the voter will anyway have this. The Election Commission contesting from a seat, we are to come to the polling booth has started a special drive across compelling the voters to choose and cast his or her franchise. all states for enlisting voters and from those ten candidates. This I urge all of you to make use of judgment will empower the It is natural for many of you the drive and get registered as voters to express their anger and to ask- do things like Right to voters. It is equally true that many reject all of them. The voters can Reject and Compulsory voting of our NRI friends who retain give a message that we do not violate our Right to Expression? their India passports do not like the candidate or the No, I would say it is adding know that they can vote in candidates’ party or the party's completeness in the opportunity elections. Thus, I even urge my policies. This will give out a very for expression. Right now, you NRI friends to check the Election strong message to political are getting only half the right of Commission website and get parties- parties will be forced to expression- that of selecting the registered as voters. think why is it that people are person or party. In future, you Democracy can only be not accepting them. It will make will get a complete right of strengthened by all of us! As parties more responsible. expression- of even rejecting the voters, we are the ‘Bhagya Many friends in some candidates. Vidhatas’ of our nation. What political parties are skeptical of And it is not that something the Supreme Court said today is having a Right to Reject in is being snatched from the voters. a wonderful step but it is now forthcoming elections. However, If compulsory schooling for for us to come together, put it I am not surprised. We children is advocated, can you into practice and strengthen our introduced a bill on compulsory say that we are denying a child democracy so that our nation can voting, which even included the his or her childhood? shine in the years to come! Right to Reject but Congress Once someone asked (The writer is Chief Minister of Gujarat)

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 21 Combat ideology and guns simultaneously By Balbir Punj Behind the hands that pull the trigger and brandish the sword, is a mind that interprets the world in terms of religious obligations of the faithful versus the infidel. This indoctrination has been going on for centuries

hree incidents last week — disease. In fact, the Prime to surrender and accept Islam. deadly explosions in Minister’s case is even worse, as Indians were given two options TPeshawar, Pakistan, a his Government and party are — submit to Islam peacefully or terrorist hold-up in Nairobi, guilty of strengthening those deal with the consequences. This Kenya, and Prime Minister very factors that sustain this tradition has since continued Manmohan Singh’s call at the ghoulish mind-set because of unabated. The intensity, 16th National Integration vote-bank politics. however, depends on the Council meet in New Delhi to This macabre thought- motivation and relative strength fight the menace of process entered the Indian sub- of the faithful and their intended communalism —appear to be continent with Muhammad bin victims at any given point of time. unrelated on the surface. But Qasim from Saudi Arabia The subsequent Muslim look deeper and there is a ransacking the Hindu kingdom invaders and kings — from common thread running of Punjab and Sind in 712 AD. Muhammad Gazni to through them all. He wrote to the ‘kings of Hind’ Aurangzeb — followed this The blood-soaked incidents template, without exception. Of ~~~~~~~☯☯☯~~~~~~~ in Nairobi and Peshawar and course, some of them (like Akbar) the scourge of communal riots, No wonder, Bakhtiyar Khilji did make occasional be they in India, Pakistan or burnt to ashes universities of concessions to the Hindus, Bangladesh, are two sides of the international standing — depending on the exigencies of same coin. Behind the hands that Nalanda and Vikramshila, for the situation and the larger pull the trigger and brandish instance — when he invaded interests of the empire. However, the sword, is a mind that India in 1193. Mughal the overall character of interprets the world in terms of successive Muslim regimes emperor Jehangir put Sikh religious obligations of the the continued to be defined by faithful versus the infidel. This Guru Arjun Dev, a man of Islamic traditions and scriptures. indoctrination has been going peace, to death. Another Sikh The non-believers were kafirs on for centuries through sermons Guru, Tegh Bahadur, was and were treated as such. and education provided by killed on the orders of No wonder, Bakhtiyar Khilji religious seminaries. Those who Aurangzeb because he burnt to ashes universities of perpetrate savagery against refused to change his faith international standing — infidels and their places of and stood by the Kashmiri Nalanda and Vikramshila, for worship claim religious sanction Brahmins who were given the instance — when he invaded for their actions and have even choice to convert to Islam or India in 1193. Mughal emperor won acclaim from the clergy. Jehangir put Sikh Guru Arjun face death. The four young In this context, Mr Singh’s Dev, a man of peace, to death. call at the NIC meet is an exercise sons of Guru Govind Singh Another Sikh Guru, Tegh in futility. He is like a physician also fell victim to the same Bahadur, was killed on the who deals only with the mindset. And, this is just an orders of Aurangzeb because he symptoms and ignores the illustrative list. refused to change his faith and underlying reasons for the ~~~~~~~☯☯☯~~~~~~~ stood by the Kashmiri Brahmins

