** Rights and Ex-Servicemen **

I am a member of a yahoo group, "ex-iaf". Recently there was a discussion on taking up the case for allowing ex-airmen to wear uniform on selected occasion. I wrote so -

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Regarding wearing uniform after retirement - first of all, let me place on record my appreciation for people like Sri. BVR Murthy who just dont keep talking but take up the initiative in going about knocking the doors and fighting for rights. It is because of people like Murthy that we aall are left with one or two privileges. Having said that, I think, NOT allowing the non-officer community to wear uniform or medals after retirement is nothing but hypocrisy and smacks of "British" attitude towards "Indian sepoys".

We all have seen and witnessed such things during our Service life. I dont have to elaborate. The situation got far worser after 1996. They started taking the best of everything, leaving the bone pieces to us. Starting from medical facilities and extending upto canteen facilities - it can be witnessed everywhere. Once, I had been to MH for a courtesy call on one of my station officer admitted (one of a few gentleman officer). He had a spacious two room facility + TV + everything. While walking back, I saw many soldiers lying on floors in verandah (as beds were not available). Why this disparity ?? Why separate Qs for Officer in Canteen ?? Why separate doctors for Officers and their "more-than-precious -families" even in ECHS ?? How come their "sickness" more serious than yours and mine ??? The worst case is allotment of higher allowances for officers in hard terrain areas - Is the terrain more difficult for officers than men?? Does the snow bite them harder than the 'jawans'?? I can and we all can quote thousands of such hypocratical rules, regulations, activities, orders, facilities and everything. Thats the way it has been and that is the way it will be.

This "Saab" community took all that suited them from the Britishers and never allowed Independence to reach the "Soldier" community !! Do you all know that last month the Defence Minsitry (meaning on strong recommendation from Officer community) refused to accept the Parlimanentary Committees recommendation to abolish "Bat Man" in Army ??? Many soldiers languish in the houses of "Saabs" as "Batman" washing their clothes, watering their gardens and taking their dogs on evening walks. If you do not agree with me - just take a evening walk in Delhi cantonment area and see for yourself !! (Lucky, we didnt have that in Air Force!). Even today, you can witness "jawans" stading as 'ceremonial guards' during evening time parties in Officers mess, as their "Saabs" dance to soulful music with their beloveds. The "jawan" would be standing in full ceremonial dress (in peak summer) at the gates to enhance the "status" of his boss having a tot inside!! If you dont believe, go and see those things for yourself happening even today as you read this mail.

Well, why am I stating all this here now ??? - It is because, we all should realise that "Officers" will NOT allow us the priviliges that they enjoy !! They will NOT allow us to be treated at par with them even after retirement - for, they live in an illusionary world, thinking that they served the nation more harder than what you and I did !!! It is on these lines that they will NOT allow men to wear uniform after retirement, but they will continue wearing it. It is on these lines that they will NOT allow oursleves to be called as JWO ABC (Retd) - but only as Ex-JWO Sepoy!!! They will remain as Gp Capt/Major/Admiral. Kings (Retd). ("Ex" means, you are OUT of it, while they are still "IN" it)!! The decorations that you earned is not higher or more valuable than what your "Saab" earned and hence YOU CANT WEAR IT after retirement!! ! All our claims to earn the rightful privileges will be taken up at "appropriatelevel" - and rest assured, at the "appropriate level" - it ALL WILL BE struck down. Leave Groups as like ours, even Parliamentary Committee recommendations can NOT stand in front of this "ego" wall !! Let us accept such realities.

Jai Hind !!
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** Beauty of Nature **

The below are photos of a beautiful parrot like flower, which is a protected species in Thailand and has been banned from being exported.

Who but nature can do this ??

** Online Grievances Redressal mechanism **

Yes, it is happening in India. The Government has setup an online grievance form. You can lodge and track your complaints at http://www.pgportal.gov.in The site gives various details on how your grievances will be handled. Such initiatives goes on to show that we do have some smart people working in our Govt offices. This is an excellent initiative and deserves all the appreciation. How effectively does this get implemented will have to be watched. I pray that this gets implemented with all integrity, transparency and sincerity. But, for that to happen, the Govt (read as - the ruling party and other political parties of our nation) needs to adhere to the noble principles - integrity & sincerity !! Will they ??

** Indian Army & Batman Policy **

The Government has decided not to implement the Parliamentary Committee's recommendation on doing away with the practice of batman (sahayak) in Indian Army. The 'Batman' were the invention of Britishers who employed Indian soldiers to polish their shoes and medals. The Indian Army officers who took over from the British did not do away with the 'Batman' - as it suited them very well. Batman has now become synonyms with "unpaid servant" (or) "slaves" of officers!! Why does the Officers and their family need Batman ?? Why should a Soldier be made to wash clothes, clean house, take care of Officer's kids and dogs ?? (Oh YES, he IS being made to do all such jobs and even worse than those that I have mentioned!!). The poor Soldier suffers all such indignation in silence !!

The articles linked below talks more on the subject :-

http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Mocking-Bird/entry/join-the-army-be-a

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/NEWS/India/Govt-rejects-panels-advice-to-do-away-with-Army-orderlies/articleshow/4827855.cms

** INS Arihant **

There are few things that keeps surprising us every now and then. The unveiling of INS Arihant - the first indigenous nuclear powered submarine of India - is one such. The level of corruption that India has touched and the other such destabilizing forces of the nation has not deterred certain pockets of our society and that is the bright silver lining amidst the overpowering dark clouds. I am really not bothered on how good is the submarine going to be when compared to those possessed by other biggies. That India has one, built on its own, is by itself a biggest achievement. Kudos to all those folks who really worked towards accomplishing this goal.

** India & Pak **

This was expected a long ago!! This Congress Govt is NOT capable of taking tough stands - especially, when it comes to Pak. After the Mumbai episode, the same Congress Govt was high on rhetoric and severed all ties with Pak seeking action against the terrorists involved. The Pak Govt too obliged and took "proper" action against all the terrorists involved by releasing them one after another from prison. The Congress govt, being happy with the "suitable" actions having been taken - now, has taken a step forward for resumption of dialogue. Not just that, the joint statement released, makes a mention of "Baluchistan" - which had NEVER found a mention in any dialogue/declaration/statements before. Indian Govt is stupid enough to vouch the "Baluchistan" links in the joint statement released. Agreed, no explicit words linking India to the terrorists attacks by Baluchistan based terrorists on Pak - but the word "Baluchistan" in the joint statement released IMPLIES exactly that.

Now, if you are a core-to-core optimist - the sort who believes that one day sun will rise in WEST - then, you can also start believing that - Pak Govt will act sternly and will curb terrorism emanting from its soil; that Pak will stop aiding Kashmir terrorists; that Pak will stop supplying arms and ammunitions to the terrorists spread world wide; that India will NO longer lose solidiers in its border to Pak bullets; that we will NO longer lose citizens to the bullets of terrorists !!! Rosy picture - Isnt it??

Talk or NO talks - it is going to make NO difference. US Govt is naive enough to supply everything and anything, including money, to keep Pak afloat. Pak is going to be the breeding ground for terrorists. This is NOT going to change - atleast in our life time. A kid can say that by resumption of dialogue this Indian Govt is taking nothing and gives everything to Pak !! Jai Hind !!

** Coverup Operation **

Justice Raghupathi sitting Judge of High Court Chennai stated that he was insisted by an Union Minister (from Tamil Nadu) to let go some of the accused (involved in forging mark sheets) free on bail. Political intervention in judiciary is nothing new - but for the first time, a sitting Judge openly declared the same in the High Court. Names of ministers were openly discussed - but, our PM did not speak a word; CM of Tamil Nadu did not utter a word. They all conducted usual business - as if nothing happened. Finally it was all covered up wonderfully and the Minister has gone scot free. Another testimony to the sort of Ministers that we have - the sort of political system that we have and the sort of integrity we all do have. Jai Hind.

** Mamta & Railway Budget **

Railway Minister, Ms Mamta Banerjee said "Railways will not be guided by economic viability, but by social commitment" !! That is how they destroyed our Industries, Wealth and everything that once stood good in this nation. By such a statement, the Govt and Mamta has only conveyed that they are going to steadily destroy "Railways" !!

The "social commitment" philosophy is a wonderful concept in India. If some are not able to afford certain facilities - destroy the whole organisation that offers the facilities and make it unavailable to everyone !! Isnt that a wonderful "social commitment"??? Why dont such stupid people understand that social commitments can be fulfilled only by building a stronger and profitable organisation - not by turning profitable industries into "sick" industries !!

