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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Three chief ministers are warming up to assemble a third front. The idea advanced by Mamta Banerjee that the eastern bloc who has common problems should come to gather to form “federal front.” She spoke to Nitish Kumar of JDU who confirmed the call from Mamta detailing about it without committing. BJD leader Naveen Patnaik too spoke about it welcomed without committing. Mamta ji has the unique distinction of being labeled as alliance breaker. She achieved this twice first with NDA, due to fear of loosing minority votes by aligning with BJP and again with UPA over increasing the price of fuel and allowing FDI in retail. She is mercurial, egoistic and quite often whimsical but astute. She used the Congress to defeat communists in Bengal but dumped it after coming to power. Can anyone really plan to forge a long term alliance with the unpredictable Mamta? A question the leaders of unborn third front must ask themselves first. Naveen Patnaik also was part of NDA but fell out from them due to involvement of BJP and Bajrang dal in anti-Christian riots in 2007-08. He is also a three time chief minister with a record of good governance and development.
Nitish was part of NDA for seventeen years and now he is on the verge of breaking ties. He has been very clear that if the BJP proposes Narendra Modi as its prime ministerial candidate he will walk out of NDA. It is a bit ironic that he is willing to accept the non-secular Adwani as PM but not Modi a paradox with which he is comfortable.
Some time back Mulayam too wanted to form an alliance of non BJP non Congress third front but his idea did not find favour with other parties, may be because of his flair for being unreliable. AIADMK supremo Jaya Lalita is likely to support the idea of a non-congress non BJP government in New Delhi although her flip flop from Congress to BJP and back to congress is well known but her biggest betrayal, the NDA is unlikely to forget, resulted in the fall of government in 1999.
The problem with these regional leaders is their ambition their support to form the government or with drawl is claimed to be on principle but guiding principle behind is preservation of selfish interest or continuation of party supremacy in the state. Many of them are nursing the ambition to become Prime minister of India failing which they want to be the king maker. The kind of stranglehold they have in the parliament that none of the national parties can form a government without their support. When joining the central government they are conscious of protecting their fiefdom in the state both administratively and financially hence the consistent demand of plum portfolios. Mamta and Nitish were Railway ministers both worked jealously to improve railway network in their respective states. The story of DMK’S Raja is still fresh in mind.
Success in the state boosts ego of the regional leaders which is reflected in their dealings in Delhi. This sometimes overrides the judiciousness on many national and regional issues leading to a breakdown of relationship between two perfectly normal people belonging to different parties resulting in fall of government.
The regional leaders forming the third front government pushed the country to bankruptcy in the past; we hope the regional satrap’s memory is good enough to remember the effect of the costly experiment the than regional satraps conducted. Suggesting a fresh era of third front means either they are blinded by anti congressism or anti BJPism, or cheating the Indian public in the name of democracy. It was the congress government under the prime minister ship of Narsimha rao; Dr Man Mohan Singh salvaged the country from impoverishment. Are we not intelligent enough to thwart the ill-advised nefarious design to push the country back to insolvency by the overambitious regional leaders, whose only interest is personal and regional development at the cost of the nation? Majority of regional leaders have a very short eye sight whose vision seldom reaches beyond state boundaries. To give an example of their acute myopia: Leaders of Tamil Nadu demand full quota of water released from the dam in Karnataka even if the drought in the catchment area resulted in very low level of water in the reservoir. The needs of Karnataka people are never in the consideration of the leaders from TN. Such leaders when reach Delhi can we expect rational behavior? Some of the leaders are considerate, intelligent and fair but majority or beyond redemption.
Since there is no constitutional provision to bar them from contesting Lok sabha election the ball is lobbed in the court of electorates. It is our duty to keep them away from parliament and elect candidates from the national party so that a stable government is formed in Delhi. We have seen repeatedly how the regional parties held the government to ransom. Do we need a repeat of the same after 2014 parliamentary elections? The choice is ours!!!! Vote for a stable government.
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Posted on
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
8:48:16 PM
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From
Pradeep Khare
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Posted on
Monday, June 17, 2013
2:23:14 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Monday, June 17, 2013
1:31:50 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Sunday, June 16, 2013
11:25:58 AM
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From
Prof. Prem Mohan Lakhotia
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Posted on
Sunday, June 16, 2013
9:54:11 AM
Modified on
Sunday, June 16, 2013
10:08:16 AM
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From
Yogeshwar Dubey
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Posted on
Saturday, June 15, 2013
9:09:22 PM
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From
Nani Manna
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Posted on
Saturday, June 15, 2013
5:41:49 PM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Saturday, June 15, 2013
4:54:11 PM
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From
Prof. Prem Mohan Lakhotia
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Posted on
Saturday, June 15, 2013
1:26:49 PM
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From
Nani Manna
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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While the BJP Goa conclave was in progress its iron man shirt LK Adwani was quietly sulking at his residence in Delhi, missing the meeting for the first time since the BJP was formed. Sulking due to ascendency of his protégé Modi or the RSS once again planning his ouster, whatever may be the reason the octogenarian party stalwart has to go and leave the field for younger colleagues? With Modi becoming the chairman of the committee which will overlook the polls and resignation of the party stalwart the division within the party, dubbed as media hype, has come in the open. The split as some sources are predicting is almost vertical.
Not too long ago, possibly still fresh in the minds of people, there was similar drama enacted in Delhi, another vertical split was effected by Indira ji when Congress party was split in to two factions known as Congress “I” and Congress ‘S” followed by fight as to who is the legitimate child. We all know Modi ji as a divisive politician he did this in Gujarat and now his parent party the BJP but this time Adwani ji helped by not reading the writing on the wall or blinded by personal ambitions.
The BJP might not split but will be weakened considerably which in a preelection year might be detrimental to its chances of bouncing back. The BJP is considered to have its umbilical cord attached to the RSS they call shots and influence party’s policy. The RSS ideology is Hindutva; hence BJP considered the political face of the RSS, scares the minorities and secular groups. If the BJP has to challenge the Congress it must project itself a party with secular credentials, show itself as an alternative to congress by clearly outlining its programme when they will come to power, merely criticizing congress without providing an alternative is insufficient for a comeback. In the process even if they have to cut links with RSS they should be prepared and project themselves as an independent entity and not an offshoot of RSS.
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11
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Posted on
Saturday, June 15, 2013
7:30:58 PM
Modified on
Sunday, June 16, 2013
9:30:10 AM
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From
Yogeshwar Dubey
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Posted on
Thursday, June 13, 2013
2:33:46 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Thursday, June 13, 2013
2:24:50 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
12:09:09 PM
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From
Nani Manna
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Posted on
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
11:36:18 AM
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From
Pradeep Khare
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Posted on
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
7:55:13 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
7:38:08 AM
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From
Khurram Raza
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Posted on
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
7:11:38 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
6:16:00 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
10:59:51 PM
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From
Nani Manna
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Posted on
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
7:59:39 PM
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From
Ambreen Zaidi
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Following Email was forwarded to me by one of my contacts. I have been asked to forward it to my contacts. I thought it is better to share on SMS so that someone might be able to bring the contents to the attention of our “omnipotent” media at the same time get the views of fellow bloggers.
Dear Editors of HT, TOI, Indian Express and The Hindu, NDTV, CNN-IBN, I got the mail below from a friend of mine and following the unwritten code of conduct, I am forwarding it to my friends but all efforts of people who have been forwarding this mail would go waste if this mail doesn't reach YOU.......
Something to think about..!!
Shame on Indian Media??? Really what a shame...
By the time u guys read this news, the body of Major Manish Pitambare, who was shot dead at Anantnag, would have been cremated with full military honours.
On Tuesday, this news swept across all the news channels 'Sanjay Dutt relieved by court'. 'Sirf Munna not a bhai' '13 saal ka vanvaas khatam' 'although found guilty for possession of armoury, Sanjay can breathe sigh of relief as all the TADA charges against him are withdrawn' Then many personalities like Salman Khan said 'He is a good person. We knew he will come out clean'. Mr Big B said "Dutt's family and our family have relations for years he's a good kid. He is like elder brother to Abhishek". His sister Priya Dutt said "we can sleep well tonight. It's a great relief"
In other news, Parliament was mad at Indian team for performing bad; Greg Chappell said something; Shah Rukh Khan replaces Amitabh in KBC and other such stuff. But most of the emphasis was given on Sanjay Dutt's "phoenix like" comeback from the ashes of terrorist charges.
