Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE LEGEND OF TRUTH & NON VIOLENCE - CALLING FOR MAHATMA AGAIN!

 FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER

 THE LEGEND OF TRUTH & NON VIOLENCE 

 CALLING FOR MAHATMA AGAIN! 

 Another Gandhi Jayanthi has come and will go. People will enjoy the National Holiday. There will be few functions organized by the Governments and Political parties to celebrate the birthday of Mahatma. There will also be speeches made by many Netas in praise of Gandhi without actually knowing anything about him. And that will be the end of another Gandhi Jayanthi for this year. And for today’s generation, Gandhi Jayanti means Gandhiji, who further is associated with Gandhigiri which is depicted in a recent Hindi film which fortunately became a hit. Besides, since Gandhi Jayanthi is also observed as a ‘dry’ day, there will be also be people; addicted to drinking who would curse the day Gandhiji was born as they have to forego their quota of drinks. Frankly speaking Gandhi Jayanti for people today is merely a National Holiday. 

 Of course, Mahatma Gandhi who was a Great Soul is above all these descriptions. It is better to call him Mahatma rather than Gandhiji as there is an imminent danger of people getting the impression that he is the founder of Gandhi dynasty starting from Indira Gandhi to the present Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi which will be further extended to their future children. 

 KNOWING THE MAHATMA 

 Forget about all these cynicisms and let us understand who Gandhiji really was? In simple words, Gandhiji was a Mahatma that is Mahan Atma. He may not be a successful lawyer but he was definitely an outstanding advocate of human rights, democracy, non-violence and above all, truth. He was a man who hardly tolerated any sort of discrimination between human races and most importantly, he practiced what he preached. 

 Gandhiji introduced Truth and non-violence weapons to fight the mighty British empire, who had enslaved India and also provided a moral leadership to crores of Indians who were crying for Independence from British Rule. 

 THE BEGINNING 

 Gandhiji started his experiment with truth and non violence in South Africa where he had gone to eke out a living as a pleader. South Africa at that time was also under the British rule and the discrimination between Whites and Blacks, implying Indian labours, changed his life. The Indian community in South Africa was being humiliated and insulted by the whites in every conceivable means and they were not even allowed to mingle with the whites who treated them as bonded labours. They were also not allowed to travel in trains and buses along with the whites. In fact, Gandhiji himself was once thrown out of the first class compartment despite having the first class ticket. He then organized the Indians, most of whom were mine workers to protest the discrimination by the British in South Africa. 

 Gandhiji mesmerized the world with his agitations through the weapons of Non violence and truth. The protestors did not protest the police brutality on them and their imprisonment. Gandhiji along with many Indian leaders were also beaten up and sent to Jail, but still the protest continued. Indians willingly went to Jails and ultimately there was shortage of space in the jails for them. Despite the police brutality and Government’s racist approach, the agitation went on unabated. 

 Finally, the mighty British were forced to start dialogue with Gandhiji for ending the agitation. Gandhiji having become the undisputed leader of Indian community in South Africa was all humble throughout the talks. He never showed arrogance which is a common character of our present Netas. General Smuts who held discussions with Gandhiji was very much impressed with his honesty and simplicity and most people would not know the fact that General Smuts in later years, came to India to pay respects to Gandhiji who was then leading the Indian freedom struggle. He called him the ‘Great Soul’ that is Mahatma and also presented him a pair of chappals which he had made with his own hands. It may be mentioned that General Smuts was the symbol of British Sovereignty in South Africa and Gandhiji was a symbol of challenge to British Empire when he was leading a strong protest in SA. Demands of Indian community in South Africa were finally met by the British Government. 

 THE HOME COMING

 Of course, Gandhiji’s Non-violence and truth based agitation did catch the imagination of the people world over. During that time, the freedom struggle in India was also taking a firm ground. Balgangadhar Tilak, Gopalakrishna Gokhale etc had become the leading figures. They too were attracted by Gandhiji’s style of agitation and wanted him to lead the Indian freedom struggle. Gandhiji returned to India and before taking up the leadership of freedom moment, he toured the entire length and breadth of the country to understand the problems of the people in its entirety. He realized that Indian society needed reforms along with freedom from British rule. Such was the appeal of Mahatma Gandhi that anybody who would come into his contact would change his life style. Motilal Nehru, the highest paid advocate sacrificed everything to join Gandhiji and so did Sardar Vallababhai Patel, a leading legal luminary of India. And the list continues. 

