Crucial times for Kejriwal’s party
Dear Sir,
As expected by most, if not all, in India, Arvind Kejriwal has stepped down as Delhi’s chief minister after his “historical” 49 days in power. His resignation might have disappointed his ardent supporters who voted him into power in Delhi and many others in India and abroad, who have been celebrating the rise of a clean politician in the firmament of Indian politics, defying the dark forces of corruption.
In any democratic country, a sizeable part of the electorate would be lagging in political literacy and this segment, which can be easily swayed, is always the target of all political parties. A spiritual leader or a film star can “hypnotise” this group easily, winning its votes to gain power.
Kejriwal’s Aam Admi Party (AAP), the new kid on the block, electrified many in India with their catchy slogans and visionary ideas but, sadly, overlooked the fact that whether its programmes were 100% practical.
As India’s President Pranab Mukherjee had noted in his Republic Day speech last month, political parties who make impractical promises to people would only create anarchism in the country.
No doubt, corruption is the cancer infecting all vital organs of India and this must be dealt with an iron fist even as the rights of the people are protected. Let’s say that this is the primary wish of every Indian except some crooked politicians and their gangs. But, there must be a sensible and practical strategy to fight against the disease. Mere populist slogans and programmes alone will not be enough.
AAP was an offshoot of spontaneous sentiments that sprang from a number of incidents in Delhi. The party’s origin can be traced back to the anti-corruption movement that began under the leadership of veteran Gandhian Anna Hazare a few years ago.
These are crucial times for AAP. It is not to be written off despite its decision to give up power in Delhi. Its ideas remain valid and objectives legitimate but it is too early for the party to exercise executive powers.
Kejriwal and his team should earn enough experience from the opposition bench before switching to the treasury side.
AAP should now build on its basic infrastructure by creating confidence in it among voters as a reliable alternative to the traditional political parties whose ratings are declining in India.
K K Nazimudeen, PO Box No 441, Doha
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