Surfing through the channels, one news on BBC startled me. It read "Hisbul Mujahidin's most wanted terrorist 'Sohel Faisal' killed in Anantnag, India ... Indian Major leading the operation lost his life in the process. Four others are injured.
It was past midnight, I started visiting the stupid Indian channels, but Sanjay Dutt was still ruling. They were telling how Sanjay pleaded to the court saying 'I'm the sole bread earner for my family', 'I have a daughter who is studying in US' and so on. Then they showed how Sanjay was not wearing his lucky blue shirt while he was hearing the verdict and also how he went to every temple and prayed for the last few months. A suspect in Mumbai bomb blasts, convicted under armoury act...was being transformed into a hero.
Sure Sanjay Dutt has a daughter; sure he did not do any terrorist activity. Possessing an AK47 is considered too elementary in terrorist community and also one who possesses an AK47 has a right to possess a pistol so that again is not such a big crime; Sure Sanjay Dutt went to all the temples;
Sure he did a lot of Gandhigiri but then.......... ..
Major Manish H Pitambare got the information from his sources about the terrorists' whereabouts. Wasting no time he attacked the camp, killed Hisbul Mujahidin's supremo and in the process lost his life to the bullets fired from an AK47. He is survived by a wife and daughter (just like Sanjay Dutt) who are only 18 months old.
Major Manish never said 'I have a daughter' before he took the decision to attack the terrorists in the darkest of nights. He never thought about having a family and he being the bread earner.
No news channel covered this since they were too busy hyping a former drug addict, a suspect who's linked to bomb blasts which killed hundreds. Their aim was to show how he defied the TADA charges and they were so successful that his conviction in possession of armoury had no meaning. They also concluded that his parents in heaven must be happy and proud of him.
Parents of Major Manish are still living and they have to live rest of their lives without their beloved son. His daughter won't ever see her daddy again.
So guys, let the media know which news to give importance, as it is a shame for us since this Army Major's death news was given by a foreign TV channel as our own channels were too busy with Munna....bhai!!! Isn't it ironic.....................
If you believe in it, don't feel shy in forwarding it..
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11
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Posted on
Saturday, June 08, 2013
11:02:00 AM
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From
Ambreen Zaidi
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Posted on
Saturday, June 08, 2013
8:20:52 AM
Modified on
Saturday, June 08, 2013
8:21:55 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Saturday, June 08, 2013
8:04:04 AM
Modified on
Saturday, June 08, 2013
8:05:12 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Thursday, June 06, 2013
10:15:48 AM
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From
Yogeshwar Dubey
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Posted on
Thursday, June 06, 2013
9:40:22 AM
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From
Pradeep Khare
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Posted on
Saturday, June 01, 2013
5:31:07 PM
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From
Prof. Prem Mohan Lakhotia
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Posted on
Saturday, June 01, 2013
5:10:25 PM
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From
Vishal Bhambhani
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Posted on
Saturday, June 01, 2013
6:43:30 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Saturday, June 01, 2013
5:51:16 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Thursday, May 30, 2013
7:03:25 AM
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From
Prof. Prem Mohan Lakhotia
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Posted on
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
10:24:06 PM
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From
Nani Manna
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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The despair of betting in IPL is still vibrating in the media; the anchors have gone hoarse screaming for the resignation of BCCI president for tolerating it for so long. While the matter is still alive in the minds of people another absolutely appalling case of betting has surfaced from the holy city of Varanasi. Manikarnika ghat on the banks of river Ganges is reserved for cremation for hundreds of years. The practice is still prevalent and has even become a tourist attraction. The boatman never forgets to take the visitors from abroad to see cremation on the banks.
Last week cremations were stopped for an hour due to disturbance caused by the Shivsaniks of the Varanasi branch of Shivsena, joined by the traders dealing in cremation requisites. The Shivsaniks are blamed for causing disturbance to the civic life quite often for all the wrong reasons but this times their agitation was spot on. There has been an organized betting ring on the Ghats of holy Gangaji; the bookies take bet from people guessing about the number of bodies arriving for cremation at the ghat. From the available reports masked people were seen exposing the betting racket. The business is believed to run in crores.
I am pretty confident the bookies in Varanasi n have no connection with the underworld mafias operating from Dubai. If we have to believe this report an obvious question comes to our mind. Is the greed for money penetrated so deep in society and the compulsion to put a wager so overwhelming that we have not spared the dead? It’s a shame to the civilized society that such practice is not only prevailing but flourishing under the nose of civic leaders, government functionaries along with leaders and custodians of morals of Indians.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Spot fixing in this edition of IPL surfaced accidently to Delhi police during a routine investigation. They laid a proper trap and uncovered “spot fixing” in few matches arrested three players and eleven bookies. Now the Mumbai police too is actively investigating independently.
“Spot fixing” should be differentiated from “match fixing,” the former is limited to an over or part of an over, has no bearing on the result of the match. As against this, match fixing affects the outcome, usually a loss. If the game is to be fixed three different parties are involved at different levels. The player is fixed to do a particular act like, bowling a no ball, wide ball or a long hop so that the batsman can hit for a six. The bookies are the people who take bets from people, in person or on phone at agreed odds for quick profit. Quite often it is alleged that the bookies in India are only the fronts of the kingpin in the back ground, who generally is believed to be underworld don operating from abroad.
Whereas betting is legal in the United Kingdom, it is illegal in India, America and many other countries. Indian laws do not allow betting in sports or gambling in hotels or clubs yet the Indians indulge in both whenever an opportunity comes their way. Gambling is prevalent in the world possibly from the beginning of civilization. Many examples can be found from Mahabharata period to twenty first century in India. “Worli ka matka,” I believe has been in existence for over six decades in which Bookies take bet from people acknowledging on a piece of paper. Based on trust, believed to be controlled by the underworld in Mumbai, millions of rupees change hands every week.
It is a common knowledge that betting on cricket matches is prevalent; the “compulsive gambler” is not concerned whether the bet is illegal as long as the practice satisfies his obsessive desire to put a wager. Although technically illegal, the innocuous betting in cricket and other sports, the authorities tend to ignore but when the bookies with the connivance of players try to change the outcome of the match than it becomes an offence and everyone involved can be booked under section 420. Since this section does not provide effective deterrent, new and more stringent laws must be made providing heavy punishment, like jail term, life ban, barred from getting employment with state owned organisations.
The IPL is a sound business cum entertainment module liked by people all over the country evident by the high crowd visible in recent matches, one such incidence cannot tarnish the image of the IPL but if the culprits go scot-free and the offence like this recurs with regularity, the modules image will suffer.
Independent commission announced to probe all the wrong doings is a welcome development. Let us wait for its findings, till then it would be unfair to try the supposedly guilty in the media.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Cherry Blossom – Japanese Sakura
Telephone has been ringing insistently for a long time before Rajan, the first secretary in Indian embassy Washington, picked up, cursing the caller for disturbing sleep on the weekend. Still sleepy he picks up the phone. “Hello this is Nani,” Hearing the voice he came to attention, all sleep disappearing in thin air.
“Good morning sir,” it was the Indian ambassador Nani Palkiwala. “I will be at your place in thirty minutes; we are going to see the cherry blossom at Washington monument.” An ardent nature lover he wanted to be the first to see the cherry blossom in full bloom. These flowers hold a special place in the DC calendar attracting thousands of visitors and passionate nature lovers.
Blooming of Cherry blossom marks the beginning of spring in North America and Europe. It is observed in Washington DC “Cherry blossom festival,” beginning on the last Saturday of March, to commemorate the gift of Cherry blossom saplings to America from the mayor of Tokyo. They were planted by the first lady on 27th March 1912. First festival was held in 1935 since then it is held regularly. Cherry blossom parade is the main attraction, many restaurants have special menus for the occasion and cherry blossom stamped merchandise are for sale.
The two original plants are still standing tall in west Potomac Park on the north bank of Tidal basin in Washington DC. Since then thousands of trees have been brought and cultivated in various parts of America, about three hundred species are now available.
Cherry blossom is a deciduous tree typically 13–39 feet high. The leaves are 5–10 cm long and 3–6 cm broad, with a double-toothed margin.
The flowers are 2.5–4 cm diameter, with five white petals, gold stamens and brown sepals; they grow in clusters in the spring, and are hermaphroditic. The ornamental cherry blossoms do not produce fruits.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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CBI, the premier investigation agency, has always been under the radar of everyone in the country, used for investigating difficult crimes but more often to investigate scams. While their record of over seventy percent conviction in criminal cases does not get any mention but investigation in scams always get the brickbats, quite often becoming a punching bag for our independent media and opposition politician.