** New Education (Destruction ?) Policy **

The Congress Govt has surprised me by keeping quiet for so long (for ONE month) without making any surprise (stupid?) moves. They have compensated enough with the proposed education policy. Abolish tenth public examination; abolish marks; and slowly abolish +2 exams too !! Wah.. Wah !! Well, if you are wondering on how students would be graded and selected for elite courses like IIT and IIM - dont worry - Congress Govt may come up with some other stupendous ideas - say, if your are a Muslim, you can get a seat in IIT or IIM ("saving minority community" agenda). If you are an SC/ST, you dont have to work hard with your studies, you can directly become a President or Vice President or Speaker ("saving the supressed strata of society" agenda) !! What ???? Are you asking about those kids with talent ??? Tell them to go to their backyard (if they are left with any) and cut grass !! Jai Hind !!!

The only thing nice about the proposed education policy is making education compulsory for children upto the age of 12. Thats one nice rule. But, I am sure, as like the Child labour policy, this particular enactment will never be implemented.

** Maoists **

Extremists (Maoists - Naxals - call whatever the name u would prefer to) - have taken custody of a huge region in West Bengal and the security forces are fighting a tough battle to weed them out. At the time of writing this blog, the security forces have captured a majority of the area and the Maoists are now calling for ceasefire !! All these terror groups do adopt this "ceasefire" technique when they are cornered and down on their knees. Govt should not pay any heed to such silly requests. "Corner them and weed them out" - should be the goal. The Central Govt took the right decision to ban the Maoists group!! I was only surprised when the West Bengal's ruling CPI(M) party did not support the ban and is of the view that the ban does not serve any purpose and they want a political solution !! (If you thought that any 'political solution' is in the hands of the ruling State Govt - please take the back seat !! ) !! Naxalism is taking a monstrous proportion in our nation and it is high time that the Govt acts.

Secodly, for all those who were till now claiming that "West Bengal" is the model state under the principles of "Communism" - this "Lalgarh" episode should serve as an eye opener. "Communism" is a FAILED principle - be it, Russia -or- our own West Bengal !! Communist party is, unfortunately, a party with so many "right" people pursing "failed" principles !! It was good to hear their Gen Secy say that they would take a re-look at their Industrial policy !! If "Communism" is the stumbling block for so many good people, it is high time that they review their entire policy than just the "Industrial policy" !! Our nation needs "good" people pursuing "right" principles.

** Speaker Meira Kumar !! **

Mrs Meira Kumar, daughter of Late Jaga Jeevan Ram, has been elected as the Parliament Speaker. Right from the beginning, I never liked this lady. Previously, she has been Minister twice or thrice. But for the "Dalit" Label, I dont know whether this lady has any other qualification. Earlier we have seen this label having been used to elect certain top most positions in our country. Now, this lady's election as Speaker is only a testimony to the nasty 'caste' politics in India. But - there is a blessing in disguise - she was nominated as a Minister of State earlier before few days. She has to resign that post and now has taken charge as Speaker. Well, atleast one of our Ministries has escaped her "governance"!! In fact, electing a talented person as Speaker is only wasting a talented individual, very few talents we have as such as MPs. Dr Manmohan Singh, in that way, has been wise not to waste one talented person as the Parliament Speaker. :)

** Spelling Bee **

Last week I happened to watch the telecast of "US Spelling Bee" contest. Out of the three kids who reached the final stages - two were Indian kids (girls). The way the kids handled the toughest of the words with ease was fascinating to watch. I have not even heard about 99% (100%?) of the words that the kids were made to spell. Finally, Kavya Shivashankar, an Indian girl won it. I was thrilled. With a lot of my friends having settled in US, I wish, one day, I will be able to see one of my friend's son or daughter win this championship (do they entertain Indians to participate?? .... and .... If not for this championship, I would be happy to settle for a Wimbeldon championship by anyone of my friend's kids. ;) )

** Dynasty Politics !! **

Dynasty politics is not something new to Indian public. We live in a land which were occupied and ruled by so many dynasties and empires. Its only a normal tradition that Kings crowned their elder son as the next king. Now, Maharaja Karunanidhi has crowned his sons suitably. One of his sons, Azhagiri is now a Cabinet Minister. Karunanidhi was just waiting for this opportunity to elevate his another son, Stalin as Deputy Chief Minister of the state. One at the centre and another at the State. Azhagiri, for long, was the only thorn in Karunanidhi's plan to elevate Stalin. So, as soon as he was moved out to centre in the capacity of a Cabinet Minister - Stalin was handed over the mantle !!

Karunanidhi did not go to Delhi to fight for Cauvery water; he did not go to Delhi to raise the issue of Sri Lankan tamils - that which he raised so vociferously in the recent concluded elections; he did not go to Delhi to raise the issue of Mullaiperiyar Dam; he did not got to Delhi to fight for so many issues that the State is plagued with!! But he went Delhi on wheel chair to fight with the ruling Congress party to get the seats that he wanted for - especially for Azhagiri and Maran (another family member). I wont be surprised if his daughter Kanimozhi too gets inducted into the ministry very soon. With this, Karunanidhi has duly handed over the State in "safe" custody of his family !! All of us, those who voted for Karunanidhi - lets REJOICE !! Jai Hind !!

** Congress Govt, Prabhakaran... **

While I have been busy preparing for my MCA examinations, quite a few interesting things happened that needs a mention in my blog ( I am on two days break before the exam resumes again ;) ).

Firstly the victory of Congress party in 2009 elections. I was not in favour of the Congress Govt at the centre. Nevertheless, lets hope that the party, having won a near majority, goes on to do good things for the nation. This time the Congress party need not be at the beck and call of all alliance partners upon whom the previous Govt rested upon. Lets hope that the firmness Dr Manmohan Singh showed during the Nuclear deal will be seen on numerous other issues too and he goes on to establish a strong Government at the centre which is what the nation needs at this hour.

Another important news is the death of LTTE chief, Prabhakaran. What did this man achieve after fighting for so many years?? He and ALL his family members have been wiped out in jungles !! Lakhs of people have died and more than a Lakh have been displaced !! What did he fight for?? What did he achieve?? Was the 30 years fight worth the present end result?? Why did he not utilise numerous opportunities that came his way for formation of a federal set up for Tamils in Sri Lanka ?? Now the Tamils will neither have an Eelam nor a Federal setup - that is what Prabhakarn has achieved !! My heart goes out to millions of people who have suffered due to this mindless war. I hope peace prevails in Sri Lanka and people get an opportunity to live and see what happiness is. God Bless.

** Now Nepal !! **

I, in this blog, before sometime expressed my reservations on powers that rule Nepal falling in to the hands of Maoists. I felt and still do feel that democracy in the hands of Maoists is a dangerous option. Now, the Government in Nepal has sacked the General who stood against allowing Maoists into the Nepal army. The General will Go and the Maoists will have their say. This is not good - both for Nepal and for India. Now Nepal completes the wonderful set of neighbours that India has - Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka - all failed States or on the verge of collapse !! It is the time that we should have a strong Govt at the centre. But the election trends does not give a very healthy sign. BJP and its allies, from the available trends, are not going to get a majority on their own. Congress too is far away from it. That leaves the possiblity of all these bits and pieces getting together to form an ugly mosaic and a government at the centre. I feel, we are inching towards another ugly phase in Indian history !! Imagine Laloo + Mulayam + Sharad Pawar + Mamta + LEFT + etc as our rulers. We are going to be at our weakest when we are supposed to be very strong - to handle the economic crisis and all these neighbourhood crisis !! My GOD !!!

** Attack on Army **

On May/02 - LTTE supporters attacked an Army convoy in broad day light in Coimbatore. The Army convoy was returning to its base after a training exercise in Andhra Pradesh. Rumours that the convoy was carrying arms and ammunition to Sri Lanka to attack LTTE was said to be the reason behind the attack. Members of some fringe political parties like Periyar Dravida Kazhagam and MDMk (Vai Ko's party) were involved in the attack. Army men running for cover from the mob was shown on TV. The worst part is - NO political party has condemned the attack. Other than in J&K - (and also in Punjab before few years) - Indian Army has never been attacked in its own land. Tamil Nadu always is the first when it comes to setting bad precedents. Here we have people supporting LTTE - a group that killed a lot of our Indian Soldiers, one of our former Prime Minister and completely wiped out the other Tamil groups - and the Government is silent about it. I am ashamed.

