AP: The TRS caprice!

(Telangana Rastra Samiti has proved that Tughlak is naive compared to them when it comes to 'being whimsical'. The party has run the show of Andhra Politics for two days, and ended up with the 'no' result.)

The only indication which perhaps K.Chandrasekhara Rao, the chief of TRS, hints is that he would be generally be the ally of the party, whom he scolds most. Thanks to him and TRS, all the TV channels had enough material for 48 hours, though not much happened after that. All the TV channels of AP has appointed a journalist (with a camera man) infront of his house and party office round the clock for the past 2-3 days. The sole reason being, KCR simply can join alliance with any party, all the way from Congress to TDP/PRP or even BJP.

KCR, after teaming up with Congress for the past election, has had both ups and downs in the past 5 years, and has finally come out of the party, when the Telangana seemed a mirage in UPA. But, even after 5 years, TRS is still the 'largest' party with Telangana as the main point in the manifesto. However, some of the senior journalists comment that at times there seems hardly anything in the TRS manifesto. The reason being, the party behaves like a chameleon, and changing colors according to the 'situation'.

However, KCR finally landed back into the 'Maha' alliance. He has 'convinced' his allies well on 10 MP seats and 42 Assembly constituencies, by simply threating that the option of PRP is still open to them. But, we will have to wait and see, whether he stays long there, before yet another shift.

We can still wake up!

(The recent Election commission's decision about continuous registration of voters, is a commendable one. The ball is in 'our' court!)

The Election Commission has made two dramatic decisions: Making voter registration citizen-friendly; and a continuous registration of voters. The vote registration, has perhaps never been so easy!

All one need to register and obtain one's voter ID card, is to own a driving licence or a passport. The driving licence works both as an age proof as well as the address proof. The ration card could be used instead of the driving licence. Two passport sized photographs are also required. One of the two forms, form VI, is available in the website Jaagore.com or an un-filled application form can be downloaded by clicking here. The form I-D can be obtained either in the registration counter, or can be downloaded by clicking here. The duly filled forms can be submitted in duplicate in the office of ERO, muncipal corporation office of your constituency, or the special counters opened by the Election Commission.

I urge all my friends to register themselves for the voting, and cast their invaluable vote for the election-2009. Please inform your collegues and friends to register their votes also. Let us march towards a new beginning, where are the youth would vote to steer the course of the Nation.

Remembering 26/11: Is India callous?

(Just 2 months back, Mumbai was attacked by the terrorists and about 200 citizens were killed. And now, it looks like the 'fire' which it caused gradually subsided, leaving absolutely no traces of pain and shock it caused, except in the families of victims and security personnel who suffered it.)

We hear reports of possible terrorist attacks in India on the eve of 58th Republic day. It has been 60 days since we have seen a major terrorist attack in India. Seeing the consequences from mumbai attacks, a question arises: Can terrorists attack on Republic day and get away with that 'also'?

Just two months back, the city of dreams, Mumbai, was attacked. The news TV channels roared day and night for 2 days, covering the attacks on CST, Taj and Sheraton. We have lost lifes of about 200 citizens and 500 were injured. The estimated cost of loss was 50,000 Crores, perhaps it was even more. India stood as a victim of terrorism, yet again.

Two months since then, we have witnessed several events based on this incident. There was an International hue and cry on the attack, and the only terrorist who was caught alive has confessed the most and has made the investigation much easier. Tensions of outbreak of a war rose between India and its 'neighbouring country'. The Nation felt threatened, and was waiting for justice and actions, rather than words.

Yet, perhaps, it became a routine for Netas. The usual condemnations of 'ghastly or cowardice act' and 'Sir nahi jhuka denge' talks by our representatives which generally fill the news papers and articles for a day or two (for a 'normal' incident), were then spread over a week. The ex-deputy chief-minister of Maharastra RR Patil (who had to resign for his comments) has said, such 'small' incidents will take place in a city like Mumbai. The ex-chief minister (ditto as his ex-deputy) has visited the attacked places with a film director and bollywood people. Ofcourse, Mr.Shivraj Patil, who is perhaps the most ill-performing Home minister India ever had, has given the UPA yet another opportunity to get him sacked. This time UPA utilised that opportunity atlast. The Chief minister of Kerala, Mr.Achutyuthanandan, has insulted the family of Major Unnikrishnan that not even dogs will go to their premises.

Even after Qasab has confessed it all and all the leads traced it back to the terrorist groups in Pakisthan, we have our ministers like Antuley, who doubted it openly in the Parliament to the 'Hindu-Zionists'. Even before Pakisthan was searching for the answers, and International communities holding pressure on them, our defense minister, AK Anthony, was 'kind' enough to announce our 'no war' stance what-so-ever. It seemed as if we looked up to our 'America' to take an action on Pakistan, as if we are incapable of any. And our UPA claims that it was successful in its pursuit, but little do we see what has really happened on mitigating the cross-border terrorism.

What are actions taken? We had an announcement of a federal agency on security and more schools and funds to the Police and NSG. We have heard about setting up of anti-terror schools to combat terrorist forces as speciality. But, following that we never heard of any further statements from the Government/Department of Home ministry or news in the media on developments about it. It was only Mr.Pranab Mukherjee who spoke strong, voicing the need to counter-act terrorism. Ashok-Chakra will be declared for Mr.Hemant Karkare and Sandeep Unnikrishnan. The judgment is still being delayed on Qasab, perhaps 'we' would delay till our 'humanists' who will raise a nation-wide protest against hanging of Qasab.

