As an afterthought to what happened yesterday in Parliament on the so called cash for votes scam, one needs to reflect on what this country’s politics has come up to, though the alleged horse-trading (yesterday), has been happening every election, and whenever the coalition government topples, for the want of support. There is no point in blaming the ruling party, for any other party in such a circumstance would have done the same and probably all of us would know this too(though this is ethically wrong. But do we have Ethical Politics is a question for us to ponder). The Opposition Party – BJP, Left and Others could have been little decent enough to bring such corrupt practices, if they had had evidence to the attention of the Speaker and the nation in a proper manner, which would have had some credibility, instead of staging such melodramatic performances in the parliament which was telecast all over by many television channels, making a mockery of journalistic morals. There is nothing wrong with media doing investigative journalism, but there must be some kind of ethics which they must adhere to.

The Opposition Parties, especially the Left whose main reason for the withdrawal of support was Nuclear Deal, together with BJP turned upside down the whole motive behind the confidence motion , the result being the demise of genuine opposition to government’s foreign policy and Left’s ideological stand. They have not played a constructive role.

The government too instead of seeking trust vote could have issued a referendum, where India’s common people would have had chance to vote on whether to go ahead with Nuclear Deal. It is by no means trivial to say that lay men are more educated than many parliamentarians (With no offense).

And the highlight which is being given now, should be given during the election campaign- Only then would people really know how much actually People of India lose. Altogether the picture painted now
be it the Opposition or the Ruling Government with all its negotiations and party politics looks very torn- in shreds.

Image: Wittysparks

On India’s part, it reveals how vulnerable and misjudged the country’s foreign policy is, though it continues to maintain balance between Tibet and China. The government should take up a stand regarding Tibet. If India recognizes the political struggle of Tibetans, it should offer support to them officially, but if it is just a humanitarian concern, India should declare it to Tibet and make its stand clear to China – it is doing neither.

India’s ambiguous position would make both Tibet and China regard it with suspicion. India cannot remain neutral for long.

Source: Today’s Zaman

Image: Friends of Tibet

This news comes in a time when India is looking for resources – oil and gas - in Africa. The reports certainly have tarnished Indian Image. Now, how does Indian government respond to these allegations if found guilty, is for us to wait and see. But certainly, resignation of another external affairs minister is not going to solve the issue. Such kind of misdeeds have roots deep down the political structure of both the United Nations and India. And India is not the only accused. Pakistani troops have also been involved in Congo, but in other countries too, namely in Middle East, UN mission have come under scrutiny.

It will be rather good for United Nations and other governments to dig up this scandal and bring to light the atrocities committed, instead of pushing it under the desk for various other political reasons. Unless this happens things could go worse, for United Nations happens to be a world-governing body.

Source: BBC

I had lost interest in cricket after the world cup 2003, but the much hyped Indian Premier League, has renewed that dormant interest now, though with different perspectives. IPL does offer glamour to the game with popular cine stars, industrialists and former cricket captains being the owner of the team, and of course the attraction of other country players coordinating with the Indians together with the lure of Twenty-Twenty match. But there is somehow an artificial aspect to the game, with heavy money involved. Another question which kept coming to my mind was what happened to the North- Eastern States? IPL is highly superficial without their participation. At least when they were planning to begin such a big and new event, they should have considered north-eastern states of our country, though some could argue about football being popular there. But it only shows how neglected these states are.

Moreover when other sports in this country are not so popular like cricket, why were steps not taken to promote interests in them? The same could have happened to football and hockey, which would have at least directed the interested ones to take football and hockey seriously. In fact it would have been worth watching Indian Premier League (Football), and would also have created opportunity for young players to mingle with great ones.

Sports is a large arena, but may be to Indian government it means only cricket, which is why they are blind to other games and it goes without saying that Indian politicians and stars wants only to generate money and fame , which BCCI readily offer.

Image: NDTV