** Train Hijack **

"Someone" hijacked an EMU train that was parked in Chennai Central; drove it for a few kilometers at high speed and smashed it against an oncoming goods train during the early hours of Apr/29. 4 died and several injured due to the attack.

As far as I know, in real life, this is the first time that a train has been hijacked and used for killing people. Last month a train was hijacked in Bihar by the Maoists - but, it was released without any loss to life. This is a new trend that is catching up. Most of our railway stations and the whole of the railway tracks are sitting ducks for terror attacks. Imagine what would happen if a train full of passengers being hijacked and hit against an oncoming train carrying passengers. It would be catastrophe. Apart from the loss of lives, it would disturb the whole Indian Railways for days together. We all know how airplanes were hijacked for the 9/11 attack, which has turned the world history to take a new course. The world is not the same after that chilling terror attack.

I hope the Indian Government acts fast on this new trend and nips it in the bud stage. Tighter security to railway yards is the first step towards that direction. It is also being said that the hijacked train could have been stopped, if only officials on duty had acted promptly. They could have cut the electricity supply, changed tracks - could have done so many things. The hijacked train traveled just for four minutes before ramming against the goods train - nevertheless, de-linking electric supply or changing tracks would only have taken few seconds. I firmly believe that those on duty have not acted with sincerity. They must have been sleeping during the early morning hours and that led to so many slips and ultimately the death of innocent people. I am not surprised that no one noticed that a train was being moved before time, failed stopping at a station in between, traveling at high speed, traveling at an odd unscheduled hour - nothing - NOTHING was noticed. In general, Indian Government servants, (well, a big majority of them), are very lethargic , lazy and poor workers. You can walk into any Govt office to witness the phenomena. Nothing moves without bribery money. I hope, by some sheer magic - by hook or crook - all these things changes in the near future - or we all can be assured that the Nation is going down the path of disaster.

** Aus quits Davis Cup **

Quoting security reasons, the Australian team has decided not to visit Chennai for the Davis Cup Tennis tournament. They have forfeited the game this year and stand to lose a huge sum of money. P Chidambaram, Home Minister has rubbished the Australians security fears. I feel the Australians have their point - because this is the same country which refused to conduct a tournament (IPL) quoting security concerns. No matter whether the tournament is of smaller or bigger magnitude - a security threat is a threat - no matter what the magnitude is. The next government, which would assume office in the next few days, has a tough task in hand - they have to convince lot of countries to take part in the 2010 Commonwealth Games scheduled in India.

** IPL Tamashaa on Blog **

www.fakeiplplayer.blogspot.com - thats the most talked about blog these days. The blogger has introduced himself as a team member of KKR (Kolkatta Knight Riders) - who stands no chance of getting into the team. He gives a lot of inner information about his as well as other teams. This fellow has a nice sense of humour and makes good fun of others. He has given a nick name to all those whom he refers to (there is another site which names who is who ;) ). This fellow's blog is a big hit and its followers increased by 1000 in two days !! Why not if he gives inner info about who is going out with whom to the night parties ??!! He has not even spared the commentators.

** Source Banking ?? **

A few have found a new meaning for the term "Source Banking" in Chennai. They cooly took away the whole ATM machine of Indian Overseas Bank at Kilpauk, Chennai. The ATM was installed before a few months - it neither was cemented to the floor nor it had any security guard. So, some found a new way of looting the ATM. Why take the trouble of breaking it in public - instead they decided to take the whole ATM machine to a safe place !! Afterall the bank has not put it in a safe place - right ??? I call this a smart idea - you?? :)

** IPL - first day special **

Though a bit late to make this posting, I wanted to make this message a part of my blog. All the three greats of Indian Cricket, Sachin, Dravid and Kumble, left their stamp on the T20 format on the very first day of the IPL tournament and that was very satisfying for me. Sachin and Rahul Dravid received the "Man of the Match" awards respectively for the two matches that was held on that day. I was particularly happy for Rahul, for he was hugely criticized and was declared unfit for T20 style of game by our so called pundits. Even in the previous edition of IPL, I remember, Rahul Dravid played some wonderful knocks but they went unnoticied as his team lost very badly. Another wonderful performance on the first day was from Anil Kumble who registered a figure of 3.1-1-5-5. With Five wickets giving away just five runs, he now has the best figures by an Indian bowler in all the three formats of the game - Tests, One Day and T20. What can I say about Sachin?? He is the God of Cricket.

** Bandh - another stunt by Karunanidhi **

Karunanidhi has called for a Bandh in Tamil Nadu tomorrow for the sake of Tamilians in Sri Lanka. If he is so concerned, why is he not going to SL to fight the war alongside his "friend" Prabhakaran?? How is the Bandh going to solve the tamilians plight in Sri Lanka?? Karunanidhi's latest stunt is to cover up the gross deficiences of his Government and to score a brownie point during the election time. This, I guess, is the fourth bandh in Tamil Nadu within the past 18 months. We have Bandh in Tamil Nadu only when he comes to power (and the Government itself calls for the Bandh - thats the irony!). People should atleast now understand that this old man needs rest and a retired life. We cannot allow him to continue spoiling Tamil Nadu. He knows every trick to ruin the State's economy - freebies, bandh, etc, etc., - you name it and he has already done that and is not going to stop doing it as long as he is going to be in power. Yes, all politicians do these sort of things - but Karunanidhi is the master of the art and is a trend setter.

** Why not eVoting ?? **

A few months before, I made a post in this blog about a country (Estonia) implementing e-Voting for the elections in their country. At the time of elections, I wanted to talk about it once again - especially after watching the naxal attacks on polling booths in some parts, where elections were conducted yesterday.

If we can safely carry out financial transactions online (eBanking) - then, why not eVoting? Look at the possibilities - (a) No big Qs and hence a lot of people will vote from within the comforts of their home (b) no poll related violence at polling booths (c) lesser Logistics (d) no security threat to polling booths (e) people can vote from anywhere, especially those who are settled outside India and still hold polling rights (f) no Bihar style booth capturing - the trend that is catching up everywhere, including Tamil Nadu (g) more good natured people will contest - as canvassing too would switch to e-style - a far better option than what is being enacted now with the support of "goondas and rowdies" (h) cheaper. These are just a few of the benefits that comes immediately to my mind.

On the negative side - yes, we need a foolproof arrangement to enable eVoting. We need to work out a methodology and implement this. We do have a wonderful possibility that is full of benefits and yes, of course with a few loop holes. We need to work on plugging the loop holes. If banks can administer secrecy to millions of its customers - then why can't the Government try it out for its citizens ?? Instead of pondering over the negatives, eVoting option should be actively pursued. We need to have eVoting atleast by 2020 !!

** Ban Computers & English **

"Importance should be given to human labour and workers would not be enslaved by computers and machines. Harversters and computers are the root cause of unemployment. We should work against use of English in education and computers in new projects" - Oh, NO - those are not the dictums of Taliban !! The above are the election manifesto of Mulayam Singh's Samajwadi Party, which is being touted as one of the party that will have a say in the next government formation. I was working in Defence when Mulayam Singh happened to be the 'Defence Minister' (yes, he was the Defence Minister for a while - you see, any one can become a Minister in our Government, that does NOT call for any qualification or eligibility - gone are those days!). When Mulayam was heading the MoD, he ordered that all communication to him be taken up in Hindi. We witnessed a great amount of comedy at that stage. It only increased the work load and not just that - it created a lot of confusion. I am sure that he has a big following in UP and is going to win a handful of seats and will be one of the King makers!! We have to live with such people as our rulers. Does that say anything about the future of our country ??

** Whom do we vote for ?? **

No party is going to get a majority in the forthcoming Parliament elections (2009) and that is the only aspect that has emerged clearly so far. In India, initially there was only one party, Congress, and people voted for it without even thinking for a second. Later, the Janata party emerged and then the BJP - paving way for a sort of two party system. Then we had the Third front and in this election we have what is being called as the "Fourth Front" !! How many fronts are we going to have in future?? With no party in a position to get a majority, after elections, this so called third and fourth front will split into smaller elements and will align with either Congress or BJP or will form a front of their own to form a Government at the centre. We all know very well that principles takes back seat and it is the money power that decides everything in our political system. So, parties aligning for the sake of power & money is going to be the next natural step - and that is where our confusion starts. What if the party that I vote for aligns with the party that I oppose and in turn help them to form a Govt?? This happened to the people of Kerala last time. CPI(M) and Congress are the two arch rivals in Kerala. People normally choose one amongst the two. They voted for CPI(M) during the last assembly elections. rejecting the Congress But, after elections, CPI(M) aligned with the Congress and helped them to form a government at the centre !!