True, we seem to have recovered out of an attack, which would have led any other country in the world to wage an open war on the instigators. But, does that mean we are callous for any attacks on the nation by the terrorists and get carried away by the tirade of the polity?

Telangana: Everyone's 'Gaana'

(Telangana, the land which is also famous for its folk songs, has become the song of every political party in the state. With just playing the 'Telangana card', every party wants to make it to the power, forgetting even how the issue is relevant to them.)

With the name of Telangana, there are several parties which formed in the past one year. Closely following the Telangana Rastra Samiti (TRS), the Nava Telangana Praja Party (NTPP), Thalli Telangana (which now merged into TRS) are two major parties based on this idea. Ofcourse, there are a few other groups, forums and parties which have formed including the name of Telangana in their names. Telangana, today, has become everybody's song, everybody's issue and agenda.

There are 3 basic reasons for inclusion of Telangana into every party's agenda:

1. Easy to understand: The issue is simple to understand and relatively straight-forward in the implementation. It is also simple to promise, and even simpler to escape the promise.

2. Present day appeal: Telangana has acquaired a considerable appeal nation wide, and has a ever growing popularity among the people and media.

3. Good for alliances: With the growing 'Telangana' based parties, it is important for the state-wide parties like TDP, Praja Rajyam Party (PRP) etc., to voice pro-Telangana to win their support and strike alliances with them. BJP, which has a better influence in Telangana compared to Andhra region, also supports for the party's own good.

Congress' stand on Telangana is unclear as always, with one group supporting it strongly, while the major group of the chief minister opposing it. Except for CPM, which still stands by the United-Andhra concept, all the parties are pro-Telangana formation, atleast on the paper. The ambigious PRP looks to team up with NTPP, while all the other major parties in AP have formed the 'Maha' alliance, to overthrow Congress in the coming election.

Andhra: TDP in troubled waters

In the 9 years of the TDP (Telugu Desam Party)'s reign, the party looked formidable. But, exactly after 4 years from the State assembly elections, TDP is in a dilapadated shape, to say the least. The party failed hold itself together for just 4 years in the opposition.

The second cadre leaders in the party: Devender Gowd, Tammineni Sita Ram, Bhooma Nagi Reddy and Kala Venkat Rao have left the party. There are many MLAs and MPS who have held important posts both in the TDP Goverment or the party, also have left recently. While, Mr.Gowd has formed his new party NTPP (Nava Telangana Praja Party), the others mostly have left for the new PRP (Praja Rajyam Party). Though, there are claims that the increase in the clashes of 'interests' among the party leaders in TDP as the main cause, there are a few more which has triggered this exodus, the chief being the growing 'insecurity' in TDP.

It is clear that Chandrababu Naidu is going through a tough time, after a wonderful period of world wide popularity during his term. We will have to see how he can handle this, especially after striking a 'Maha alliance' with CPI, CPM and TRS, for the forth-coming election to counteract Congress and PRP.

Yes, we can!

(After Obama sworn in as the President of America, it is the 'change' slogan which has attracted the whole world. Though, 'a change' is not what our representatives have in their mind, but the 'we can' attitude for the 'Prime minister' seat has pumped in new hopes in a whole set of leaders of the regional parties.)

After 1997, with the National Front changing PMs and PM candidates in a jiffy, we perhaps witness a similar situation after 10 years since then. Every 'local leader' aims no less than Prime minister post, and list is simply too big before this election. 'Hope', after Obama's win has become a common 'symptom' among the leaders in the country which is on the other side of the Globe to US.

In Congress, the leading party of UPA, we have two major candidates: Manmohan Singh and 'Yuvraj' Rahul Gandhi. Though, the spokesman of UPA, Mr.Manish Tiwari has made it clear that Manmohan Singh was the Prime ministeral candidate and will be the candidate for the coming election too, the occasional remarks about Rahul Gandhi's 'capabilities' from some of the senior Congress leaders like Arjun Singh, Digvijay Singh, Pranab Mukherjee, Veerappa Moili etc., raise doubts about how Congress will go about the 'PM post' post-elections. Though, the Congress says so, it can always shift gears to bring Mr.Rahul to the front.

The Lotus Party, has two straight probables and a 'future' probable! Mr. LK Advani however who is the prime candidate, is contested by Bhairon Singh Shekhawat. Mr.Shekhawat perhaps estimates that he can get the 'edge' over Advani, if Rajasthan's seats become the deciding factor, in the case of NDA wins the majority. Another probable, as even admitted by Advani, is the present chief minister, Narendra Modi. Mr.Modi has won the accolades of the some of the leading businessmen like Tata, Mittal and Ambanis as a PM material. Though, Modi has declared that he is not in race, he is still seen as a probable atleast for the 'near' future. We will have to wait and see if Advani's term goes 'smoothly', if NDA makes it at the centre.