 SOCIAL UPLIFTMENT

 Gandhiji led the freedom movement as well as the social reform movement. The dalits, who were treated as the most oppressed section of the society, were excluded from social mingling and they were not even allowed to enter temples and draw water from the community wells. They were also weak economically. To bring them to main stream Gandhiji called them Harijans meaning the loved ones of Hari, the Vishnu and led the movement to allow them entry into temples and also tried to uplift them economically. He also lived in harijan bastis. 

 While taking up the social reforms, the Mahatma provided an effective and innovative leadership to the freedom movement. Until then, the Congress which was leading the movement was not a mass party and its membership was restricted to a few educated people. After assuming the Congress leadership, Gandhiji opened the membership to all and provided moral leadership to it. 

 TRIUMPH OF NON VIOLENCE

 Gandhiji never aspired for any position either to himself or his family members and he was never an office bearer of the Congress. He fought the British through multiple agitations. His Swadeshi movement aimed at protecting the Indian craftsman gave a big blow to the British economy. His promotion of Khadi provided gainful employment to millions of people and his non co-operation movement shattered the morale of the British government. People refused to pay taxes to the government. And invariably, all his agitations were based on non-violence as he never tolerated violence. In fact, he called off his non violent agitation when few agitators enraged by the behaviour of police burnt the Police Station after locking up the police in Chouri Choura. 

 His Salt Satyagraha electrified the freedom movement and the entire world was surprised at the ultimate level of non-violence. The Quit India movement in 1942 was a watershed in the freedom movement. The British could not control or rule India anymore and were finally forced to terminate their rule in India and India became an independent country. However, the British succeeded in dividing the country by forming Pakistan and what happened thereafter is a sad history. 

 ONE MAN ARMY

 Mahatma was a guide, philosopher, teacher and preacher to the entire nation. Politically, he had the uncanny character of reading the pulse of the people. Socially he had realized that unless the Indian society gets rid of caste and communal discrimination, it can not progress. Economically he advocated the ‘trusteeship’ concept and his economic policy is relevant even today. Religiously, he was for harmony between the communities as he knew well that this is the only way to progress. As Lord Mountbatten described, Gandhiji was a “one man army”. His one word was enough to bring the nation to a halt.

 Gandhiji wanted the Congress which symbolised freedom struggle to wind up after the nation got freedom. According to him, the Congress had outlived its utility after it got the freedom but nobody heeded to Gandhi’s wishes. 

 HISTORY REPEATS

 As on now, the Indian economy is again in the grips of foreign countries. Farmers are committing suicides, the village industries; small industries have already become non-existent. Morality has gone down the drain. There is politics of hatred and communal divide. Politics has become a dirty word and has been commercialized. Corruption has become a part and parcel of the society and politics and bureaucracy have become highly profitable ventures. 

 WAITING FOR THE MAHATMA…..? 

 Arguably, Mahatma is more relevant today than at anytime. He gave us the freedom from alien rule. And now, the time has come to start a movement against hunger, poverty, corruption, communal tendencies, social evils etc. But we lack a leader who could steer the country out of these ills. And Mahatma would definitely fit in the scene. But the question is-where is Mahatma?

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE FLOODING OF BENGALURU The flood like situation which caused havoc on 24th September is an eye opener to the civic authorities of Bangalore. Even now, if they do not wake up the city will become another Kolkata of South.

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 

 THE FLOODING OF BENGALURU 

 The flood like situation which caused havoc on 24th September is an eye opener to the civic authorities of Bangalore. Even now, if they do not wake up the city will become another Kolkata of South. 

The current pathetic civic amenities of Bangalore are the outcome of many reckless and irrational actions being undertaken by the respective officials from the past. It is always essential to study the subject in its entirety in order to understand it thoroughly. The civic amenities of our city could have been much better had there been enough care and precaution taken in the past. Let us take a bird’s eye view on the subject. 