22 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 who were given the choice to Hindus were the first to be driven the same mentality. convert to Islam or face death. out. Then the persecution list was So, what makes Islamists The four young sons of Guru extended to include Ahmadiyas, bomb schools, kill girls and Govind Singh also fell victim to then Shias and now even condemn all other religions? the same mindset. And, this is moderate Sunnis who the Also, how are these groups able just an illustrative list. extremists do no consider to be to mobilise public support for This divisive mindset also ‘good Muslims’. The Kashmir their regressive measures? formed the bedrock on which the valley has also been cleansed of For instance, in Kerala, Islamic state of Pakistan stands. its Hindu population by the where Muslims now constitute Nearly all Muslims in Pakistan dominant Muslims. 21 per cent of the population, (like in the rest in the sub- The Nairobi attack was Islamist groups have united to carried out by the Islamist demand that the Government group, Al Shabaab, that is lower the minimum age of This divisive mindset also linked to Al Qaeda. What marriage for girls from their formed the bedrock on which Muslims themselves can community from 18 to 16. the Islamic state of Pakistan expect from Al Shabaab’s Similarly, across India, the stands. Nearly all Muslims in rule is illustrated by what Muslim leadership is content this organisation does in with education for the faithful Pakistan (like in the rest in the areas that it controls. being limited to madarssas sub-continent) are either There, it enforces an where there is nominal secular Hindus or Buddhists who extremist version of education, no mingling with Sharia’h law that includes young people from other converted to Islam and barbaric punishments like religions, and the entry of modern rejected their pre-Islamic past. amputation, beheading ideas is stonewalled through a They also consider the and stoning. ban on television and radios. Iran and Saudi Arabia If every idea of change in a followers of their ‘original’ faith have drawn daggers modernising and globalising as kafirs. It’s this animosity because each believes that world is opposed in the name of and hate against kafirs that its version of Islam is the religion, it is natural that the constitutes Pakistan’s DNA. right one. Sunnis and young become easy victims of Shias are killing each extremist ideology that justifies other through suicide violence in the garb of jihad. The continent) are either Hindus or bombers in Iraq, where both sects fact that jihadis also target other Buddhists who converted to live in good numbers. sections of their own religion, Islam and rejected their pre- What should worry the and competitive extremism and Islamic past. They also consider international community that is militancy are the rule in such the followers of their ‘original’ facing terror threats from situations, should normally faith as kafirs. It’s this animosity Islamists is the mindset that push for re-think on the mental and hate against kafirs that triggers such organised killings. make-up that it promotes. constitutes Pakistan’s DNA. The The notorious Indian The global campaign vicious paradigm responsible for Mujahideen in this country is against terror needs to be fought Pakistan’s birth continues to be also part of the global Islamist on two fronts. Guns held by its lodestar and largely shapes terror network. The likes of Yasin terrorists will have to be met with its domestic and foreign policies. Bhatkal and other IM operatives, guns. Simultaneously, the world The sordid events resulting recently cornered by our security has to combat the venomous in communal riots in the three organisations after a decade- ideological mindset which countries of the sub-continent, in long pursuit across many motivates the faithful to kill and most cases, can be traced to this countries, from Bangladesh and be killed. mindset. In Pakistan, a country Nepal to the UAE and Saudi (The writer is BJP National created to safeguard Muslims, Arabia to the UK, are driven by Vice Preisdent)

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 23 MALIGNED AND RIDICULED AGENCY HAS LAST LAUGH By Joginder Singh A job is a job, and the CBI has done it remarkably well over the years, though it has come under political pressure in several instances. The fodder scam case is a good example of the probe agency’s efficiency