Adding fuel to the uncertainity prevalent in the major parties, some of the regional parties claim to be in the PM race too, much by the grace of UNPA. Mayawati, the chief of BSP is probably the first in the race. She is already successful in playing the 'Dalit' card well, and has attracted the attention from her counterparts in Andhra and Karnataka. The left, did not deny her candidature. Lalu Prasad Yadav of RJD, has his eyes fixed on PM post too and has expressed his desire in the last Parliament's session. After having a great track record at the ministry of Railways, PM post looks as a natural development, according to his party. If the seats of RJD in Bihar and Jharkhand becomes the determining factor, he wants to play the role of 'King' instead of 'King maker'. The NCP leader, Sharad Pawar is being portrayed as the future PM by his party in Maharastra. The Nationalist Congress Party, which has split from Congress party chiefly based on Sonia's foriegn origin, is ironically with the same party in UPA, and has become a 'close-ally'. Ofcourse, there are several 'under-dogs' in the race in the form of Chandrababu Naidu: the chairman of UNPA, Mulayam Singh Yadav and Karunanidhi.

Top Three Chief Ministers

An attempt to portray the top chief ministers, performance wise, in the present India. Though, it cannot be claimed that they are the ideal CMs, but they are the best among the reigning lot. The readers must note that this article is written with some 'optimism'. ;-)

Narendra Damodardas Modi, has become the poster boy of BJP all over India, even beating the charisma of LK Advani, in his state of Gujarat. Mr.Modi has become a synonym of BJP, and the some of the present CMs of the party claim to draw inspiration from him. Sonia Gandhi's comments of 'Merchants of death', the anti-incumbency, the in-party revolts by Keshubhai and others, couldnot stop Modi to become the CM for the third time. The win of BJP for the third term, has drawn great attention to him and pumped in new enthusiasm within the lotus party. His clean, progressive and effective governance has been venerated by his political opponents.

In contrast with his predecessor Keshubhai Patel, Modi has been both aggressive and performing. He had to resign following the Godhra riots, but has come back to power with a land-sliding victory of 127 out of 183 seats. His performace and steps taken towards a 'vibrant' Gujarat has shown results in just 2-3 years of his term, where the growth rate of 11.5% has been registered from a ill performing and drab Gujarat economy, which is projected to touch 14%. Gujarat has emerged to be the fastest growing state in India. Though there is a wide-spread criticism on the implementaion, perhaps Gujarat is the only liquor-free state in India. Branded as communal by the media after the riots, Modi has come out of it quite quickly, and proved that Gujarat would vote for his performance than the prevalent image then.

With his aggresive nature, Modi could deal successfully with the dissatisfied party cadre within the state, but again has attracted critisicm on his 'dictatorial' tendencies. His attitude towards the country's major problems: corruption and terrorism has won a significant admiration and interest towards him, both in Indians and NRIs. His government has been constantly innovating for improving the efficiency and productivity in various sectors. Though the Nanavati Commission has given a 'clearance' for Modi, the Tehelka and NDTV continue to haunt him with their 'sting' operations and venom spitting reporting. Ofcourse, even the veracity of the Commission's report is been questioned by the leading journalists. His open love for RSS has also brought some troubles to him, and the rejection of US VISA to him, has caused much hue-and-cry across the country. Even PM Manmohan Singh has expressed his dissatisfaction over this.

Personally, Modi is known to be a good orator and a skilled organiser. The reports says that BJP has won the last election in Gujarat, solely based on the 'Modi' factor and his slogan of 'Jeetega Gujarat'. Though Modi said that he would remain CM (Common Man, as what he said the abbreviation means), we would have to wait to witness whether Modi would come National to lead BJP in the near future.

Sheila Dikshit continues her unprecedented third term in the Capital of India. She was awarded the Best Chief Minister of India, by Journalist Association of India in 2008. She has been the mascot of 'clean chief minister' and her impeccable record has led Congress for a comfortable third win in the State elections. The results of the recent elections reflect that the people of Delhi have chosen 'performance' over the issues raised by BJP like 'terrorism'.

The reforms in the power sector, the delhi metro and good governance has won accolades for her from even the detractors from the Congress party. However, critics claim that her intimacy with '10, Janpath' is to be the chief factor for the unwavering support she has in the Delhi Congress. Ofcourse, she has been successful in winning the confidence of Ms.Sonia Gandhi, and was given freedom in being instrumental in deciding the party tickets for the Delhi elections. The 'unlikely politician': without any airs or show-off as like many of her collegues, Sheila is well known for being pleasant and gentle. The calm and quiet composure of Sheila perhaps reflects the 'wishes' of the Hastina's people and she was quite successful in meeting the expectations of the Delhi electorate for more than a decade.

Her occassional remarks have led to considerable controversies, albiet she has been successful in getting over them. She once remarked, "People from Bihar, UP and other places come here. What can we do? We can't stop them. There is no law to stop them". The same Mrs.Sheila also said, "Migration of Bangladeshis into India is not a new phenomenon as our borders are porous. Moreover, it has been in our tradition to welcome all those who arrive in our country." May be she couldn't manage a National image.

This might, however, be the last term of 71 year old Chief minister. Her services would be invaluable for Congress and hence she might be asked to play a crucial role in the CWC (Congress Working Committee), after the completion of this term.

