Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE INEFFICIENT LOKAYUKTA LOKAYUKTA SURROUNDED BY SHORTFALLS, ADVANTAGE BJP

























By, Firoz.T.Totanawala 

 The Bangalore Metro Reporter 

 THE INEFFICIENT LOKAYUKTA 

 LOKAYUKTA SURROUNDED BY SHORTFALLS, ADVANTAGE BJP 

 The state of Karnataka is currently facing tremendous heat of the Mining scam and undoubtedly all the credit is attributed to the inefficient and corrupt BJP Government of Karnataka. In spite of the exposure of manipulations by their Ministers, the Chief Minister, Mr. Yedurapa has openly defended them and successfully drafted a plan to safeguard them. While a CBI probe is a necessity for such types of scams, Mr. Yedurappa adamantly entrusted the Mining probe to the Lokayukta in stead of the CBI. But, it is a clear fact that the Lokayukta is an unsuitable agency to investigate a scam spread at national and even inter national level. Let us understand the limitations and helplessness of the Lokayukta pertaining to the Mining scam for which he is entrusted the probe. 

 TIME IS TICKING 

Is it really possible for the Lokayukta to conduct the probe? It is in fact, Mr. Yedurappa’s great political conspiracy to safeguard his Government. The Lokayukta is scheduled to retire in August next year and therefore must submit his report to the Government before his term expires. Since the scams involves inter state and inter national complexities, it will be next to impossible for the Lokayukta to submit the report within a year. And even if he does so, the report will once again be in the hands of Mr. Yedurappa himself, who will then decide whether to accept or reject the report and his next course of action. 

 BEYOND THE BORDERS 

A major shortfall for the Lokayukta in this scam would be his limitation to the state only. While the iron ores were exported from the ports of Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, it also includes certain inter national violations as well. The Lokayukta will find it difficult to analyse the transactions outside Karnataka. He may seek assistance of CBI but it may or may not oblige. The Lokayukta also is incapable to seek assistance from the Interpol to investigate inter national violations. 

 ACCESS DENIED INTO SWISS BANK

 It is a known fact that people across the globe deposit their black chunk of money in the famous Swiss Bank perhaps, because, the laws of the Swiss Bank suit such people. The Swiss Bank never reveals the details of its customer, unless there is a criminal case filed against a person for accumulating wealth through illegal means and that there is a suspicion that the same person may be holding an account with the Swiss Bank. But, it would be next to impossible for the Lokayukta to request the Swiss Bank to provide the details since it has limited powers. 

 INTRUDERS 

Another important problem would be shortage of staff for the Lokayukta. Nevertheless, even if he successfully pressurizes the Government to recruit additional staff to assist him in the Mining investigation, the Government will intervene and depute their loyal officials who would completely hamper his investigation. Minute by minute development on the Mining scam investigation can be informed to the Chief Minister, who will then play the cards accordingly to save his Government and the Reddy brothers. 

 CBI POWER

 If the probe was offered to CBI, it would have surely exposed the culprits. The CBI is national agencies which can access the entire country and also seek assistance at inter national level. Mr. Yedurappa is all aware of it and so he was frightened about the CBI probe. When the pressure mounted him to order investigation, he intentionally avoided the most suitable agency CBI and handed over the probe to the Lokayukta, who is incompetent as far as mining scam, is concerned. Now, Mr. Yedurappa is safe as his political gamble ensures his victory.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter ARE WE REDDY FOR PRESIDENT’S RULE THE REDDYS MAY INVITE PRESIDENT’S RULE IN KARNATAKA

























By, Firoz.T.Totanawala 

 The Bangalore Metro Reporter 

 ARE WE REDDY FOR PRESIDENT’S RULE 

 THE REDDYS MAY INVITE PRESIDENT’S RULE IN KARNATAKA 

 The Reddy brothers, who arguably succeeded in bringing the first ever BJP Government in Karnataka a couple of years back, may become the reason for the downfall of the same. In fact, they had almost succeeded to pull it down last year itself, but for the intervention of their God mother Sushma Swaraj. 

 CORRUPT RULES

 The recent expose of Ministers of BJP Government who have bluntly exploited the natural resources of the state for their selfish gains and amassed abundance of wealth has shocked the entire nation. The more shocking is the fact that the Chief Minister, who should immediately sack and initiate criminal proceedings against these violators is actually going out of the way in defending them. While there is a new political game played every other day, let us understand that going by the developments, it seems possible that Karnataka may witness President’s rule in the near future. 

 FLIGHT TO DELHI

 Let us recall that the Governor of Karnataka, Mr. H. R. Bhardwaj has himself prepared a damning report on the ugly political atmosphere, illegal mining, uncontrollable corruption, nasty behavior of the Reddy brothers, ineffectiveness of the Chief Minister in controlling the state affairs etc. etc. Let us also ponder on the fact that the Governor took the pain of personally flying to Delhi to submit the report to the President, Prime Minister and Home Minister of India in person. 

 MIND YOUR BUSINESS

 Well, whatever the spokesperson of the BJP say, it is clearly evident that the Reddy brothers have showed an ugly behavior and rowdy character to the state. Firstly, the rowdy brothers dared to insult the High Command and publicly asked him to mind his own business when the Governor summoned them on a petition. The Governor had summoned the Reddy brothers on a petition filed against them under the plea of Office of profit and Conflict of Interests. Actually there is nothing wrong in this. Any Governor there be, whenever receives a petition against any Minister or Official of the Government and if that appears to be of serious intensity, then summons the concerned authority and who is required to explain on the matter. But, the Reddy brothers thought that they are the owners of the state, made an episode out of this and publicly refused to meet the Governor and also fired harsh words at him asking him to mind his own business. 

 WE ARE REDDY

 Later, the Lokayukta resigned on the grounds of Mining issue and the Government shielding the culprits but took it back finally, when L.K.Advani, the senior leader of BJP intervened. Furthermore, when the opposition held dharna in the assembly over the Mining scam, the Reddy brothers once again made news by verbally abusing the Congress leaders and threatening them of dire consequences if they continue to oppose them. 

 WHO WILL BELL THE CAT?

 The Governor was never a mute spectator but observing the incidences deeply. The Governor also has constitutional duties towards the state and the Law of land. He also informed the Chief Minister to control the Reddy brothers who are behaving as the owners of the nation by now. But, even the Governor knew that the Chief Minister is helpless. If he tries to finger the Reddy brothers he will loose his post. Even the BJP High command is helpless in their case since it is publicly known that the Reddy are ready to spend thousand of crores in the next Lok sabha election to help their God mother Sushma Swaraj become the Prime Minister of India. In short, no body from the state BJP Government or the high command is capable to control the Reddy brothers who are continually holding the Karnataka state for ransom. Besides, they have also successfully made Mr. Yedurappa to order a Lokayukta probe in the Mining scam in stead of CBI. Further, the already submitted report of Lokayukta in 2008, on illegal Mining still gathers dust. 