Recently Supreme Court has expressed displeasure over the CBI sharing status report of coal investigation with Law minister and joint secretaries of PMO and coal ministry, In fact admonishing it for changing the report on the suggestion of these people. They have gone to the extent of labeling the CBI a caged parrot with several masters.
The same is being discussed in the media with several self-appointed proponents of morality in public life, on nationally televised programs. All in one voice have been condemning the law minister, offices of PMO and coal minister for interfering in the working of CBI and saving their choicest criticism for the CBI.
This is a knee jerk reaction, everyone, including the judges of Supreme Court, knows that the CBI is under the government, candidly accepted by the CBI director in court, and that, it directs the CBI from time to time. Those who believe or prophase that CBI is independent and the government does not interfere are living in a fool’s paradise or deliberately deceiving.
Whether the CBI should be autonomous is a subject of debate, but the present situation is that the CBI seeks guidance from the government, may not be in Day today matters but on serious issues. The successive government’s penchant to use it to tame opposition politician is an open secret, the difference has been only the extent and need. The need to suppress the opposition grew significantly since the era of coalition has emerged.
Founding fathers of our constitution accepted parliamentary democracy to be governed by three totally independent arms, the legislative, judiciary and executive. It was expected the three wings will perform their duties without interring in each other’s work. But lately there is a growing tendency to step on the shoes of others. This causes heartburn, hinders smooth passage of work and stalls development.
Political parties, especially sitting on opposition benches, have shown very little confidence in the executive for investigation of impropriety in projects, hence fought for the Supreme court monitored CBI inquiry. They have conveniently ignored two very important facts, one the judges live in the same society where others live and suffer from the same weaknesses. Second, Involvement of judges in these high profile cases leaves very little time to devote on routine cases, resulting in piling of cases. The sudden found trust in the judiciary by the opposition politicians and echoed by the media has provided an opportunity to the judiciary to steel some of the limelight, which has been the prerogative of Bollywood celebrities.
The media considered to be the fourth arm of our democracy was expected to be the watchdog. But unfortunately it has become highly opinionated, exhibiting symptoms of invincibility and near god like characteristics. This is not to take away credit due to them for their excellent work in sensitizing people against assault on women, corruption and few other issues. But a little more diligence and impartiality with a dose of responsibility and curbing instinct to sensationalism and negativity will do a lot of good to the media houses.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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“England had extended winter this year,” Sona, our daughter, complained upon arrival on Manchester airport,” Hope you have brought some warmth from India.” It was still too cold for my liking; the overcast sky with black clouds threatening rains dampened our mood. April generally is mild, temperature rarely going below fifteen degree there is greenery all round and flowers blossom. In about a week the weather did improve and unmistakable signs of spring began to emerge. Fresh leaves and buds started showing on the barren trees, temperature rose, hovering between fifteen and twenty degree. I waited with excited anticipation to see new variety of flowers.
Spring always bring unexpected surprises from nature filling one’s heart with joy. In one of my morning walks, I was pleasantly surprised to see hundreds of daffodils shooting from everywhere, reminding the famous poem of William Wards worth, which I read during collage days. Since then I wanted to see daffodils in the same glory as the poet found which made him write, possibly his best work. Unlike him I only found hundreds but the grandiose and regality unmistakably the same
I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.
It was no less than a feast to the eyes; I thanked heavens for the extended winter which allowed me to see the beauty of spring and satiate my thirst, a thirst which in reality increased, nursing ambitions to see more and more.
The waves beside them danced; but they
Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:
A poet could not but be gay,
In such a jocund company:
I gazed—and gazed—but little thought
What wealth the show to me had brought
I have, neither the imagination nor words of the poet but I do possess a heart and mind desiring to enjoy nature and love the beauty it spreads to our disturb soul and mind. They happily excited the poet who kept watching and watching the feast before his eyes wondering about the wealth the daffodils brought to his feelings and I stood there aspiring for more thanking my luck for this extraordinary opportunity.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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“North of England will celebrate death of Margaret Thatcher” said Siddharth our grandson. We arrived in England a day after the former prime minister died at the age of 87 and immediately got involved in some interesting debate with local Indians. Three times PM, Thatcher perhaps is the most controversial PM the country had in the last hundred years. Possibly the most hated and feared but feted as a fearless leader of the country, earning the title “iron lady,” a title she enjoyed and cherished , bestowed by a Russian journalist. It is widely believed that she personally planned the downfall of trade unions. The trade unions often held the country to ransom. So powerful were the unions that the governments had to bow to their machinations rendering development difficult? Thatcher opened up the economy leading to all-round development rendering the unions redundant. Huge protests were dealt with ruthlessly making the Prime Minister Thatcher powerful at the same time the most abhorred person in England. Undeterred she continued with liberalization process making the country not only within Europe but also in the world a model of development and progress. Many people spearheading the celebrations today on her death were either a kid or were not born when she ruled the country winning elections three time in a row for the conservative party.
Speaker of the parliament called a special session to condole, interestingly but sadly the labor party boycotted on the ground that they did not agree with her policies. It baffled me completely that one of the members of House of Lords, an Indian, appointed by Blair, refused to join colleagues to pay respect to former prime minister. My humble submission in many animated discussion that history cannot be altered whether we like or hate her, like everyone in death she needs to be respected. By condoling her death, it is the Prime minister, constitutional head of government, you are mourning. The gesture marred by party politics in a matured democracy does not auger well for the people of the country.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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The government has announced opening of two new medical collages at Shahdol and Khandwa in MP. It is heartening to learn the government’s intention to expand medical education to increase the number of doctors available for health care in the state. Whether the announcement is politically motivated to placate the voters just before election or well thought of and pragmatic resolve by a responsible government is not clear. Chances of it being the former appear more. Opening of a medical collage needs careful consideration, it is not like a degree collage which runs in rented four to five room building with very little investment. The medical college requires funds in millions, vast tract of land, personals professionals and support staff, equipment’s and necessary mandate from the regulating authorities, who must be convinced of the projects viability. A simple wish of a top leader, I am afraid, is hardly convincing.
Intent and hard realities are different; I have no doubt about the intent of the government but the reality is far different. A cursory look at the conditions of six medical collages in the state will reveal the pitiable state of these institutions, where the sword of being de recognized is hanging for a long time. In fact many departments in some collages have not been allowed to admit PG students for want of teaching staff and equipment’s; in addition the health ministry is grappling with exodus of highly trained senior staff to private institutions. There has been a systemic failure of the government to provide necessary impetus to upgrade facilities of treatment in existing medical collages and affiliated hospitals consistently for over two decades, reducing them to slightly better than district hospitals in place of modern tertiary care institutions.
I have no quarrel with the intentions of the government to take medical education to the far corners of the state but it must first put the logistics in place, otherwise there is a risk of the honorable intent becoming a disaster in a short time. The need to day is not merely to increase the number of medical collages but to improve the quality of teaching in the existing institutions so that highly professional doctors capable of taking care of the population are produced. There is critical need to stop senior teaching staff from leaving to join better institutions within and outside state. The reasons why they are leaving must be addressed urgently and recruit fresh staff to fill numerous vacant positions. There is greater need to modernize the hospitals with state of art equipment’s, retain existing staff and recruit new highly skilled and motivated technicians. Above all there is also desperate need to shed off the mediaeval mentality among the policy makers, instead, they must inculcate aspirations to make the state a hub of world class institutions with cutting edge technology for training doctors and hospitals not only to treat local patients but to encourage medical tourism.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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I am a fan of Karan Thapar as an interviewer on TV but adore his writing. I am reproducing here what he wrote in Hindustan Times some time back. Hope the readers will enjoy.
Paraprosdokians
Defined as a phrase in which the second half of the phrase or sentence is surprising or unexpected.
Description of fat women: “She looks as though she has been poured in to her clothes and forgot to say when.
Parting comment to the hostess. “I have had a perfectly wonderful evening, but this wasn’t it”
Tackling awkward situations: ‘He is a modest man with much to be modest about’.
‘He is a well-balanced person with a chip on both shoulders
‘Our quarrels are a case of mind over matter ’‘I don’t mind and he doesn’t matter’
Winston Churchill: ‘You can always count on the Americans to do the right thing – after they have tried everything else’
Frenchman Clemenceau said: America is the only country to have progressed from barbarism to decadence without experiencing the intervening stage of civilization’
Barnard Shaw sent two tickets of the first day of his play to Churchill with an accompanying note:
“For you and your friend, if you have one”
Churchill replied: “I can’t make the first night, but I will be there for the second, if there is one.”
