The Curious Case Of Devyani Khobragade: Aspects Which Will Never Be Discussed!
Devyani: Taken Laws For Granted!!
The complex issue of Devyani Khobragade has come as a boon for ruling party in India on the verge of facing one of the worse defeats in upcoming Parliamentary Elections in 2014. It has allowed its leaders, who have lost their sheen, to talk big about saving the pride of nation, forgetting that most of them enjoy a chequered past! Its most of the leaders, who have been relegated to the background, have now emerged on the surface, speaking aloud about attributes which they rarely displayed both in public and personal lives. Consider the manner in which the Lokpal Bill got passed after the government was left with no other option but to take cognizance of growing unrest over this issue in nation!
The Indian leaders, especially from the ruling party, definitely lack the moral right to make shrill cry about violation of standard provisions in case of Devyani Khobragade. It’s quite evident from a deeper analysis of issue at hand that facts have been blown out of proportion. Like always the issue has been given a larger-than-life colouring, making it look like some shrewd diversionary tactics on the part of hidden players behind the curtain.
Devyani Khobragade is no child that she could not apprehend the consequences of misrepresentation of facts on visa application of the domestic help Sangeeta Richard. How come she is so much aware of “Vienna conventions” but pretty unaware about the violation of domestic laws of U.S. even as there were reported incidents of atrocities committed upon domestic help in the past by other Indian diplomats in the same country? Being an Indian diplomat she should have set high precedents instead of giving impression of being a “victim” in the aftermath of strict actions on part of U.S. authorities.
Let’s be very clear that it’s not the case of making mockery of sovereignty of India but it’s more the case of playing with the fire. Devyani conveniently forgot that she was living in United States and not in India where even a petty “Sarkari Babu” (government official) can use his power to thwart the investigation on being caught.
The urgency exhibited and absurd statements on part of Congress Ministers make them laughing stock in the eyes of all conscious people, who believe in the rule of law. The paid mainstream media might give the impression that knee jerk reactions on part of Indian counterparts back in India are “bold measures” and fitting response to United States, but it would never diminish the ugly truth that she is guilty. The moves on part of U.S. sound more appropriate when Preet Bharara makes it clear that “This office’s sole motivation in this case, as in all cases, is to uphold the rule of law, protect victims, and hold accountable anyone who breaks the law — no matter what their societal status and no matter how powerful, rich or connected they are.”
All those who are talking aloud about diplomatic immunity granted to Indian officials posted at consular office surely needs to answer questions posed by this U.S. prosecutor: “One wonders whether any government would not take action regarding false documents being submitted to it in order to bring immigrants into the country. One wonders even more pointedly whether any government would not take action regarding that alleged conduct where the purpose of the scheme was to unfairly treat a domestic worker in ways that violate the law. And one wonders why there is so much outrage about the alleged treatment of the Indian national accused of perpetrating these acts, but precious little outrage about the alleged treatment of the Indian victim and her spouse?”
Yes, it’s disturbing that mainstream media pressure and chaotic voices within the government have made it a “diplomatic row” when it’s nothing more than criminal action committed by a responsible Indian officer. However, let’s view critically the actions taken on part of U.S. The WikiLeaks have proven beyond doubt that American leaders are no saints. The U.S. might give the impression that dealing fairly with violation of human rights is always their topmost priority but when their own men get trapped it takes recourse to most shrewd measures to save them.
Or, for that matter, it can go to any extent to get its job done, even if it means sabotaging the sovereignty of other nations. It’s no secret that documents and evidences were forged to justify their attack on Iraq. The drone attacks in various parts of Pakistan make it clear that borders become meaningless in face of its interests, and so death of innocent civilians means nothing! The controversial release of Ramyond Davis, C.I.A contractor guilty of double murder in Pakistan, speaks volume about subtle pressure employed by American leaders.
The U.S. claims it’s very much in pain over episodes of violation of human rights but see the treatment meted out to prisoners at Guantanamo Bay! So it’s evident that rich and powerful nations have dual standards and the U.S. is no exception. It’s not at all wrong to presume that it used its domestic laws to enter in barbaric behaviour which many in India see it as an assault on the pride of India and modesty of a woman.
India needs to learn few lessons from this episode instead of entering in retaliatory actions. Before I come to that point let me state that introduction of gender-neutral laws in India or need of tough measures to punish abusive women always lead to raised eyebrows.The so-called messiahs of women’s rights start making noise in India. The U.S. has perfectly demonstrated that laws are equal for men and women and, therefore, women cannot claim special privileges or concession.
In India despite the leap of so many centuries woman is still inherently seen as a weak specie, a saintly figure, who can first commit no crime and even if she commits crimes she needs to be given special treatment! It’s an impression that’s even supported by foreign based agencies, working for the rights of women in India but the same agencies would remain silent about inhuman behaviour done with Devyani just because it happened in U.S.!
Anyway, India needs to demonstrate its own strength not in reactionary way but in a more mature way. It needs to take away all the special privileges and concessions it offers to U.S. citizen in extraordinary way. Very recently a Visa Officer in India was transferred because she had refused to grant visa to a gay American diplomat on the ground that such marriages are not legal in India. The Indian government instead of supporting her argument, transferred her to a lesser department.
In the light of recent Supreme Court judgement, which has upheld the validity of section 377, one needs to follow the words of former Finance Minister of India, Yashwant Sinha, to let United States become aware of consequences if other nations also become strict in implementing their domestic laws.”My suggestion to the Government of India is, the media has reported that we have issued visas to a number of US diplomats’ companions. ‘Companions’ means that they are of the same sex. Now, after the Supreme Court ruling, it is completely illegal in our country. Just as paying less wages was illegal in the US. So, why doesn’t the government of India go ahead and arrest all of them? Put them behind bars, prosecute them in this country and punish them.” (Yashwant Sinha).
Sometimes back there was controversy about alleged permission granted to American sniffer dogs to enter Rajghat as a part of the security drill before the visit of U.S. President George Bush. In future this sort of “desecration” could be avoided since it’s not permissible as per our own rules. It’s time for India to exhibit that it has a backbone, instead of entering in knee-jerk reactions. That can be perfectly demonstrated by pursuing its own interests in a rigid way without granting extraordinary privileges to outsiders, being least influenced by their nationality and position.
Nation’s Pride Should Be Saved In A Sensible Way!
References:
Pics Credit:
Pic Two Is From Internet
समाज की दशा और दिशा तब सुधरेगी जब पुरुषो का उत्पीडन बंद होगा, पुरुष विरोधी कानूनों का खात्मा होगा!!
नागपुर अधिवेशन में आये पुरुष अधिकारों को जाग्रत करने ये समर्पित कार्यकर्ता 🙂
नागपुर में पिछले महीने पुरुष अधिकारों के प्रति समर्पित सेव इंडिया फॅमिली फाउंडेशन (SIFF) ने अपने पांचवे राष्ट्रीय सम्मलेन का भव्य और सफल आयोजन किया। मुख्य समारोह जो तीन दिनों का था, १६ अगस्त से लेकर १८ अगस्त तक, का आयोजन नागपुर से १०० किलोमीटर दूर पेंच टाइगर रिज़र्व के शांत और रमणीक स्थल पर हुआ. पेंच के जंगल नोबेल पुरस्कार विजेता रुडयार्ड किपलिंग से सम्बन्ध रखता है जहा पे उन्होंने मशहूर किरदार मोगली को जन्म दिया। बहरहाल इसी जगह पे तीन दिनों तक वैचारिक कसरत में सलंग्न रहना एक संवेदनशील मुद्दे पर एक सुखद और यादगार अनुभव रहा. ये कहने में कोई सकोच नहीं कि पुरुष अधिकारों के प्रति अभी भी बहुत बड़ा वर्ग उदासीन है लिहाज़ा ऐसे आयोजन समय की मांग बन गए है जो इस मुद्दे पे देश और देश के बाहर एक उपयुक्त भूमि का निर्माण कर सके.
इस सम्मलेन का आयोजन राजेश वखारिया और नागपुर की SIFF टीम ने नागपुर में अन्य महत्तवपूर्ण संस्थाओ के साथ मिलकर किया जिनमे रविन्द्र दरक का योगदान सराहनीय था. इस राष्ट्रीय सम्मलेन में SIFF की देश भर में फैली शाखाओ ने शिरकत की जिसमे बेंगालूरू , पुणे, मुंबई, लखनऊ, कन्याकुमारी, चेन्नई, इलाहबाद, हैदराबाद, नई दिल्ली और अन्य जगहों से आये सत्रह राज्यों के कुल १५० से अधिक् जुझारु कार्यकर्ताओ ने अपनी सहभागिता दर्ज करायी जिन्होंने देश भर में फैले 40,000 एक्टिविस्ट्स का प्रतिनिधित्व किया। इसके साथ ही कुछ प्रसिद्ध विदेशी संस्थाओ जिसमे मैरिटल जस्टिस, यूनाइटेड किंगडम और इन्साफ, यूनाइटेड स्टेट्स ऑफ़ अमेरिका, प्रमुख थे ने भी अपनी उपस्थिति दर्ज कराई। उल्लेखनीय बात ये रही कि जर्मनी, जापान, ऑस्ट्रेलिया, रूस, सिंगापुर और मिडिल ईस्ट से भी एक्टिविस्टस का आगमन हुआ.
