The Past of Modi Should Not be dimmed To Look for Future

By PROMOD PURI

In the dazzle of his "landslide victory"( BJP securing 31% votes) should we dim the legacy of Narendra Modi as chief minister of Gujarat during the past over ten years.

If so, it would be a suppression of our perception and sensibility that in this celebration of near eclipse of dynastic and corrupt Congress regime, and dawn of promised economic prosperity under Modi's premiership that we simply think no more of the massacre in Gujarat.

And that we turn back on serious human rights violation, the rule of intimidation, false police encounters and killings, protection and rehabilitation of convicted genocide criminals.

And that we notice almost dismissal registry of human development as laid out by Noble laureate Amartya Sen and adopted by the United Nations in our obsessiveness on ambiguous "Gujarat Model" of economic growth which has not trickled down to underprivileged and poor.

Under his absolute and authoritative command Modi's downright refusal of giving his party's zero representation to Muslims in the Gujarat state legislature is also part of his legacy.

Fast-forward, Modi is now the prime minister of India after a grueling fight whereby the issues of Gujarat riots and the poor human development records in the state got lost in the hot and often ludicrous personal barbs among the campaign leaders of all the parties. Perhaps the BJP leader steered it that.

As well he strategically put the Hindutva agenda on the back burner and saffron card close to his chest.

However, his entire election drive was more focused on the terse maxim "it's the economy, stupid". All through out the poll operation Modi asked for votes in the name of development, jobs and economic opportunity and stability. In return he promised less government and more governance, decisive leadership as compared to a decade of dithering, and economic growth as against stagnation.

 “The government should hear from the poor and work for the poor. My government will be dedicated to the poor, youth and women. It will be a government of villages, farmers, Dalits and deprived sections. All efforts will be aimed to live up to their hopes and expectations,” Modi said as he stepped in first time the Indian parliament.

In the "temple of democracy",as he epitomized the institution of parliament, "humbled and grateful" Modi seems to be in the process to attain a new avatar.

In all fairness, after winning a mammoth, clean and fair election with a promise of strong leadership, India's new democratically elected prime minister has certainly "given wings to the hope, aspirations and dreams of millions", and that includes the 69 percent who did not vote for him.

India Election: Modi, Congress & Third Front

By Promod Puri

It is Narendra Modi of Bharatiya Janata Party vs the rest.

Vote for the BJP is not a vote for the party but for Modi himself as he prefers it that way during the current India election campaigns.

Even the party he belongs to BJP, including its veteran leaders and founders, and the party's motherboard RSS, are ducked under his fortifying stronghold.

So Modi is the BJP and the BJP is Modi. All in one.

And among the rest of the political outfits, though there are opposing candidates, their individual target has been Modi.

This is the Modi cult. If he becomes prime minister it can be alarming and even terrifying for the following reasons:

1. Modi carries an indelible tattoo of being anti minorities particularly Muslims, and to some extent being anti Dalits and Schedule Caste. He is silent on the issue of violence against women and their rights.

2. His model of development is based on crony capitalism whereby dirt cheap loans and agricultural lands are given away to industrial houses in the name of economic development (benefisheries Tatas, Ambanis and Adanis; losers poor and helpless farmers and farm workers).

3. His claims of economic headway in Gujarat are logically and reasonably challenged; and his record of human development as chief minister is dismissal.

Despite all that Modi is projected as the next prime minister mainly because the ruling Congress Party under the twin leadership of Sonia Gandhi and prime minister Manmohan Singh is furiously despised for the following reasons:

1. The two continuing terms leaves the Congress with a legacy of mega scandals and corruption.

2. The dynastic control of power from Nehru down to Rahul

3. Indecisiveness to tackle issues.

4. Frequent breakdown of law and order resulting in miseries and deaths. The latest being in Assam.

5. Environmental degradation and persistently stinky garbage and sanitation problem.

And the list goes on.

In this tainted scenario the BJP and the Congress are the only two national parties dominating the Indian political space. The Communists seem to have migrated to Cuba.