“The last thing I want to is to hurt you, but it is still on my list”
“If I agreed with you, we would both be wrong”
“A clear conscious is a sign of fuzzy memory”
Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine”
“I used to be indecisive but now I am not so sure”
Í didn’t say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you”
To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research”
You are never too old to learn something stupid”
Fed up with television: The evening news is where they begin with ‘Good evening’ and then proceed to tell you why it isn’t”
“Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the road with a bald head and a beer gut and still think they are sexy”
“Behind every successful man is a woman; behind the fall of a successful man is usually another woman”
Happy new year – and remember after today it won’t be new, it may not be happy but it will last a year!
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Posted on
Friday, March 15, 2013
11:32:26 AM
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From
Nani Manna
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Posted on
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
3:00:26 PM
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From
Dr.Rashmi Salil Kumar
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Posted on
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
7:43:05 AM
Modified on
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
5:53:00 PM
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From
Yogeshwar Dubey
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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NDA leader NK Singh during a televised debate made a very interesting remark” Sensing a possible victory in the 2014 general election the opposition parties, including BJP are behaving well” It is a candid confession of a pragmatic leader of high integrity and intelligence. It also implies that earlier they did not behave well, possibly irresponsible which cost dearly to the national exchequer caused by repeated disruption of parliament. Fear of being branded obstructionist, as the election is nearing, some sanity has finally prevailed on them, the results of which are visible and bills are passed easily in both houses. There is also a corollary benefit the opposition politicians are sensing about the bills being made in to law. Ever since the TMC broke from the government, compulsion to placate their leader has evaporated in thin air and the government is announcing economic reforms even taking unpalatable measures to bring back the economy on track. In the likely possibility of the NDA winning they will have sound economic policies in place assuring better economic health of the nation, since all the hard decisions have already been taken by the UPA.
The economic, social, judicial and administrative reforms undertaken by the present government will pave way for a period of smooth ride without the inconvenience of any potholes or turbulence. The inflation will go down, so will the prices of commodities as a result of greater investment in infrastructure projects from foreign and domestic investors and if the monsoon favours, agriculture production will also go up. Hence it pays to be more cooperative now for a better future. Hope this period of greater harmony among the politicians will continue till the elections and expectations, though with a bit of cautious optimism, the same good will percolates to the overzealous media rendering them more circumspect, responsible and objective. Instead of falling head over heels to project a leader for the next prime minister of NDA, they must consider whether they are really helping the cause of the nation or pursuing an agenda likely to prove disastrous in the long run.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Killing and mutilation of the body of an Indian solder on the LOC by Pakistan army has taken the country by storm. There is anger in the country, army has reacted with restraint but without mincing words warned the Pakistani establishment, that it will choose place and time to respond. The government is talking tough and the media spearheading the drive against the gruesome act by Pakistani army. All the claims of it being professional have been punctured by the act of mutilation of the adversaries solder.
Amongst all this, exhibiting lack of leadership and complete moral and intellectual bankruptcy, keeping aside all decency, the main opposition party is playing politics. Some senior leaders of the party visited the village of martyr Hemraj’s home, not to show solidarity but to make a demand “an eye for an eye” or should we say ten for one. The country saw an act of great compassion, seen more often in films done by the actors but never by any politician. It was clearly an act for the viewers to show how caring the BJP in general and the leader in particular are to a martyr’s widow.
The developments at the LOC with turmoil in Pakistan and repeated terrorist attacks within the country clearly shows there is no functioning government in Pakistan, the ambitious army in a situation like this can become adventurous. In the prevailing atmosphere the country expects its political leaders to rally behind the government and definitely not play politics. If you cannot do it the best is to keep the mouth shut.
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Posted on
Thursday, January 31, 2013
10:41:12 PM
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From
Yogeshwar Dubey
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Posted on
Thursday, January 31, 2013
10:41:08 PM
Modified on
Friday, February 01, 2013
5:45:11 AM
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From
Yogeshwar Dubey
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Posted on
Thursday, January 31, 2013
10:41:04 PM
Modified on
Friday, February 01, 2013
5:43:51 AM
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From
Yogeshwar Dubey
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Posted on
Friday, January 18, 2013
2:50:44 PM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Thursday, January 17, 2013
10:31:58 PM
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From
Nani Manna
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Delhi sexual assault victim’s friend, in a television interview revealed details of what happened on the fateful night of 16th December. He appeared to have recovered reasonably well from the shocking experience. He does not remember much about what happened in the bus since he lost consciousness while saving his friend. The rapists removed their clothes and threw from the moving bus. His main grouse that no one came for help for hours and police took long to take them to hospital is a sad reflection on our system and the society.
Both complaints quite clearly expose the extent of rot in our society and the way our police discharges its duty. We have not to take his timing literally since in that position every minute seems like hours. There must have been people passing by in their vehicles and on foot but none stopped. This is not unusual sight in India, since our selfishness does not allow thinking, let alone helping people beyond close family. This change has been a gradual transformation over decades which accelerated since economy was liberalized. The need to compete to survive and climb the ladder of economic affluence, no one has time to think about others.
If people stopped to help and reported to the police there were very good chances of the Good Samaritan being implicated in the crime by the police? This is why public hesitating to involve themselves in situation likes these. I am not in any way supporting people’s behavior but merely alluding to the cause of such callous indifference. Developed countries too no one comes forward to help the accident victim, they will inform the police by phone but will never extricate a victim from the wreckage. The reason for this willful indifference is to protect themselves from law suits by the victim after recovery for any disability suffered as a result of the accident.
The police have been trained to suspect every individual who comes to report, acting on the reverse principle that “everyone is a suspect until proved otherwise”. Difference between a cop in US or England is that he will firmly but politely convey the legal position without wasting time. Whereas cops in India exhibit crudeness and indifference in dealing with witnesses or public who come to report crime. Wasting time on flimsy grounds is practiced by people from Parliament to municipal committee. The politicians on some pretext disrupt the parliament and waste tax payers money and time to discuss important legislations. A clerk in the registrar of birth office will find excuses for not issuing a certificate till he is suitably rewarded. The police too ask unnecessary questions to the messenger instead of rushing to the scene of crime. The priority gets mixed and the victims suffer.
I am convinced that police in our country has become a punching bag for which they have to blame themselves; we use them for our purposes and discard promptly after use. Let us not forget that it is because of them we sleep comfortably in our homes, drive on the street without fear of our cars being hijacked, and watch entertainment and sporting activities without fear of being mobbed by the hooligans. Yes there are bad eggs in the police force, true they need lessons in public relations, agreed that they have allowed themselves to be misused by the bureaucracy and politicians, undoubtedly there is corruption in them, but they still are a force to reckon with, the society and the country requires them. The need to make an image changeover quickly is felt much more now than before. To make this happen positive interaction between the citizenry and the police force must commence immediately which will foster greater trust, a prerequisite for reducing crime in the society.
I do hope and pray that the impromptu support by the people in Delhi and other parts of the country continue, resulting in meaningful change in the working of police force. They need to become more sensitive, shed off arrogance, be polite and realize that friend ship with the community will make them more successful and rendering intelligence collection easy. They should remember the words of Chanakya “Fragrance of flowers spreads only in the direction of the wind. But the goodness of a person spreads in all direction."
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Part three
REDUCE YOUR RISKS
Rape is a growing threat and the best defense is to be aware and prepared. Not every rape situation can be anticipated, but recognizing potentially dangerous situations may help you avoid an assault.
A: Be aware that alcohol is a risk factor for sexual assault. If you consume it, you are in greater danger of being assaulted.
B: Consider going out with a group or in public rather than being alone on a date with someone you do not know very well.
C: Be aware of men who invade your personal space, come on too strong, or otherwise make you feel uncomfortable.
D: Remember that you have the right to say "No".
E: Learn how sedating substances can be used against you by a rapist.
F: Trust your intuition. If you feel like you are being pressured, you probably are.
G: Remember that only a rapist can prevent rape, but the more you know the better your chances are of reducing your risks.
Driving
A: Lock your car when driving and parked.
B: Avoid isolated or poorly lit parking spots.
C: Scan the area when approaching your car. Check the back seat as well.
D: Have your keys ready when approaching your car.
E: If your car breaks down, lock the doors and stay inside. Ask anyone who stops to call for help.
In Social Situations
A: Learn about a man's attitudes before you go out on a date or as you talk.
B: Express your limits clearly.
C: Avoid secluded places.
D: Avoid alcohol and other drugs.
E: Arrange your own transportation.