 PRESIDENT’S RULE?

 Now what can one do to safeguard the interest of the state and the public in such a situation? Obviously, the Governor had to intervene and he submitted a strong report to the central Government seeking its intervention. The Centre is studying the report and planning to impose President’s rule on Karnataka state under section 355. However, the Governor made it clear that he has neither asked for the President’s rule nor for a CBI probe in the illegal Mining scam and it is left to the Central Government to decide upon the appropriate action. Whatsoever, if article 355 is imposed then, the Governor has the power to order CBI probe in the Mining scam. As per the current political scenario, the President rule on Karnataka looks imminent in the near future. Let us wait and watch.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter LONG WAY TO GO INDIA INDEPENDENT INDIA COMPLETES 63 YEARS OF AGE


























By, Firoz.T.Totanawala 

 The Bangalore Metro Reporter 

 LONG WAY TO GO INDIA 

 INDEPENDENT INDIA COMPLETES 63 YEARS OF AGE 

 India completed 63 years of its independence on 15th August this year. While 63 years may be an entire lifetime for some humans, it is indeed a short period for a nation. It is an appropriate time for us to review our progress and justify our worth for independence. We have to introspect over our duties to the nation and not merely try to assert our rights. 

 One of the greatest achievements of India is that it has remained democratic all these 63 years and is regarded as the biggest Democracy in the world. While other Nations, who gained freedom or became independents, lost their democratic status, India went ahead and established foolproof democracy which can be a role model for the world. 

 It was a fact that Mahatma Gandhi, a true democrat, brought up an army of great men and women who treated democracy as their breath. When India became independent, we were fortunate to have great democratic leaders. Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of Independent India had laid a strong base for democracy in India. 

 We have free and fair elections, an independent judiciary, free press and great parliamentarians. All these are a must for democracy and we have it in plenty. It is another matter that the quality of political leadership has started degrading in the recent past. 

 Do these plus points suffice for all round development of the country and its people? India despite its true democracy has not been able to provide prosperity to its people. Jawaharlal Nehru who laid the foundation for Industrialization and agrarian reforms was instrumental in India becoming an industrialized country. At the same time the big dams and other related irrigation schemes also helped India become an agricultural country. Nehru wanted both industries and irrigation to prosper so that the Indians can have employment and good food production. 

 While the Industrialization achieved its purpose, the agricultural projects could not provide the desired results. The reason was that the land holding was concentrated among negligible section of the society and therefore small and micro farmers were not benefitted. Moreover 70% of the agriculturists did not own a single plot of land. It was only after the sixties, that the government took major steps in land reforms and Vinoba Bhave’s Bhoodan Movement also made lakhs of agricultural workers get some piece of land as their own. 

 UNCULTIVATING INDIA

 At the end of 63 years, we are witnessing a steady decline of industries and the agricultural production is also at its low ebb. The unimaginable urbanization has resulted in decline of agriculture activities. The hard fact is that agricultural production constitutes only 17% of the GDP and we still prefer to call ourselves an agricultural country! There is absolutely no hope of the agriculture getting priority among the people in the near future. 

 LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR

 It is another matter that India has to spend a large portion of its budget towards defense as it is besieged by enemy countries on its borders. Pakistan, China, Bangladesh etc. are not prepared to allow India live in peace. If we had to spend less on defense in case of friendly neighbours, many poverty alienation schemes could have been taken up. But that is not the ground reality as of now. India has to increase its defense expenditure by 20-25 percent every year. 

 KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

Education has become the biggest drawback of the Independent India. It is not only the drawback but the biggest challenge of post Independence. Despite the best efforts, the literacy rate has not touched even 60%. Only recently the government introduced compulsory primary education to every child. Even though compulsory education was in force since many decades, it remained only on paper. Poverty is the root cause for this situation. In fact, in spite of central and state governments introducing Midday meals, bicycles and other inducements to make poor children to come to school, it may take many years to make the country, a totally literate. 

 TIME OF IT/BT 

Of course, India has made giant leaps in science and Technology. Indian scientists and Technocrats are second to none in the world and recognized the world over. The Information Technology of the recent origin has made India proud. Indian IT industry is no.1 in the world and has provided employment to millions of young and talented in a matter of 10-15 years. 

 The BT sector is also helping the country to become world no.1 in Research and development of Bio technology. In fact, BT is the future of India for some more years to come. It is important to recall that IT and BT sectors are in the hands of private enterprises and this private sector has seen tremendous growth in the past decade. The IT industry which was hit badly by the global recession of last year is slowly getting back on the track. Interestingly, the IT-BT boom has attracted students to a large extent much so that the basic science engineering etc. have no takers in the past decade. 

 THE DARK STORY

 Power is another sector that is yet to rise to the occasion. There is indeed an acute power shortage all over the country. The country is mainly dependent on Hydel and Thermal power production and has not explored the nuclear energy to increase the power generation. The word nuclear itself has become synonymous with destruction as the same has been used by many countries for war and other related activities. People forget to notice the other side of the nuclear energy. The scope for using the nuclear energy in power production is vast and some states are gradually veering towards it. 

 UNDER THE TABLE CHALLENGE

 And the challenge to the very basics of democracy which has survived for 63 years is the cancer of corruption. This has entered into the veins of the democratic India. In the past three decades, corruption has creeped into every organ of the establishment. One can imagine the level and reach of the corruption by the fact that two late Prime Minister were accused of corruption. Politics which was once a respected forum for social service has now become a highly lucrative commercial venture. Unscrupulous businessmen and even criminals have easy access to political power, while politicians with clean image and honesty, have become a rarity. 

 The bureaucracy which once was the pride of the country has now been completely politicized. They now cater to the needs of their political masters rather than the people of the country. The corruption level in the bureaucracy also has come to rotten level. The honest among them is considered an outcaste but we still do have ‘honest’ officials though negligible in numbers. 

 Corruption has established its dominance in defense also. Even judiciary is not spared. There was a case of a Supreme Court Judge escaping the impeachment by the Parliament by a whisker on corruption charges. The judiciary which should be ‘above’ everything is getting tainted because of the dark horses. In fact, in the recent past, many judges have been dismissed from service on corruption and inefficiency grounds. That itself is a sad commentary. 