Well in this election, when it comes to Tamil Nadu candidates, I dont want to vote for DMK because they are in alliance with the Congress. So, its going to be the AIADMK front. But, if I vote for this alliance, what if they help Congress to form a government after the elections?? My vote will be wasted, if I vote for the BJP or other smaller parties which are non-entities in the State. If I vote for CPI(M), what if they support people like Mulayam and Laloo to form a government after the elections ??

The only solution to all this predicament is a compulsory rule that makes it mandatory to stick to the pre-poll alliances. It should not be changed to suit the interest and needs of the party than that of the nation and people. Secondly, we should have a law that slowly eliminates parties that do not poll, say a 5%, of votes in elections. Thus, smaller parties cannot survive long, leading to a two party concept in India which would be far more healthier. Well, these are options that have been long discussed without any final outcome. For now, which party do we vote for??

** Indian victory in Nz **

It was nice to see India win the cricket series quite convincingly and comprehensively in New Zealand. I am especially happy for Sachin and Rahul, for they once again demonstrated their skills and in the process has shut lot of mouths. Without taking anything away from the test and one day series victory, did you all notice about the discussion on "pitches" that were laid out for the Indians?? No seaming tracks that Nz is known for. Only once was a seaming track laid out, for an one day match, and India duly lost it. Why we did not get to see seaming tracks?? Not one test was played on a seaming track?? Anything to do with commercial aspect?? Whatever those aspects may be, a win is a win and I am happy that Indian cricket team did that. Congratulations.

** Vaiko & LTTE **

Whatever "VaiKo" has said in his election speech about LTTE, blood bath and a separate Tamil Nadu does not need any mention in this blog. The Sri Lankan issue, as always been, is highly politicised one in TN. Nobody really cares for the innocent tamils of Sri Lanka. If at all they do care, let them go to Sri Lanka and help them. Why cry shrill from the safe Indian borders?? What they do is akin to what Pak does to Kashmir terrorists!! When VaiKo speaks of separate TN, he becomes no different from a Kashmir Terrorist. He should have been pushed into jail for one more year (as was done by Jaya few years before!). Such speeches are far worser. All they want to score is cheap political mileage. They are used to do that even over dead bodies. What pains me more is the over all political trend in India - which is becoming cheaper and cheaper with every passing day. Its sickening. In India, to get arrested or some action taken against you - you need to speak against the minority folks; Other than that, you can speak any damn thing about the nation and can easily get away with it. VaiKo needs to be condemned for his speeches and needs to be punished.

** Mohammed Azharuddin **

Mohammed Azharuddin, a well known and established "Match Fixer" is going to contest this election representing Congress. A person who can throw away a cricket game while representing a Nation only establishes the nature of the individual on how capable and willing he will be when it comes to doing things for the sake of money. If Congress happens to win this election and form a Government, I will not be surprised if Azharuddin becomes a Minister for Sports !! Azhar is a muslim and the Congress party will do anything for the sake of Muslim's vote bank. It is the Muslims of this Nation who should be aware of such cheap political gimmicks. Will they be??

** Varun Gandhi & NSA **

Varun Gandhi has been booked under National Security Act (NSA) for his inflammatory speech during one of the election rallies. I am not going to discuss the rights and wrongs of Varun Gandhi's speech. I am only surprised at the fact as to why certain blatantly harsher and inflammatory speeches by persons like Madhani are NOT considered as a security threat to nation !! Oops - why do I keep forgetting that terrorists like Madhani can speak anything and get away from this land because he speaks for muslims and is not a pro-hindu !!!???

** I WILL NOT VOTE FOR CONGRESS **

If you are following Indian elections- 2009 - did you come to know about the Congress manifesto?? If they win this elections, they have proposed to implement reservation in private sector too. That one reason is enough for me, not to talk about their promise for a separate quota for Muslims as well, to NOT to vote for Congress in this forthcoming elections.

We started with 18% quota on the whole and we all know where we stand now. The quota system is going to stay on for ever - thanks to the cheap and cunning politicians that we have. Quota - more than helping the downtrodden - is only helping the politicians to divide and exploit people. We have more caste based parties now than what we had in 1947 !! Congress, Mulayam, Mayawati, Laloo - everyone and ALL of them mastered the art of manipulating the votes based on caste. Please think before you vote to any one of them - because, you are only entrusting the life of our next generation into their hands. So, am I saying that other parties are not thriving on caste based politics?? Yes, everyone is - but not as worse as all the above. So, let us atleast try to delay the inevitable, if we cant avoid it. Well, I am NOT going to vote for Congress or any of the parties that support Congress in this elections.

** The IPL punch **

The congress government tried its best to scuttle the second edition of IPL . It has been discussed enough in the media that not the elections, but IPL being headed by a BJP man, Lalit Modi is the prime reason for refusing security cover to the tournament. The Centre and all the Congress governed States were the first of the block to refuse security cover to the matches. I am not a big admirer of Lalit Modi, but I am greatly impressed by the punch that he delivered to the government by simply taking the IPL matches out of India. Elections are important - but that does not mean that the Govt does nothing other than conducting the elections.

** Airtel CEO sells his entire stocks !! **

Airtel CEO, Mr Manoj Kohli, has sold his entire stock holdings with Airtel (123,000 shares) in open market (today - 11 Mar 2009). Another Satyam ??

** India & Chief Election Commissioner **

President, Prathiba Patil, as expected and as recommended by the Ministry of Law - has turned down the recommendations of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Mr Gopalswami for sacking Navin Chawla. Navin Chawla will now go on to take the post of CEC from Apr/20 this year when Mr Gopalswami retires. Navin Chawla is a stooge of Congress party. Some of the accusations against him are very serious and still he his going to take over the coveted position. The accused and the judge are on the same side of the fence here. Navin Chawla is a puppet of the Congress party and the Congress headed Government went into and decided on allegations against him. Isn't this strange??? (Well, not if you are not an Indian or used to Indian politics and ways). Navin chawla was deliberately and very planted in to the Election Commission by the Congress party and they will be immensely benefitted by his taking over the reigns of the Election Commission. Satyameva Jayadhe (honesty triumphs) can NEVER be true in this land of Gandhi. Jai Hind.

** India, Slumdog Millionaire & Oscar **

I saw the movie Slumdog Millionaire. Having seen a few Oscar winning movies, Slumdog Millionaire, I feel, was definitely not upto that standard. AR Rahman's music was good and there can be no second opinion on that. But, Slumdog Millionaire, as a movie was a good one - certainly NOT the BEST.

We, over the past few days, have heard a lot of accusations on how Indian poverty is being sold abroad. Having seen the movie, I would say that there is not a single scene which is grossly misleading or inappropriate or being falsely depcited. Poverty, violence, beggar mafia - its all very much present and rampant in India. Those who bad mouth about the way India is being depcited in the film, should realise that it is the actual state that India is in. We can not just see the rosy side of India alone and turn blind eye towards the state a large proportion of Indian population lives in. Abject poverty and mindless caste-ridden violence have all been and are going to be part and parcel of India. Above all, the situation is getting worser and worser and ALL our political parties are only adding fuel to the fire. To finish up this write up, Slumdog Millionaire is a good movie (not the best) and the way India has been depicted in the movie is not far away from the reality/truth. Not to forget, to this movie has opened up a lot of avenues for Indian cinema technicians and artists.

** DMK Govt's achievements **

Yesterday, there were full page advertisements in all leading New papers listing the achievements of the present DMK government, thus far. Free TV, Rice for Re.1/-, cheap loans (where it is not written off), free electricity (whenever supplied ;) ), free gas connection and stove... the list went on and on listing all about the freebies.

Dishing out freebies - do you call that achievement?? The Govt has done NOTHING to earn money. All the DMK govt has done so far is to dole out exchequer's money in a callous manner - in the name of freebies. Handing over Rs.2000/- to EVERY family in Tamil Nadu after the heavy rains last season is the icing on the cake. I saw people who own car and bungalows receive the money (if they do not collect, some body will swindle it anyway on their behalf). Latest mockery is to give a golden ring to ALL the babies that are born and being named in TAMIL !!