At Home
A: Leave lights on when you are out.
B: Ask for a sales person's, repairman's, policeman's credentials before allowing them in your home.
C: Vary your daily routine, if possible. Don’t be predictable.
D: Install and use quality dead-bolt locks.
E: Make friends in your neighborhood.
F: Install a peephole in your door.
G: Do not enter your home if it looks like it has been broken into.
Walking
A: Plan your route and walk confidently.
B: Don't walk in isolated areas, especially at night.
C: Never accept a ride from a stranger.
D: If you are being followed, go into a store or other area with people or knock on a door for help.
SELF PROTECTION
A girl child is always told to “be careful” continuing in to adulthood and possibly throughout life. “Rape is a kind of terrorism which severely limits the freedom of women and makes women dependent on men.” (Susan Griffin: Rape: The All-American Crime. Ramparts, 1971) Feeling an increased concern for your safety and self-protection after being attacked is a normal and appropriate reaction. Many times rapists threaten to return and harm the victim again. While in reality very few ever do, the threat itself is frightening.
If you are thinking about weapons, keep in mind the best weapons you have are the ones you have with you at all times: your hands, feet, knees, etc. Taking a self-defense course is always a good idea for the girls. Learning to react with anger instead of fear has proven many times to be a woman’s best defense. Being assertive, being aware of your rights as a person, and being aware of your surroundings can help to possibly avoid or deter an attack.
Most American women, especially students carry “pepper spray” in their purse all the time. Although legal in the United States many other countries of Europe it is not, hence girls travelling abroad must be careful. In India it is not freely available those who have is imported. The spray causes intense eye irritation and the assailant gets temporarily blind giving enough time for the women to escape from the scene.
As you learn more about self-protection, you may find yourself thinking, “Now why didn’t I do that?” Remember that we are all vulnerable and tend to think that rape is something that happens to someone else. You reacted the best way that you could in order to survive and that is most important.
Community action
A: The community should be aware that the rapist essentially is a criminal involved in a violent crime not only hurting the women sexually, brutalizing physically and mentally. Numerous studies have revealed that such criminals have a particular type of gene running in the family. They exhibit violent behavior from childhood. Identification and isolation and possibly subjecting these people to counseling will probably prevent a sexual crime in future.
B: The victim needs compassion, support and understanding not pampering, indifference or hate. Allow sufficient time to the victim to get over the horrific experience. During this period family and community help in reporting the crime to the police getting her medically examined ( Must for every victim even if there are no external evidence of Injury) Psychiatrist or a counselor’s help becomes imperative in each cases.
C: The entire community, despite the rapist standing in the society, must come down heavily on him. They must prevent him from attending weddings, parties and other social gatherings besides being subjected to legal trial, in fact a social boycott to isolate and shame him will act as a deterrent. The community should know that these criminals might attack another or same women again hence must never lower their guard.
D: There is need for the society to change its perception of women and shed off its prejudices against women’s emancipation. All along majority of men in the country including politicians and bureaucrats have exhibited dichotomy in their perception of women in general. Failure to pass women’s reservation bill in the parliament for so long is one such issue. The problem is not peculiar to India alone the country where there is high gender parity and respect for women, crime against women does occur.
There is great need for community participation in any meaningful programme to prevent crime in general and crime against women in particular. “Neighborhood watch” a joint project of public and police jointly patrolling the area is much needed. It will not only instill fear of being apprehended among miscreants but go a long way in bridging the mistrust between police and public. These projects are tried and tested all over the world can be tried in India especially the metros as a pilot project before implementing it in a city or town.
Legal position
Indian law against sexual harassment/assault/rape of 1860 has been amended in the 1980s but they still are insufficient to become effective deterrent. They are still biased against the victim. Although minimum punishment is seven years for rape on adults and ten if the victim is a minor but in both if the judge finds it necessary he can pronounce rigorous imprisonment for life. Burden of proof at times is shifted to the victim and certain clauses make conviction difficult. Moreover the delay in justice is due to the nature of laws and various other provisions. There is need for simple but stricter law against sexual assaults.
The last word
Lord Indra invaded privacy of Ahilya, by impersonating as her husband sage Gautam in Satyug. Women were raped, maimed and killed by invading armies from time to time and they are still being raped and subjected to physical, sexual and mental assaults, not in India alone but all over the world. If it is any consolation one in six women in the United States is sexually molested in their lifetime and two in five women suffer sexual assault or rape in Canada. The moral is despite the best of police investigation, strong laws against sexual crime and speedy justice; sexual assaults continue to occur in all patriarchal society therefore fight against them must continue unabated not by the government alone but by entire community.
Gratefully acknowledge input from the net.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Part two
How does a victim react to rape?
Women experiencing unpleasant and repulsive act deserves to be called survivor. It is like a life threatening experience, just as people recover from them they recover from sexual assaults and rapes also. Their initial reaction varies and recovery too does not take a set pattern. The period of recovery may vary according to circumstances and support from friends and relatives. The survivors may experience the following during recovery period.
DENIAL: Wanting to believe that the assault never really happened. Usually immediately after the incident lasting for several hours.
POWERLESSNESS: Feeling that someone has invaded personal space and taken away all control in your life.
HELPLESSNESS: A loss of all self-reliance. Feeling incompetent and having a need to depend on others.
LONELINESS: The feeling of being alone, even in the company of others.
GUILT: The rape is not her fault she never asked to be raped yet she blames herself for not doing this or should have done that.
SHOCK: Numbness may first set in, causing a survivor to feel calm and unable to cry. This can be normal and other feelings will surface slowly as you find the strength to deal with the reality of the rape.
ANGER: This may be directed at yourself, the assailant, friends, or relatives who do not understand the sexual assault experience. The family members of survivor often vent their anger towards police and the government. Anger must come out and should be channeled appropriately, but this often takes time.
FEAR: The survivor may experience fears from many things: the fear of being assaulted again, people finding out, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, men, all people, physical contact, nightmares, being alone, or being with others.
DEPRESSION: This is more than a “mood” of sadness. It is very important to remember that depression can come and go for many months following the attack.
ANXIETY: Great amounts of anxiety can cause a survivor to panic, even in safe surroundings. Anxiety will lessen if a person can rationally think through or talk about the immediate feelings or fear.
EMBARRASSMENT: The survivor may be embarrassed to discuss the physical details of the assault. Our bodies and sexual activity have always been regarded as private. The rapist has violated that privacy. Telling anyone about the attack, including medical personnel and law enforcement, may be difficult for the survivor.
LOSS OF CONTROL: The rapist has forced the survivor to submit to something that she did not want to do. Since the rapist overcame her resistance by force or fear, the survivor may no longer feel sure of anything about herself or her self-determination
SHAME: The destruction of self-respect, the deliberate efforts by the attacker to cause the survivor to feel dirty and disgusting, may cause feelings of shame.
Instead of receiving normal treatment the survivor of the assault either receive extreme sympathy bordering appeasement or develop an indifferent attitude often condemnation, exaggerating feeling of shame. Important thing to remember is that the family members remain sympathetic convey by their words and deeds that they are with the survivor. They must also realize that they can learn to live with the incident as a part of their past. “A survivor of rape or sexual abuse will probably never fully forget what happened”. However, survivors can and do recover. The process of recovery can be confusing and painful yet it can be a powerful and positive step in your life.
Reporting sexual assaults or rape to police
Not all rapes are reported to the police, it is generally believed that for every case reported there are at least four cases not reported to the police. The problem is not peculiar to India alone, it is common in the western world also. Among the reasons for not reporting rape the Canadian women listed shame and fear in almost two third cases, nearly half feel the police could do nothing about it. Close to forty percent were concerned about the attitudes of both the police and the courts and one third said they were afraid they would be assaulted again by the offender.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Among all the gloom and despair let us not forget to thank the good lord for his grace on us and our country. The grace which kept us in good health bestowed the wisdom to find solutions to tricky problems facing our country and brought us to gather in adversity.
Let us, to gather, welcome the New Year to gather with hope and anticipation of better things in our lives and wish for an atmosphere of peace, prosperity, good will and above all feeling of togetherness amongst people and political parties in our country.
Happy New Year.
Prabha & Surendra M Shukla
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Part one
Following the assault and gang rape of the medical student in Delhi there is outpouring of anger and disgust all over the country, since the victim passed away there is widespread expression of grief, silent protest and deluge of emotional farewell to the real hero, who single handedly awakened the soul of India. The rage is understandable and the demand to hang the rapist is equally timely and a fair treatment to the assailant involved in such a heinous crime. Not too long ago there were many cases of rape in Haryana besides some sane voices the incorrigible politicians have a different remedy for the problem.