 The spurt in corruption level was because of the political corruption which percolates to the lowest. The politician has to spend crores to get elected as MLA and he has to pay ‘funds’ to the party and its leaders to become a minister. He further has to recover the cost and has to amass money to fight the next election and also has to make arrangements towards his family. Gone are the days when party workers who were honest were issued tickets to contest the elections and the election expenses were minimal. In fact, if such a person is given the ticket, the party cadres used to pool funds, to bear the minimum expenses. Such persons used to remain honest and corrupt politicians were a rarity till the seventies. And Now? We have to conduct an elaborate search to find honest politicians! 

 In the recent years, many lobbies who have minted crores and crores and who used to patronage the politicians have themselves purchased political power for themselves. If one were to take a look at the legislators and parliamentarians, one can find at least 50% of them belonging to various lobbies - Granites, mines, capitation, excise etc. There is no denying the fact. When this being the case, how one could expect corruption to be rooted out as these lobbies are the other side of the corruption. 

The all pervading and engulfing corruption has become the greatest challenge to not only India but to the basic structures of democracy. One only hopes the emergence of a new leadership with honesty, integrity and far sightedness to save the country from corruption. As they say, one has to live on hopes. And on this Independence Day, we can at least hope for good tidings!

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE RUBBER STAMP CM CM REFUSES TO ACT, ASKS OPPOSITION TO APPROACH HIGH COURT AND SUPREME COURT AGAINST ILLEGAL MINING

























BY FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 THE RUBBER STAMP CM 

 CM REFUSES TO ACT, ASKS OPPOSITION TO APPROACH HIGH COURT AND SUPREME COURT AGAINST ILLEGAL MINING 

 While the state of Karnataka is under the storm over the Mining scam, the first time BJP Government of Karnataka is on the verge of collapse for being a party to this mega scam. The opposition would not have asked for a better issue to protest against the Government and it has successfully flagged the issue of corrupt BJP Government. They also disrupted the legislature session opposing the same and also held day and night dharna demanding a CBI probe in the Mining irregularities. However, when the pressure mounted on the Chief Minister, he cunningly eye washed the public and handed over the probe to the Lokayukta in stead of CBI. 

 OOPS! WHAT DID YOU SAY? 

Whatsoever, the opposition continued its agitation and went on a Padayatra from Bangalore to Bellary which became a huge success. Mr. Yedurappa, who actually should have addressed the issue to the opposition and the public is countering the Congress Padayatra and planning to undertake Padayatra in all the districts of Karnataka. Recently, while the opposition was aggressively demanding a CBI probe in the Mining issue the Chief Minister commented what could be termed as a most shocking statement made by a Statesman. Mr. Yedurappa, told the opposition to approach High court if they wish to fight illegal Mining. Refusing clearly to opt for a CBI probe, the Chief Minister told the elected representatives of Congress and the JD(S) parties to approach High Court or Supreme Court to initiate a CBI probe if they had the related documents with them. Such a statement made by a Chief Minister is indeed shocking and strikes the very roots of Democracy. 

 YOUR DUTY SIR! 

It is the duty of the Government and the Chief Minister to protect and safeguard the interests of the state, its people and its resources. If the Government discovers a violation of a law either on its own or through any other source, be it the opposition or the media, it is bound to take action. Mr. Yedurappa is very much dutiful to take action on the illegal Mining and has no logic to ask the opposition to approach the courts in stead. The courts would be last resort to approach in case the Government intentionally fails to act for the welfare of the state. 

 ACT OR VANISH 

Mr. Yedurappa is the Chief Minister of the Karnataka state. He is primarily responsible for the rule of law and the law of land. He also has the powers to take actions. He cannot simply shirk the responsibility of the august office he holds. If people have to approach the courts in order to seek justice, then what is the point of having a Government Mr. Yedurappa? What is the point of having you as the Chief Minister? 

Let there be no Government and people can approach the courts for all their matters. Let us hope that we are gifted with statesmen who are genuine in their services to the state, its people and its precious resources.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter WALKING IS GOOD FOR POLITICS PADAYATRA BECOMES A POLITICAL GIMMICK















































By Firoz.T.Totanawala 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 WALKING IS GOOD FOR POLITICS 

 PADAYATRA BECOMES A POLITICAL GIMMICK 

 The Congress Padayatra from Bangalore to Bellary, the Reddy brothers’ Padayatra in Bellary district, the BJP’s rally cum convention in four revenue divisions and later Padayatra by the Chief Minister in every district and the proposed Padayatra from Bagalkot to Bangalore by the JD(S) headed by H.D. Kumaraswamy has made the state politics as Padayatra politics. Every party and politician is trying to extract benefit and credit from Padayatra politics, the credit of which should be given to the Reddy brothers. 

 It was all started by the opposition leader Siddramaiah. During the heated debate over the illegal Mining issue in the assembly, the Chief Minister, Mr. Yedurappa lost his cool and displayed threatening postures against Siddaramaiah by folding his sleeves and abusing the Congress. The talk of the town rowdy Reddy brothers also joined the CM and created a ruckus in the assembly. They hurled abuses and challenged Siddramaiah to set his foot in Bellary and that they will strip him and finish him. 

 Shocked over the violent behavior and the challenge of the Reddy brothers, Siddramaiah readily agreed and promised to hold a convention of Congressman at Bellary. Though his reaction might be termed as a spur of the moment but surely it caught the imagination of the Congressmen and they saw a golden opportunity to take up their fight against the illegal Mining and simultaneously rejuvenate the party. 

 Within a few days, the Congress decided to go for a Padayatra from Bangalore to Bellary. Luckily for the Congress, the timing also clicked as the state was undergoing the trauma of a massive Mining scam allegedly involving the Reddy brothers and the BJP Government. They obviously settled for the same issue and went ahead. 

 While the CM, the Reddy brothers and the BJP party did took it casually in the beginning they were shocked over the successful response the Congress Padayatra gained as the days passed by. This made them loose their sleep and they were forced to counter act simply to derive a political benefit out of it. Many more Padayatras were announced by the ruling party themselves and the state and its people were left suffering. 

 Everybody is organizing a Padayatra for their own reason and indeed it has become a laughing stock for the nation. Gone are the days when the Padayatra was the last resort weapon to fight the injustice. Now, it has actually become a forum for power. One can still understand and accept the fact of opposition taking out a Padayatra for a cause, but, it is indeed amusing to know that the ruling party and the Chief Minister himself is planning to go on a Padayatra. What sense does it make? He is the CM and his party is in rule. What could be the reason of a Padayatra? Quite clear it is that the CM wants to visit each and district and brain wash the people. So that he can once again establish his vote bank which is under serious threats due to his own misdeeds. 