I do not know where and when will all this madness. At this rate, the deficit is going to get wider and wider and one day, this Govt will be in a position where it will not be able to pay monthly salary to the Govt employees (it was almost at that stage when this DMK govt completed its tenure last time, only to be revived later by Jayalalitha when she succeeded as Chief Minister).

Well... what matters to Mr Karunanidhi and his family is that they are getting richer and richer through deals, omissions and commissions !! So, who cares for the welfare of the State?? Does anybody ??

** Cricket - India & New Zealand (2009) **

At the time of writing this, India has already lost two T20 matches and hence the series 0-2. We have five one day matches and 3 tests to play. While I dont want to take a call in the Test series, all my instincts say that New Zealand will win atleast 3 of the one day matches and hence the series.

** Indians and Oscars **

I have never watched the Academy awards ceremony before - but, this time (2009), I was glued to TV to watch AR Rahman win two Oscar awards. It was really a proud moment. Indians winning awards in international arena is always a great feeling that leaves you proud and happy. AR Rahman, Resul Pookutty and Gulzaar made us proud with their award winning performances. Having said that, I do feel that AR Rahman has given even greater and memorable scores than what he has scored for the Slumdog Millionaire; but all those happened to be in Indian (language) movies and hence he missed out on getting Oscars. Right?

** Anarchy **

What should have been nipped in the bud is now grown up into a huge monstrous and poisonous tree. When one or two people were shouting on pitch of their voice, the Govt kept silent and infact encouraged them for cheap political benefits. The Govts inaction has encouraged a lot more to jump into the fray. I am talking about the voice raised over the support of LTTE (in the disguise of supporting Sri Lankan Tamils). The State, Tamil nadu has become a lawless state. The State Govt is totally ineptitude in solving the issue and the Central Govt is a silent and mute spectator in this case. LTTE is a poisonous organisation, to which we have already lost one of our prominent leader, Rajiv Gandhi. The DMK Govt was ruling the state when Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by LTTE in Tamil Nadu and again, the same DMK Govt is in power when once again the LTTE has roped in a lot of politicians to voice their support for the organisation. Karunanidhi has no time for the State and is content in solving his own domestic problems centered around his sons and daughters. The creaming on the cake was the High Court incident where lawyers and police faught a pitched battle on the Sri Lankan issue. Without getting into who is right and who was wrong - what do you call a set of people who pelt stones on police, burn down police vehicles and who burn down a police station ??? Well, in Tamil Nadu, you have the right to call them as "Lawyers". Surprisingly, the police folks are being widely criticised for resorting tough action. How do you handle hooliganism?? By Ahimsa??

Crores and crores of rupees were swindled in the Telecom deal by a DMK Minister. The Central Govt (read Congress) does nothing !! LTTE has started spreading its wings in Tamil Nadu once again and the Central Govt remains a mute spectator. These are just two incidents which highlights the total inefficiency of the Central Govt (Congress). Not to talk about the worst possible way the Govt handled so many other issues - starting from the Amarnath land row to the soft glove treatment of terrorists. Today DMK and Congress have become two pillars that wholly support corruption, nepotism and inefficiency. To save India and hence corrupt ridden states like TN, both these Govt should go. We have no other alternative.

** January 2009 **

This is the first posting of mine for the blog this year. Well, I have reasons for abstaining from blogging for the past 30 days !! I decided to take the Sun Solaris Certification exam this year and had my exams scheduled for Jan/27. I was seriously preparing for the exams and I have cleared the first paper (hooray!!). Now, I need to prepare and appear for the second paper and then I would be a SCSA (Sun Certified Solaris Administrator). Well, lets hope that I get to finish it and get the certification soon.

There were quite a few things that happened in the past 30 days which are of immense importance to India as a nation and hence, a mention in this blog becomes inevitable.

Firstly the Satyam scam. Satyam story goes on to show how one man’s greed can take down the whole nation – and it cannot be better explained than this episode. Ramalinga Raju has let down his nation, his employees and his family. The big question mark on the whole episode is on the Auditing and the Auditors. Auditing – done over the past few years on Satyam has become a laughing stuff. Auditors are supposed to find the frauds being committed by their Patrons !! They are being paid by the same organization/persons against whom they are supposed to find faults. This client/patron hierarchy/chain becomes too compromising and undermines the whole “Audit” concept. Ultimately, Auditors lead their patrons on a path where they are being professionally aided and helped to do a perfect crime and safely (well, mostly) get away from law. When it comes to the question of very big and reputed firms – Auditors never would try to cross the lines for they would lose a lucrative Patron. This is what has happened in Satyam’s case. We urgently need to address this arrangement. Having said that, whatever we try to do – “திருடனாய் பார்த்து திருந்தாவிட்டால் திருட்டை ஒழிக்க முடியாது" (unless thieves mend their methods,thievery cannot be stopped ). More than any thing else, its time India, as a nation, start planning on building moral values!! Its down the drain and is at its cheapest elements at this point of time in this competitive society!!

Talking about the society takes me to the next topic – “Slumdog Billionaire”. AR Rahman winning the Golden Globe award and being nominated for Oscars definitely makes us all proud. But, I personally feel that he has scored a lot of even better and wonderful tunes than what he has won this award for (the song “Jai Ho”). Not scoring for English movies before could be the only reason that has stopped him from getting such awards before. Well, lets hope he gets lot of such awards and make us all proud.

The discussion on “Slumdog Billionaire” cannot end here as we also hear a lot of criticism about the movie – about selling Indian poverty abroad. While I have not seen the movie so far, my present opinion is that poverty, robbery, terrorism, etc., all exist in India in large scale. We cannot develop an ostrich approach to the whole issue. Don’t we have slums with abject living conditions? Don’t we have brothels where women are forced into prostitution? Havent we heard about kids being kidnapped by beggar mafia?? More than 50% of our people are still uneducated and are below poverty line. Why should we cry hoarse when such things are filmed?? Anyway, I reserve my comments about the film for the time being.

Another important topic is Sri Lanka / LTTE / Tamils / TN Politicians. I whole heartedly welcome the debacle of LTTE. LTTE is a terrorist organization. An organization that can break bunds and hold people as human shields cannot be a charity organization and we have had a lot of facts and stats to prove on what sort of organization LTTE is. LTTE has killed lot of Sri Lankan Tamilians. People like Karuna, who were once top leaders of LTTE speak volumes and volumes of the atrocities committed and is being committed by LTTE. Unfortunately, in India, we don’t have enough and powerful law like POTA to put people who support LTTE in jail (as was done to Vai Ko). Even more unfortunate is that we have a party (DMK) that has a poor record of handling miscreants and terrorists in power. Isn’t it time that we learn from countries like Sri Lanka the methods and means to curb terrorists and implement the same strategy in dealing with Kashmir terrorists?

Talking about terrorism and Sri Lanka leads me the topic of Israel. I am of the view that Hamas is a terrorist organization and it instigated Israel to attach the Gaza strip. Only countries like India will tolerate terrorists attacks !!

Unfortunately lot of civilians - hapless people, kids, old aged were all caught in the cross-fire and have been killed. Such loses can never be compensated by any means. My heart goes to all those families. Having said that, this should make the terrorists realize their folly and I do not vouch to the argument that Govts should stop attacking terrorists. Terrorists organization like Hamas, Al Qaida and LTTE have to be given a sever blow and they should be erased of the face of this universe. The world should speak in one voice against TERRORISM without giving any creed/religion color to it.

My final topic of this posting will be on local politics (Tamil Nadu). The comments of Election Commissioner on Thirumangalam bye-election is worth noting. He has said that Tamil Nadu fares worse than Bihar when it comes to election offences and violence. People who know about Bihar elections would realize the severity of such a statement. All the recent elections that were conducted in TN (especially after Karunanidhi came to power) have been severely rigged to the worst possible extent – as has been never seen before in TN. We already have a situation where educated and decent people stay away from politics. With more such elections – our fate for good future as a nation will permanently be sealed for the worst. “Rule of Law” will soon be replaced by “Goonda Raj” ! “Politics in India” has become a synonym of “Rowdyism”.

** Happy New Year : 2009 **

There are quite a lot of people who touched my life in the year 2008 and helped me in becoming a better person. I thank everyone of them ... Thanks, Thanks and Thanks a Lot.