he fodder scam had its Department to be spent on fodder origins long before the January 1996: Fodder scam and medicines for livestock. Tmatter fell into the CBI’s surfaces after Deputy Only two fodder scam cases lap. It had been on for decades Commissioner of Chaibasa finds are being tried in Bihar. The already when, in 1996, the that the animal husbandry other 53 cases are in the Supreme Court upheld the orders department is embezzling funds. jurisdiction of Jharkhand. Of of the Patna High Court that the March 1996: Patna High Court these, 46 have been disposed and case should be investigated by directs the CBI to investiagte the nine are pending. There are a the CBI and monitored either by scam. The CBI registers an FIR in total of about 600 accused, out of the Chief Justice of Patna High the Chaibasa treasury case. The which 550 have been convicted. Court or a Bench constituted by It will be worthwhile to recall him. The public interest litigation Bihar Government appeals to the the landmarks of this case and on the fodder scam was filed in Supreme Court to let the case how it was delayed. 1990 by Bihar’s anti-corruption remain with Bihar Police. The January 1996: Fodder scam department, but it remained in appeal is rejected. surfaces after Deputy limbo, because it would open an June 1997: CBI completes its Commissioner of Chaibasa finds hornet’s nest for the high and investigation and files a charge- that the animal husbandry mighty. sheet naming Lalu Prasad as an department is embezzling funds. On September 30, as many accused. March 1996: Patna High as 45 accused in the fodder scam July 1997: Lalu Prasad Court directs the CBI to were convicted, including former surrenders before the CBI court and investiagte the scam. The CBI Bihar Chief Ministers Lalu registers an FIR in the Chaibasa Prasad and Jagannath Mishra. is sent to judicial custody. treasury case. The Bihar This is a unique example of two October 2001: Supreme Government appeals to the Chief Ministers, belonging to Court transfers fodder scam cases Supreme Court to let the case rival political parties, being to Jharkhand, after the creation of remain with Bihar Police. The convicted in one case. Apart the new State. appeal is rejected. from Lalu Prasad and Mishra, February 2002: Trial begins June 1997: CBI completes its Janata Dal (United) leader and in the special CBI court in Ranchi. investigation and files a charge- Jahanabad MP Jagdish Sharma August 2013: Supreme Court sheet naming Lalu Prasad as an as well as three formers IAS rejects Lalu Prasad’s plea to accused. officers have been convicted. transfer the case from the trial court July 1997: Lalu Prasad This only goes to underline surrenders before the CBI court the all-pervasive nature of the judge on the ground that the and is sent to judicial custody. scam, in which politicians of presiding officer is related to a October 2001: Supreme different hues collaborated with Minister who is inimical to him, Court transfers fodder scam bureaucrats to siphon off public September 30: Lalu Prasad, cases to Jharkhand, after the money. In the case at hand, the Misra and 43 others are convicted creation of the new State. money had been earmarked for by the CBI trial court. February 2002: Trial begins the Animal Husbandry in the special CBI court in

24 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 Ranchi. oriented” probes. He said that After all, every action has a August 2013: Supreme Court some people were being cause, and what we are seeing rejects Lalu Prasad’s plea to “prosecuted” even before their today is the result of what we transfer the case from the trial cases had reached the courts. did yesterday. It is the team-work court judge on the ground that “I think the publicity- of everybody, right from the the presiding officer is related to oriented investigation is constable to the Director, and a Minister who is inimical to him, something we have to prevent”, those that were determined to September 30: Lalu Prasad, he explained. He went on to add, bring the case to its logical Misra and 43 others are “And publicity sometimes gives conclusion. convicted by the CBI trial court. me the impression that there is Hardships, obstacles and I have been pursuing this really some sort of exhibitionist difficulties are natural in any case for long and have been trend in the personalities who worthwhile task, though any lampooned and criticised for my think that it is more important police job is unpleasant. The zeal, not to mention that I have for the public to know what they CBI has played a tremendous come under pressure from the are doing.” And the Prime role in sending messages to the highest levels of the Government. Minister said this while he was dishonest bureaucrats and the But I have just ignored it all. criticising corruption in public corrupt politicians; “Beware. An investigation is a life at a Chief Ministers’ Big Brother is watching you.” painstaking job. But the CBI has conference. While he did not It is, therefore, no wonder, that to do it. And it is not left to a Sub- mention me by name, the indirect several people are upset over Inspector, Assistant Sub- reference to the fodder scam, the functioning of the CBI when Inspector or Head Constable. which was in the news at that the probe agency does its job Under the law, CBI investigators time, was unmistakeable. well. have to be of the rank of either an A job is a job, and the CBI He took up the matter Inspector or a Deputy has done it remarkably well over with me, and for talking to Superintendent of Police. In my the years, though it has trodden the Press, in a one-on-one entire career, I have never told on many a corn. My transfer for meeting. I told him that I any investigator to work with a taking the decision to charge- would tell the media what vengeance to prove or disprove sheet the high and mighty had been done and cannot a case. involved in the fodder scam was be undone, but never what The conviction rate in the a small price that I paid. A Press CBI would be doing. He fodder cases has been over 90 reporter asked me on my transfer laughed and agreed with per cent. This is a rare to a nondescript post at an me. Irrespective of the occurrence and should be an airport on my return from official stand and his being eye-opener that the Indian law Interpol. I smiled and said with occasionally annoyed with enforcement system is capable a mischievous smile, me, there was a certain of handling complicated tasks, “Wonderful, same salary and no amount of cordiality and provided it is allowed function work!” respect that we had for effectively. I paid the price as a humble each other. I appreciated Apart from some black sheep public servant in the interest of his political compulsions — and some of them are senior probity and ethics, in the interest and he understood my officers — in the CBI who of the country. The conviction legal and also personal stonewalled my investigative and sentencing of Lalu Prasad compulsions. efforts, I also had to deal with and Rajya Sabha member the political class and its ‘Oust Without my having to say Rasheed Masood, effectively Joginder’ campaign. In April much, it is worthwhile for the leading to their disqualification 1997, Prime Minister IK Gujral discerning readers to judge from the House, is a good took me to task for carrying out where I went wrong. I claim no beginning. a “witch-hunt”, and lashed out personal credit for the conviction (The writer is a former CBI at me for indulging in “publicity- of any accused in fodder scam. Director)