 Well, the concept of Padayatra has clicked in Karnataka. While we are celebrating our 63rd Independence Day, we remember the great mahatma Gandhi who took the Dandi march against the British demanding the Independence of India. That was a true march by a leader. And six decades down the line we have our leaders who have made Padayatra, a cheap instrument to induce people and derive their own political mileage out of it. God save India!

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE CONTROVERSIAL BILL THE CONTROVERSIAL BILL OF COW SLAUGHTER BAN AND ITS REPERCUSSIONS
























FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 THE CONTROVERSIAL BILL 

 THE CONTROVERSIAL BILL OF COW SLAUGHTER BAN AND ITS REPERCUSSIONS 

 Amidst uproar and protest by the opposition parties the controversial Bill of Prevention of Cow Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle – 2010 was passed by the Karnataka Assembly. Not only the opposition parties, but also a large section of the state’s population is against passing this Bill into a law. The Bill was passed after a four-hour-long debate and discussions held, which were mainly focusing about its repercussions, if implemented. Despite insufficient ‘yeas’, the Bill was passed by the voice vote in the lower house and further it needs the approval of the upper house, where the ruling party lacks sufficient support, to be made into a law. 

Disturbance of livelihood of many 

The well-set livelihood of many of those who are involved in the industry would be shattered. More than 2 lakh under direct employment in the industry would be thrown out of employment and their families would be left to seek other means for their survival. In all more than 12 lakh people would undergo the sufferings. Nonetheless, the eating habit of the majority of the people of Karnataka would undergo a sea change. Consumption of lamb-meat would become a rarity and the price of chicken would be beyond the reach of their affordability. 

Not a choice of the Majority 

The current Bill is brought now with the intention of effective implementation towards the prevention of Cow Slaughter and preservation of the Cattle just because the present ruling party is of the opinion that a similar Act which was passed in 1964 was not that effective at all. Besides, its act of passing the Bill is in tune with keeping up of its promises made prior to the elections. But the reality is that no one from the public forum wanted a Bill of this nature to be passed into such an Act, whereas the public in fact has shown its displeasure through various means. 

Majority are non-vegs 

The ruling party of the Karnataka State is inspired by the successful implementation of a similar Bill in Gujarat by its sister government. The reason for its success in Gujarat is due to its high proportion of majority vegetarian public, which is the highest in India (70 per cent), whereas in Karnataka the proportion is only 30 per cent, which means the Bill if implemented would stir and disturb the eating habit of the major section of the society. 

Cattle-count on the high

 Further citing the reason of diminishing of the cattle population by the ruling party is nothing but an excuse for the population has actually increased to 1.49 crore from 95 lakhs during the past 4 years, despite culling of over 20,000 economically unproductive cattle on a daily basis. It’s left to one’s imagination as to what would happen to the count of the cattle in case they are not slaughtered for consumption by the human beings, in particular and other encaged animals of the Zoos, in general. Besides, the end-user of the by-products of the cattle debris such as the pharmaceutical, leather and sugar industries would also be severely affected. 

Untimely and unwanted 

However, all the praises should go the Bharatiya Janata Party for passing the Bill, in question, which was not thought of by its predecessor and earlier governments for they were governing the state for the welfare of the public.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE BBMP WALL COLLAPSES ON THE CM SAFEGUARDING THE DONS AND CRUCUFYING THE ROWDY WILL BE TOUGH FOR THE CM




















FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 THE BBMP WALL COLLAPSES ON THE CM 

 SAFEGUARDING THE DONS AND CRUCUFYING THE ROWDY WILL BE TOUGH FOR THE CM 

 Every one knows that the civic agencies primarily do not work for the welfare of the people. They merely execute contracts with the intentions of making out bucks of it. And unfortunately for them, they do feature in the headlines occasionally when people face a drastic consequence due to their negligence. 

 The recent instance of a BBMP retaining wall in Hebbal collapsing and killing the innocent Sanjana has become a burning issue for the state again. An enquiry was ordered and even Lokayukta submitted the report that revealed what we all know from years. The works carried out by the Contractor Munirathna, who is now a corporator were of sub standard quality and held Contractors and the Engineers responsible for Sanjana’s death. The Mayor then ordered the suspension of the Chief Engineer and black listing of the contractor. 

 However, if we check all the works executed by the BBMP worth rupees thousands of crores, we can sum up to say that all the works are of sub standard quality and the bills that are claimed for the same works are all highly inflated. Obviously, the execution of civil works for the benefit of the tax paying citizen have become a business for the MLA’s, Corporators and the officials of the BBMP who work hand in gloves. 

 Whatsoever, the BBMP is now planning to disqualify Munirathna from the council and this has become a controversy for the government. The Mayor has asked the Corporator to resign from his post or he will send recommendation to the Chief Minister to disqualify him. The Corporator will not resign himself because they actually spend crores of rupees to get elected and cannot ruin their investment. Now the Mayor has the option to recommend his disqualification to the CM. As Munirathna is a Congress Corporator and the Mayor belongs to the BJP, the Chief Minister will now be in a perfect dilemma. It will be difficult for him to reject his own Mayor’s recommendations and will have to disqualify Munirathna under the Office of Profit and Conflict of interests as filed against him. 

 But the matter will not end here. In case the CM disqualifies him on the grounds of Office of Profit or Conflict of Interests, the CM will lend himself in trouble as it will lead to another controversy. The CM will have to apply the same hard stick to some of his own Ministers of his cabinet who have rampantly engaged themselves in exploiting the resources of the state up to the tunes of crores. 

 Take the instances of the powerful Reddy brothers. After helping the BJP to win the Karnataka assembly elections, they have literally held the state to ransom. In spite of the rampant illegal mining in the state they have forced Mr. Yedurappa to leave the mining lobby untouched. 

They forced the CM to withdraw the special toll tax on ore carrying lobbies which could have fetched the state exchequer at least rupees 500 crores per year. They further, forced the CM to post back all the Reddy loyalist officials in the revenue, police, and forest and survey departments in their mining capital Bellary. It is due to their pressure that Mr. Yedurappa is sitting quietly on the Lokayukta report on Mining scam submitted in December 2008. They have also successfully signed a MoU with the state for establishing a 35000 crore steel plant in Bellary. 

 All these qualifications of the Reddy brothers are more than enough to disqualify them from the cabinet. In fact, it is more of an emergency to disqualify the Reddy brothers first than to disqualify Munirathna. Now, if the CM disqualifies Munirathna, he will have to answer the continuation of the Reddy brothers in his cabinet. 