सम्मलेन में चलती रही ऐसी कई परिचर्चाये सम्मानित सदस्यों के बीच !!
समारोह में मैंने एक लेखक/ब्लॉगर की हैसियत से अपनी सहभागिता दर्ज कराई। चूंकि पुरुष अधिकारों में बहुत पहले से विचार विमर्श में सलंग्न रहा हूँ जो मेरे कई लेखो में उभर कर सामने आये है लिहाज़ा इस समारोह के जरिये मुझे कई और पहलुओ को बारीकी से समझने का अवसर प्राप्त हुआ.यद्धपि इस सम्मलेन में हुई चर्चाओ का फलक, विषय विन्दु कुछ सीमित सा रह गया, कुछ जरूरी सन्दर्भ जो परिवार के विघटन के प्रमुख कारण होते है जैसे उपभोक्तावाद, सांस्कृतिक हमले, इन पर कोई ख़ास चर्चा नहीं हुई और इसके अलावा संचालन में प्रक्रियागत ख़ामिया भी रह गयी लेकिन इसके बावजूद कई मुद्दों पर सार्थक चर्चा हुई. डॉ पोनप्पा, जो कि मैसूर से पधारे सर्जन थें, ने सही व्यक्त किया कि जिन मुद्दों को हम लेकर चल रहे है वे एक गहन गंभीरता की मांग करते है जो अगर इस तरह के समरॊह में भी अगर न दिखे तो तकलीफ होती है.
ये सर्वविदित है कि IPC 498a, डोमेस्टिक वायलेंस एक्ट जैसे घातक कानूनो ने समाज की कमर तोड़कर रख दी है. इनका जिस तरह से व्यापक दुरुपयोग हुआ है उसको सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने कानूनी आतंकवाद की संज्ञा दी है. ये बेहद अफ़सोसजनक है कि कांग्रेस अपने वोट बैंक के चलते इस स्थिति में कोई सुधार नहीं कर पा रही. उलटे महिलाओ का वोट पक्का करने के लिए हिंदी विवाह अधिनियम (संशोधन) बिल, २०१०, पारित करा रही है जिसके पास हो जाने के बाद पुरुषो को आपसी सहमती से हासिल तलाक के उपरान्त अपनी गाढ़ी कमाई से अर्जित संपत्ति से हाथ धोना पड़ेगा। इस लाचार और पंगु सरकार के पास अपने अस्तित्व को बचाने के लिए सिवाय इस तरह के आत्मघाती कदमो के अलावा कोई और कदम नहीं सुझाई पड़ता है. सरकार में बैठे शामिल मंत्री और महत्त्वपूर्ण संस्थाओ को चला रहे अफसर शायद रेत में शुतुरमुर्ग की तरह सर गाड कर बैठे है कि उनको ये सरकारी आंकड़े जो कि ये दर्शाते है 242 पुरुष और 129 स्त्री हर दिन आत्महत्या करते है ( NCRB) की नाजुकता और गंभीरता समझ में नहीं आती है. इसको और बारीकी से देखे तो 71 प्रतिशत के लगभग शादी शुदा पुरुष आत्महत्या करते है तो लगभग 67 प्रतिशत शादी शुदा महिलाये आत्महत्या करती है.
और सब बुनते रहे नए सपने, नए मकाम पुरुषो को उनका अधिकार दिलाने के लिए
कितने अफ़सोस की बात है कि जहा महिलाओ का पक्ष सुनने के लिए कई संस्थान है वही पुरुष को सड़ने गड़ने को छोड़ दिया जाता है उसको अपनी तमाम समस्याओ के साथ. खैर आधुनिक सभ्यता अपने उस मकाम पर आ गयी है जब पुरुषो का हर तरीके से शोषण बंद हो चाहे वो किसी भी रूप में हूँ और किसी स्तर पर हो. उनके योगदान का सही रूप से मूल्यांकन हो. लेकिन तमाशा देखिये कि कांग्रेस सरकार ना केवल परिवार संस्था को तहस नहस करने में लगी है बल्कि कानूनी आतंकवाद के जरिये पुरुषो को लाचार और अक्षम बनाने पर तुली है. आखिर हिन्दू विवाह अधिनियम (संशोधन) बिल, २०१०, जैसे अपूर्ण और भ्रामक कानून को बनाने का उद्देश्य क्या है जो संविधान के कई मूल पहलुओं की उपेक्षा करता है? जेंडर इक्वलिटी के दायरे में में क्या पुरुषो को आपत्ति करने का कोई अधिकार नहीं है? फिर ऐसा कानून लाने की क्या जरूरत है जो सिर्फ हिन्दू संपत्ति के बटवारे की बात करता हूँ? ऐसा ही संशोधन मुस्लिम पर्सनल कानून पर क्यों नहीं लागू होता? कितने खेद की बात है कि कांग्रेस की अक्षम सरकार ने विवाह नाम की संस्था की धज्जिया उड़ा दी पर हिन्दू खामोश है और नर के भेस में नारी समान पुरुष खामोश है.
इसलिए नागपुर में आयोजित राष्ट्रीय सम्मलेन ख़ासा महत्व रखता है. ये एहसास दिलाता है कि इस तरह के आयोजन अनिवार्य हो गए है सरकार को शीशा दिखाने के लिए और समाज में एक सार्थक बदलाव लाने के लिये. इस सम्मलेन में कुछ महत्त्वपूर्ण प्रस्ताव पारित किये गए जिनमे प्रमुख है पुरुषो के लिए अलग मंत्रालय बनाने के लिए ताकि उनके समस्याओ पर बेहतर चिंतन हो सके; पुरुषो की जिंदगी को खतरनाक धंधो में भागिरदारी कम की जाए; वैवाहिक कानून जो कि आज समानता के कानून की अवहेलना करते है उनको “जेंडर इक्वल” बनाया जाए कानून की चौखट में; पिता को भी समान रूप से शेयर्ड पेरेंटिंग के भावना के अंतर्गत बच्चो को पालन पोषण करने की छूट दी जाए तलाक मंजूर होने के उपरान्त ताकि बच्चो को माता पिता का सामान रूप से सरंक्षण प्राप्त हो. इसके अलावा इस बात पे भी बल दिया गया कि पुरुषो की स्वास्थ्य सम्बन्धी समस्याओं का निराकरण करने की एक सार्थक पहल हो सरकार और समाज दोनों द्वारा।
सम्मलेन का समापन हिन्दू विवाह अधिनियम (संशोधन) बिल, २०१० को तुरंत वापस मांग लेने के साथ हुआ. सम्मलेन में बहुत से लोगो को पुरुषो के अधिकार के प्रति चेतना जगाने लिए सम्मानित भी किया गया जिसमे इस लेख के लेखक हिस्से में भी ये सम्मान आया, जिनका इलाहाबाद में इलाहाबाद हाई कोर्ट के वकीलों ने एक समारोह आयोजित कर इस उपलब्धि के लिए सम्मानित किया। बहुत जरूरी है ऐसे सम्मलेन, इस तरह के सम्मान समाज का अस्तित्व बचाने के लिए और इस बात को बल देने के लिए कि पुरुष भी स्त्री की तरह समाज की एक प्रमुख इकाई है. SIFF और इससे जुड़े लोग बधाई के पात्र है इस तरह के क्रांतिकारी पहल के लिए. उम्मीद है इस तरह के संस्थान समय के साथ नयी ऊंचाई को प्राप्त कर समाज को नयी दशा और दिशा देने में निश्चित रूप से कामयाव होंगे।
नागपुर में कुछ इस तरह हुआ सम्मान इस पोस्ट के लेखक का पुरुष अधिकारों के प्रति समर्पित रहने पर!!
….और इलाहाबाद में सम्मलेन से लौटने पर इलाहाबाद हाई कोर्ट के वकीलों ने सम्मान किया
References:
The Times Of India
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फोटो जो हमने और अन्य साथी मित्रो ने खींची सम्मलेन की, और कुछ फोटो फुरसत के पलो की!!!
मैसूर से पधारे डॉ पोनप्पा को सुनना और मिलना एक सुखद अनुभव रहा
सुरेशराम जो चेन्नई से आये थें उनसे कानूनी पेंचो को समझने में काफी आसानी हुई
स्वरुप सरकार से तो काफी मुलाकाते हुए थी आभासी जगत में लेकिन यथार्थ के धरातल पर मिलन रोचक रहा. जिस अंदाज़ में ये बोलते है फेमिनिस्ट ब्रिगेड को कुछ ऐसे ही एग्रेसिव हथौड़ो की जरूरत थी 😛
मेरे संवेदनशील मित्र जोयंतो जो अपने इलाहाबाद के होते हुए भी नागपुर में पहले पहल मिले 🙂 बीच में शायद राजेश वखारिया जी ही जैसा कोई शख्स दिख रहा है 🙂 बगल में हम है और उसके बाद शम्मी जी है जिनसे सम्मलेन समाप्ति पर कार में काफी रोचक बाते हुई!