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 25 LOOK BEYOND THE ECONOMICS HERE By Shivaji Sarkar The Raghuram Rajan panel, set up to evolve a composite development index of States, has made observations both convenient and troublesome for the Congress-led UPA regime.

ndia is neither a developed that included individual per The Raghuram Rajan panel country nor a developing capita consumption, these States has re-opened the question: Icountry; it’s an under- also demonstrated districts and Should India rethink how it developed country. This is what regions which are far behind should reduce its dependence on the Raghuram Rajan panel on than the supposedly-developed the US and other Western evolving a composite areas in a State. Development is countries? It has pointed out that development index of States only restricted to certain pockets. pouring foreign direct virtually says. This also raises questions on investment is not helping the It is possibly also one of the the globalisation of the economy. hinterlands. reports most damning of the Since, in 1997-1998, India was The committee was set up by UPA Government and virtually less integrated with the global the UPA Government for an indicates that Manmohanomics system, it was cushioned off from ostensible political purpose. The since 1991 has not helped the the upheavals in the South-East Centre wanted to placate Bihar country come out of the Asian economies. The tumble Chief Minister Nitish Kumar by syndrome of poverty. The development process, as per its In 2008, as its integration increased, India found conclusion, is a virtual itself in a difficult situation to cope up with, say, the misnomer. Lehman crisis. This has affected its growth, increased the The committee has not found any State which is developed. losses of banks — as there are more defaults in repayments, Gujarat was found to be in the shrunk jobs and lesser developed areas face graver middle category of less- situation. In the process, India’s currency has been the developed as its development worst hit. pattern is ‘not uniform’. There are patches which do not did not have much effect except granting his State a ‘special conform to parameters of for a few businesses which had category’ status. This category development. The supposedly- exposure to South-East Asia. was created by the Finance developed States like Punjab, In 2008, as its integration Commission to basically benefit Kerala, Uttarakhand, Haryana, increased, India found itself in a the politically-sensitive States of Maharashtra, Goa and Tamil difficult situation to cope up the North-East so that they could Nadu could be considered as with, say, the Lehman crisis. This be given extra financial benefit ‘relatively developed’. has affected its growth, to overcome their development It means that these States do increased the losses of banks — deficit. not come anywhere near the as there are more defaults in The committee responded international development repayments, shrunk jobs and by recommending the abolition standards. The committee found lesser developed areas face of the ‘special category’ status that these States were only ahead graver situation. In the process, and evolving a new index on the in relative Indian terms. In the India’s currency has been the basis of severe development overall parameters of 10 counts, worst hit. deficit. Bihar was clubbed in the