Dr. Yeduguri Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy has sworn as the Chief minister of Andhra Pradesh after 9 year term of Telugu Desam party's Mr.N.Chandra Babu Naidu. Mr.Naidu who has won International recognition by then, and widely popular among India and abroad as 'Hi-tech CM', was a tough nut to crack for the opposition. It is by sheer hardwork of Mr.Reddy, that he could replace Naidu and has held complete term which is generally unlikely with any Congress Chief Minister of AP. Though YSR has been devout with his 'Indira' and 'Rajiv' mantra japa in all his programs and speeches, he has grown to be ubiquitious in AP Congress, and has been able to win the confidence of the party's Hi-command, to hold the complete term, and would probably be declared as the Chief ministerial candidate for the coming elections.

Mr.Reddy with his whole set of 'resplendent' welfare programs has been successful in reaching the door-steps of every common man in AP. The large scale irrigation projects started by him, have won both accolades as well as criticism for his Government. He stood in fore-front in the launch of these programs and also announced wide set of welfare schemes, whenever the party popularity seemed to be moving downwards. But, corruption has been the speed-breaker for his Government. 990 Cases 'successfull' cases registered with ACB (Anti Corruption Bureau) over the past few months, only reflects this. By appointing 'his' ministers, albeit some of them being inefficient and corrupt, he could also put a check on the dissent among his own party. He has also handled the oppostions like TDP and TRS, quite ably, much to everyone's surprise. All these prove that Mr.Reddy has done his home work well, and was prepared well for the challenge of being the CM, inspite of all the road-blocks that are present for a 'Congress' CM in AP in general.

With all this, Mr.Reddy has a long way ahead. We will have to wait and see whether he would be successful for the second time. Even if he doesnt, he would be a significant party member of Congress, who might hold crucial posts at the centre and the state.

'UNPA'ralleled Comedy... and it continues

After closely following the 'Third Front' politics, I am left confused who is IN and who is OUT of UNPA. So, before going further into it, I must confess that I am not sure about parties which were then present or atleast present now in UNPA, and I presume that readers would understand my inability. United National Progressive Alliance, as the alliance christened by regional parties, is supposed to be an alliance which is equidistant from Congress led UPA and BJP led NDA. Ofcourse, as every regional party had their own ambitions and aspirations, and there was no common idea/ideology to bind them together, UNPA has been a 'waiting room' for almost every regional party whenever they needed one.

When UNPA was started, TDP (Telugu Desam Party), AIADMK (All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) and SP (Samajwadi Party) have been the major parties advocating this idea of third front. Ofcourse, MDMK (Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), AGP (Asom Gana Parishad) and INLD (Indian National Lok Dal) were its other partners. Mr.Naidu's aspirations to go 'National' have taken shape, though his party's situation in his state weren't all that pleasing for him. The UNPA with its about 60 MPs formed a 3rd biggest alliance in the Parliament following UPA and NDA.

The first step of UNPA at the national level was supporting Dr.APJ for a second term. This, ofcourse, was much to the liking of most of the Indian public, as the polls of various news dailies and channels have shown that Dr.Kalam is indeed the best and most popular president, the nation ever had. However, the way it was carried along, ended up embarrasing Kalamji, and we had Pratibha Patil taking charge instead.

Following that, perhaps first to come out was AIADMK+MDMK. Ms.Jayalalitha, who was the secretary of UNPA then, had resigned for her post, and pulled her party out of the alliance. Again, I am not sure of when small parties like Jharkhand Vikas Manch came, saw and went, or whether they are still with UNPA. So, counting those changes as infinitesimal, we shall not worry about them. Following that we have SP leaving UNPA to UPA to support the Nuclear deal. UNPA then approaches BSP (or viceversa; ofcourse it really doesn't matter though!), who joins the 'Front', and now Mr.Naidu truimphantly claims to bring first Dalit lady PM to India in the coming future and proposes the candidacy of Ms.Mayawati for the next general elections. The left parties which has come out of UPA and now supporting UNPA for an alliance, however seems not completely happy with this idea. Only Mr.Chandrababu Naidu knows why BSP is been approached only after SP has left, if he had the idea of bringing 'social justice'. However, the equation is logical because BSP has the capabilities of winning a huge chunk of seats in the next elections, as it is a regional party in UP, and since it is not in good terms with either Congress or BJP. The INLD and AGP hasve joined the NDA back (again as per the best of my knowledge). The JKNC (J&K National Conference) led by Abdullahs now teams up with UPA, from UNPA, after the Jammu and Kashmir state elections, as teaming up with Congress is essential to form a Government.

Coming to the parties which might be in UNPA, I can think of only TDP. There is a fair chance of JD(S) (Janata Dal (Secular)) being in UNPA for a while, though Mr.Deve Gowda is whimsical and his son, Mr.Kumaraswamy, has proved to be no less than his father. The Dravida Parties would polarise towards one of UPA or NDA; generally DMK towards the former and AIADMK+MDMK towards the latter. Situation is almost the same in Bihar, with RJD being the close ally of UPA and JD(U) (Janata Dal United) with the NDA. AITC (All India Trinamool Congress) which has been an ally of NDA, again, would be in uncertainity till the election results are out. After the Kashmir elections, one more probable for UNPA for the next 5 years, would probably be Mufti's PDP (People's Democratic Party), since they would be forced to come out of UPA. Similarly, JKNPP (J&K National Panther's Party), who would be in a similar situation as PDP might be yet another one.

With all this hodgepodge, I hope I haven't confused you. But, if you are, please understand that its the mistake of neither of us.