विराग से मिलकर काफी प्रसन्नता हुई और उसकी एक वजह ये थी कि हम इन्टरनेट पर अक्सर बातचीत करते रहते है..और ये सिलसिला काफी पुराना है
स्वर्णकार जी जो शायद विलासपुर से पधारे थें मेरे कमरे में ही रुके थे। अध्यात्म और अधिकारों का गठजोड़ बहुत हुआ फुरसत के क्षणों में इनके साथ
राजेश जी मिलना होगा सोचा ना था। बहुत पुराने साथी है मेरे। खैर दिल्ली और इलाहाबाद के वकील मिले तो आपस में 🙂
गोकुल से मेरी पहली मुलाक़ात वर्षो पहले हुई थी इन्टरनेट पे अपने ही किसी पोस्ट पर चर्चा के दौरान। और मिलना सालो बाद नागपुर में हुआ
अनाडी” जी जो लखनऊ से पधारे ने जो “चाय” पिलाई कि उसकी मिठास अभी भी बनी हुई है. इन्होने ये तो साबित ही कर दिया कि हास्य और व्यंग्य वो विधा है कि जिसकी मार बहुत गहरी होती है
पांडुरंग कट्टी से मै पहले कभी नहीं मिला था सो मिलना मन में जगह कर गया. आप जैसे और लोगो की जरुरत है जो देश में बेहतर सोच को जन्म दे सके
अर्नब गांगुली से भी मेरी ये पहली मुलाक़ात थी !
अमर्त्य का लगाव देखकर प्रसन्नता हुई. अमर्त्य में अच्छा ये लगा कि कम से कम कुछ लोग तो पढने में यकीन रखते है गहरे में जाकर। दीपिका जी का योगदान इस मामले में महत्त्वपूर्ण है कि डाक्यूमेंट्री विधा को एक ऐसे मुद्दे में इस्तेमाल कर रही है जिसको वाकई विस्तार की जरूरत है. बहरहाल दोनों लोगो से मिलकर ख़ुशी हुई.
श्रीनिवास से मिला तो समझ में आया कि इस फेमिनिज्म ने कितना नुक्सान पहुचाया है घरो को उजाड़कर
प्रकाश ने जो सहूलियत प्रदान की सम्मलेन में और सम्मलेन के खत्म होने के बाद बारिश में भीगते हुए कुछ दूर तक छोड़ना याद आता है. पहले भी नागपुर आया था तो तब भी मिलना इनसे अच्छा लगा था. प्रकाश में सम्मलेन मेंकोई पेपर तो नहीं पढ़ा लेकिन अगर ये कुछ कहते तो उसको सुनना दिलचस्प रहता।
रविन्द्र दरक से पहले मै नहीं मिला था लेकिन इस उम्र में एक गंभीर मुद्दे पर इतनी सक्रियता देखकर मन में बल का उदय हुआ
गंभीर चर्चा बिना खाए पिए कैसे हो सकती है 😛
पारंपरिक मीडिया में नागपुर अधिवेशन सुर्खियों में रहा
पारंपरिक मीडिया कब तक हमको इग्नोर करती!!
नागपुर का टाइम्स ऑफ़ इंडिया क्यों पीछे रहता भला
Fighting For The Rights Of Men Can Also Bring Honours!
Author Of This Blog Post Being Hnoured At Men’s Rights Conference Held In August, 2013, in Nagpur.
A High Court lawyer Arvind Kumar Pandey was felicitated by a section of lawyers for receiving an award at fifth National Men’s Rights Conference held in Nagpur recently, for outstanding contribution in championing the cause of men in national and International arena, during a programme organized at Indian Coffee House on Saturday.
Addressing the lawyers, Arvind Kumar Pandey said, “Biased criminal laws have spoiled the lives of many men charged under the Dowry Act. The laws like Domestic Violence Act, IPC 498 a, and Maintenance Act, to name a few are heavily tilted in favour of women and have done more harm than producing good effects.”
The Men’s Rights National conference, held at Pench Tiger Reserve in Nagpur was attended by more than 150 men’s rights activists, who represented 40,000 activists spread across India and other parts of the globe.
This year’s national conference was held under the aegis of Nagpur Chapter of Save Indian Family Foundation (SIFF), now being run by Rajesh Vakharia. Few prominent International Men’s Rights Associations like Marital Justice from United Kingdom and INSAAF from USA besides Men’s Rights activists from Germany, Singapore, Japan, Australia, South Africa, Middle East, Japan and Russia also attended the conference.
Informing about the resolutions passed at fifth Men’s Rights conference Arvind Kumar Pandey, who attended the conference as a writer and blogger said, “The first resolution was aimed at formation of Men’s Welfare Ministry while the next resolution aimed at reducing the number of men involved in hazardous professions and another important resolution dealt with creation of gender-neutral treatment in legal aspects. Recognition of the rights of fathers, making shared parenting necessary in wake of separation was another major demand made on the occasion. The activists were unanimous in rejecting the highly biased Marriage Law Amendment Bill, 2010, and demanded its roll back. Lastly, the need to make huge investment in areas of Men’s health was deeply felt.”
The felicitation ceremony at Coffee House, Allahabad, was attended by advocates including Neeraj Shukla, Sampanna Kumar Srivastava, Ashish Nigam, Satyadhar Dubey, Arvind Kushwaha, Pintu Jaiswal, Shubhranshu Pandey, Arun Prakash Srivastava, Mohit Kesarwani and few others.
A section of lawyers belonging to Allahabad High Court, Allahabad, Felicitating Me At Historic Indian Coffee House in Allahabad…
Some More Pics From The Felicitation Held In Allahabad On August 27, 2013.
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The News Got Captured By Prominent Newspapers Like The Times of India..
Another Newspaper Published From Allahabad, Northern India Patrika, Also Published The News ….
Rajesh Kumar Pandey, Legal Correspondent, Did Not Hesitate To Offer Me This Bouquet 😛
This Picture Is A Proof That We Also Came To Eat Something 😛 😛 😛
The Entrance Of Historic Indian Coffee House In Allahabad. It’s Associated With Leading Writers/Intellectuals Since 1950…
And That’s Why It Has Become Necessary To Talk About Rights Of Men!!
References:
This news item also got published in these two newspapers:
P.S. : Advocate Altaf Ahamad, practicing at District Court, Allahabad, also attended the felicitation ceremony held at Coffee House, Allahabad on August 27. His name failed to find mention in the news reports. I regret the error.
In Conversation With A Well-Known Author: A Discussion On Future Of West Asia With Bill Kirkman
Obama: Trying To Change The Approach!
Not much has changed in Middle East since my last conversation with Bill Kirkman in 2006. Israel and Palestine relations continue to remain tense even as US has given way to tactical shift in its policies aimed at bringing stability in that region. It has become more people oriented than relying absolutely on state-to-state negotiations.
Obama’s words make that aspect very clear– “Speaking as a politician, I can promise you this: political leaders will not take risks if the people do not demand that they do. You must create the change that you want to see…..Look to the future that you want for your own children – a future in which a Jewish, democratic state is protected and accepted, for this time and for all time. … There will be many voices that say this change is not possible. But remember this: Israel is the most powerful country in this region. Israel has the unshakeable support of the most powerful country in the world. Israel has the wisdom to see the world as it is, but also the courage to see the world as it should be.”
It would be interesting to know the views which flowed between us as we discussed this very sensitive issue seven years back.
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My Viewpoint:
This has reference to Bill Kirkman’s article “A war that is morally indefensible“ published in The Hindu on August 06, 2006. Well, the kidnapping of the Israeli soldiers by the Hamas and brutal murder of some of its soldiers by Hizballah were enough to fan the suppressed desires of Israeli. It’s time to acknowledge the fact that in war both the sides end up as losers. Let’s not intercept it as clash of civilization but clash of religious ideologies. However, it’s a harsh reality that none of the religious ideologies advocate violence but the fallacious interpretation of them by their followers leads to volcanic atmosphere. A situation which is cashed-in-on by the US and its like-minded allies to serve their vested interests. Unless the followers come to elevate their consciousness, it would be nothing sort of foolhardiness to expect miraculous changes in the future.
President Bush must heed to the words of Churchill: ” The statesman who yields to war fever ….is no longer the master of policy but the slave of unforeseeable and uncontrollable events.” Surely, the way events have taken shape in Iraq, shattering American hopes one after another, should be enough for the US to intercept the dangers in pursuing imperialist designs in the name of restoration of human rights.