26 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 category of least-developed. But in reality, when it comes to allocation ‘Nation First’, book of funds, it would be way behind Uttar Pradesh. on Bal Apte released The committee found that Uttar ation First, a compilation of the selected speeches and Pradesh, having worse articles by veteran BJP leader late Shri Bal Apte was development indicators, needs a Nreleased by BJP Parliamentary Party Chairman Shri LK higher allocation of funds. It is a Advani in New Delhi on September 30. RSS Sarkaryavah Shri windfall for the State and possibly Bhaiyaji Joshi Presided over the function. Other prominent people suits the UPA Government too, who also shared the dais were RSS Sahsarkaryavah Shri keeping in view the general election and BJP National Executive Members Dr. round the corner. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe. The book was published by Prabhat The panel thus serves more than the development cause of the States. It decides the dynamics of Indian electoral politics through its composite index. It also penalises States that are political opponents of the UPA like Tamil Nadu. As the index puts the State in the highest category of ‘relative development’, it tends to deprive Tamil Nadu of less than half of what would be transferred on an average per capita basis. The State would be getting far less of Central allocations in the process. Though the State has been clubbed with the highest category, its development deficit in more than Prakashan, New Delhi. half of its districts is striking in Speaking on the occasion Shri Advani said no other terms of poverty, consumption, organisation can match the amount of work that has been done female literacy, and other indicators in the field of nation building and national awakening as has that the committee has referred to. been done by the Sangh and its associated organisations. He said It would also cause political Shri Bal Apte’s writings reflect the whole ideology of the Sangh problems in the North-East too. and the title of the book, ‘Nation First’, describes this ideology in Earlier, the region comprised a nutshell. special category States and enjoyed Shri Bhaiyaji Joshi said Bal Apte never compromised on the a particular benefit. Now values. He lived a noble life. He never made people his ‘followers’ Meghalaya, Assam and Arunachal but ‘companions’. Shri Joshi further said that Apteji’s was like Pradesh would continue to get the a guiding star showing path to all. maximum funds being in the ‘least- Dr Vinay Sahasrabuddhe said Apteji was an activist as well developed’ segment. But Manipur, as a philosopher, it was necessary that documentation of the Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura and thoughts of such person is done. Sikkim would get far less being in Shri Hosabale said the present book is a compilation of his a higher category of ‘less- English writings and speeches, independent books of his Hindi developed’. So would Jammu & as well as Marathi writings will be published later. Sharing his Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and memories Shri Hosabale said Apteji was “candid as well as Uttarakhand. stern”; he had a very down to earth personality and always took (Courtesy: The Pioneer) care of party workers as his family members.

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 27 On CAG Malnutrition report Congress allegation against Gujarat Govt on malnutrition is based upon falsehood : he entire campaign on the is reproduced below. issue of malnutrition The chart clearly shows that among Tunleashed by the the big States the BJP ruled have done very Congress against the Gujarat well in reducing the number of Government is false and malnutrition. Gujarat has done indeed malicious. It may be noted that very well by reducing it from 70% to 34% CAG report no. 22 of 2012-13 and now to 25%. In Gujarat as per June relating to performance audit of 2013 percentage of severely underweight ICDS scheme (relating to children has come down to 1.61%. on the malnutrition) is before the contrary except Maharashtra the Parliament and is also available performance of all the Congress led on the website of CAG. Annexure Governments has been very-very poor in 6.4 of the said report contains reducing malnutrition which stand confirmed by the data of the State wise Nutritional Status of Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India. Children from the year 2006-07 to 2010-11. This shows that all the BJP State Government have done remarkably well in reduction of grade I & II malnutrition. Grade III & IV i.e. severe malnutrition is below 1% in all the States except two. Gujarat has done remarkably well in reducing it from 70%(69.83) to 34%(34.21%) if the data of March 2013 is taken it is 25.09%. In comparison the record of all Congress led State Government except Maharashtra has been very poor in reducing it. The entire data was provided by the Ministry of Women and Child development. The comparative chart shown in Annexure 6.4 (refer to paragraph 6.3.2) of CAG report no. 22 of 2012-13

28 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 Election Commission announces poll dates for five states; voters to get Right to reject option

Election season 2013-14 has begun. Eleven crore voters in five states will exercise their franchise between November 11 and December 4 - according to the assembly election schedule announced by the Election Commission on 04th October. The votes will be counted on December 8. The fate of four high-profile chief ministers will be decided in the polls, and the results will be read for clues to the big fight - general elections in 2014. Although Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Mizoram represent a relatively small part of the Indian electoral map, these assembly elections are being seen as a sort of a test run for Congress and BJP, which are pretty much face to face in all the election-bound states barring Mizoram.

