Did annA succeed in making the relay fast / indefinite fast culture, a national culture as a means of getting demands fulfilled?
Gandhiji maintained that he was using fast as a source and tool of self-purification, though it also served as a non-violent weapon in the freedom movement. Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel used to be scared, whenever Gandhiji went on fast.
The first campaign of annA for lOk pAl scared the UPA Government.
The recent campaign of the July-Aug 2012 has not gained much. Anna withdrew his fast, and also dissolved his team. A part of the team seems to be keen on launching a political party, using the momentum gained from the past fasts, while annA himself seems hesitant.
If India enters into a culture of indefinite fasts aimed at forcing the stoic rulers to concede legitimate demands, it may prima facie appear only as an intimidating black-mail. But what better alternatives are available?
--suicide bombers?
--rocket launchers?
--ak47 guns?
--massive rallies?
--employing religious preachers and building religious strife?
--protracted legal battles?
--bribing MPs?
ultimately:
--convincing the electorate . This is the best legitimate democratic tool, which is very difficult to induct. It is fraught with pitfalls, yet it is the most preferable way.
(To continue, and add/amend.)
No comments:
Post a Comment