One past chief minister and a powerful panchayat asked the girls to get married early. They advised women to dress properly (don’t wear jeans) to prevent being sexually assaulted. As long as such people roam freely in the society advising youth what to do and what not to do there will always be a gender inequality and male dominance. The women occupying high positions in women’s organization came out with statements against such acts. One common factor in the outburst following these incidents can be described by the phrase “Diarrhea of words but constipation of action” too much talks but very little action.
Facts to remember
Whenever a sexual assault is reported people’s anger is directed to the law enforcement agencies. Lack of suitable laws, very little policing on the roads, delayed justice and absence of punitive punishment is blamed. But nobody talks of the role of parents who have not been able to inculcate proper values to their sons; the girl child on the other hand receives advices and prescribed many don’ts. It is believed that eve teasing, passing of lewd comments, groping in a crowded bus or actual assault on women is done by uneducated people. Youngsters of so called educated and high society are equally, if not more, involved in perpetuating the crime. The irony is the parents are totally unaware of their children’s involvement in such crimes, often due to their own indifference.
The recent outburst of anger on the streets of Delhi where several students enthusiastically took leading role is unprecedented. It is indeed encouraging to watch youthful energy on the streets demonstrating for a worthy cause. But how many of these can claim that they have not exploited the proximity of girls in crowded buses, can they claim to have never passed lewd comments? The pool from which the rapists grow, unwittingly assisted by the parents, especially single parent live amongst us in the society. The boys are superior to girls is the message the mother never forgets to hammer at her daughters in most homes. It is so overwhelming that the sisters actually start believing. It is an irony that in our country women is worshiped as Devi Durga, Laxmi, Kali and Parwati only in the temples but not in society.
We cannot absolve ourselves from responsibility, in the past decade the society for various reasons has become more permissive. A rapist moves freely, invited for weddings and parties in place of facing people’s ire and social boycott. Ironically the rape survivor, stigmatized for life, suffers greater humiliation, active indifference and hateful stares by people at home and neighborhood.
Prevention of a crime is not the responsibility of law enforcing agencies alone but in every civilized society people must accept their responsibility. The police cannot be everywhere but the fear of law taking its course in punishing the wrong doers should be firmly entrenched in the minds of criminals. Sadly our justice system does not inspire confidence in law abiding citizens and fear in the criminals. A rape victim may have to wait for years of humiliation for justice.
Gender discrimination with resultant lack of respect to women is accepted as leading cause of male superiority which is clearly visible in rape. Contrary to the popular belief rape is not a crime of passion in majority of cases; it is a brutal act of violence and a display of power, rather than an act of sexual gratification negating the popular perception that provocative dressing by women induces rape. For some men, it is a way to humiliate, to gain power and control over someone, to express rage or hatred. For some, it may be a way of getting back at women for a perceived wrong, a way of getting revenge.
Men who rape come from every social class, occupation, background, race, religion, and region. Most rapists appear to be perfectly normal men. Some men who rape are often found to have been sexually abused or traumatized themselves as children. For some, violence is a behavior that they learned from their parents. One very common factor among sex offenders is that they tend to have very low self-esteem. They are insecure about their masculinity and feel that they have to prove themselves.
The rapist can be a stranger, acquaintance, coworker, friend, spouse, or relative. In India over 90% of time the women knows or has seen the man who raped her. Rape can happen at any time and in any place. Majority of rapes are planned rather than being spontaneous. The rapist does not choose the victim because she is young, pretty, or provocatively dressed: he chooses a woman who is vulnerable. He may select a woman who is smaller or weaker than he is, who is alone, who is handicapped in some way, or who does not suspect what is about to happen.
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Posted on
Thursday, January 10, 2013
9:28:46 AM
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Posted on
Monday, January 07, 2013
10:20:51 PM
Modified on
Monday, January 07, 2013
10:22:43 PM
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From
Nani Manna
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Corruption in public life is the most common topic of discussion not only in the intellectual circles but also amongst the common people. Not till recently people accepted paying “suvidha shulk” as a way of life are openly accusing the government functionaries for aiding and abetting corruption. Thanks to Anna Hazarey corruption is no more a distasteful subject. Twenty four hour news channels openly accuse political parties, civil services, corporate houses and businesses.
Then we have the bombardier Kejriwal manipulating the media effectively to focus on corruption through his expose. So far his expose are nothing more than a nuisance and only managed to cause a bit of ripple in the already turbulent waters but effectively reducing attention of 24 hour news channels to his press conferences. The expose at best is an attempt at self grandiosement of a malcontent seeking some political space in an already crowded arena.
Subramaniam Swamy cannot be forgotten, head of a one man army against establishment especially Sonia Gandhi, has attained the dubious distinction of filing petitions and wasting courts time. While appreciating their crusade against corruption it is difficult to understand their real motives, are they really interested in stamping out corruption from the society or merely advancing their own political cause or part of a sinister design to destabilize the country at some one else’s behest. Even more intriguing is their attempt to create large scale confusion amongst the electorates.
Existing atmosphere of uncertainty caused by opposition onslaught of real and perceived corruption on ruling dispensation in Delhi and “media trial” of Dr. Man Mohan Singh government, combined with the militant attitude of CAG and courts, castigating government on many issues, if the elections are held today the mandate would be much more fractured more than now, rendering governance almost impossible.
The question is do we need this kind of mandate from people which will usher in an era of uncertainty. A situation in which regional satraps would be calling the shots from state capitals, very much like Mamta ji did to the railway minister during budget session. The present attempt to blackmail the government on FDI in retail by the SP and BSP is no different from what the TMC supremo did earlier. Is this the kind of chaos self-styled anti-corruption crusaders are trying to create by labeling every politician and beurocrate corrupt and incapable of holding offices? Are we so naïve or foolish enough not to read the sinister design of these people and let the situation slip to near anarchy where formation of government will become impossible.
No one can argue on the existence of corruption in the country but their actions to combat it is suspect. All they have achieved is highlighting it through the media. What they have not thought is the resulting confusion caused by overdose of perceived corruption in political parties, civil service and the industry. They have used the public media and the judiciary to bring the menace in public eye but can we say the two organisations projecting themselves as custodians of peoples morals are corruption free. It would be interesting to watch the result of law suit filed by Naveen Jindal group against the well-known media channel. He has dared to challenge the powerful media, purported to be a watch dog and the fourth arm of democracy in India. But in the eyes of the common man they are acquiring an image of self-appointed guardians of public morals without any aversion to advance their business interest by intimidation, coercion and black mail.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Vijya dashmi ki shubh kamnaye to all fellow bloggers and management of SMS.
May god shower his blessings on us on this day and coming days months and years so that we can conquer the negativity and usher in an era of hope, fulfillment of aspirations and possitivity in our country.
With gods blessings.
Shuklas
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Recent Jal satyagrah in Madhya Pradesh on the decision to raise the level of Onkareshwar dam and long standing agitation against nuclear power plant in Kudankolan in Tamil Nadu raises many worrying questions, their answers although are vexing but not insurmountable. India produces less electricity than its need. Every year new generation plants are set up but rapid growth of industry, agriculture and domestic need far outweighs the total produced. Added to this is huge transmission losses and theft. Installed capacity (2010) is 164,836 MW out of this Thermal 64.62%, Hydro power 22.62%, Nuclear 2.77% and others 9.97%. Fossil fuels account for70% of electricity generation of which 40% is by coal 24 % crude oil and 6% by Gas.
Electricity demand
The 17th electric power survey of India report claims:
In 2010–11, India's industrial demand accounted for 35% of electrical power requirement, domestic household use accounted for 28%, agriculture 21%, commercial 9%, and public lighting and other miscellaneous applications accounted for the rest.
The electrical energy demand for 2016–17 is expected to be at least 1392 Tera Watt Hours, with a peak electric demand of 218 GW.
The electrical energy demand for 2021–22 is expected to be at least 1915 Tera Watt Hours, with a peak electric demand of 298 GW.
If current average of transmission and distribution losses remains the same (32%), India needs to add about 135 GW of power generation capacity, before 2017, to satisfy the projected demand after losses.
Due to rapid economic expansion, India has one of the world's fastest growing energy markets and is expected to be the second-largest contributor to the increase in global energy demand by 2035, accounting for 18% of the rise in global energy consumption.