An average Indian voter is in dilemma. The choice is limited either to select stigmatic Modi led  BJP or the dynastic run and scandal-wrapped Congress.

But still there is the Aam Aadmi Party factor, and the vehement role being played by the influential regional parties.The latter can emerge to undertake the role of a king maker, either from its own ranks or from any of the two national parties.

And if that happens, despite its hotchpotch outlook, the democracy in India will be more rooted with better regional representation and autonomy. Moreover, this coalition beside boosting secularism in democracy can curb  the racist emergence in the Indian political formations.

In the next several days we will see if India will sit in Modi's godi (lap) or opt for the so-called third front. Keep fingers crossed till May 16.

RAPE AND VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN IN INDIA

By Promod Puri

(On the issue of rape and violence against women in India following are the notes and brief articles written for the Dubai-based The Indian Trumpet magazine December 2013 edition).

.....Bacha Lo Hamari Bachchi Ko

“Jo bhi karna hai kar lo, bas bacha lo hamari bachchi ko (do whatever you have to, just save our child)", the father had told the doctors. But they could not. She slipped into eternal sleep, leaving the family in deep mourning, and the nation awakened. A year later as her photograph hangs in the prayer room, the father says,"She was so full of life. Whenever we look at her picture, we see a different expression on her face. Sometimes she smiles, sometimes she wants to ask us something".

In that "something" she is asking why she is subjected to violent and horrendous rape attacks again and again in Bengal, Bihar, Mumbai, Goa, Delhi and all over the country including those countless unreported assaults and cover ups.

And she is as much in agony and distress to know the rape of a just three-year-old in a Delhi play school. She wants to know as to why sexual violence is increasing at an alarming rate in India.

She wants to be part of the serious and meaningful debate about the causes and solutions to fix this culture of violence and rape. She wants to be the inspiration and hope; she wants the candlelight vigils, protests, outrage and  slogans to continue with full enthusiasm.

She wants the mentality change.Yes, "sometimes she smiles" at that silver lining up in the horizon hoping for change, progress, an increased respect for humanity and a more educated and violence-free nation in the long run.

And she has that vision when no father will ever say again "bas bacha lo hamari bachchi ko".

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Race Riots and Violence Against Women

The dateline is Muzaffarnagar!
Six gang-raped, 24 accused. Not a single arrest so far. And the story continues "the women, named names in their FIRs, but still see the accused roaming free". More Amanats, more Daminis and more Nirbhayas. Here in Muzzarfarnagar it is all under the cover of religion. A different front of race related rapes. But a willful criminality; happening again and again and again. The sparks from India Gate have not yet charred the evils within the lewd "spiritual" gurus, apathetic politicians and a high-profile journalist with "blatant Hypocrisy".  A year ago the government was pushed into action and quite extensive and intensive new laws were introduced; strong in wording, but weak in activation. The result, same rundown day after day. "Stringent" laws but with protractive straphangers. They say justice delayed, justice denied.  In the meantime, on an individual level "educating our sons" seems to be a small effort but an effective part of the campaign to clean up this "big mess".
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Not Acceptable

Rape, violence, insecurity, injustice, domestic assault, inequality, exploitation and discrimination against women! None of these are acceptable anymore. Also not acceptable are the dowry system, bride burning, stalking, acid and chemical attacks, female feticide and infanticide, and Manu's gender based dictates. The contemporary Indian woman is striving to gain respect and dignity, safety and protection, justice and equal rights, and an environment where she can also realize her "dreams, career aspirations and life goals". Is anybody out there listening! Yes, the politicians and the government do listen. But with selective hearing they decide when to hear and when not to suit their own political agenda and strategies. Still the pounding must go on. The crusade does not stop on this front only. It is the front within to feel and recognize that the time is now over to accept the "back seat" which is not a "comfort zone" anymore.