 Munirathna is also a culprit for having executed a public work of sub standard quality thereby leading to a death of an innocent girl. He must be expelled and black listed. But just because he is a member of the opposition party, it does not mean that Mr. Yedurappa can nail him and safeguard the bigger criminals and exploiters who are part of his own team. The Chief Minister is in a complete fix. Let us now see how he rescues himself from this mess.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE EMOTIONAL POLITICS CM’S BOGUS CLAIM OF SUPPORT OF SIX CRORE PEOPLE

























FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 THE EMOTIONAL POLITICS 

 CM’S BOGUS CLAIM OF SUPPORT OF SIX CRORE PEOPLE

 After being elected as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Mr. Yedurappa repeatedly makes a public statement that six crore people of Karnataka has given them the mandate to rule the state for five years. From time to time, the BJP Government came under storms many a times for various reasons and whenever the opposition lambasted the Government, the BJP officials adopted the emotional manipulation approach and repeatedly emphasized that they have the support of six crore Kannadigas. 

 It is definitely acceptable that they have formed the Government on peoples mandate but is it really rational for the Chief Minister to repeatedly sat that they enjoy the support of all six crore Kannadigas? 

 WHERE ARE THEY? 

On the face of it the Karnataka state does not have six crore people. As per the census of 2001, the population of Karnataka was five crores and is expected to rise to six crore by the end of 2011. However, the CM from the year 2008 is publicly declaring false statistics about the population of state. Furthermore, let us study the below given details to evaluate the statement of the CM as to whether or not they enjoy the support of six crore Kannadigas. 

 CHECK THE STATISTICS

 Let us trace back to the 2008 Assembly elections of Karnataka, in which the BJP victoriously bloomed out. Firstly, the adult and eligible to exercise franchise population of Karnataka during the year 2008 was 50%. Which means even if we accept Mr. Yedurappas figure of six crore then the adult population would come to 3 crore. Further, the voting percentage during the 2008 elections was 50%, which means that only 1.5 crore people came out to vote. 

However, since the CM has inflated the population figures, the actual figures of voting differ here. As per the figures officially released after the polling, 1.2 crore people had exercised their right during 2008. Next and the most important calculation is that out of 1.2 crore votes, BJP got vote share of about 40%, Congress a little over 39% and JD(S) got the vote share of 18%. Literally, it means that about 48 lakhs people have voted for the BJP and the rest of entire Karnataka is against them as they did not vote for them. 

 WHY DID YOU TRADE MLAs

 When we study the outcome of the election, we remember that the BJP had secured 110 seats, just two seats more then the Congress and JD(S) combined. It in fact did not even receive the simple majority, but, came to power by purchasing 6 independent candidates, five of whom were made Cabinet Ministers and one a Chairman of a big Board and also given a Cabinet rank. In fact 40% of the Ministers in the Chief Ministers cabinet were defectors after 2008. This makes it amply clear that Mr. Yedurappa became the Chief Minister through Operation Kamala and through the support of six crore Kannadigas. 

 THE UNSUPPORTIVE REDDYs 

If the entire state supported Mr. Yedurappa then why was there a massive revolt by his own party men lead by Reddy brothers in October 2008? The entire nation watched in horror what can be termed as a drama of democracy when the Reddy brothers hijacked 40 MLAs and stay put them in star resorts to ensure the end of Mr. Yedurappa. It was a 15 days drama which clearly indicated the vulnerability of Mr. Yedurappa’s Government. Eventually the CM had to sacrifice his woman friend Shobha Krandlaje and another loyal officer Mr. Baligar to establish peace with Reddy brothers and save his throne. Why didn’t the CM tell this to the Reddy brothers that he will not compromise as he enjoyed the support of six crore Kannadigas? 

 The BJP Government coming to power in Karnataka is a big gamble. It involved a lot of muscle and money power and never it was the support of six crore Kannadigas. While the Chief Minister blatantly goes on endorsing the support of entire state to him, he is also revealing wrong information about the actual population of the state. But is there anyone who can question the Chief Minister?...

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter UNDER MINING THE CBI CM SAVES HIS GOVERNMENT, OPTS FOR LOKAYUKTA INSTEAD OF CBI.











































FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 UNDER MINING THE CBI 

 CM SAVES HIS GOVERNMENT, 

OPTS FOR LOKAYUKTA INSTEAD OF CBI. 

 The BJP Government in Karnataka by now has become a bundle of blunders. After coming to power in the year 2008, it has repeatedly at frequent intervals dragged itself into a controversy thereby challenging their very existence and publicly giving message of their manipulative administration. 

 The latest one and perhaps the most shocking one is the mining irregularities. It is publicly known to all that the Reddy brothers have indeed played a vital role in the victory of BJP Government in Karnataka and in return they must be allowed to play with the resources of the state as per their whims and fancies. But then there is also an opposition which never loses a chance to expose the corruption of the ruling Government. The current mining irregularities are in general a manipulation of states iron ore resources that tune up to thousands of crores. While it has now become public, the opposition is demanding the CBI probe in the same while the Chief Minister is avoiding it in order to save the Reddy brothers and also his Government. 

 AND THE PROBE GOES TO….

 Initially Mr. Yedurappa went an extra mile in favour of the Reddy brothers and personally gave them a clean chit saying they are all pure. But as the public and opposition pressure mounted on the CM, he was forced to take some action on the alleged misuse of the resources. But, the CM knows that he cannot afford to opt for a CBI enquiry. Therefore, he intelligently handed over the case to the Lokayukta. Though there was a huge outcry over his decision, the CM remained adamant and now the Lokayaukta is entrusted the probing into the Mining scam from the year 2000 to 2010. 

 Since the common citizen may not understand the deep rooted political game in his decision, the CM has until now successfully dodged the state. Let us now understand the reasons as to why the CM avoided the CBI enquiry and opted for a Lokayukta probe instead. 

 OH NO, NOT AGAIN! 

Practically speaking, Lokayukta is not a suitable agency to probe this scam since this scam spreads to national and international levels and powers of the Lokayukta are restricted to the state of Karnataka only. On the contrary we know that the Lokayukta was already probing the illegal mining scam from the year 2000 and has also submitted its interim report in 2008 and was all ready to submit his final report as well. And if we recall, the Lokayukta had resigned recently on the same grounds that the Government is safeguarding the corrupt officials and punishing the honest ones. Beside he had also publicly blasted the CM for not initiating actions on the mining report. Now what sense does it makes for the CM to once again ask the Lokayukta to conduct a probe? Anyways, the Lokayukta will once again conduct investigation and submit its report to the Government. But, what purpose will it serve? 

 LOKAYUKTA PROPOSES, GOVERNMENT DISPOSES 

Mind it that the Lokayukta has the power to only investigate and can not prosecute the culprit even if it proves them. This means the lokayukta will have to identify the culprits and submit the report to the Government and the penalizing part still rest with the Government and not the Lokayukta. 