On 26th January 1976, the functions and activities of Planning Authority of Bangalore, Urban Art Commission, and Karnataka Housing Board, were merged to form the Bangalore Development Authority. The Urban Arts Commission was headed by a learned T.P. Issar, an IAS officer who was not only a good disciplinarian but a protectorate of some of the heritage of Bangalore. The Town Planning authority was headed by K.S. Rame Gowda, a perfect town planner and a visionary who along with Noor Ahmed (who later moved to PWD as Chief Engineer) were good advisers to the then Chief Minister and Chairmen of erstwhile CITB. Up till 1976, the town planning activities were under the frame work of Outline Development Plan of Bangalore which was known as ODP and the concept of CDP evolved later. 

 Then came the regime of R.Gundu Rao and R.K. Hegde and hell was let loose since persons like Rame Gowda, N. Govindappa, T.N. Galgali were not available to guide the Commissioners of BDA and the Government. Eminent personalities like, Charles Corea, T.J. Doss, Mahmood Ayaz were all not there on the board of directors of BDA. Persons loyal to the Chief Minister were picked and posted to BDA who were more interested in getting allotment quota rather than developing the city with future civic amenities. As a result the proposed schemes such as BTM 4th 5th and 6th and the surrounding areas of H.R.B.R., HBR, Banaswadi, M.R.C.R and Srigandadakaval layouts vanished into the hands of land lords. These land lords, not only got compensation from BDA, but also managed to sell their lands to needy public of Bangalore, which resulted in the haphazard growth of small segments within the city as upper class slums. By the time, when the CDP was put into practice the cat was out of bag, narrow lanes with flow of sewage on the roads had started. 

 At this juncture, the BCC collected development charges and issued khatas and sanctioned building plans recklessly without bothering about the widths of the roads. The greater loser was BDA, who had neither reclaimed the compensation which were not deposited in the Civil Courts nor collected the reconveyance charges from these beneficiaries of sites on its lands. Thus, BDA incurred a loss of rupees one billion. If the BDA is serious, then it should take courage to collect reconveyance charges and regularization charges from the site owners who have constructed their houses on its lands instead of demolishing which is not only a national loss but a childish act. 

In the very early stage, there were two municipalities for the city of Bangalore, one was called the Blackpally Cantonment Municipality for cantonment area, and the another Bangalore City Municipality for southern Bangalore. These municipalities were functioning perfectly with able guidance of persons like Sir Mirza Ismail, the Dewan of erstwhile princely Mysore and Dewan Madhav Rao. The sewage system and water supply to the citizens were met from Ippegondanahally and Hosakote tanks. These Municipalities were merged in 1949 and there was no problem as far as the drainage and sewage was concerned. There were only 60 divisions in the Corporation at that time and it was capable to manage the city’s needs at least till the year 1980. 

 The problem started after the divisions were increased to 100. Now, the Government had leaped beyond the metropolitan limits up to the rural areas and increased the wards to 200 without bothering about the sewage system and the traffic problems of the city which is a major bottleneck for its growth. During the time of B.T. Somanna and HGV Reddy, there used to be seminars and symposiums and eminent personalities like world famous Waghle use to give advice to the then Chairmen about the planning of the city. After their exit, no Chairman or Commissioner of BDA or BBMP bothered to conduct such seminars, which has resulted in this chaos. Had the Bengaluru city been on the bank of any river or sea port, then, nobody could have stopped it from submerging. At least the Bangaloreans should thank God for not gifting the city with a river or a sea.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter OH! ANOTHER BANK FRAUD BANK USES A CUSTOMERS DEPOSIT MONEY FOR OVER A MONTH

 FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 OH! ANOTHER BANK FRAUD 

 BANK USES A CUSTOMERS DEPOSIT MONEY FOR OVER A MONTH

 It is now common for Bank executives to approach individuals and invite them to open a Bank account with their employer Bank. And further, the existing customers are also encouraged and induced to open additional savings and other accounts more for the benefit of the executives and their employer Bank. 