The Kashmir Verdict

The 61% turnout in the Kashmir Assembly elections mandate was towards coalition for the second time. This turnout, which is far bigger than the previous times (45% during last elections), is greater than that of some of the states in India. This increase in percentage implies that the zero pre-election violence played a role in getting the voters to the poling booths. It also sends a clear NO to the seperatists, who continue their harangue in the news channels inspite of all this. Thanks to the election commission's efficient way of organising elections, we now can be confident about this as the Kashmir's verdict for their own Government.

JKNC emerges as the biggest party again, with its 28 seats. After being voted out of power in the last election, for a replacement by PDP-Congress alliance, JKNC looks to make a comeback this time. Just after the last election, the power bargains by the Mufti duo with the Congress went about for a month, finally settled with Mufti Mohammed as the Chief minister for the 'first-half'. The Common Minimum Programme (CMP) talk by the PDP seemed to continue after the end of this election also, though their seats are no way near for a formation of the Govt. But, even before that Congress has learnt a lesson for being with PDP last time, and would be definitely happy to team up with the Abdullahs than the Muftis. However, since Congress has 17 seats, though considerable, perhaps would have to settle for a lesser bargain.

BJP shines with a drastic increase in the seats to 11 from 1 of the last terms. All the seats of BJP have been from the Jammu area. The issues of discrimination against Jammu, Amarnath lands have helped the lotus party, and have won them a significant percentage of votes. BJP had 8 seats which was the highest till this election, in 96 elections, and have lost them all except for 1, in the following election. May be it is the time for the party to realise that performance should be the winning factor in their agenda for the election next time, rather than betting on the 'temporary' or emtional issues.

We hope that the parties take the mandate in the right spirit and work towards a 'Naya Kashmir', rather than worrying about who holds the CM throne.

Andhra: CPI's Claptrap and more

(The Andhra CPI's secretary Mr.Narayana continues his claptrap and produces enough material for the media whenever it is in the need of some news.Since an year, Narayana has perhaps been the favourite of news channels, their political jester, especially for TV-9.)

I am not sure of the media, but I became tired of Mr.Narayana. Perhaps media wouldn't be tired so easily, even if they are, he continues to entertain them with his new tricks.

Just today, he has made a statement that about 150 MLAs in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly are 'dacoits'. No proofs what so ever; sheer impresario act of pulling a rabbit out of the hat. Even, the number in Loksatta's list generally released before the elections about the contestents with criminal background is perhaps lesser than this. Ofcourse, he has make sure that the number is greater, so that he can make it into media yet again.

Just a few days back he talked about 'Maha' alliance, whose sole aim was to dismantle Congress in the coming state elections and provide a third alternative at the state level (the other aim perhaps being in news for a fornight). The speculations went around about the Left teaming up with Chiru's PRP and KCR's TRS, but finally he finally (had to) settle with the opposition major, TDP because of the Left parties alliance with TDP's chief, Mr.Chandrababu Naidu for a 'third' alternative at the Centre. And now with the elections in the corner, we see some more of the news making antics.

Watch out for more! and please dont look for facts behind those statements, else I am afraid, you might not enjoy.

Pakisthan: The cause or the effect?

(At the outset of Mr.Nawaz Sharif declaring that Mr.Ismail Kasab is undoubtfully a Pakisthani, yet another attack has been traced back to Pakisthan. Is Pakisthan, a 'rogue nation' or a country which is deeply affected by the terrorism, is perhaps the right question to be comtemplated now.)

A recent interview of one of the senior official and ex-journalist from Pakisthan in one of the news channel reveals some interesting statistics. Just this year, he states, there were about 600 major attacks in Pakistan, killing about 2000 security personnel, and people. Almost all the major cities: Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Lahore were deeply affected by the attacks over the past one year. He says though Pakistan has not been successfull in countering terrorism as it is expected to be, it is in the best interests of Pakistan to do so since it is perhaps the worst hit nation by terrorist attacks. The effect (damage) of terrorist attacks within the territory of Pakistan quadrupled from 2006 to 2007, and continues in the same trend. About 3600 terrorist related fatalities were recorded in just 2007. The interesting statement made by him, to be noted here is that Terrorism is a serious problem for Pakistan, as Naxalism in the most parts of India and LTTE as for Srilanka. But, ofcourse this statement seems inherently flawed, since Terrorism is not just been an 'internal' problem of Pakistan (perhaps Balochistan movement is!), and it affects the outside world in a regular basis and on a large scale; Almost 100 of the major terrorist attacks across the world, since 9/11 have been traced back to Pakistanis or terrorist groups in Pakistani soil, including terror in London.

The reasons supporting the other side of the coin seem stronger. A worldwide survey released by the BBC, recently, found that Pakistan was among two nations out of 23 (the other being Egypt) – where "mixed" or "positive" feelings toward Al Qaeda (22% and 19%, respectively) outweighed negative feelings (19%). After Musharraf resigned, replaced by the ever-controversial Mr.Asif Ali Zardari, leader of the country’s only national party in the country, the Pakistan Peoples Party, winning election with overwhelming support from the three smaller provinces of NWFP, Balochistan and Sind. But Punjab, with 65 percent of the country's population, remains out of his hands, run by rival Nawaz Sharif, who refuses to take the terrorist threat seriously and befriends right-wing Islamic parties. These two reflect the present psyche of the people and ofcourse the politicians. The attacks in Balochistan (which is about 43% of the country's territory) are mostly nationalist, though some of them have terror links. The Pakistani Army Chief, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani (former chief of ISI), who replaced General Pervez Musharaf, is suspected to have a dominating say in the Democratically formed 'liberal' Govt. led by PPP, which was witnessed in the recent controversy of ISI chief coming to India for assistance in the investigation probe. The Govt. which confirmed the house arrest of Masud Azhar (the chief of Jaish-E) immediately following the attacks, has now denied the same. These raise more brows towards the 'honesty' and 'seriousness' of Pakistani Government towards mitigating terrorism.