 TIME IS TICKING 

Furthermore, is it really possible for the Lokayukta to conduct the probe? The great political gamble is revealed here. The Lokayukta is scheduled to retire in August next year and must submit his report to the Government before his term expires. Since the scams involves inter state and inter national complexities, it will be next to impossible for the Lokayukta to submit the report within a year. And even if he does so, the report will once again be in the hands of Mr. Yedurappa himself, who will then whether to accept or reject the report or his next course of action. 

 BEYOND THE BORDERS

 Besides, the major shortfall for the Lokayukta in this scam would be his limitation to the state only. While the iron ores were exported from the ports of Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, it also includes certain inter national violations as well. The Lokayukta will find it difficult to analyse the transactions outside Karnataka. He may seek assistance of CBI but it may or may not oblige. The Lokayukta also is incapable to seek assistance from the Interpol. 

 INTRUDERS 

Another important problem would be shortage of staff for the Lokayukta. Nevertheless, if he plans to recruit new members, the Government will intervene and put their loyal officials in his assistance which would completely hamper his investigation. 

 ACCESS DENIED

 Obviously, the Mining scam involves crores of rupees which is ought to be deposited in the famous swiss bank. In order to investigate thoroughly, the Lokayukta will also have to extract details of money deposited into the Swiss banks accounts. However, it is next to impossible for the lokayukta to reach Swiss Bank since the Swiss Bank has a policy of not revealing any information of its account holders. The Swiss bank will reveal the information only on the basis that criminal cases are files against a culprit accusing him of monetary manipulation a part of which money is claimed to be deposited in the Swiss Bank. However, the Lokayukta can not make this happen due to his limited powers, and on the contrary it is possible only for the CBI to access Swiss Bank. 

 CBI POWER

 On the other hand if the probe was offered to CBI, it would surely expose the culprits. The CBI is national agency which can access the entire country and also seek assistance at inter national level. Mr. Yedurappa is all aware of it and so he was frightened about the CBI probe. When the pressure mounted him to order investigation, he intentionally avoided the most suitable agency CBI and handed over the probe to the Lokayukta, who is incompetent as far as mining scam, is concerned. Even the Lokayukta himself has publicly accepted and supported the opposition’s demand of handing over the case to CBI for it is a better suitable agency to handle such type of investigations. However, since the opposition and pressure to hand over the case to CBI continues, there is a possibility that the CM might be forced to hand over the case to CBI to save the image of the BJP Government for now. But then, the CM will have to draft another master plan to save himself and his Government. Well, when this does happen, we will bring you the truth again. But for now, Mr. Yedurappa is safe as his political gamble ensures his victory.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE RACIAL MIRROR



















FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 The Racial Mirror 

 The recent spate of racial attacks on Indians in Australia might have subsided, but, it has indeed opened up many a debate on the issue. While at first I admit that it definitely has hurted me and completely empathize the conditions of the victims, I also condemn myself that we as a collective Indian society are also responsible for inculcating the same feelings. 

 I understand that you may be surprised and shocked at my words but let us consider the facts below. While we talk about patriotism on one hand we also have our own classifications within our nations. Uttar Pradesh and Bihar workers not allowed in Maharashtra, North Indians are victimized in South India and vice versa, North East people are ill treated in other parts of the country, a singer is asked to apologize for not speaking as a Marathi, a film star is victimized for talking about peace and harmony with the neighbouring country, a minister in Andhra Pradesh asks the cricket team to boycott the tournament since Hyderabad was not selected as a venue for the game. 

The list will go on and on, isn’t it? So now you understand that while we get frustrated about the attacks on Indians by outsiders and burn with patriotism, we are all back home, favouring and practicing racism. 

 It is a fact that our constitution promotes Unity in Diversity and that we all believe in oneness, but that is all in the constitution. In practice we are all racist and divided by not one but many classifications. Region, race, religion, culture, colour, status, power, achievements, gender, age, seniority etc etc. We all practically have hatred against our fellow Indians and wait for the opportunity to harm him. Honestly speaking, the harming would bring us satisfaction. Then, the question of patriotism on the racial attacks on Indians by outsiders holds no value. 

 The reason could also be that this racism has evolved among us perhaps due to our incompetence. With our monopoly and expertise coming under severe stiff competitions, we are left with the option of racial discrimination. If the prestigious Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University are now being filled by the students of Bihar, UP, South India and North East, people of Delhi in order to suppress the fact of their incompetence and stiff challenge will be forced to resort to racial discrimination. This is the case in perhaps all the classifications. 

 Then let us face the plain facts. We, as the collective Indian society are all bloody racists. And till the time we live in the glass houses, we should refrain from throwing stones. And before we speak of Nationalism and Patriotism we must first get rid of bigotry, persecution complex, jingoism and conspiracy theory.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter Victimisation of the victims





















FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 Victimisation of the victims 

 Ever since the rape case of the minister Halappa surfaced, he has been hospitalized for treatment for his weak health. He’s not the one to find asylum in the hospital, there were several others involved in such similar cases do voluntarily seek asylum and shelter, and run for their safety and to gain time. Swami Nityananda of the Bidadi Ashram is also not an exception. He has already attained freedom and commenced his activities of rendering discourses on the topic of ‘freedom’. A 2-term MLA from Honnalli in Davangere District Renukacharya has been an accused in the criminal case based on the complaint filed by Jayalakshmi, who was finally made to withdraw the case. 

The real victims in these cases are Chandravati – a mother of 2, who was raped by the honourable minister, Lenin – the driver of Swami Nityananda and Jalayalakshi in the case of Renukacharya, all of them have been facing severe mental torture and agony just for their act of exposing the reality of their cases to the public and for the cause of seeking justice. 

And there are victims of other kinds as well. S K Modi – the whistle blower with regard to the exposing about the illegal mining activities of the 2 honourable ministers of the state, Hussein Farooq - the complainant and Amen Pasha – the witness are the victims of the bribery case involving the MLA Sampangi of Kolar all were threatened, tortured and a few of them even kidnapped by the accused, including an IAS officer M.N. Vijayakumar, who had been a whistle blower and had exposed serious corrupt practices at high levels in Karnataka and S. Manjunath, a formerly manager at Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), and crusader against adulteration of petrol. He was shot dead on November 19, 2005, allegedly by a petrol pump owner from Uttar Pradesh. 

Such is the fate of the victims, whistle blowers and crusaders, but the accused – they always go scot free!

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE GREAT DAMAGER Story of a KLAC Manager who excelled in manipulations


























FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 THE GREAT DAMAGER 

 Story of a KLAC Manager who excelled in manipulations 

 India is a Nation of scams and more importantly it is also famous for non punishment to the accused. But the common Indian has no idea about the blatant corruption that takes place in the Government run organizations. And if any one does come to know about the corrupt undertakings and happenings, it will drive him nuts for sure. 