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Hammering Must Start Now

A lot of issues relating to rape and violence against women are on the anvil. The hammering must start more vigorously to create a just society where women feel secure and safe, respect and dignity, no more domestic violence, physical, sexual or acid attacks. And where women feel full efficacy of their competence and capabilities, candidly realize their dreams as well. The electrifying spark produced last December has enough glow to remove that centuries of darkness, and enough power to kickstart the revolution of women emancipation. Education of our future generation for gender equality and justice, as well as campaign of realization among women to instill self confidence are part of this compelling revolution of change. And those who have earnestly volunteered themselves to undertake these inspiring roles are to be commended.
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It is Happening All The Time

It does happen, every day, every hour, every minute. Horrendous moments of agony traumatizing for the rest of life. Physical wounds may fade but indelible psychology scars remain for life.There is no solace. Snail-pace justice system, laws with wavering teeth, politicians' double talks and double standards, stupid remarks from the flourishing community of holy men (omg), all this and more nonsense are more injurious than healing. Meanwhile, victims "A,B,C,D..........." continue to fall into the net of lust, power or  extreme chauvinism. The "numbers" become statistics.

Waiting for that morning with fresh breeze to walk without fear and with confidence.

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The Problem Rooted In Mindset

" Hang them, amputate them, life imprisonment, no parole,  flog them", whatsoever it be. Justice is served. The victims, the families and the empathetic segment of the society are somewhat relieved. A closure is drawn to carry on with life. Crime and criminals are exposed in front of public; fodder for some media. One horrendous incident followed by more. Life goes on. The "core" issue is still there.  Retributive sentences have "message for criminals". Does that work. May be, may be not. The problem is rooted in the "mindset". What can be done. Many combat zones. And the campaigns can go on at all the fronts simultaneously. However, the calling begins from home. The emergence of civilized society starts from home.
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The Torch Is Lit

"............... that society is not devastated by the misdeeds of badman, but by the silence of the so-called good people”.This time, however, all the good people did not stay silence. Spontaneous outburst of anger spilled over the streets of Delhi and all over the country. Thousands got organized to rally in an unorganized and robust protest. Social media was the tool. Banners, slogans,  battle with police and their brutality became part of this historic march. Many got seriously hurt, tear gassed, but the bravehearts were able to lit the torch. And the struggle continues.....

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Light At The End Of Tunnel

Is there light at the end of the tunnel! Hope so, but the passage is very long. Along the way the scenario looks same, seldom changes, rather seems repeated. But rays of light are increasing, boosting our resolve and promising a level field of equality, dignity, respect and freedom.
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Where Is The Trust

Different situations, different reasons, but it can happen and it does happen! Acquaintances, relatives, "uncles", family pride, honor, customs and traditions, lust or pure addictions.Where is the trust, the shelter, the "shield"; where to plug. The walkways are frightening, and even the sidewalks have manholes with deceiving covers.

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Fight On Many Fronts

Yes, we have to fight back. And the fight has many fronts, many battlegrounds. It is long and some times or most times frustrating. It is not woman versus man, but humanity against beasts. The latter exist in every fold of the society. Quite identifiable, and attack is the best strategy to defend.

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Re-incarnations

If multi-armed Hindu Godesses Durga, Laxshmi, Kali and other related divine "sisters" and incarnations have to be reimagined and their portfolios redrawn then more arms have to be adjoined to each of them to represent the multi roles women play in the changing, complex and challenging contemporary society.

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Combat Plan

Optimistic attitudes along with resolved and spirited combat plan are indeed encouraging signs of not only a victory over centuries old 'culture' of violence against women but treating them with reverence and dignity.

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"Woh Subha Kabhi To Ayegi"

The desperate wordings in Talaash Azadi Ki...... has sparks of determination and hope, and that reminds me the revolutionary poetry of Sahir Ludhianavi :

वो सुबह कभी तो आयेगी, वो सुबह कभी तो आयेगी
इन काली सदियों के सर से, जब रात का आँचल ढलकेगा
जब दुःख के बादल पिघलेंगे, जब सुख का सागर छलकेगा
जब अंबर झूम के नाचेगा, जब धरती नग्में गायेगी
वो सुबह कभी तो आयेगी........