I wish you and all your family members a very very happy, prosperous and a healthy New Year. May God Bless you with success & joy.

புத்தாண்டு நல்வாழ்த்துக்கள்.

** Tamil Nadu (aka) Dharmashala **

It seems, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Karunanidhi has decided to take the State's financial status to the worst ever seen by any Indian State !! He keeps inventing new freebie schemes. Free TV, Free Land, Rice for Re.1 - those were his elections promises. He did not stop with that and is continuing this madness throughout his present tenure as Chief Minister. His latest is the Rs.2000/- as flood relief to the people of Tamil Nadu !! Those who did not even see a drop of water during the heavy rain last month are going to take the free gift of Rs.2000/- for nothing. Mr. Karunanidhi, did not stop his "tamasha" with that and his latest announcement is the biggest joke - "The government will distribute ingredients required to make 'sweet pongal' (chakarai pongal) for free to the people for the forthcoming 'Pongal' festival !! My God !!! When will all this madness stop ???

** Voting **

In India, even if just 50% of the people vote in general elections, it is considered as a very high voting percentage !! Isnt that a pity?? We need to find a way out of this mess. That, in my view, can be achieved if we make voting 'online' and make it possible for the people to vote through SMS!! It is not something that is impossible. Estonia has made 'online' voting possible way back in 2001 and is introducing voting through cell phones for their forthcoming Presidential elections. If the Estonians can - Why not India? With very high cell-phone penetration in India, the possibility of online/SMS voting should be taken up - atleast for a technical feasbility study. If we can operate our bank accounts (which is more precious than voting!) online - then, why not 'voting'?? If our voting system goes online, I am sure, we will see a higher percentage of voting, lesser queues at polling booths, choice of NRIs to vote .... the list of advantages keeps growing !!! Isnt that wonderful??

** Value of Life ? **

In the past few days, two suicide incidents (amongst many) attracted my notice. A school going girl committed suicide as her bicycle was stolen (the bicycle was issued under the "Free bicycle to students" scheme by the Govt). In another incident, a lady took her own life for she lost Rs.500/- that her husband gave to her for safe custody !! I was overwhelmed with pity and thought on how so little means so much to a lot of people.

** False propoganda on Hindu Terrorism **

The so called secularists of India have, at last, very eagerly pounced on a rare opportunity (Malegaon Blasts) and have gone on to meticulously brand it as "Hindu" Terrorism. I am of the view that this one mistake by one or two individuals should NOT be equated to the violence that the Muslim terrorists perpetrate across the whole world. Unfortunately, this is India and this sort of pseudo secularism is what most of the political parties in India thrive on, as it sells very easily and also gets votes. What else do these political parties want ??

Well, I read a nice piece of article on the subject - I am producing the same below.

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The Hindu Rate Of Wrath

-By Francois Gautier

Is there such a thing as 'Hindu terrorism', as the arrest of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur for the recent Malegaon blasts may tend to prove? Well, I guess I was asked to write this column because I am one of that rare breed of foreign correspondents-a lover of Hindus! A born Frenchman, Catholic-educated and non-Hindu, I do hope I'll be given some credit for my opinions, which are not the product of my parents' ideas, my education or my atavism, but garnered from 25 years of reporting in South Asia (for Le Journal de Geneve and Le Figaro). In the early 1980s, when I started freelancing in south India , doing photo features on kalaripayattu, the Ayyappa festival, or the Ayyanars, I slowly realised that the genius of this country lies in its Hindu ethos, in the true spirituality behind Hinduism. The average Hindu you meet in a million villages possesses this simple, innate spirituality and accepts your diversity, whether you are Christian or Muslim, Jain or Arab, French or Chinese. It is this Hinduness that makes the Indian Christian different from, say, a French Christian, or the Indian Muslim unlike a Saudi Muslim. I also learnt that Hindus not only believed that the divine could manifest itself at different times, under different names, using different scriptures (not to mention the wonderful avatar concept, the perfect answer to 21st century religious strife) but that they had also given refuge to persecuted minorities from across the world-Syrian Christians, Parsis, Jews, Armenians, and today, Tibetans. In 3,500 years of existence, Hindus have never militarily invaded another country, never tried to impose their religion on others by force or induced conversions. You cannot find anybody less fundamentalist than a Hindu in the world and it saddens me when I see the Indian and western press equating terrorist groups like SIMI, which blow up innocent civilians, with ordinary, angry Hindus who burn churches without killing anybody. We know also that most of these communal incidents often involve persons from the same groups-often Dalits and tribals-some of who have converted to Christianity and others not. However reprehensible the destruction of Babri Masjid, no Muslim was killed in the process; compare this to the 'vengeance' bombings of 1993 in Bombay , which wiped out hundreds of innocents, mostly Hindus. Yet the Babri Masjid destruction is often described by journalists as the more horrible act of the two. We also remember how Sharad Pawar, when he was chief minister of Maharashtra in 1993, lied about a bomb that was supposed to have gone off in a Muslim locality of Bombay . I have never been politically correct, but have always written what I have discovered while reporting. Let me then be straightforward about this so-called Hindu terror. Hindus, since the first Arab invasions, have been at the receiving end of terrorism, whether it was by Timur, who killed 1,00,000 Hindus in a single day in 1399, or by the Portuguese Inquisition which crucified Brahmins in Goa . Today, Hindus are still being targeted: there were one million Hindus in the Kashmir valley in 1900; only a few hundred remain, the rest having fled in terror. Blasts after blasts have killed hundreds of innocent Hindus all over India in the last four years. Hindus, the overwhelming majority community of this country, are being made fun of, are despised, are deprived of the most basic facilities for one of their most sacred pilgrimages in Amarnath while their government heavily sponsors the Haj. They see their brothers and sisters converted to Christianity through inducements and financial traps, see a harmless 84-year-old swami and a sadhvi brutally murdered. Their gods are blasphemed. So sometimes, enough is enough. At some point, after years or even centuries of submitting like sheep to slaughter, Hindus-whom the Mahatma once gently called cowards-erupt in uncontrolled fury. And it hurts badly. It happened in Gujarat . It happened in Jammu , then in Kandhamal, Mangalore, and Malegaon . It may happen again elsewhere. What should be understood is that this is a spontaneous revolution on the ground, by ordinary Hindus, without any planning from the political leadership. Therefore, the BJP, instead of acting embarrassed, should not disown those who choose other means to let their anguished voices be heard. There are about a billion Hindus, one in every six persons on this planet. They form one of the most successful, law-abiding and integrated communities in the world today. Can you call them terrorists?

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(The writer is the editor-in-chief of the Paris-based La Revue de l'Inde.)

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** Sabari Malai **

I am just back from Sabari-Malai, Kerala. This is the second year in succession that I have been on pilgrimage to Sabari Malai (swimmig alongside an elephant was a wonderful experience this time :) ) . Kerala, no doubt, is definitely a wonderful place - but, from what I saw, the State - on the whole - is designed for thin population. Poor (or nil?) Industries has spared (?) most of the State of its old and natural beauty (Should we rejoice this aspect ?) Tourism and Ports are the life lines of Kerala - if we discount Agriculture.

Well, getting back to our topic - Sabari Malai - every year, the crowd keeps increasing. It would probably be a guiness record for the number of people who visit this temple in the short span of around 60 days in Nov-Dec-Jan every year. While excellent crowd management methodologies are in place - the place grossly lacks accommodation and other public facilities. With the temple's revenue generation running into crores - what stops the trustees/Govt from providing superior public facilities is one of the many clueless question that you face in India.

** A Wednesday **

"A Wednesday" - a must watch Hindi film !! Great story, wonderful narration, great picturisation, classic dialogues and some wonderful acting makes this movie a power packed one. Nasruddin Shah and Anupam Kher have played their role to perfection. This is an interesting and racy movie from start to end without any stupid song or dance sequence (that are part and parcel of Indian movies). The movie, "A Wednesday", at the end not just leaves you satisfied but also makes you to think. Don't miss it !!