 Let us ask a few common questions to ourselves and see what the answers should be. 

 What will an organisation, either a Government or a private one do if any of its officials is accused of:- 

(a) Executing sub standard and bogus works? 

(b) Claiming excess bills and bogus ones? 

(c) Purchases more materials than necessary? 

(d) Held guilty by the Lokayukta? 

 Of course any one with a common sense would say that that official must be sacked and penalized and recovery proceedings should be undertaken against him for indulging in misappropriations while holding a responsible public post. 

 Unfortunately, not in the case of Mr. S.V.Venkatesh Murthy, an official of Karnataka Land Army Corporation. There has been no action taken against the said official and astonishingly, on the contrary, the official was granted promotion after promotion. Currently, an exclusive post of General Manager has been temporarily created to accommodate this corrupt official Mr. S.V.Venkatesh Murthy. It should be noted that the Government had earlier approved the creation of two General Manager Posts on temporary basis and that too for a period of just one year. However, the KLAC is blatantly continuing with this arrangement even after the expiry of one year period. In fact, the KLAC has no fear to bother about the Government’s permission for continuation of temporary posts of General Managers because the Principal Secretary, Finance, M.R.Srinivasa Murthy is the godfather of S.V.Venkatesh. Mr. Venkatesh regularly browbeats the top brass in the name of M.R.Srinivasa. 

 MY CONNECTIONS EVERYWHERE-

 As per records Mr. S.V.Venkatesh is a very fortunate man for he has successfully obtained high links at strategic place. When at first he made a mess of IRWS works during his durbar as DD in Dharwar, the then in charge CMD Mr. V.R. Gudi bailed him out. 

 Mr. Venkatesh had played havoc then. He indulged in sub standard works, bogus works, inflated bills, excess claims, purchase of materials far in excess of required quantity etc. etc. While Karnataka Land Army Corporation was sure to earn handsome profit out of this contract, it actually suffered losses due to manipulations by Mr. Venkatesh. In fact, Mr. Venkatesh had also executed works which were not even mentioned or approved. 

Finally, the KLAC top brass, particularly Mr.V.R. Gudi and M.R.Srinivasa moved hell and earth to convince the entrusting agency to pay more service charges. Besides, they also convinced them to clear inflated and bogus bills after having known about the sub standard works. 

 DO HELL WITH THE LOKAYUKTA-

 It should be noted that even the Lokayukta had conducted an enquiry into the charges of misappropriation against Mr.S.V.Venkatesh and others and had also held the charges as proved. The Lokayukta had directed the KLAC to initiate action against Mr. Venkatesh for misappropriation of several lakhs in purchase of steel etc. But Mr. V.R. Gudi, instead of taking action against him, freed him of all the charges which were held proved by the Lokayukta. Later Mr. Venkatesh was sent abroad for training. 

 But later Mr. V.R. Gudi was thrown out of KLAC, Mr. K.S.Manjunath became the MD and started operation clean up. Quite naturally, Mr. Venkatesh’s blunders also came under the scanner. Mr. Manjunath issued notice to Mr. Venkatesh to make good the ‘excess’ amount of more than four crores to KLAC or face the charges. Mr. Venkatesh got himself transferred and shockingly even Mr, Mr. Manjunath did not follow up the case later. 

 BACK TO SQUARE ONE-

 Then, Mr. A.S. Srikanth, succeeded Mr. Manjunath. Mr. Srikanth was a total money minded man. Anybody could get anything by paying him the requisite money. Mr. Venkatesh once again seized the opportunity and was back to KLAC and quite obvious as it appears, Mr. Srikanth simply ignored the follow up actions to recover excess money from Mr. Venkatesh. 

 LUCK FAVOURS THE DONKEY-

 Further to Mr. Venkatesh’s fortune, his godfather for all these years, Mr. M.R.Srinivasa Murthy became the BMP Commissioner. Mr. Murthy offered to entrust Footpath works worth more than 20 crores to KLAC but he put a condition that Mr. Venkatesh should be entrusted with the works. Mr. Srikanth of course agreed and Mr. Venkatesh was then promoted to the JD cadre and a separate BMP zone was created to accommodate him. 

 The BMP and later BBMP works executed by Mr. Venkatesh were all out and substandard. Of the total Footpath works more than 60% of the works were done by private contractors who got it as sub contract from Mr. Venkatesh and his team by paying them 30 to 35 percent commission. In fact, there was no need for laying concrete block footpaths after removing the cobble stone foot paths. 

The cobble stone foot paths have stood the test of the time and the BMP would have saved several crores if the renovations of footpaths were done by replacing the damaged stone slabs and relaying the existing slabs. But Mr. Srinivasa had a different plan. Later, 90 percent of the footpaths laid by KLAC have gone waste. Most of the cement curbstones and tiles have come off and the footpaths have already worn out. The BBMP was forced to lay many footpaths afresh, some with Sira stones or mosaic tiles. The BMP had also entrusted around 100 Hi tech toilets, at cost of more than 9 crores which also became non-functional in a span of two to three years. 

 BAAP KA RAJ-

 As long as Mr Srinivasa remained the BMP Commissioner, Mr. S.V.Venkatesh had a gala time. He used to draw advance from BMP as per his whims and fancies. There was nobody in BMP who could question the quality and quantum of works done by him as Mr. Srinivasa was his protector. In fact, even in cases of proven sub standard works, Mr. Srinivasa had made the payment. 

 There is still more in the book of the corrupt Mr. Venkatesh, but what is most hurting is that in spite of knowing about his manipulations he was never questioned rather he was promoted for his good. This explains the set up of cob web of corruption in our system. It is indeed a shame that people like Mr. Venkatesh move freely in the society and indulges in rampant corruption fearlessly under the protection of officials entrusted with the duty of public welfare. 
Shame…….

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE SECOND PARTITION OF INDIA The caste-based census will damage the National integrity




















FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 The second Partition of India 

 The caste-based census will damage the National integrity 

 India across the world is famous for its massive population and the constant dramas that bring shame to it time and again. It so happens that the Nation engulfs itself in some or the other irrational issue that not only creates irritation to the honest countrymen but also degrades it in the eyes of international community. By now, India has already successfully built its image as a communal based Nation whose majority does not tolerate the minority in spite of boasting itself as a Nation of University in Diversity. 

 Whatsoever, our beloved Nation is in news again for a stupid reason that it is planning to calculate a caste based census for the year 2011. 