But, the aftermath of mumbai attacks has proved to be a litmus test of Zardari's Govt. Gven that UPA govt is sincere in holding the pressure, we would see which one is true, perhaps in the due course of time.

Antuley, Akbaruddin and Anthony!

(Hang on friends! I am not going to digress from politics to discuss some latest re-make of RGV, though my title might remind of one of the old Amitabh Bacchan's movie. Its going to be politics as always: Mr.Antuley, being our hon.ble Minority affairs minister, Mr.Akbaruddin Owaisi, the representative of Hyderabad, from MIM party and Mr.A.K. Anthony, the central defence minister.)

Following the days of attack, I happened to tune to the Assembly sessions of Andhra Pradesh. The discussion was on terrorism and subsequently security of the state, and I hoped not much of a great discussion as usual, except for a united assembly standing against the terrorism unanimously. But, things weren't as they were expected to be, since there was an escape of a suspect just the previous day, so the opposition held this against the poor policing and security measures by the State Govt. After some discussion, our representatives (I wouldn't wish to use the word 'leaders'), digressed over the topics, and we witness Mr.Akbaruddin Owaisi going on a tirade on 'Hindu terrorists' not only damaging the nation, but also provoking the minorities (read as muslims) into terrorism! Ofcourse, he also claims the BJP is one of that group of terrorists and henceforth, he concludes BJP and TDP (who happened to support NDA), will have no reason to question the Government on the terrorism issue. I, listening to this, have no words, perhaps one of my readers would help me what to comment on!

And then comes our Minister of defence, Mr.A.K.Anthony. At the point where even UK and US were warning Pakistan on a military operation against terrorism (on the Pakistani soil) if they fail to meet the demands and act as required by the present situation, our defence minister maintains his cool insouciance, and says there can be no military action against Pakisthan or POK. Ofcourse, I am not a war mongerer, but we expect a statement which demands 'actions' against the terrorism from the Pakisthani side, but not the re-assurances on 'no war'.

This 'farce' doesn't stop there. Mr.AK Antuley, the present minister of minority affairs, (perhaps after reading too many chinese news papers), senses a foul play in the murder of Mr.Karkare. Antulay seemed to have borrowed a leaf from Pakistani TV hosts who have claimed that the Mumbai attacks were the handiwork of "Hindu-Zionists". (Courtesy: TOI) In the outset of investigations leading links to a Pakisthani terrorist outfit, a MP expressing his 'sudden revelations', (perhaps even borrowing statements from the 'neighbouring country') seems in itself fishy. Perhaps the minority vote-bank?

Remembering 13th December

(After almost 7 years following the attack of Parliament, we find ourselves 'back to Square one'. Though the attack on Parliament has been foiled by brave security forces, the attack on Mumbai was 'successful' in terrorizing the whole of Nation.)

After 7 years after the attacks of the symbol of soverneignity of India, the terrorists targeted the affluent and business world. Targeting Mumbai's CST, followed by attacks of Taj and Oberoi, the terrorists have exposed the vulnerability of Mumbai when it comes to the attacks from the terrorists.

Though the NDA Goverment seemed to fail in winning the support for a world-wide war on Terror in 2001, UPA seemed to have succeeded in getting the UN (and US) to turn against Lashkar and Jaish-E. Ofcourse, clearly, the intensity of the attacks played a role.

A few things seem to be common however. Mr.Advani, the Home minister in 2001, said in a press conference on 18th Dec. 2001 , "we have received some clues about yesterday's incident, which shows that a neighbouring country, and some terrorist organisations active there behind it." Precisely the same lines were used by Mr.Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister, addressing the post-attacks address to the Nation. The house was united for a few days on the issue of terrorism and acting with utmost sincerity to uproot the problem. POTA followed in 2002, and there is a promise of more serious actions from the UPA.

So far, so bad!

(Except for the unanimous decision by the Parliament against the attack on Mumbai, nothing seemed to have gone right from the National political standpoint.)

Be it R.R.Patil's "Chota-chota" comments, Mr.Deshmukh's "terror" tourism or Shivraj Patil's incoherent press conferences, all of these acts have attracted the same "Resignation" command from the Congress Hi-command. Thanks to Rane-Chauhan drama, perhaps the Maharastra media is slowly forgetting the Mumbai terror attacks for the time being.

Even BJP's demeanor didnt fare well. Firstly, the following day after the attacks, Mumbai's streets were filled with "Shraddhanjali" posters by almost all parties, majorly BJP and ShivSena. But what is really disturbing about it is that all the 'political Shraddhanjali' posters carried their Party's and sponsor's names, perhaps even dominating the apparent intention they were meant for. During some of the post-mortem press conferences of the recent elections, one of the senior BJP spokesman was stating that perhaps they haven't cashed on the 'Terrorism issue'. As long as they see Terrorism as yet another 'issue' to get an election-win, it really doesnt matter who really holds the sceptre.