However, Americans love to ignore the lessons offered by past debacle. Had US remembered setback it received in Vietnam, it would have certainly curtailed its habit of pulling the strings of weaker nation on one pretext or another.
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Words Of Bill Kirkman:
Thank you for writing. I was interested in your comments. I agree that in war both sides end up as losers. I take a very gloomy view of the future of West Asia.
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About Bill Kirkman:
” He began his career as a journalist on the Wolverhampton Express & Star, which he joined on graduating from Oxford. Bill then moved on to The Times, where he was Africa Correspondent and Commonwealth Staff Correspondent in the early 1960s, covering the period of rapid de-colonisation. He is the author of Unscrambling an Empire (Chatto & Windus 1966) and has been a columnist for The Hindu since 1994. He was a frequent broadcaster with the BBC World Service and Africa Service in the 1960s, and with BBC Radio Cambridgeshire in the 1990s. In 1983 Bill was awarded the MBE for services to journalism…..Bill was Head of the University Careers Service from his arrival in Cambridge in 1968 until 1992 (following four years as Careers Advisor at Oxford) and University Advisor on Public Relations 1992-1996.”
Source: Wolfson College Cambridge
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A War Takes Its Toll On Innocents!
Suggested Reading:
Bill Kirkman: A war that is morally indefensible; The Hindu, Aug 06, 2006.
Max Fisher: How Obama just reframed the Israel-Palestine conflict; The Washington Post, March 21, 2013.
Pics Credit:
Reflections on Hyderabad Twin Blasts: How Long Will Muslims Take To Feel That They Truly Belong To India?
Governments do not know that it’s only ordinary citizens who die first in terrorist attack!
How will you define the separatist feelings in Indian Muslims? How long will they take to feel that they truly belong to India? Have you ever visited Muslim locality during India-Pakistan Match? They celebrate Pakistan’s victory as if Pakistan has gained something incredible. They never celebrate it in sportsmanship style. In fact, I also, being a cricket lover, feel happy if Pakistan wins after displaying good strategies. However, that’s not the way Muslim celebrate it. It’s a different celebration altogether. It speaks volume about their mindset. They are Muslims first and nationalists later.
Before I proceed further, it would be interesting to read what a conscious Indian thinks about blasts which hit Hyderabad on Febuary 21, 2013:
“Arvindji, Pakistan keenly wants Hindu-Muslim riots in India to destabilize India and malign our image in front of international community. They want Hindus and Muslims to fight with each other. If a riot happens, Pakistan will blame India for torturing Muslims. If a riot happens then Indians will suffer and Pakistan will be very happy. If India wages a war against Pakistan, then also India has much to lose. A war will destroy our economic growth. Pakistan, whose economy is in shatters, has not much to loose.India needs a powerful and independent agency, formed jointly by state and centre, which must work to build a strong internal security and intelligence gathering system. India has to prepare itself to fight against foes who are hidden among us.” ( Prasanjit Saha, Hyderabad)
Very well said, my dear conscious Indian! We have always suffered because we always dared to read the intentions of enemy lightly. That’s why traitors like Mir Zafar, hand-in-glove, with foreign powers ensured that India became battle ground for dubious foreign powers in past! The right strategy is that we should crush the enemy to an extent that it dares not make an attempt to give force to divisive forces. Our decency is seen as weakness even as it win friends in International circles. Safety of our individuals is first than ensuring that we have friends in foreign lands. That should be our top priority. If our people are dying like street dogs, then to have happy face is cowardice and sin.
You can control an enemy- a simple enemy. But how will you control an enemy with a dubious mindset. The problem with Muslims is not that they are Muslims. It’s more about their mindset. How would you change that? That too when government at Centre, is lame duck, which refuses to see problems pertaining to Muslims as threat to national integrity. Obviously, it’s all about politics to retain power. However, in this great game the victims are ordinary citizens, who have no other desire than to live dignified life, peaceful life.
How will you ensure who is friend and who is foe when foes appear in form of friends? In Hindi you have better term to express it: “Genhu ke Sath Ghun Bhi Pis Jaate Hai” ( Few good people also die in an attempt to eliminate the enemy).This situation would not have arisen unless the members of Muslim community had given clear indication of their intentions that they in no way identify with negative forces operating within their community.So it’s a catch 22 situation. Isn’t it? The intelligence reports, which government dares not to make it public, or rather citizens are not conscious enough to read it, or else it would have given insights how the home grown terrorists are operating from one corner of the nation to another remote part of the nation.
“According to IB reports, the ISI has set up strong modules of the Lashkar-e-Tayiba in the Gulf. The Oman module is also very strong and directly connected to the modules in Kerala. ..The annual remittance through hawala channels into Kerala is a whopping Rs 20,000 crore. This figure tells the story of a state, which has today become a hub for extremists….The National Investigating Agency, which has its eyes on this state, has also found that large sums of money, which has been pumped in from the Gulf, had been used to execute the blasts at Delhi, Bengaluru and also at Ahmedabad.”
Worse, how can you ignore the fact that there are many who see a strong intelligence as a threat for secular fabric of this nation? They are the ones who will immediately give way to propaganda via International media that it’s a move to terrorize minorities. See it in light of human rights violation allegations heaped upon security forces operating in Kashmir!! It’s anybody’s guess that with this sort of political will and dismal scenario, the war against terror is not on the right track. It’s time to tackle divisive forces with iron hand, to ensure a safe future for India, better future for India.
References:
International Business Times-Pakistani Hand
Pic Credit:
वैलेंटाइन डे: लो आया मौसम प्यार के बिक्री का!
क्या प्रेम आज भी इतना ही मासूम है इस फूल की तरह?
कल तथाकथित प्यार करने वालो का परम पुनीत दिवस है। कुछ कहने की जरूरत नहीं है कि फर्जी इमोशंस के साथ बहुत सारे गुलाबो का आदान प्रदान होगा। गुलाब का तो पता नहीं पर वो अगर समझदार लड़की होगी तो उसका काम तो लह गया क्योकि गुलाब तो मुरझा जायेंगे, चाकलेट उदर में समा जायेंगे लेकिन गिफ्ट हो सकता है अगले साल भी किसी और को देने में काम आ सकते है। क्योकि एक साल में बहुत से इस साल वैलेंटाइन डे मनाने वालो लड़कियों के बॉयफ्रेंड इनके द्वारा ऐक्स्ड (axed ) कर देने के कारण एक्स-बॉयफ्रेंड हो जाते है। एक्स- गर्लफ्रेंड भी अस्तित्व में आ जाती है। खैर ये सब पुराने प्रेमी नहीं कि जाके किसी सॉलिड रॉक के ऊपर कोई दुखांत सा गीत गाये। इतने संवेदनशील नहीं कि शोक मनाये। कुछ एक जो थोड़े दुखी होंगे वो जरूर सॉलिड रॉक कुक्कुर धुन में रचे गीत जैसे” जो भी मै कहना चाहू बर्बाद करे अल्फाज़ मेरे“ को गाने या सुनने के बाद “तू नहीं सही कोई और सही” को चरितार्थ करते हुएँ किसी नए के दामन से लिपट जायेंगें। अब कितने सारे आप्शन माने विकल्प “जोड़ी ब्रेकर” के रूप में भटक रह होते है। वो तो पुराने प्रेमी थे जो बेचारे कितने साल महीने आंसू टपकाते थें “प्यार की आग में तन बदन जल गया” गाते थें। अब तो आप इतने व्यापक विकल्पों वाले है कि मौका मिले तो “मेरे ब्रदर की दुल्हन” भी आपकी हो सकती है।
बाज़ार में देख रहा हूँ कि भोजपुरी गीतों के रोमांटिक एल्बम भी बहुत सारे आ गए है जिसके ऊपर “लभ” वाले चिन्ह बने हुएं है। मतलब प्यार का व्यापार ग्रामीण संस्कृति में गहनता से व्याप्त हो गया है। अहसास तो यही होता है। वर्ना ये अजंता-एलोरा की आधुनिक संस्करण तो भोजपुरी वाले “लभ” में इंटरेस्ट दिखाने से रही। जितनी तेज़ी से भारत ग्लोबल हुआ उतनी तेज़ी से लव का ग्राफ भी बढ़ा ये तय है। दोनों में समानुपाती रिश्ता सा लगता है। खैर एक चीज़ ये है कि इंडिया ने अब इतनी फ्रीडम जरूर दी है कि अगर इतने सारे आप्शनस लॉन्ग टर्म, शार्ट टर्म, लिव-इन के बावजूद भी आप अगर अकेले रह गए तो आप अपने सेक्स के साथ भी लव कर सकते है। इससे आप का कॉन्फिडेंस लेवल तो बढेगा ही और साथ में आप सब पे धौंस जमा सकते है प्रोग्रेसिव बन कर। कम से कम लोगो को अपने अनुभव से उत्पन्न प्रोग्रेसिव लेक्चर तो झाड़ ही सकते है। थोडा अच्छा लिख लेते हो तो क्या पता आप एक दो नोवेल भी लिख दे और पुरस्कार वगैरह मिल गया, जो ऐसे थीम पे अन्तराष्ट्रीय या राष्ट्रीय जगत में कुछ न कुछ मिलना तय ही है, तो युवा वर्ग की नब्ज़ पकड़ने वाले तमगो सहित आप की लेखक के रूप में उभार तय है।