My Tribute to Khushwant Singh

By Promod Puri

Perhaps the least revealed aspect of Khushwant Singh's colorful and long active life, which he cited several times but which has been ignored as irrelevant by wordsmiths who wrote about him including the obituaries, was the fact that in his life he perfectly balanced his cogitative pursuits with active physical lifestyle of exercise, sports and walks.

Unlike most of the known contemporary thinkers and writers Khushwant Singh realized that both mental and physical activities occupy an equal space in ones daily routine, and that both are healthful to each other.

The last column I read by him at the age of 98, which still had his trademark of wits here and there, he talked about his daily routine and diet including a couple of shots of single malts. The latter was essential to give that kick of 'saroor' to relish his simple food and the evening.

 He emphasized the need for massage, which was done two times a day, to keep the body muscles invigorated and for better blood circulation. His reasoning was that in old age one can't do much strenuous exercises for muscle strength, but to keep them healthy and in shape massage was the only way.

Khushwant Singh also mentioned in the same column that how important it was to keep ones bowls clean. His prescription was that one should have fleet enema occasionally. And in his imaginative and typical satirical style he quoted Gandhi who used to have the enema not only for himself but doing it on his female aides as well.

He loved stomach friendly easy to digest food, and for that his preference was South Indian idly and sambhar. Still he never liked 'upampa', the wheatmeal  pudding-look salty dish which was not palatable to sweet halva-loving Punjabi Khushwant Singh.

His physical activities included playing tennis which of course he abandoned in his most senior years. He was a popular and friendly walker as he strolled along every morning with his neighborhood friends.

A lot has been said about his immense contribution toward contemporary Indian literary writings and his widely-read and lucid daily columns. However, his other big contribution was his creation of two funny characters in the name of Santa and Banta. The popular jokes attributing to Santa-Banta or revolving around them were what elevated Khushwant Singh from the level of an intellectual elite to the status of a simple fun-loving 'aam aadmi'.

(Footnote: as a tribute to Khushwnat Singh, my all-time favorite journalist, this piece was written with a glass of wine. Cheers and salutation Mr. Khushwant Singh where ever you are).

Malecon - An Abode Peace
(Puerto Vallarta Mirror)
By Promod Puri
It was one of these weekend evenings at the Malecon that this hub of Puerto Vallarta was more busier than other days. With lots of people, tourists, locals, young and old, family with children all seem to be having an enjoyable time strolling along the bay of Banderas, one of the best sea sidewalks in the world.

The whole ambience had a festive look as everybody seems to be happy and worry free. While there was recreation in savoring freshly cooked Mexican snacks from the vendors in the Zona Romantica area, there was quite an entertainment by the talented artists at los Arcos stage making the gathered crowd clapping, laughing and having fun. And facing the bay Mother Nature was having its own non-stop dance show of waves going back and forth in rhythm. In that breezy weather there was music all around. People were leisurely walking, talking and sharing laughs, and children were joyfully running around like free birds creating a scene of complete harmony and amity. At a distance somewhere from the north of the bay there was firework display joining the festivity. To cap this all the frequent sounds of bells from the majestic Guadalupe church were like heavenly blessings.

Overall, in all this congenial din there was a feel of complete tranquility and an atmosphere where the people were elated and having a good time of their lives. And that was what made me ponder if the whole world could be like the one I was experiencing at the Malecon how peaceful it would be.

I AM COMPLAINING, COMPLAINING, COMPLAINING

I'M COMPLAINING, COMPLAINING, COMPLAINING ......

By Promod Puri

I am a complaint type of person. So are some or perhaps most of us of this breed (complaining! ).

Actually I have not done any googling to find statistics about the extent of this addiction among us. The reason is even if I shovel to dig for the numbers these would be available in some percentage configuration as most of the surveys report these days.

Whether it is desired or not the trend is that a lot of information and data come in the mathematical veil of percentage. Example: there is a new small apartment building of 10 or 20 suites coming up in our neighborhood, and the latest sign says "90 percent sold". Why don't they make it more clear and simply say nine or 18 sold and only one or two are left. Another one: the merchandising sales are advertised like "50% to 70% off". Again we don't get the actual prices of sale items unless we visit the stores advertising these super special sales.