But, we have finally witnessed a unanimous Parliament on one issue in the beginning of this Winter session. Proposal of stronger laws, establishment of federal agency and anti-terrorism schools was received well by NDA too. We will have to wait and see whether any positive action is taken, or is it yet another rhetoric of politicians.

Freedom without responsibility!

(Nothing has gone right for India during the recent attacks on Mumbai. One of the aspect is Media)

The attacks in Mumbai has sent shock waves across the world. The terrorists tried proving India is as vulnerable as Pakistan, when it comes to Business by striking at the financial capital of India. But, events that has happened as a part of the operation of rescue, has only indicated that there is a lot of home work for India to be done: in its Governance, Intelligence, ATS, Media and ofcourse People.

The media's desperate moves towards increasing TRP ratings are evident at every point of the telecast. Starts with NDTV, and all the way to IBN, Aaj-Tak, TimesNow, everyone were busy with 'Live' telecast of the scenes and horror of the situation. Well, though I am a strong supporter of media, and 'freedom of expression' and press, there were several issues which pointed out that perhaps Media, (atleast this time), acted completely as per their 'whims', representing the case of 'Freedom without responsibility'.

The NDTV continues their 'cricket style commentary', using a continuous terms like 'strategy', and 'numbers'. The channels were insistent on re-iterating about certain pictures and coverage as 'exclusive and only', as if its some 'Page-3' content. The background and way of presentation of Aaj-Tak in itself seemed like a 'terrorist attack', quite successful in making its veiwers feel their nerves breaking apart or heart beating hard to their chests. The usual harrassment to the victims was a common event during the two days. The police officers, the Commandos are repeatedly asked about their next course of action, their 'idea' on who might have attacked.

The media was so 'close' and 'informative' to the operations that the terrorists were viewing channels in the hotels of Taj and Oberoi to know the next action plan of Indian Army. Even after the 'requests' by Indian Govt. to delay the 'live' and even after knowing their indirect abetting to the terrorists, the media continued with their news roll, with utmost sincereity and dedication. The remark of the BBC reporter that they have seem in 'no country' that media is 'allowed' to 'intrude' so much into a situation like that, probably sums it all.

The operation has ended in 2 days with about 200 deceased and almost 400 casualities. The Government, and the intellectuals say that we cannot completely blame media for what has happened because there were never strigent laws on Telecast or news, especially onto the situations like this. But, let us understand one thing: 'Law' and 'rules' cannot instill 'sense' or 'patrotism' cant be brought into people by a few pledges and 'laws'. Atleast, with our media boasting of world class journalists, we can only 'hope' of more responsible attitude, and we pray for it.

Congress abhores Terrorism!

(Though some people might dispute this, I must admit Congress strongly abhores terrorism.)

Yes, Congress does abhore Terrorism. So much so that, it had to include 'Terrorism' in the agenda of the Cabinet meeting, only after BJP's demands. Else, it doesnt even like to hear the mention of it. However, after the demands and reprimands from BJP, the Cabinet has unanimously passed a resolution that, 'terrorism must be curbed', without any new terrorism laws or special package of budget announced for it. Perhaps, we need to include PC Sarkar in the Cabinet from the next election to do this job for us.

Its closest allies Samata Party goes a step forward in the recent past. They happen to even provide defence for the suspects who were arrested in the Delhi, following the blasts. Mr.Arjun Singh would like to settle the matters 'peacefully'. He offers a sum of Rs.10 lakhs for the inspector who was killed in the encounter while arresting the suspects. (Though, the family of the matyr has declined the offer.)

After any of the recent attacks, we happen to follow one rather 'uninteresting' tirade in the News channels or the statements. They say the economics is playing a role here - unequal distribution of wealth, poverty in minority communities which draw them towards terrorism etc., I think this only means not just lack of understanding of the situation, but also 'falsely' justifying the actions. What we see from surveys from some of the researchers in these lines are quite contradictory to what these channels have been speaking over the past few days. Peter Bergen of John Hopkins University, published his study of some of the Islamist terrorists. According to Bergen, 53% of the terrorists had a university degree, while "only 52% of Americans have been to college." and about more than 70% of them have completed their schooling. The Masterminds behind the blasts in which a few were arrested recently, are well educated, and a few being Software Engineers. I hope these channels will get some more sense and stop this 'gross' economic analysis which leads us nowhere.

Andhra reaches US and Europe!

(The latest statements issued by some of the ministers of the Andhra Pradesh state cabinet, shows how Andhra Pradesh can be compared to US and Europe, perhaps even better than that.)

In the recent times, when the prices of the daily necessities are sky-rocketing (The tomatoes now in AP are 60/- per KG etc.,), the Minister for Food and Civil Supplies, Mr.Kasu Krishna Reddy, one of the close pal of Mr.YSR, has issued a few statements worth of including them in an opera of comedies. He says that the costs in Andhra are still regulated, as we can see that their costs are still 'far' lesser than compared to US and Europe. He also goes a step ahead in asking us to query the same with our collegues in the abroad! Though, I dont think I have to elaborate further on such these statments, does that mean that we have to be content that atleast in this matter, we are competing with the countries like US and European nations?

