(For my other posts see http://journo1958.blogspot.in/)
A sorry state of affairs indeed! A 65-year-old Dalit leader recently committed suicide, citing a reason that many would not think so serious as to take one's life. He obviously was fed up with the state of affairs and the way people's reps and leaders functioned. while the details of this incident are yet to emerge - and may never see the light of the day due to media apathy -- there is no doubt that he was upset about the way things are. Are people being served well by their leaders? It may be a moot question but ask anyone on the street, in buses and trains, and at workplaces you will come across the common refrain -- leaders have become selfish and serve well their own own ends, and those of their kin. Such people are seen in small groups, associations, and even in leading organisations. Their ulterior motives are to benefit at the expense of others and to sustain vested interests. Public interest always suffers in this process. People are denied basic services such as potable water and proper roads. And, if they ask for them through the RTI they are putting their lives at risk. A vibrant democracy no doubt, but is it an utilitarian one?
(For my other posts see http://journo1958.blogspot.in/)