** Mumbai - unanswered questions !! **

Finally, the Govt claims that the terrorists have been flushed out of the Taj, Oberai and the Nariman House. But there are quite a few unanswered questions....

a) Were there just 10 terrorists - as the Govt claims - who were involved in this whole terror act ?? How many managed to escape ??

b) Why is Shivraj Patil being allowed to continue as Home Minister despite his repeated failures as Home Minister?

c) It is well documented that Dawood has used the sea route during the 1993 Bombay attack. What has the Govt done, in the past 15 years - to plug that loop hole??

d) Leave aside the intelligence report about the attack from sea - does the Govt need such a report to be prepared for such an eventuality??

e) When will the Govt learn to treat terrorists as terrorists - than concentrating on the religion that they belong to ?

f) How long are we going to suffer the Govt's total ineptitudeness in handling terrorrism ??

g) Will the Govt now STOP discussing the oil pipe line from Iran through Pakistan??

** Mayhem in Mumbai **

I was too busy for the past few days and had to stay away from blogging. On getting back - the Mumbai Mayhem takes precedence than anything else. Just 10 men has managed to hold our nation on hook for more than two days - thanks to the training that the Pak's ISI gave (I have no doubt on that) and to the spineless Govt that India has at the centre !! At first, I wish to register my deepest condolences to all the departed souls.

While a few brave lost their lives fighting the terrorists - in the next few days, we will be able to see and hear quite a lot of people queuing up to stake claims for what all the departed did !! Victory has so many fathers !! At this time, if the Govt ever cares to act, it should take some stern measures against terrorism - than shelling out empty promises. But - the big question is - Is our present Government capable of that ??

** Deepawali Greetings * 2008 **

May the Festival of lights brighten up your life even further and bring more health, wealth and happiness to you and all your family members.

With Warm Regards,
Gowri

** LTTE & 'POWER' Politics - DMK Strategy **

DMK and its chief Karunanidhi are always masters of cheap politics. The whole of Tamil Nadu is reeling under the worst power crisis. Urban areas face a minimum of two hours power failure and rural areas are without power for most part of the day & night. Industrial units are 'warned' not to take power from the grid during peak hours. What does the DMK Government do ? They took the 'Sri Lankan Tamil cause' !! Stage managed its MPs to submit their resignations to their chief, Karunanidhi (not to the Lok Sabha speaker!). The highly politicised film industry was instigated to organise a rally supporting the cause of Sri Lankan Tamilians. So, for the time being and for the n-th time, DMK has succeeded in the cheap diversionary tactics to gain political mileage. Given the situation - Power crisis - is going to haunt the DMK party in the forthcoming elections. But, again, by then, they will have another cheap tactics (as like the free TV campaign during the previous elections). You see, we never learn our lessons and curse ourselves by electing such cheap and mindless people to govern us.

** Sachin **

Sachin, is now the highest test runs scorer with 12,000 runs in his kitty. It took 19 years for Sachin to complete this stupendous feat. His mastery, sincerity and dedication reflects well in this achievement. But, above all - he has his head firmly on his shoulders and did not allow fame to get in to his head, The new gen kids who let their tongues wag after just one century should learn a lesson or two from Sachin on behaviour. Sachin, no doubt, is God's gift to Cricket and I consider myself lucky to have witnessed some of his wonderful innings. He has given so much joy to the huge fan followers of the game cricket. Sachin is a Legend and his records speaks volumes about the man's calibre. Kudos to Sachin on his 12000 runs feat !

** Poison Vs Poison **

Do you believe that a poison can be cured by another poison??  Well, the Indian Govt believes so !!  We all know that India has been the target of numerous terrorist activities - especially at a higher intense level in the recent past.   Home Minstry is the department that deals with internal terrorism.  Home ministry has a Minister (Shivraj Patil) and is assisted by three Minister of States in the present Congress Government.  One of the Minister of States for Home is Mrs. Radhika Selvi.    

Here, we should know more about this person, Radhika Selvi.  She belongs to the party DMK - well, that is irrelevant to our subject.  What is more relevant is that she is the wife of Venkatesh Pannayar - who was a big time rowdy element (a Dawood Ibrahim of a smaller zone).  He was killed in a Police encounter in 2003.   Now, she is a Minister of State for Home Affairs of the Government of India.   Can you find a more suitable person for the portfolio ??  I suggest that we sack the present home minister and make the wife of Dawood Ibrahim as the Home Minister of India.  You see, a poison can be cured only by another poison !!  Don't you believe that ??  Well, our Govt does !! Jai Hind !!

** Honking & Indians **

Yesterday, I read an article on the honking habits of Indian drivers.  It went on to describe about the level of sound pollution and the rude behaviour of Indians (honking is considered rude in most of the other countries!!).

Probably the author of that article is not aware of the basic difference between honking in other countries and in India.  While in other countries they honk to seek 'right of way' -  in the crowded Indian roads - we honk for numerous reasons -

- to warn the person who jumps traffic signal and heads our way on the wrong side,
- to warn the pedestrian who jumps the road median to cross the road,
- to warn bicyclists from taking a casual stride across the road,
- to warn those animals that take a casual strode in the middle of the road,
- to warn the pedestrians who share the small strip of road along with plying vehicles,
- to warn the drivers who have obtained driving license by paying few bucks,
- to warn the person who may appear as a flash in front of you from numerous blind roads,
..... the list is endless.

In India, alteast in the 'so called' metro cities, it is impossible to drive without honking, especially during peak hours.  Those who talk about sound pollution and 'rude manners' should be punished to drive in Indian roads without honking for ten days (Just ten days!)  - without hitting any one or being hit by any one !!!  He he he....

Yes, I do honk !! ;)   

** Birthday Gift **

   On the occasion of his mentor and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister (Late) Anna Durai's Birthday, Karunanidhi - the present TN CM,  has ordered release of more than 1400 life convicts from prison (Those who know about Indian judicial system would vouch that life sentences are not handed over that easily in India and it involves years and years of trial process !).   Worst, the High Court did not stop this, despite an appeal filed to stop the release of prisoners.  The High Court in its ruling, stated that the prisoners can be released after obtaining a bond from them - the bond that is going to hold no value and at best can be used as toilet papers !!  The release of prisoners comes at a time when the State's crime graph is on the rise !!  I do not know what the real achievements of both Anna-Durai and Karunanidhi are, but can, without any doubt, say that Karunanidhi, in this tenure as CM of TN, has taken oath of destructing Tamil Nadu in every domain and sphere !!  Tamil Nadu will soon be the next Bihar of India !

PS :  The names of those to be released, it is said, also includes those who were convicted in Tha.Kirutenan's murder case.  Karunanidhi's son, Azagiri's hand was suspected in the murder case and it is said that all of Azhagiri's hench-men were involved in the murder of Kirutenan due to inner party feud/politics.   This is just what I read somewhere and I cannot authenticate on this claim.   But, Indian politics is capable of such things. 

** Whats thrown up comes down **

 When there were bomb blasts all over Gujarat, the congress Govt at the centre said that it had given advance warning and intelligence reports to the State Govt on the impending attack and wahsed off its hands of any responsibility stating the policing is under the State Govt's domain.  The idea of the congress Govt was to squarely blame the Gujarat Govt and put him in a fix - and they succeeded to a fair extent.    Later, Modi, Gujarat CM, immediately after the interrogation of one of the top suspects (whom the Gujarat Police arrested in UP) had met Prime Minister, Mr Manmohan Singh and had informed of Delhi being one of the next targets.  And that is what has happened exactly.  Delhi,  as a State is being looked after by the Delhi State Govt - and also, in the capacity of it being the Nation's capital is directly under Centre's Home Ministry -  both under the Congress regime !!  So what did they do with advance warnings ???

   Well, arguments apart - it is very easy to place a bomb in any place in India.  With huge population and proportionately poor police strength, it is next to impossible to screen each and every one in importat market places, railway stations and other crowded places.  etc.   However, an analysis of ALL the bomb blasts in India will reveal "muslim" hands in every one of it  !!   While I will NOT blame the entire muslim community - there is no denying the fact that muslim fundamentalism is the root cause for all the blasts in India.  And the Congress Govt is hell bent upon pleasing the muslims and is NOT going to do anything about this "muslim" terrorism.  This Govt's attitude of soft pedalling on SIMI, the terror organisation that is stated to be behind all the bombings in the recent past,  speaks volumes about its capacity on controlling terror.   Also, as is being widely discussed, we do not have stringent laws to handle terrorists - courtesy the scrapping of POTA by this very same Congress Govt.  To add more fuel to fire, even those who are convicted are not executed beceause they happen to be muslims (Afzal Guru of the Parliament attack!!).