The irony is that Kasu Venkata Krishna Reddy, the nephew of Kasu Brahmananda Reddy, has been an MLA from Narsaraopeta since 1979. His uncle, Mr. Brahmananda Reddy has held key positions like Chief Minister of AP, Home Minister of India and also President of Congress etc.,

More on Assam clashes!

(The riots, arsonry and clashes continue in Assam for a week, in three districts, between the Bodos and Muslim immigrants mainly from Bangladesh. Different theories are floating around about the nature of attacks; let us see some of the recent events combined with facts, which throws some more light on the present issue.)

From the past three days, I have closely followed the news on the attacks in Assam searching for the latest events, statements by political parties and other information sources to understand the present scenario. Today morning when I have typed, "Clashes in Assam 2008" in Google, and 'felt lucky', I was surprisingly led to a page of Turkish times, which covers the event. May be, I am not lucky enough to get the Hindu's or Indian express' articles directly. The Kandhamal violence was 'lucky' to make it to the main page continuously in the Hindu for the past few days, and so is with most of the other news papers. While, violence in Assam isnt probably 'fortunate' enough to make a BIG event. Our media continues to ignore the north east, and for the Cabinet, its just one more ministry, which is generally used as a 'transit'. Mr.Shourie has written an article long ago, on how media sacrifices news from North-east, for more trivial news and gossip.

The present clashes have continued from past one week, has about 50 people killed and many villages burnt; about a lakh people made refugees. The curfew stands in the 3 districts with shoot-at-sight orders issued to the para-military troops and BSF forces. The 180 Refugee camps are been flooded with the people. About 200 houses being burnt over recently, and many such events.

As for the state government, "everything is under control". Health Minister Sarma said the root cause of the trouble was a programme of "ethnic cleansing" implemented by the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB),which is a largely Christian outfit and a rebel group fighting for an independent tribal homeland, and claims that it is a 'systematic pogrom'. The chief minister Mr.Tarun Gogoi said, "We are investigating reports of the involvement of the NDFB in the clashes and, if proved, we shall be forced to call off the ceasefire". Probably, his role even ends with a few statements and orders for few committees and investigations; or rather he is bored to see the same over and again. Let us all wonder together on how the situation is 'completely under control' with over 50 deaths and a lakh of refugees. May be Orissa and Karnataka should never even be brought to news compared to this. If they all are ignited by NDFB without any other group's involvement or any other intention, we must also be astonished to see many of this majority tribe being a big chunk of people who bore the brunt; many victims from Bodos. Interestingly, a newspaper from Pakisthan (the news) already begins to portray it as yet another ‘anti-muslim’ attack.

And from the Centre's (Congress (I)'s) point of view, their stance was made very much clear as a crystal by Ms. Sheila Dikshit a few months back. "It has been in our tradition to welcome all those who arrive in our country," Dikshit said. It doesn’t require intelligence to deduce that UPA would only welcome Bangladeshi intruders (I cannot call them refugees as long as they cause the damage), and even provide them citizenship and if possible reservations also in the due course.

The insouciance of the opposition is something noteworthy. Any opposition must realize that it is their responsibility to bring the issue to the public, and also to pressurize the Govt. to act faster and firmly.

What would be intriguing is the involvement of the settlers from the Bangladesh. We have witnessed a constant ethnic cleansing of the minorities there (do I need to mention it is Hindus?). This minority which was about 31% of population in 1947, has dropped to 22% by 1951, and then to 10.5% by 1991 and now by 2001 census it is about 9%. The opinion of some of the ‘secular’ economists, who say that “the politics of Bengal (Bangladesh) is the economy of the Bengal”, I am afraid, doesn’t resonate well with these census. The ‘loss’ in the Hindu population is not redistributed among the other minorities like Christians, since the Christians stand only 1% of the population. I hope our readers would agree with me that I need not be some ‘Hindu fanatic’ to raise voice against such statistics.

The bottom-line is that, if it is an ethnic cleansing by systematic attacks, by NDFB or by the Bangladeshi immigrants, we are in serious trouble.

PS: By ‘we’, I meant India.

Centre blinded on Asom's attacks?

(The recent clashes in Assam between Bodos and Muslims has not been noticed much either by Centre or the opposition. Even media who generally runs 24x7 'warning system' has more or less less 'interested' in covering this.)

The clashes between the Bodos and Muslims in the districts of Udalguri and Darrang district has taken a toll of about 50 people already. About a lakh and half people are in 180 camps in the districts. The violence is wide spread and the law and order have been greatly disturbed. The Congress (I) govt. led by Mr.Tarun Gogoi has been struggling to get the state out of the turmoil from the past 5 days.

YET, No news, no warnings, no letters from Home ministry. Well, we shall not blame them. PErhaps, it works differently in case of Congress ruled states. Mr.Patil might be personally calling to Mr.Gogoi's home to express his 'condolences' and 'wishes'.

Nano drives its way to Gujarat!

(After much discussion about the possibilities, both Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka Govt.s seem to fail in wooing Tatas to their land. Seems like yet another industry moves to the 'Vibrant Gujarat'.)

Is it another success for Modi? apparently it seems so.. so far! Tatas prefer to move to 'Modi's Gujarat' than the 'dormant' Andhra and the 'communal' Karnataka. Stable state Govt. in Gujarat, its pro-industry initiatives have done the trick, and Mr.Modi has done his work silently.