वैलेंटाइन डे के ठीक एक दिन के बाद भट्ट कैम्प की मर्डर थ्री रिलीज़ हो रही है। ये सीरिज मैंने नहीं देखी है और ना मै चाहता हूँ कि इस सीरिज की कोई फ़िल्म देखने का सौभाग्य कभी भविष्य में बने लेकिन इस नयी फ़िल्म के पोस्टर में लिखी पंच लाइन आज के लव की हकीकत बयान कर देती है। लिखा है कि आप अपने प्रेमी को कितना जानते है? मतलब साफ़ है कि अगर आप सचेत नहीं है तो लव के बाद धोखा अवश्य है। वैसे अच्छा है वैलेंटाइन डे के ठीक एक दिन के बाद ही बहुत सारे नए नए प्रेमी भूतपूर्व प्रेमी हो जायेंगे। एक्सपीरियंस बढेगा युवाओं का। कैसी संस्कृति है कि वफ़ा की सोच भी रखना जुर्म से कम नहीं। सब में मिलावट, सब में खोट है चाइनीज़ माल की तरह। कब फुस्स हो जाए पता नहीं। एक युग था कि सरल और सीधा होना सम्मानजनक था। आज आप के नाकाबिलियत का परिचायक है। आप के विरुद्ध निकम्मेपन का तमगा है। शातिर दिमाग होना ही बुद्धिमानी बन गया है। खैर ये लव करने वाले प्रेमी उगते रहे, पनपते रहे। लेकिन चूँकि गाँव में “लभ” पाँव पसार चूका है इसलिए सरकार को जैसे शहर में लव के डाक्टर माने साइकोलोजिस्टस है जो प्यार के साइड इफेक्ट्स डिप्रेशन या टीनेज प्रेगनेंसी के केसेस को देखते है ऐसे कुछ डाक्टरों को ग्रामीण क्षेत्रो में नियुक्त किये जाए। ताकि कम से कम प्रेम के बाद जो शॉक्स झेंले पड़े उनका निदान वैज्ञानिक तरीके से हो। खैर मेरी तरफ से सब प्रेमी जनों को शुभकामनायें।
मेरे अन्दर तो साहिर की यही पंक्तियाँ उभर रही है:
हर चीज़ ज़माने की जहाँ पर थी वहीं है,
एक तू ही नहीं है
नज़रें भी वही और नज़ारे भी वही हैं
ख़ामोश फ़ज़ाओं के इशारे भी वही हैं
कहने को तो सब कुछ है, मगर कुछ भी नहीं है
हर अश्क में खोई हुई ख़ुशियों की झलक है
हर साँस में बीती हुई घड़ियों की कसक है
तू चाहे कहीं भी हो, तेरा दर्द यहीं है
हसरत नहीं, अरमान नहीं, आस नहीं है
यादों के सिवा कुछ भी मेरे पास नहीं है
यादें भी रहें या न रहें किसको यक़ीं है
प्रेम का एक स्वरूप ये भी है!
Reference:
Pics Credit:
Internet
Gender Equality Is Like The Snake Marrying Mongoose!
Gender Equality Leads To Snake And Mongoose Relationship!
The women community seeking “equality of gender”, should either accept this concept in entirety, or else, follow desirable norms. The point is why so much insistence on rights for behaving as you want, for doing whatever you want? Why not give way to responsibilities shared, supposedly always considered as role of men since time immemorial! That includes all menial jobs requiring intense labour in tough conditions. That also means serving the men community, inside homes, for ages. The men community did that for ages, supplying money like ATM machine, despite suffering severely at hands of cruel wives. That too silently! These employed, high salaried women, should also marry unemployed youths and offer them all comforts for many centuries without feeling the pinch just the way men community did that in past! I am just trying to convey that this drama of gender equality gained momentum in wake of the world becoming a sophisticated place to live, largely shaped by men and women in the same patriarchal mode, which the bunch of derailed feminists saw as an obstacle for the emancipation of woman.
I am not interested in narrating the consequences of feminism in other parts of the world, but in Indian context, it has given rise to new set of complexities. There was already healthy division of labour but with the rise of feminism, or call it curse of modernism, the world inside home got projected as insult to the capabilities of women. The traditional roles were projected as subservient. However, as the modern women, shattering so-called shackles, stepped out of the confines of home, they realized that world is not bed of roses, or on par with their expectations, largely because of limitations caused by their physicality. So another set of calculated efforts came into action, to make the outside world seem a safer domain. And for that very reason, males were advised to co-operate inside homes, doing household work, after all, that’s what true equality demands! That also meant loving “fathers, brothers, sons” all be presented as “potential rapists” so that a false alarm can be raised, and thus, International bodies can come to dictate us, calling it a nation, which does not respects and honours women! The problems pertaining to women were highlighted in exaggerated way so as to ensure that hocus-pocus, called feminism, can make its presence felt in India.
It’s not that the problems related to woman community do not exist but a shrewd attempt to use them to create rift between the relationship, using the same bothering issues, is simply an attempt to hit hard at the cherished institutions called family and marriage. One never said that problems related with women be it female foeticide, rising sexual crimes, health concerns, low literacy level and etc. should never be dealt with in a conscious way. However, why should one not be alarmed when these very issues became a part of the plot to destabilize Indian society? It’s amazing that lesbians, drunk female girls, prostitutes not by condition but by choice, females involved in all sorts of complex relationship should be hailed as appropriate but the same women living inside the confines of home as an ideal wife is seen as insult to womanhood! I mean what sort of values are being professed in name of equality? What’s being achieved? It leaves one in deep pain that even the most heinous crimes “rapes” are also being used as tool to ensure that gender imbalance sharpens in name of equality.
This sort of heightened false consciousness in Indian women is a necessity because the governments in future would largely be shaped by minorities and women, and so it’s necessary to appease them, to keep them ignorant about real implications of chasing imported theories related with equality. At global level, this sort of destabilized society, wherein men and women, are living highly individualistic lives, caters well to the needs of consumerist society. So why would corporate demons make women aware of consequences of aping such wayward lifestyle, which is resulting in single women, divorced couples, broken homes, fatherless children, eventually leading to rise in crime level too? It’s safer for them that women come out of their homes, work for them, leading to greater productivity.
On the other hand, political class is all prepared to use them as a tool to make their political dreams come alive with their help. Only to attain such diabolical interests, the concept called feminism-the great game of gender equality-came in effect. It’s a myth that it got introduced to make their lives better. At least, in India, it’s not the case. Indeed, women have a set of their own problems, but to remove them, was it necessary to fall in the trap of complex notions of feminism, having goals which even Western world has failed to exhibit in totality or demonstrate with perfection? However, the problem starts when New Delhi starts living the pattern of life found in New York and Washington. That’s why borrowed concepts become a necessity. That’s why “equality” also becomes a necessity. That’s why a highly reputed media publication is bound to see “Sunny Leone” as woman of exceptional talent and merit. And that’s why it’s necessary to give rise to conflicts wherein woman is equal when it comes to enjoy benefits of modern society but woman feels no longer equal when threat is directly to her body. At that point, she is woman! Be equal to enjoy benefit, but be a woman in helpless positions!
Bringing qualitative differences in lives of woman is quite a different issue than using these very issues to demonize men, or, in fact, use the same issues to shatter the citadels of society. The positive side of this gender equality is that it has allowed men to reshape their own priorities. It has given them a huge chance to realize their own worth and get united to fight for the cause of men in a spirited way-something never done until now. This gender equality is a great phenomenon. At least, now everything related with woman shall be put on trial and it’s a great chance to shatter all stereotyped notions with them. They are no holy cows, and they are as shrewd and manipulative as men needs to be ably projected. It’s a myth that they are a weaker sex and that they were the harassed lot in past. They have always enjoyed deep respect, care, both in external world and within the four walls of home. However, it’s ironical, and diabolical too, that instead of highlighting this aspect, all the men got clubbed in one category of abusers of women. So it’s time to tell that who actually has been abusing-man or woman? The men community should discuss their own issues in a more organized way-their concerns, their dilemmas, their worries, their pain and their sufferings etc. should get highlighted in a better way. It’s for them to decide that they have to live like a male or as a female in a male body. That’s the real agenda of feminism- to curb the instincts of men to make them in tune with absurd concerns of women.
