General Election in India

The world's largest democracy is going thorugh the General Elections 2009 for electing members of Parliament who are expected to manage the country for the next five years. The high drama of democracy is nearing its end for the time being with the outcome slated to be announced on 16th May 2009. Some of the thoughts after closely following the developments during the elections are penned down for stirring the minds of those who care for the country's future.

The first phase of elections were marred by Naxalite violence in some parts of India. It is high time for all political parties to ponder on why a section of society wants to stay away from the elections? The low voter turnout at around 55 percent to 60 percent is nothing but the disapproval by the large section of population about the way in which politicians are managing the whole show. What would be the future of our country if such apathy towards voting gathers momentum on one hand and naxalites gaining strength on the other?

This elections, we saw the people of Kashmir defying the 'dictat' of separatists who had called for bycotting the elections. Is it not a welcome trend and high time to welcome the people of Kashmir valley in the mainstream politics? One should appreciate that you can win their support by winning their hearts and minds.

A couple of days ago, Shri Sudhindra Kulkarni, the think tank of BJP officially went on air saying that 'the BJP will join hands even with Congress if it is beneficial for the country.' Cograts Mr Kulkarni for taking a positive step. It is however very sad to read in newspapers that the Congress spokesperson said 'Congress will NEVER join hands with BJP.' Does it mean that Congress treats BJP as untouchable and will even go to the extent of ignoring the country's progress if it comes to that? Shame on such reactions.

When I heard the speeches and reactions of young political leaders such as Rahul Gandhi, Sachin Pilot, Scindia and Omar Abdullah, I thought that the country is heading in the right direction. It is high time such leaders show the old generation their place in poilitcs of opportunism and initiate a dialogue with all parties including BJP for providing a stable government in case we see a hung parliament. I may say that even Communists are also not untouchables.

Incidentally, I am sad to see Narendra Modi comparing the killers of Gen Arun Vaidya with Afzal Guru and questioning why the former was hanged out of turn and why not Afzal Guru now? He stooped low in politics to suggest that Gen Vaidya's killer was given such treatment because he was a Sikh and hence did not form 'vote bank' for Congress whereas the latter forms a 'vote bank.' Such statements will draw claps from the crowd but are ultimately leading to dividing the nation on religious grounds. BJP should also realise that with its partners like JD(U) who are against communal politics, it will difficult for them too to manage the country if such divide takes place.