Deendayal Upadhyaya Jayanti celebrated Safety of women, corruption and value degradation major challenges of contemporary India : Meenakshi Lekhi Every year, Deendayal Upadhyaya College, Delhi celebrates its Founder’s day on 25 September, the Jayanti of Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay. This year National Spokesperson Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi was the Chief Guest on this occasion. Addressing on the occasion she spoke on challenges of contemporary India like safety of women, corruption, value degradation and emphasized on transforming our mindset according to the principles propounded by Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya. BJP National Secretary Shri Shyam Jaju delivered the key note address. He spoke on the principles of Integral Humanism and its relevance in today’s time. He emphasized on the relevance and the implementation of the idea of Integral Humanism. He also reinforced the power of youth in building of a nation. Chancellor, Maharaja Agrasen University, Himachal Pradesh and former Chairman of Deendayal Upadhyaya College Dr. Nand Kishore Garg, presided over the programme. He spoke on preserving the rich traditions and cultural heritage of India and enlightened the gathering on the life history of Pt. Upadhyaya. (FOC)

Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013 29 Golden words from Aadhyatam

without Shiva, Durga has no existence. Shiva is the soul of DURGA PUJA Durga; Durga is identical with By Sri Swami Sivananda Shiva. Lord Shiva is only the silent witness. He is motionless, ALUTATIONS to the Divine auspiciousness, prosperity, absolutely changeless. He is not Mother, Durga, who exists knowledge (both sacred and affected by the cosmic play. It is in all beings in the form of secular), and all other potent Durga who does everything. S Shakti is the omnipotent intelligence, mercy, beauty, who powers. Durga Puja or Navaratri is the consort of Lord Shiva, who commences on the first and ends power of the Lord, or the Cosmic creates, sustains and destroys the on the tenth day of the bright Energy. The Divine Mother is universe. half of Aswayuja (September- represented as having ten This festival is observed October). It is held in different weapons in Her hands. twice a year, once in the month commemoration of the victory of She sits on a lion. She keeps up of Chaitra and then in Aswayuja. Durga over Mahishasura, the the play of the Lord through the It lasts for nine days in honour buffalo-headed demon. In Bengal three attributes of Nature, of the nine manifestations of Her image is worshipped for namely, Sattwa, Rajas and Durga. During Navaratri (the Tamas. Knowledge, peace, lust, word literally means “nine anger, greed, egoism and pride, nights”) devotees of Durga are all Her forms. observe a fast. Brahmins are fed You will find in the Devi and prayers are offered for the Sukta of the Rig Veda Samhita protection of health and that Vak, symbolising speech, property. the daughter of the sage The beginning of summer Anbhirna, realised her identity and the beginning of winter are with the Divine Mother, the two very important junctions Power of the Supreme Lord, of climatic and solar influence. which manifests throughout These two periods are taken as the universe among the gods, sacred opportunities for the nine days and then cast into among men and beasts and worship of the Divine Mother. water. The tenth day is called among the creatures of the deep They are indicated respectively Vijaya Dasami or Dussera (the ocean. by the Rama-Navaratri in “tenth day”). Processions with In the Kena Upanishad, you Chaitra (April-May) and the Her image are taken out along will find that the Divine Mother Durga Navaratri in Aswayuja the streets of villages and cities. shed wisdom on Indra and the (September-October). Durga Puja is the greatest gods and said that the gods were The bodies and minds of Hindu festival in which God is able to defeat the demons only people undergo a considerable adored as Mother. Hinduism is with the help of the power of the change on account of the changes the only religion in the world Supreme Lord. in Nature. Sri Rama is which has emphasised to such The worship of Devi, the worshipped during Ramnavmi, an extent the motherhood of God. universal Mother, leads to the and Mother Durga during One’s relationship with one’s attainment of knowledge of the Navaratri. mother is the dearest and the Self. The story in the Kena The Durga Puja is celebrated sweetest of all human relations. Upanishad known as the in various parts of India in Hence, it is proper to look upon “Yaksha Prasna”, supports this different styles. But the one basic God as mother. view. It tells how Uma, the Divine aim of this celebration is to Durga represents the Divine Mother, taught the Truth to the propitiate Shakti, the Goddess in Mother. She is the energy aspect gods. Goddess Shakti thus sheds Her aspect as Power, to bestow of the Lord. Without Durga, wisdom on Her devotees. upon man all wealth, Shiva has no expression and Courtesy : The Divine Life Society

30 Kamal Sandesh October 16-31, 2013