We all understand that taking a census once in decade is indeed a mandatory statistical requirement that helps the Nation plan its growth. In simpler terms, the data of how much is our population helps us in many ways of which one is to prepare a plan for our own consumption of requisites which is also already divided area wise. 

 If we go back to our Independence time, we had stalwarts like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, B R Ambedkar and Maulana Azad, who all unanimously opposed the caste-based census and claimed that such a census would indeed divide the Nation. While our current political leaders consider our old leaders as the framers of our Nation and its basic principles, they are on the other hand openly dumping their beliefs and marching towards damaging the integrity of our country. 

 In the year 1951, when Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was the Prime Minister, he commented his view on caste-based census. He suggested that the caste-based census would attack the very essence of Indian unity which would be damaged in the long run. The same was also accepted by Sardar Vallabbhai Patel. 

If we consider the speech of the architect of our constitution, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, it becomes visibly clear that he has laid emphasis on the National unity. In his speech on motion for the adoption of the Constitution on 25th November, 1949, he said that "I am of opinion that in believing that we are a nation, we are cherishing a great delusion. How can people be divided into several thousands of castes be a nation? ... 

These castes are anti-national in the first place, because they bring about separation in social life. They are anti-national also because they generate jealousy and antipathy between caste and caste. But we must overcome all these difficulties if we wish to become a nation in reality. For fraternity can be a fact only when there is a nation. Without fraternity, equality and liberty will be no deeper than coats of paint." 

The logic behind taking caste-based census is very simple. It will definitely be of no use to India, but, it will definitely help the dividing politicians to obtain the exact number of caste-division, so that they can indulge in manipulation and play the game of power mathematics. 

 Its makes a sense for our Nation to take census based on region, economic level, educational level etc; but it is indeed foolish for us to take census based on caste. What benefit will it eventually give us if we come to know that there are so many various castes and so many followers? Will it help the Government in formulating policies for the growth of the Nation taking into consideration the caste-based figures? 

 While there are also number of protest within the cabinet and the Nation opposing the caste-based census, let us wait and see whether the wicked Politicians empowers the very essence of India’s integrity and succeed in taking out the caste-based census. If they do so, then soon, God forbid, but, our country will start breaking into numerous fragments. We will wait and see. 
Time will tell……….

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter BANGALORE ENCROACHED

























FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 BANGALORE ENCROACHED 

 The monsoon season has already set in and the city awaits the magnificent rainfall this year in optimism. There is a possibility of a massive rain also which could inundate Bangalore and sink the low lying areas. And of course we all know that the BBMP would blame the encroachment for the flooding and escape. Then there will be assurances and false promises by the BBMP and Bangalore Ministers about their determination to clear the encroachments. And once the rains ceases, the business is back to square one till the next rainy season. Till such time Bangalore witnesses another flood like situation, nobody complains. 

 In 2005 if you remember, Bangalore was flooded beyond imagination. The low lying areas were overflowed with water gushing from overflowed tanks. The government blamed the people for encroachments of Raja Kaluves and since then every Government and the BBMP continue to harp on the ‘encroachment’ being the sole reason and people believed it. People are used to sufferings and at the maximum; they would curse the Government and the BBMP officials. Even if we assume that encroachments were the main reason, why does the BBMP do not prevent such encroachments and clear the already existing ones? The hard truth is that none of the politicians or responsible authorities has spared a thought on betterment of civic infrastructure. They have just learnt to escape the responsibility by blaming the encroachments and doing nothing to rectify the situation. 

 Undoubtedly, the best way to tackle the floods in Bangalore is to clear the existing encroachments and prevent any more encroachments in future. The storm water drains have to be given utmost attention as takes the burden of the floods. It is also a fact that since 1995 various Governments have spent crores and crores of rupees in the name of modernizing the storm water drains but with no result. In many cases, the BBMP had also built the retaining walls on either side of the drains but due to sub standard works, there were collapses of retaining walls in many places. 

 There are also cases wherein the BBMP itself had a careless approach to the drain. It permitted establishments of shops and residences on the drains by enclosing them with slab stones. Besides, there are cases wherein Land sharks have grabbed the drain and tank areas and used it for personal gains. There are also instances where BBMP itself has sealed the drain and the tanks and allowed parks and sports utilities to come up on it. In some cases even the politicians have successfully converted the drain and tank area to be used for commercial activities. In such situations, water will overflow and flood the surrounding areas where the drains are sealed. 

 Unless the Storm water drains are improved nothing can stop the floods in Bangalore and it has to be tackled urgently. It is easier to say that all encroachments will be cleared but difficult to implement. There are cases where in the civic body itself has provided legitimacy by giving plan sanction and civic amenities to many of the houses who have encroached the tanks and drains. There are slums on the drains and tanks which make it a delicate issue that needs a political will to tackle the same. 

 If the BBMP authorities take up the civic problem seriously then it can prevent any further encroachments. However, clearing of the existing encroachment will need government’s support and back up. Shockingly, the BBMP does not have proper information and facts about the actual encroachments on either side of the drains. It might have the satellite images but it cannot become their concrete information. Therefore the first step to clearing drains would be information on the encroachments. 

 In order to arrive at the exact encroachments, the BBMP will have to form an expert committee of surveyors. The committee will have to study the old survey records - village maps to identify the tanks, Rajakaluves and mark the boundaries. This will indeed require a study of survey records dating back to about 50 years. 

 If this is done, the committee can accumulate the minute details of encroachments of Rajakaluves and tanks. Though this will need a lot of time and man power, it can be substantially be reduced if the committee makes use of the survey reports by the team of surveyors who have conducted extensive survey three years back for the AT Ramaswamy Commission of enquiry for the encroachments of the government lands. This particular survey to a substantial extent has identified the encroached government lands and tanks. It will be a sort of ready reckoner which can help in the identification of encroachments of drains and tanks. 

 Next the government will have to clear the encroachments. It is here that the government should approach the clearance drive with human touch. While nobody wants the government to compensate the apartments on encroached lands, the government should provide rehabilitation package to people who have built small houses. They should be provided with sites either from BDA or in the Ashraya scheme. They should be provided housing loans at cheaper interest also. Once they receive the site, they should be asked to vacate the houses on encroached lands immediately. In a matter of days, the entire encroachments will get cleared. In that event, the court litigations will not arise. For those who refuse to vacate despite the rehabilitation package, they should be evicted without mercy. 

 Then, the entire stretch of drains should be fenced to prevent any more encroachments. The same has to be repeated in case of encroachments of tanks. The inter linkage of tanks should be restored to its original pattern. If all these measures are taken, Bangalore will get rid off any future flooding and this will also raise the ground water level in addition to keeping ecological balance. Is there anyone listening?