Lastly, there is nothing like gender equality. There are honorable differences and these differences should persist for the growth of society in a better way. Radha, Seeta, Draupadi, Savitri and other such great women were the by-product of same patriarchal society. Even in modern times, the same society has produced women for whom their fathers have been the role model. Let’s not topple such a society or else the future will be more darker than one would have imagined. Agreed that women have suffered discrimination and face problems. But are the lives of men devoid of problems? Aren’t they facing host of complex problems? Some times back in Kargil War, the Indian soldiers were killed in barbaric manner. Their genitals were cut. That was simply treated as war crime. The same done with woman would not have not only been treated as a war crime but also as sexual assault, rape. Now there lies the difference. That’s the paradox. One wishing true gender equality should treat both bodies as mere bodies! If that’s not possible then stop this nonsense about gender equality. At present, there is a difference and no difference in the name of equality. Difference when you can’t face the heat and no difference in sophisticated scenario. That’s not equality. That’s opportunism. That’s selfishness. That’s shrewdness of highest type.
And I Notice The Difference For Society’s Unity!
Pics Credit:
Pic Two Internet
Delhi Gang Rape: Important Aspects Totally Overlooked By The Paid Mainstream Media
Rape Is A Social Issue!
India’s braveheart girl must have begun a new journey in some other mysterious world. Back in India, the land of her birth and also death in such a tragic fashion, after being gang-raped and sexually assaulted in most barbaric manner, leading to severe multiorgan failure, the protests have begun to lose momentum. That’s a typical course of action for any movement in India. It sooner or later, becomes part of fading memory and, after some years, many find it hard to recollect what exactly happened! Even in this case, eyewash gesture of setting another committee had been done, ignoring Supreme Court’s previous directions, which talked about safety of citizens, especially the women. In fact, constitutional provisions and Law Commission recommendations, if implemented with total sincerity, are suffice to take care of safety concerns of women, always left vulnerable to such cruel turns of destiny. One Lakshmi, researcher related with women’s issue, made a fitting remark in The Hindu: “She didn’t die of multiorgan failure, but it was the multiorgan failure of this society and the state which killed her.”
For instance, in this case, how was this bus with illegal tinted glass windows, allowed to move freely on the streets, and that too, when it passed through many police check-posts? What were the cops doing? Even in UP, cars with illegal glass windows, usually having, illegal blue/red beacon lights are in fashion. So why is the Traffic Superintendent, a mute spectator in this regard, when the policemen from the same department are so damn conscious about ensuring regular hafta (a form of bribery) at every crossing from the truck drivers? That’s because no body is interested in annoying the political goons, occupying the high posts as Ministers! The government and High Court wish that common citizens should act as guardians of democracy but have they ensured safety of the whistle-blowers? Before this case,Assistant Sub Inspector Ravinderpal Singh, was shot dead allegedly by Akali Dal leader local secretary (Urban) Ranjit Singh Rana and three of his associates on December 05, 2012, in Amritsar, Punjab, who had resisted the harassment of his daughter. In the same state, a gang-rape victim committed suicide on December 26, 2012, nearly a month after alleged gang-rape, which took place on November 13, 2012, being pressed upon both by police and the society to compromise. In this alleged gang-rape, a woman, identified as Shinderpal Kaur, played a key role. The point that’s being suggested is that popular anger which has got focused on “hang the rapists” or, for that matter, demand for more stringent punishment is absolutely misplaced. That’s not going to yield any better result.
The paid media, having struck unholy nexus, with the government, is constantly projecting rhetoric or misplaced popular sentiments. In United States and in other nations, despite having tough provisions, the rape incidents are quite frequent, even as the better implementation of strict provisions have ensured lesser victimization rate. The point worth considering is that they have given to wider considerations side-by-side stricter laws, which includes concerns related with widespread denial of women as potential sexual aggressors, female-female rape, distinction between forcible and non-forcible rapes, rape of males by females and etc. The researches there also included the impact of drugs, especially alcohol. Even though timing of entering into contrasts with United States is not okay, especially at this point of time, I am but compelled to do since angry people have given way to demand for tougher laws, forgetting that stricter laws can only work wonders when we have sound and sympathetic government machinery in action. Is that the case in India, wherein all sorts of legal provisions have got limited to law books alone?
Against this backdrop, before I deal specifically with the Delhi gang-rape, I wish to clearly state that it would be fatal to confine the urge for changes to “safety of women alone” or, for that matter, demand for stricter provisions to prevent rape. This line of action is being deliberately highlighted under pressure from feminist wings, tactically supported by Congress government, which hopes to regain power with female voters and minority card in next Parliamentary actions. The mainstream media is also singing the same tune, because in wake of fear to lose government’s aid, it has no other option but to toe the stance taken by government. This whole drama which captured the nation’s attention from December 16, 2012, until death of gang-rape victim was a well-orchestrated show managed perfectly well by the paid media and Congress government. There are enough circumstantial evidences which give proof of it that the real story is something else and it’s more horrible than what we all came to witness in these past turbulent fifteen days. I will deal with this aspect later in this article but first let’s not ignore these pertinent points.
Had the protests been genuine and intentions of government honest, the demand would have not been focused on safety of women or rights of women alone, it would have been focused on better safety concerns for every citizen, irrespective of gender. The most horrible thing is that this time politics was done in name of this unfortunate girl, victim of brutal gang-rape, who is no longer in this world. This protest was given vulgar and aggressive shape by the vested interests with immediate and long-term gains in mind. The news of nuisance created by agents of Congress, belonging to NSUI wing, at India gate have now surfaced, and this confirms the suspicion that real story is something else. Three main reasons could be deviating attention of general public from its recent failures on all fronts, diminishing the impact of victory of Narendra Modi at national level, and, above all, an attempt to keep intact the female votes, by emerging as champion of female rights ( the way it tries to emerge as protector of minorities) in long term with some immediate steps in this direction right now.
It’s really ironical that on the one hand sponsored protesters, and foreign funded women’s organisations, are demanding for tougher laws, and, on other hand, this case is now being under the vigilance of Delhi High Court since it has taken suo moto cognizance! Now that’s pretty disturbing! What was the need to do so? May be its apprehensive that government machinery might play foul and delay the justice, and thus, it’s intervention becomes necessary to ensure fair and speedy justice! Without debating the merit of High Court’s decision to take suo moto cognizance of this case, I wish to know will superior courts always take moto cognizance of such cases to ensure fair trial once tough laws come into operation? In other words, we are mindlessly asking for tough laws in a nation, wherein monitoring of cases by superior court becomes necessary to ensure fair justice. In the United States, we have a fair system which not only ensures that tough laws operate within a perfect apparatus but also that cases be dealt in scientific manner. Imagine the consequences of tough laws in corrupt and biased set up which India entertains, wherein right from investigation to trial stage, everything is shoddy and flawed. Does our system has ensured that those abusing the process of law do not go scot-free?
We have already witnessed what has been the fate of tough dowry provisions and SC/ST provisions and still dare to believe that tough provisions would stop rapes in current set-up? Isn’t it was the fear of misuse which led to scrapping of POTA provisions? I am afraid it would only lead to further deterioration of men-women relationships, which is the agenda of foreign sponsored feminist institutions (weakening the institution called family and marriage) and also of secular parties, which breed on chaos and disorder. I mean we are living in times, wherein rape has become some sort of tool to settle scores, a weapon to blackmail, to an extent that even consensual sexes, after love gone sour, gets projected as rape. I am sure a little commonsense, instead of expecting everything to be achieved with the help of laws, would yield better results.
We should not forget that we are living in times, wherein, an actress, Maria Susairaj, can enter in one of the most macabre murders, ever intercepted by world of crime. That’s why instead of a knee jerk reaction, a conscious approach which ensures that cases are dealt in light of merit, not governed by biases for any particular gender shall create better days. Mere strict provisions, with ample scope of their misuse shall only make females become natural enemy of males. There are many MPs and members of state assemblies,booked under rape charges, and if they are asked about it they would let you know that they have been falsely implicated! Their versions may or may not be true, but it does give you an idea that either legal system is being used to settle scores or it’s not being used at all! Against this backdrop, how would you ensure that tough provisions would ensure justice? Let’s have a glimpse how this system functions. The death of constable Subhash Tomar, amid the violent protests at India Gate, is now shrouded in mystery. The autopsy report suggests, that death was caused by a sharp object but the witnesses claim that death was a natural affair and no such attack was involved! See the contradiction.
But we are living in strange times. The mere appeal to women to dress properly or maintain right visiting hours is seen as some sort of curtailing their rights or independence, and not as commonsense. That’s because so-called lust for absolute freedom, on par with corrupt theories sponsored by feminists, have robbed of their ability to think in simple terms, making them see every such sound advice as insult of their beings. For instance, I am sure even a men, however strong may he be, run the risk of being attacked and killed, if he dares to move on streets all alone during nocturnal hours! So is there any point in seeing a crime in a gender specific way and demanding safety of women alone? Check the data and you would find more number of men killed in tragic way. So should I start campaigning for safer world of men? Attack and getting killed is more failure of law and order, instead of something born out of gender specific cause. Another idiotic argument presented by the feminists, and modern girls, is that wearing provocative dress is no invitation to rape. That’s true and I agree whole-heartedly with the counter offered but what I totally disagree is that provocative dressing creates no impact. That defies psychological laws. It’s a common phenomenon that both female and male physiological responses i.e. erectile responses are involuntary in wake of anticipating atmosphere surcharged with sexual stimulants.