    Another aspect of this situation is the faith of muslims over their religion.  They place religion above nation - and due to this aspect, muslim terrorists exploit the religious feelings of fellow muslims for its all its operations.  Accommodation and logistics to muslim terrorits are no big deal in any part of the nation - as all they have to do is to locate a muslim dominated area and a masjid.  Rest is a cake wake.  Integrity based on religious faith is only sowing seeds for diversion.  Such acts takes the muslim community far away from the national stream.  It is best that Muslim leaders realise this and start speaking to their people in a tone and meaning that is against terrorism.  The muslim schools, "madar shahs", should be brought under Govt scrutiny as it is these schools that happens to be the fountainhead of hatredness and religious fanaticism.  Muslim clerics should realise that it is regligious fanaticism that has forced terrorists to the extent of  placing a bomb near children's play area, which however was fortunately diffused.  This is time for introspection - both to the hapless and spineless Congress Govt and to the Muslim leaders.

Jai Hind. 

** Sports & Chennai **

     I was of the opinion that everything is available in a walkable distance in Valasaravakkam, Chennai - well, atleast till last week.  I came in for a rude shock when I went in search of a sports shop for buying a swim shorts.  Not just in Valasaravakkam, but in a huge radial, which includes some of the posh localities, I could not locate a single sports shop.   I was told that barring one street in Paris, Chennai and another one near Mount Road, there are hardly any sports shop in Chennai.   Surprised... aren't you ???

Well - it brings forth a few important aspects - 

a)  The facilities available for a sports person in Chennai (India?).

b)  The level of Chennites interest in sports. 

c)   If this is the state of affairs in a metro city, what about the rural areas?

and above all...

d)  I am gonna start swimming...  ;)

** Olympics 2008 **

China has definitely set an example by successfully organising the Olympics with very high standards. Organising an event of such huge magnitude calls for involvement from every sphere of the nation - and by conducting it successfully, China has proved its mettle, calibre and growth in every sphere. The inaugural and closing ceremony were simply fantastic. Facilities and resources left everyone astounding. Credit goes to China !! This only proves that "population" is NOT an impediment to growth. It is the 'discipline' that we Indians lack and which puts hurdle in the growth path of our nation.

** Sports & Facilities **

Indian wrestler, Sushil Kumar, who won the bronze medal for India in the just concluded Beijing Olympics made all the Sports ministry officials talk high. But, what is the ground reality?? One of the TV Channels showed the living condition of Sushil Kumar in Delhi, where he was staying and practicing. It was a small dingy hall will full of cots. Around ten were staying in that hall - where, not a single more could be accommodated. Cots were put next to each other without even one centimeter of space. A person living in a road side hut would have had more living space than that. Cant the sports ministry select atleast the top few and provide them better amenities?? All the three boxers who reached the quaterfinals and the wrestler have proven credentials even before the Olympics and yet the facilities provided to them were awful !! That speaks volumes of what the Sports Ministry does. Thats the exact reason that the value of the medals that these men have brought for India is worth more than what it appears. We will NEVER be able to up with China - not just in sports !!

** Kill and Walk Free **

RK Anand and IU Khan are two eminent High Court lawyers (one of them is an ex-MP). They were caught on camera influencing a witness to depose in favour of the prime accused in a sensational BMW hit-and-run case which resulted in the death of six. The witness is the main witness (sole?) for the whole case and if he back-tracks, the prime accused, son of a rich arms dealer Nanda, will walk free.

Well, now that the lawyers were caught obstructing the justice on camera, you would expect harsher punishment. No, NOT in INDIA !! All they got was a four months suspension from appearing in court and a fine of Rs.2000/- (those lawyers servants may be getting more than that as monthly salary!). This only sets a wonderful trend where anyone can obstruct justice and all they get is a mild punishment, if at all they were caught.

** J & K **

The State is in a turmoil since the past few days. I do not agree with the view of lot of so-called "elites" who keep writing that Kashmir should be given "aazaadi" (yes, in Indian news-papers!!). The present situation is entirely due to the stupid act of the Congress government - both at the Centre and at the State. It does not have any resolution in hand to solve the tangle - and that has added fuel to the fire. The present situation is quite dis-heartening and painful and I am watching the horizon with a grave concern.

** விகடனும் LTTE-இம் **

In the latest edition of Vikatan - it has published a survey on LTTE and Tamil Nadu. The survey was done amongst a total of 4195 people and has been published as if that is the overall views of people of Tamil Nadu. A magazine of the stature of Vikatan could have acted more responsibly. The following are some of the "findings" of the survey :-

a) Support LTTE - always :54.25%
b) Tamil Eelam - Yes, needed:55.44%
c) India Should involve in the SL problem - YES:62.59%
d) LTTEs growth in the warfare - Proud of it:46.24%

Icing on the cake :
ராஜீவ் காந்தி படு கொலையில் குற்றம் சாட்டப்பட்ட பிரபாகரன் -
கைது செய்யப் பட வேண்டும்:43.02%
மன்னித்து விட்டு விடலாம்:40.07%
குற்றம் அற்றவர் : 16.90%

So, will these people say the same if equated with Kashmir?? Isnt it the same scenario. Tamil people in SL for Kashmir people; LTTE for Kashmir terrorists; Sri Lanka for India; and India for Pakistan !!!

This is an example of how insane can people get to and how irresponsible can a magazine be !!
Jai Hind!!

** Abortion Law - Pt II **

Exactly on the same day I made my previous posting on the plight of a couple who had filed a suit seeking permission to abort a 25 weeks foetus - court has given its ruling that they CAN NOT !! Per the ruling, since the 25 weeks foetus starts breathing, it becomes alive and hence cannot be terminated. Law has no provision for 'euthanasia' in Indian constitution. Now, the couple can do nothing but to pray God.
---------------
A couple in Mumbai has filed a case in court seeking legal permission to abort the 25 week foetus as medical/scan reports suggests that the unborn child has heart blockages. In India, the country’s abortion law does not allow termination of pregnancy beyond 20 weeks unless it harms mother’s life/health. Aborting a 25 weeks foetus, is by itself a threat to the mother - and now, the court is going to take a few more days to decide. Adding to the chaos, Mumbai's Archbishop has given a religious colour to the case by appealing to the couple to allow the child to be born and the church will take care of the child. So many questions go begging - about our abortion laws; on why cant the church take care of lakhs of children getting treated for various diseases in India? - But what is clear from all these happenings is - if you decide to seek a solution to any of your problem, do NOT seek legal assistance in India !! Jai Hind !!
----------

** Sports & Grit **

Natalie Du Toit & Oscar Pistorius are no ordinary sports persons. Both are physically challenged. Natalie, a swimmer with only one leg and Oscar a sprinter with no legs at all! While Natalie has qualified for the Olympics, Oscar failed to qualify. Oscar fought a prolonged legal battle to allow him participate in the Olympics to compete alongside other able bodied sportsmen; it was opposed on the grounds that artificial legs gave him an advantange over fellow men; Oscar ultimately won the case but failed to qualify in the Olympic qualifying rounds. However, Natalie's is a success story. She says her memorable experience was in one of the Common Wealth games that she participated, where, when she turned around to take the last 50 m lap, all other swimmers had already finished the whole distance, but the whole stadium stood up and cheered for her. In this Olympics, no doubt, I will be cheering for Natalie.

Check out the links below to know more about them :-

Natalie Du Toit........................ Oscor Pistorius

......................

Watch Oscars 400m run in the You tube link below..
http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=1so1ZMgpg2w

and Natalie's swim and more on disability in sports in the link below
http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=j9GxfsQ1eVw

** Abortion Law **

A couple in Mumbai has filed a case in court seeking legal permission to abort the 25 week foetus as medical/scan reports suggests that the unborn child has heart blockages. In India, the country’s abortion law does not allow termination of pregnancy beyond 20 weeks unless it harms mother’s life/health. Aborting a 25 weeks foetus, is by itself a threat to the mother - and now, the court is going to take a few more days to decide. Adding to the chaos, Mumbai's Archbishop has given a religious colour to the case by appealing to the couple to allow the child to be born and the church will take care of the child. So many questions go begging - about our abortion laws; on why cant the church take care of lakhs of children getting treated for various diseases in India? - But what is clear from all these happenings is - if you decide to seek a solution to any of your problem, do NOT seek legal assistance in India !! Jai Hind !!

** Talent **

VaLLavanukku PuLLum AaYuDhaM !!
Watch the video clip in the link below..... I love this fellow.. :)

http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=4iSYjn7Tjz8