Given India's growing energy demands and limited domestic fossil fuel reserves, the country has ambitious plans to expand its Hydropower renewable and nuclear power industries. India has the world's fifth largest wind power market and plans to add about 20GW of solar power capacity by 2022. India also envisages increasing the contribution of nuclear power to overall electricity generation capacity to 9% within 25 years. The country has five nuclear reactors under construction (third highest in the world) and plans to construct 18 additional nuclear reactors (second highest in the world) by 2025.
More than 4000 large dams have been built in India since independence (1947). The total storage capacity of the reservoirs is around 200 BCM out of a total storage potential of about 400 BCM. It is estimated that another 2500 large dams will be required in future to achieve the ultimate storage potential to utilize it for socio-economic development of the country, including food security and flood control. The irrigation potential of about 90 Mha out of a total of 140 Mha has been achieved as of present. Hydropower of about 29,500 MW out of a total potential of 84,044 MW at 60% load factor has been developed. This is 35% of the total potential.
Major and Medium Irrigation projects, hydropower projects and multipurpose projects are implemented by the Central Sector Hydropower Corporations and State Governments after investment clearance is accorded by Govt. of India. In India, like in many developing countries, groundwater is used for irrigation requiring energy for pumping. Over 50% of irrigation is practiced with groundwater.
The investment clearance is based on the techno-economic feasibility established after an appraisal by Central Water Commission is made and environmental clearance given by the Ministry of Environment and Forest. Detailed guidelines and standards for preparation of feasibility reports and environmental impact assessments have been made for the guidance of the State agencies. For issues relating to rehabilitation and resettlement of the persons affected from the dams and reservoirs, the States have Rehabilitation & Resettlement packages to ensure that the standard of living of the persons displaced is improved after the project is implemented than it was before the project implementation. Suitable monitoring mechanism has been established to ensure environmental safeguards, stipulated at the time of clearance. To compensate for the submergence of forest areas, it is obligatory to provide compensatory afforestation equivalent to the forest area submerged in addition to the tree plantations in the project command.
Hydro power generation envisages construction of dams on countries large and medium size rivers building large reservoirs to move the turbines which generate electricity. Huge reservoir disturbs the ecology of the area causing considerable damage to the flora and fauna and more importantly agricultural fields of farmers living in the area submerged by collection of waters. Many villages and small towns get submerged causing untold miseries to the people. They not only loose their land but also disrupting the social life enjoyed for generations.
All of this is anticipated by the planners especially financial implications of uprooting thousands of people from the villages and cost of resettlement worked out in advance. With technological advancement extent of area likely to be submerged for a particular height of the dam wall can be worked out with precision. What cannot be measured is the level of social disruption of societies which needs careful consideration before embarking on the projects.
In democratic set up people’s participation especially their willingness to accept resettlement package is a must. Hence it is incumbent on the part of state to convince the affected people the values of a dam in terms of clean uninterrupted supply of water for domestic use and irrigation of fields in addition to supply of electricity thus improving their socio economic status.
Rehabilitation and resettlement packages are good on paper but their implementations have many problems, ranging from communication gap to outright bureaucratic high handedness culminating in delays and dishonesty in distribution. While it is true that satisfying every oustees may not be possible majority of these must be brought on board with fair R&R package.
Activists like Medha Patker and her group come in to picture when there are clear fault lines in R&R package both in terms of quantity, fairness and delays in implementation. By and large the government functionaries consider activists as professional agitators descended to create troubles but those ousted treat them as messiah. Their efforts are largely selfless may be prompted by little publicity but they are a source of help if they are convinced of the fairness in distribution, since their proximity and trust they enjoy from the locals. If the resettlement is achieved peacefully and completely within stipulated time frame the project’s success far outweighs the hardships inflicted on the people. Besides the R&R package whether in cash or land for land, the oustees must get unrestricted electricity supply and government assistance in developing planned villages with reasonable infrastructure.
Another area of contention is submergence of forests. As per guidelines the builders must replace every tree submerged under the project. This afforestation is conspicuously missing in many of such projects. The governments must insist the builder responsible for construction to complete afforestation before issuing completion certificate and final payment.
Part Two
Nuclear power generation
Earthquake in Japan a couple of years back causing widespread damage of nuclear plants situated close to the epicenter and the resulting tsunami led to high level of radiation in and around the plant endangering lives of people living in adjoining communities. Armed with the fear of radiation the anti-nuclear lobby went in to overdrive condemning construction of nuclear plants all over the world.
They descended on Kudankolan where a nuclear plant is under construction by the indo Russian collaboration. They recruited volunteers allegedly by doling out cash, which is being investigated by CBI, although no charge sheet has been filed yet. At first the Tamil Nadu government too was sympathetic to the antinuclear group but later changed its stand. The lobby tried peaceful protests, approached courts but when all failed they resorted to picketing and marching and sitting on Dharna. The latest jal satyagrah in the adjoining sea and protests on the streets of other towns in Tamil Nadu shows the distrust people have against nuclear plants.
Fear of radiation and its consequent adverse effect on health of people is both real and fuels the resistant movement; admittedly this must be the central theme when considering developing nuclear plants. Yes we need power to drive the engines of development in the country but safety should be supreme. With advancement in technology the nuclear plants these days are much safer than a decade or two back: but equally critical is taking the people of the region in to confidence. Explaining the value of project and benefits to the people in a transparent and honest manner before and again during the construction along with the possible dangers, should there be an accident, will ensure better receptivity by people around the project.
The present Tamil Nadu chief minister herself was not convinced of the safety of the plant hence initially against it but her interactions with the technical committee must have allayed her reservations hence agreed with a rider that all electricity must come to Tamil Nadu. The technical group appointed after the PM intervened could not persuade the people to change their stand. APJ Abdul Kalam, a scientist himself inspected the plant and certified it safe. But this also failed to convince the antinuclear agitators fueling theory that there are forces using international capital against the plant to destabilize power generation in India.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Two day executive meeting of BJP in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh brought out bizarre statements from Aananth Kumar general secretary of BJP. Addressing the delegates he said” we have saved 1.86 lac corore rupees against 100 corore loss by way of paralyzing the Parliament.” He is not alone taking credit, though perverted; leader of opposition in Rajya sabha, Arun Jatley has on number of occasions claimed credit propounding the same argument. Admitting the move as extra constitutional he has shown no remorse or apology and made no promises to desist from using extra constitutional means in future.
These statements are clumsy attempts to justify politically motivated action to paint the Governments complicity in coal block allocation. It is a pity that such luminaries resort to petty politics for narrow political gain at a colossal cost to the nation. Undermining the highest legislative arm of our democracy for benefit of parties cannot be justified. They themselves in their own mind know this well but still do it for coming to power. It is not only unfair but dangerous for our parliamentary system. It paints the parliamentarians as in disciplined, immature and insincere people unworthy of being law makers.
An unruly pupil gets physical punishment for his bad behavior but the law makers get away scot free even paid for the duration of disruption. Why such a dichotomy? Why should there be different yard stick for the parliamentarians, why can’t they be punished. Instead of apologizing for parliament disruption they have the audacity of asking the PM to resign taking moral responsibility in coal block allocation yet retaining their own moral right to continue to disrupt parliament.
Our media is a willing partner in disseminating such preposterous claims; even petty politicians view castigating the ruling coalition gets unrestricted attention. They too dig out from their sources, (read: people on their pay roll) correspondences which are supposed to be confidential, all in the name of freedom of media. Yet shouting on top of their voices from the air conditioned studios against the corruption of the government. We seem to have different set of rules for the media who do not want to be under any form of supervision. While supporting complete freedom of media, it is incumbent that they should engage in responsible reporting without exhibiting bias or sensationalism.
I am at pains to notice that our scientific and technological advancement in putting satellites in orbit got only a passing reference in both print and electronic media yet anything related to coal got larger coverage. I have yet to see any space scientists appearing on the discussion programme on any television channel yet people of questionable integrity sit and bash the government day in and day out. I understand the commercial reasons for media obsession but media has to remain neutral in reporting and bring out both the positives and negatives of not only the government but of the whole society.
It is time our parties shed off their tinted glasses and plan to win elections on their own economic social and political programme for the welfare of the people and stop giving undue attention to the negatives of incumbent government. So far only one statement has been made by the opposition about solving the Telangana issue if they come to power, this too the leader knows is only postural. The issue is much more complex than the Punjab.