So why are we trying to create a system, which mainly tries to accommodate demands of one sex, not in tune with common sense and psychological aspects? Mind you even “gun-culture” would not ensure a safe scenario if some basic sociological principles get avoided. That’s the reason why gun-culture in United States has not ensured desired result. Anyway, I am not suggesting that following such simple steps, rapes would become a rarity or, for that matter, decently dressed woman would altogether be free of sexual assaults, but these simple steps would ensure a significant drop in crime against woman. That’s exactly what Vrinda Grover, lawyer and women’s activist, is trying to say when she says that: ” There is no evidence to suggest that the death penalty acts as a deterrent to rape…….Certainty of punishment rather than the severity of its form could act as a deterrent.” (The Hindu)
It’s also strange that gang-rape of this girl is being projected as awakening of this nation but it’s really baffling to understand what exactly are we trying to say when we say so? Are we trying to say that had this girl been not gang-raped we would have never awakened? That’s why I feel this huge protest is orchestrated or it’s totally redundant. That I say so since Delhi has already attained the infamous title of being “rape capital of the country'” long back ago. There were 568 cases of rape, registered in 2007-2011 period. So was Delhi and whole nation sleeping? The Times of India news report from where I picked this data, quoting a police official, stated: “Former IPS officer Y P Singh said the police informally classify rape into two categories: technical and violent. ‘In case of technical rapes, there is an element of consent involved and there is no violence. Some examples are a lady caught red-handed in an act and then alleging rape; a man inducing a lady with a false promise of marriage and having intercourse. There have also been cases where departmental seniors have called for wives of suspended juniors to stop the husband being dismissed from service,” said Singh.”
At the time when this case caught the limelight, an unfortunate mother in Uttar Pradesh, was struggling hard to get justice in a case involving suicide of her daughter, after being gang-raped. However, neither the media nor the concerned higher authorities including District Magistrate paid any attention to her grievances. That makes it even more important to understand the true elements constituting the protest at India Gate and Jantar Mantar. That I say so because in past we have witnessed murder most foul like Naina Sahni murder case, Madhumita Shukla murder case, Jessica Lal murder case, and brutal rapes like one involving Aruna Shanbaug and rape of a twelve year old mentally challenged girl by a drunkard in Mumbai local train even as the others remained a mute spectator, and now we pretend that after December 16 gang-rape, nation has awakened, and, thus, demand greater safety of women!
How can we forget the brutal gang-rapes of two Mizo women, abducted from Dhaula Kuan, Delhi, and repeatedly gang-raped in moving vehicles in 2005 and 2010? Why we did not then gave way to such awakening? In fact, they were too dumped on the street, unconscious and without clothes, very much like the December 16 tragic episode? They were not subjected to injuries of grave nature but they are still facing emotional trauma.”The condition of this woman is worse as she seems to have lost her mental balance after the incident. “I have been told she still flows into a fit of rage, bangs her head against the wall and keeps on inflicting injuries on her private parts,” informed one of the members belonging to the Northeast Support Centre & Helpline while narrating the normalcy report of 2005 case victim.
That’s why it becomes more than necessary to intercept this December 16 gang-rape case under the lens and scrutinize its each aspect very deeply. The moment you do so, you realize that this tragic episode, was used very shrewdly to serve some vested interests and there are many dark aspects, which have not at all surfaced despite being vast media coverage in sensational way. One might differ with my conjectures/hypothesis but the very facts point towards well-planned conspiracy to first blow out of proportion such episode and later conceal or destroy the evidences so that real picture never surfaces. Let’s deal with such dubious aspects one by one. First of all, many who had gathered at India Gate/Jantar Mantar were people belonging to women’s rights association and as per unconfirmed news reports there were disturbing elements from one political party to make the protests go out of control! The same thing happened. So that means less number of people from general public-the cattle class- and more people from dubious sections of society were mourning at the India gate and Jantar Mantar -the two spots which got maximum coverage by the mainstream media- demanding safety of women, which led to killing of constable Subash Tomar!
Secondly, we need to know who was behind the decision to carry her to Singapore based hospital? Why was that considered necessary and that too when it not only involved additional risk to patient but also involved huge expenditure involving taxpayer’s money? Medical fraternity is absolutely sure that there was no need to get her shifted to any other hospital, involving flight journey, when she was on ventilator, struggling hard to overcome multiorgan failure Since it appears to be more a political reason than a medical reason, isn’t that shows lack of insensitivity on part of political class? And secondly, a government claiming to ensure safety of woman, entered in such a cruel gesture when the whole nation was watching! It speak volumes about the decision making ability of Congress leaders, ironically, one of them is Lady Chief Minister of Delhi! Agreeing that Delhi High Court had remarked about shifting the victim to a super-specialty hospital but that was subject to advice of medical experts and limited to extreme conditions. And the medical team has already denied that they had no role in that decision! So who made this decision and for what reasons? It’s also curious that electronic media channels, who covered the initial sensational phase of the tragic episode, were the ones, who abstained from covering the last ceremony of the victim, wherein it’s learned that government acted with undue haste to get the last rites done quickly, much against the opposition of parents of the victim!
Anyway, the most sensational aspect happened while recording the statement of victim in the ICU. The Sub Divisional Magistrate Usha Chaturvedi was not only prevented from video recording of the victim’s statement by three senior police officers but also asked by them to ” use a questionnaire they prepared”. Now that says all. The episode took a serious turn, making the SDM report the matter to Deputy Commissioner (East) B.M. Mishra. The questions we need to ask and think over are: Whom was Delhi Police trying to protect? Why was it not interested in having the videography done? Who were the backstage people involved, who influenced Delhi Police to act in that fashion? As per news reports, the people involved, the six men charged with crime, are people from lower section of society and so it’s highly impossible that top level police officers would react in that fashion and be head on with a superior authority unless some big fish is involved! And that too, at a moment, when right from Prime Minister to whole nation, everyone appeared to be damn conscious about ensuring justice for this lady! So what was the need for Police officers to prevent the SDM from following her own way? Isn’t it a stunning blow to the claims that tough laws would ensure better environment for women? With this sort of functioning style, it’s anybody’s guess that only innocents would be behind the bars, leading to weakening of the societal structure, which in turn would help the foreign agents, in tandem with anti-India forces, to create more space for their direct control of affairs in India.
Anyway, I leave upon conscious readers to frame suitable answers for these disturbing questions. Right now I just pray for that departed soul: May you always rest in eternal peace. Hope Lord gives you all, what you failed to achieve in this ephemeral world, governed by human sharks, promoting their deadly agendas. Angels like you have no room for survival in this world.
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Celebrations, After Ajmal Kasab’s Execution, Hold No Meaning Until Islamic Terrorism Gets Wiped Out Totally
That’s Mumbai 26/11 Reeling Under The Impact Of Islamic Terrorism
Well, we Indians are always desperate to elicit happiness from even the most insignificant happenings. That too when almost every alternate day, we are involved in this or that celebration. Have taste of the recent cause of celebration: Terrorist Ajmal Kasab, the lone surviving Pakistani terrorist of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, hanged till death. Is this news worthy of receiving that much attention, the way Indian mainstream newspapers flashed it on their front pages, highlighting the jubilant mood which prevailed in the nation in aftermath of the death of Kasab? It was turned into an event as if India had carved a defining moment in world history at that point of time. It appeared as if our always tight-lipped PM Manmohan Singh, started roaring like a true lion, with deafening intensity! Let me make it very clear, instead of putting it figuratively, that we need to intercept critical issues not in light of such minor gains. Instead of going overboard with such idiotic style of celebration, let’s learn to delve deep into resultant implications, when the issue pertains to sensitive issues.
The mainstream media is guilty of projecting the whole episode the wrong way. It first informed us about in a sensational style, the high level of secrecy maintained by the people involved in hanging process of Ajmal Kasab, adding that it was carried under the direct supervision of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, making the whole process bear close resemblance with Laden’s killing by USA, which was perfectly executed under the supervision of Barack Obama. Such colouring is absolutely out of place. Next we are informed by some sections of media about the high level of commitment of this UPA government, caught between the devil and the deep blue sea most of the time, in keeping at bay the threats imposed by terrorism. Isn’t mainstream media guilty of first giving rise to such flawed contrast in covert manner, and later, projecting it as some sort of moral victory for the government?