This subtlety of percentage is always baffling to me. Anyway, the point is that I am complaining even about trivial matters or things.

Still I feel the nature of complaining gives us an outlet to express our dislikes or disapprovals about something or most things we come across or experience in our day to day life.

There is an extensive cross section and mixed bag of complaints; an endless list of our grudges against governments, politicians, leaders, bosses and mother-in-laws; big corporations, big businesses, lawyers, doctors, dentists and plumbers; friends and relatives mostly at their backs; culture, traditions, systems, religions, god ( why not! ); weather, environment, health and bad knees; etc, etc, etc.

And then there are complaints about complaints, quite genuine ones.Here is a sample: a friend is meeting his buddy after quite sometime. His first remarks the moment they meet are like this "why you did not inform me about your father's death". Before the buddy comes up with a reply, the friend continues "anyway, I am sorry to hear that....". The very basic civility is to express condolence before complaining of not being informed about the sad news.

My own experience about complaint is regarding talking with relatives in India by phone. A few of them, the moment they pickup the phone, sarcastically say " finally you have come to remember us" or " you are phoning us after a long time". Again the underlying social grace is to express thanks for my phone call and then complain if one has to. Here in Vancouver, Canada, the den of preserved Punjabi culture, the complaint goes like this " O' phon phan maar liya kar kadi".

And then some people don't have any distinction between a complaint and a compliment. Example: "Oh you look weak, you have lost so much weight, are you ok" or "you have put on quite a weight". "Nice to meet you"!

I don't know what is the psychology behind being of complaining nature. But  complaining can be considered as healthy criticism (sometimes). And for that reason we should be in the elite category of being called critics like food critics or film critics.

So folks keep complaining, it gives an outlet to express oneself as well as some status of being a critic.

Tackling Rape Problem In India

By Promod Puri

Massive number of demonstrations have been staged, a lot has exuberantly been expressed, suggested, written, discussed and debated on the ever burning issues of violence and rape against women in India. Do we need more to say, more to express and more to propose, as well as reiterate, replay or rerun to build up the spectrum covering the issues.

Categorically Yes!

The more uproar we continue to drum up, even if it is repeated thousand times, to express our anguish and to keep the debate on, the rally of words is both a conviction and an incessant tool to weed out the imbedded immorality.

The street protests rallies may be abating, the politicians may be staying away from the row, the parliament and judiciary might have done their work in formulating and introducing new laws, and the police might have more ammo to apprehend and prosecute the culprits, but the words perpetually being expressed on the issues can keep the fire on.

Delinquent teens and adults, even those approaching the senior age, to fake gurus and saints promising celestial peace, powerful and privileged politicians, high-profile bureaucrats and professionals including the crime-busting scribes, those with "compulsive and impulsive" addictive behavior, and a lot more scums of the society, all are culpable party to this multi-facet social disorder.

Atop an observing post the landscape looks visibly blighted with crimes of rape and violence against women committed by beastly creatures who have practically debased every fold of the Indian society.

Also from the same post the cries and sobs of traumatized women vehemently struggling to somehow slip away from the beasts, their screams and shrieks to catch some help and their desperate "don't, don't" pleas during those dreadful moments endlessly reverberate like the recreated sounds of executing afflictions from Andaman's "kalapani" jails.

But the agony of the ordeal do shake up the nation's consciousness as has been lately happening in the country. And an ambience of hope is slowly emerging from the horizon. Beside other positive developments, more and more victimized women are boldly coming forward or trying to get thru the clogged system to report the crime and expose the criminals.  After all "silence is the enemy of justice".

Not to speak out publicly is appearing to be a receding taboo. This trend along with the public condemnation and outbursts, overall awareness of the twin issues thru extensive media reporting of the crimes, the protest rallies and the continuous exchange of opinions are all thrown in with a downpour of words. And that sure can help to drain out the culture of rape and violence against women.

The blitz of words must continue.