It is also time for the opposition and Congress allies to take responsibility of the mess. There is no use harping on a populist theme of corruption against government in Delhi, they too have skeletons in their closet, they also have people engaged in the evil where their party is in government. Please do not just pay lip service, join hands to stamp out the menace from the society? Allow the parliament to function and pass necessary economic, judicial land and labour reforms which is expected to bring economic prosperity to the people. Try to inculcate nationalist values in the people from a remote village in the cape to the corridors of power in Delhi not through laws alone but through education and programs aimed at behavioral change of the society. Let the people feel proud to be Indian. The path is long and arduous but a collective step is needed and the time is now before it is too late.
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Comment
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Posted on
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
10:24:52 PM
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From
Pharmacist
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Indian drivers are “compulsive hooters” Deputy Secretary to cabinet in Zambian government, a close friend of mine, came to Kolkata on an official mission spoke in an informal chat with friends on his return. Impressed by the development he had some wonderful stories to narrate about India. But in meeting with friends he was more candid, little more critical of chaos witnessed on the streets of Kolkata. What bugged him most was not the number of vehicles but how they maneuvered them with a hand constantly pressing the horn which he descried as hooter. Hooter and horn are synonymous for the warning device fitted in motor vehicles to warn others only in an emergency.
The habit is ingrained in the psyche of every driver that they use it even on well lighted road in residential areas with complete disregard to the people relaxing in their homes. The practice can disturb residents sleep is an alien thought which is never entertained.
I am a morning walker for over forty years. I like the peace of empty streets and enjoy chirping of birds; they too have reduced thanks to the radiation by mobile towers mushrooming in residential colonies. When I am late the serenity is disturbed by rickety Omni vans making loud adventitious sounds plying on the road to ferry children to school. On every turn they must hoot, often softly but very incessant and harsh to remind the parents they are waiting at the gate. They have been taught to hoot at every creature on two legs whether they are in their way or not. My walking partner always gets maddened when these errant drivers hoot at us.
Nearly all Indian drivers behind the steering wheels are in a tremendous hurry, while some may have genuine reasons majority are a prisoner of arrogance of being the owner of a motor vehicle, believing in the principle- I have to be the first. They must hoot and hoot loud to force compliance by the driver in front overtaking even if they have to take a turn after few meters or stop at a red traffic light.
Hooting on the road is considered as rudeness all over the world but not in India, it is a necessity uniformly believed by every driver and taught to their protégés about its legal ramifications. It is like taking a dip in holy Ganges to wash sins, every driver must hoot irrespective of its need and efficacy. It is believed to protect from legal liability in road accidents. Whether it is true or not our lawyer friends are in a better position to elaborate.
Coming back after living for thirty years abroad, I was driving with a friend sitting on the pillion seat; he admonished me for not hooting while taking a left turn on a clear road. The practice is so rampant among drivers that the phrase “compulsive hooters” used by my Zambian friend seem appropriate.
Once I was driving at a sedate pace on a narrow road, one irate driver tried to thread his way forcing me to swerve to left and brushed one bike rider in the process. Annoyed by this he said “Did you not hear I was hooting.” I quietly told him “No I didn’t, but why were you overtaking from left, didn’t anyone told you it is dangerous and against driving rules.”
“What rules, I always overtake from left, it is faster” said the young man. Though disturbed by the insolence, still keeping my cool, I told him” I am glad you are not hurt but next time you may not be lucky.”
Noise pollution from road traffic accounts for two third of the total noise pollution all over the world, attributed to condition of road, quality of tires, state of the vehicle and above all driving habits of drivers. Whereas nothing much can be done regarding the quality of roads, tires and derelict vehicles in India, behavior of drivers can be influenced. Hooting alone contributes significantly to the noise pollution. It is well known that noise pollution adversely affects the health of people. Problems related to noise include hearing loss, stress, high blood pressure, and interference with speech, headaches, disturbance of rest and sleep, productivity and mental-health effects, and a general reduction in one’s quality of life. It is time we take cognizance and educate our drivers not to hoot so much otherwise our hearing might be hooted out and we will have to contend with deaf population besides deaf leaders.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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Ever since the CAG report on coal allocation to some companies was tabled in parliament, the main opposition party, the BJP, has been creating ruckus not allowing both houses to function. They want the Prime minister to accept responsibility and resign, since during that period he was in charge of the coal ministry. The CAG has yet again batted for disbursement of coal block by competitive bidding. Earlier it has found flaws in 2G spectrum allocation policy also recommending bidding. The reason- it provides complete transparency.
The logic is sound there should be no preferential treatment while allocating national resources. More important, competitive bidding prevents any wrong doing, the highest bidder walks away with a large chunk of the pie. But other side of this system needs to be carefully scrutinized; larger the amount paid in the bidding process higher will be the price of end product. Many coal blocks have been allocated to generate thermal power, a commodity in short supply resulting in power cut in both urban and rural areas. If we have to compete with the developed world power plays very significant role hence available in abundance at competitive price. Coal obtained through competitive bidding is bound to increase production cost raising electricity tariff to the consumers. Thus people will have to dig deep in to their pockets for a comfortable living.
Any government worth its salt will not like to burden the Aam Aadmi with higher tariff. In order to cushion the effect the government will have to subsidies. This will lead to a chain reaction fiscal deficits, inflation and price rise. Successive governments since independence have been disbursing the resources at rock bottom price to state authorities and private companies to produce cheap electricity.
The spectrum allocation too was allocated at low prices leading to mobile phone revolution. This has made communication cheaper covering a large area. Gone are the days of agonizing wait for getting a telephone connected at home and more importantly the exasperation of delays connecting to the family during an emergency has totally disappeared? Today even rural areas have reasonable good connectivity.
The policy adopted for allocation of resources, possibly is not as transparent as it should be offering scope of fraudulent manipulation in favour of few bigwigs. A look at the guidelines for coal block allocation appear stringent providing no room for manipulations. The screening committee is widely represented. But despite all the efforts it is alleged the committee has committed irregularities. Whether it is true or not can only be revealed by investigation.
However it is difficult to understand how frauds and favoritism occur when the screening committee consists of leaders from coal producing states, governed by non UPA parties including BJP along with the coal secretary and other high ranking officers of central government. Could this be a figment of imagination motivated by political considerations as the Congress party is suggesting or error of judgment, willful or otherwise, by individuals in the screening committee, a real fraud or it is only a case of sour grapes? Possibility of duplicity, changing goal posts and adopting “holier than thou” attitude of opposition outfit cannot be ruled out.
National resources are owned by people of India and successive governments mandated to hold them in trust during their term of office. They have been given the authority to utilize them for national development, thereby improving the lives of every citizen of the country. Bringing politics in the administration of these depleting resources is not only unfair but a breach of trust which the countrymen will never forget and forgive. Financial irregularities, kickbacks and blatant disregard of guidelines during allocation process will be equally harshly viewed with expected consequences.
Enough doubts have been raised in the system followed to allocate resources, it is time the parliamentarians shed off their egos and prejudices and come to the parliament to discuss as responsible representatives to arrive at a consensus. The system needs to be revisited, correcting anomalies and removing weaknesses to make it foolproof.
It augurs well for any government to manage such allocations in an impartial manner keeping the prices low so the end product is affordable. It is equally mandatory for opposition parties to help ruling party and government to achieve the desired objective of judicious use of our national treasure, without bringing politics.
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From
Surendra Mohan Shukla
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The ABVP and VHP activists in PG collage Guna in Madhya Pradesh created huge rucks during reading of “sunderkand” in English, translated by Srinivas Aiyangar. “The epic beautiful” is part of MA (English) curriculum. Professor of English was reading it during the “sadbhavna” fortnight celebration organised to commemorate birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi. The ABVP and VHP activists objected to reading it in English raised slogans, disrupted celebration which had to be cancelled. An activist even claimed reading sunderkand in English is an assault on Indian culture.
As if disturbing a solemn occasion is Indian culture, the activists, it seems are true followers of their seniors in Delhi. I am not sure if any of the protesters have read even once Sunderkand in Hindi. These self-appointed keepers of Indian culture and their mentors must know that translation of ancient Indian epics to English has disseminated the richness of our culture to people all over the world. By translating in English the epic does not lower its impact on the societies reading and assimilating values enshrined in them. The activist’s behavior not only reflects their ignorance but also speaks in no uncertain terms, flaws in their upbringing.
It is time the parent associations with which these activists are affiliated to take note and educate them the futility of such behavior and sensitise them to practice tolerance and respect the sanctity of these epics in whatever language they have been translated. Growing intolerance seems to be the norm these days resulting in unnecessary acrimony between people of different societies. There are many lessons the activists can learn by reading and assimilating the teachings envisaged in Sunderkand. I hope and pray that senior leaders of these organisations will take note and prevent such shameful episodes in future.
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