That’s certainly not the case. The death of Kasab got brutally delayed because of the slow judicial process, as he had been declared guilty way back in 2008. It would not be hard to imagine that government would have spent huge amount of taxpayers’ money in providing him great security, in offering food and lodging. So is there any merit in celebrations which took place? Does this government, failure on every front deserve any credit? If it’s that committed to send strong signals to Islamic terrorists, what’s the reason of delaying the death of 2001 Parliament attack death row convict Afzal Guru? If it’s that alert to avoid fresh attacks, why the same loopholes prevail, in measures concerned with internal security, which prevailed at the time of Mumbai attack? The commoners are still susceptible to same threats and a fresh attack remains a great probability. So isn’t our happiness misplaced?
This paid media, sponsored by vested interests, is corrupting the sensibilities of average readers by such crass sensationalism of minor happenings. It’s trying to deviate away our attention from more pertinent concerns- the real issues. It’s weakening our ability to frame any issue in right perspective. Such crass reporting of vain developments is no less than sweet poison, rendering ineffective the impact caused by uneasy questions. Let me put the record straight. I am not ardent fan of Bal Thackeray, but I must admit that I liked his view that these dreaded terrorists do not need convictions after such lengthy trials. On the contrary, they need to be immediately shot dead. I mean what’s the point in subjecting a terrorist to trial, who was caught live on cameras killing people in cold blooded manner, with no sign of remorse, tainted with sadistic pleasure? But you ensured that he dies only after rejection of his mercy petition by the President- a petition which is never meant for such people! Never forget that had dedicated team lawyers under the headship of Ujjawal Nikam, didn’t pursue the case with that much sincerity, it would have simply not been possible to ensure conviction of such dreaded criminal.
In light of such facts, it’s really hard to believe that death of Ajmal Kasab highlights the strong commitment on part of the weak UPA government to erase Islamic terrorism from Indian land. The slow process involved in the elimination of such dangerous minds is only indicative of its lackadaisical approach and any conscious observer shall never treat it as sign of strong will. Strong will gets depicted when you get involved in serious manhunt of dreaded terrorist for years and kill him on the spot-the way USA killed Laden. Strong will gets projected when you ensure the killings of dictators by attacking a nation despite huge protests, sacrificing lives of so many of our own people. The targeted drone attacks engineered by CIA’s programme, in various parts of Pakistan’s tribal heartland, is what truly represents will to eliminate dangerous minds! The strong commitment becomes evident when you ensure that such lethal attacks become a remote possibility, and for that you ensure that even foreign dignitaries have the taste of tough measures. It’s better this government stops fooling people, boasting of its so-called commitment.
Let me bring into light some of the important aspects related with hanging till death of Ajmal Kasab, which the mainstream media deliberately kept it away from the focal point of an average reader’s eyes, blocking him to form a substantial perspective. In a news item published in The Hindu, it was reported, citing recent UN General Assembly’s human rights committee’s resolution calling for a global moratorium on the death penalty, that ‘execution was an “unconstitutional act” of the State’. The Amnesty International, like always reacting in hypersensitive way in India related affairs, wondered about “unusual speed with which the mercy petition was rejected’, labeling it as something that would give rise to a “dangerous precedent”. The Kafila publications, best place for anti-India secularists to publish their outburst, taking a similar stance as one taken by The Hindu, stated that “the very fact that Kasab had indeed committed an unpardonable crime is what renders him eligible for mercy”. One writer, belonging to the same publication, went ahead in unleashing his frustration, termed the jubilant mood of the victim’s families of 26/11 as “barbaric”. I am die-hard champion of freedom of expression but I wish to know do such anti-India sentiments constitute freedom of expression? Very recently, a cartoonist was sent to jail for dishonouring national symbols and this writer is interested in knowing from the government what actions has it taken to stop such publications from repeatedly hurting the national pride?
Almost challenging the so-called commitment of this UPA government, just after the execution of Ajmal Kasab, the commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) was quick in communicating his intentions to news agency Reuters: “He was a hero and will inspire other fighters to follow his path.” The news of Kasab execution came as a bolt from the blue for the Taliban leaders in Pakistan who were badly hurt that a “Muslim has been hanged on Indian soil”. If that was not enough, Pakistan’s failure to keep its promises intact of acting against perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack has only added fuel to the fire. It still insists on not having enough evidences sustainable in court, which is a blatant lie in eyes of India, as it had already presented enough concrete evidences. Strangely, a major political party in Pakistan, headed by cricketer turned politician, Imran Khan, has demanded the hanging of Indian prisoner Sarabjit Singh. Such a knee jerk reaction is enough to suggest the level of derailment of Pakistani leaders.
In a shocking disclosure in The Economic Times, B Raman, additional secretary (retd), Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India, virtually shattering the myths spread by the Government that it’s fully prepared to counteract terrorism iron-hand way, stated that “we were a soft state before 26/11 and we continue to be a soft state after 26/11 and the execution of Kasab”. The government, I am sure would take political mileage, but it would be better for it, if it pays attention to words of sensible minds like B Raman and take appropriate measures, instead of fooling the people with help of mainstream media with rhetoric and crass sentimentality. “Kasab is no more, but the jihadi terrorist threat posed by the state of Pakistan and its non-state creations remain as serious as before. We need a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy to deal this. We do not see any signs of it so far.” (B Raman) What’s the point in feeling glad, after the execution of Kasab, when it has utterly failed to put right pressure on Pakistan to heed its line of action?
Let’s stop being swayed by such misplaced emotions. The citizens of India should not be influenced by such rhetoric, and, instead, put pressure on government to ensure its safety in a proper way. It should replace this government with one which better suits the destiny of nation, allowing better rulers to be in the driver’s seat. The country needs few more souls like Indira Gandhi, K P S Gill and Jagmohan, to name a few, to teach fitting lesson to dangerous organisations like Indian Mujahideen (IM), aided and funded by foreign nations including Pakistan. That’s why it becomes imperative for citizens to use their voting rights sensibly, and a failure in this regard, only ensures an unstable future. So ‘wake up sid’ it’s now a do or die situation! Act before it’s too late.
Killing The Petty Criminal Means Nothing, Kill Their Commander!
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Indira Gandhi: Her Hardcore Mannerism Was Better Than Gentleness Of Puppet Prime Ministers
The Lady Who Really Loved This Nation
I still treat Indira Gandhi as one of the finest politicians India ever produced. At least, she was a politician with a backbone. She had a mind of her own, which she perfectly used to serve the cause of nation. She was, indeed, mired in bundle of contradictions and offered no great resistance to Congress culture wedded with sycophancy. Despite being owner of iron-will, she was in grip of insecurities. That brought her head on with prominent leading constitutional body like Supreme Court. She was the one who really started the game of weakening Supreme Court after biting the dust due to Allahabad HighCourt’s decision. The emergency period, an evergreen stigma on India’s democratic credentials, prove that she inherited the dictatorship traits found in infamous dictators of the past.
This “dumb doll” was really deceptive, and, no wonder, she was at the receiving end of Nixon’s anger, who treated her as “witch” and “clever fox”. The problem with her was that she had a disturbed childhood, followed by broken marriage, which when got combined with bourgeois set up offered by Congress culture, produced a fractured personality. She had flashes of brilliance in matters pertaining to internal security but other times she remained in possession of her whims and fancies. The Congress Party, which likes of Mahatma Gandhi, believed should be dissolved after Independence, remained in power with all its ills. Against this backdrop, a strong lady like Indira Gandhi had no other option but to share the road with corrupt minds.
We have many legitimate reasons to believe that her flaws in her persona outnumbered her positive aspects. However, it’s undisputed that her love towards nation was supreme. She had perfect global mind, which could argue with egocentric American leaders in tough language. She had the ability to call a spade a spade besides having the ability to follow her own way even as that meant ransacking American wishes. India, if we leave Atal Bihari Vajpayee, has not seen any Prime Minister who articulated dreams and wishes so well before the global leaders in the post Nehru regime in such a bold fashion. Lal Bahadur Shashtri also led the nation in glorious way but that’s a different story.
Today this nation is in mess. It’s progressing in a manner which has further widened the gap between the haves and the have nots. The Jihadi elements rule the roost, naxalites run a parallel government in this nation, China has increased its influence in Nepal and Arunanchal Pradesh, Kashmir remains in the grip of separatist leaders and scams have become the only phenomenon taking place regularly but our puppet Prime Minster Manmohan Singh, like Roman Emperor Nero, feels all is well! Imagine the fate of this nation in hands of likes of Rahul Babas and Robert Vadheras.
India was much safe in hands of Indira Gandhi than in the hands of mentally retarded leaders of our era, having huge difference in theory and practice. This lady with so many flaws had the sincere desire to keep India’s integrity intact. Her hardcore attitude was better than tendencies exhibited by leaders like Pranab Mukherjee, Manmohan Singh and Chidambaram, which is nothing other than cowardice masquerading as gentleness. We need her boldness and not such pretenders at the helm of affairs, in control of foreign hands, hidden behind the curtain.
She always had a mind of her own
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