 LATEST VICTIM 

 Mohammed Abdulla, 50 years old businessman from S.P road was approached by Raghavendra, the executive of Kotak Mahendra Bank, Kasturba Road branch who invited him to open a Savings Bank Account with Zero balance facility. The executive Raghvendra who was following him continuously finally succeeded in convincing him and Mohammed issued a Cheque of Rupees 10,000/= as deposit for his new Savings Bank Account. The cheque he issued was from his Amanath Bank Account of dated 29/07/2010 and the same was debited on date 17-08-2010. 

 I WILL VERIFY & INFORM YOU

 Mohammed then started enquiring about his new Savings Bank account with the Bank. However on other end Ranghvendra started evading the calls. After repeatedly calling up Raghavendra, Mohammed started sending SMS asking him to update his status or he will take legal action. Then, Raghavendra started replying his messages but would merely send one or the other excuses saying he is not in the station or would verify and inform him. 

 SEVERE FOLLOW UP 

 A month passed by and Mohammed then finally told him either to open his Savings Accounts immediately or return him his amount which was debited on 17-08-2010. But then too he didn’t get any response from Raghvendra. He finally sent him a message warning him to open the account or return the money else he will proceed with the legal action. This also didn’t make any difference and finally he approached the bank on dated 17-09-2010. 

 THE FINAL SHOW DOWN

 He contacted the Branch Manager of the Bank who told him that they had already gone through the SMS’s sent by him and had already prepared the DD for his refund amount and that also was already sent to his address. Mohammed however didn’t believe the Manager and went to the Cubbon Park Police Station to file a complaint. Initially the Police evaded the complaint, but, when he told he will contact the media they finally registered his complaint. 

 A constable then accompanied him to the bank. The Branch Manager of the Kotak Mahinder Bank along with Raghvendra & another Manager reported to the Police Station. They showed the courier receipt to the Circle Inspector and tried to convince him. However, Mohammed argued that why did they debit and use his 10000/- rupees for over a month. 

 However when TBMR contacted Circle Inspector of Cubbon Park Police Station, Mr. Jagadish, he said the case is being handled by the Sub-Inspector and asked us to call back later. However, we called up Sub-Inspector Mr. Girish, who is handling this case. He told TBMR that the Bank representatives told us that the account was not activated because Mr. Mohammed had given them a fake ID and also showed a courier receipt saying his deposit was returned to him through a Demand Draft. We have however issued him an acknowledgement for his complaint and since he said that he will approach Consumer Forum and also because the Bank representatives showed us the sent DD receipt, we have therefore not taken any further action. 

 When TBMR contacted the branch of Kotak Mahindra Bank, the Branch Manager was not available in his seat. We were directed to Mr. Raja, the Branch Operational Manager, who again diverted us to Ms Anu, the Service Manager. But, Ms Anu declined to comment and asked us to speak to the Branch Manager himself. Our repeated attempt to contact him turned futile. 

 Mr. Mohammed insists that he had issued the cheque for Rs. 10000/- on 29/07/2010 which was debited from his account on 17/08/2010. The Bank had retained my cheque for more than 15 days and must have verified my documents by then. Only then they must have presented my cheque. If they say that my ID was fake, why did they deposit my cheque? Why did they also not inform me about the same when I repeatedly followed them to start my account? Why did they again take more than a month to prepare a Demand Draft to return my amount, which on the contrary I still have not received yet?

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE SUPREME COURT V/S A VILLAGE ACCOUNTANT VILLAGE ACCOUNTANT VIOLATES SUPREME COURT ORDER, KIADB ACQUIRES LANDS IN KENGERI VIOLATING SUPREME COURT STAY

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 THE SUPREME COURT V/S A VILLAGE ACCOUNTANT

 VILLAGE ACCOUNTANT VIOLATES SUPREME COURT ORDER, KIADB ACQUIRES LANDS IN KENGERI VIOLATING SUPREME COURT STAY 

 They say that the Law is Supreme and that no body is above the Law, yet there are many Public servants who not only think but also act above the Law. We bring to you a more bizarre incident of taking the Democracy for a ride. It features a Village Accountant and Revenue Inspector in Kengeri, who boldly effected a change in Khata and Mutation of about 4 acres of lands in Kengeri despite the “stay” by the Supreme Court. This incident throws much light on the machinations of the revenue officials and the officials of the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board and their ‘who cares’ attitude. 

 THE SUBJECT

 The case pertains to lands in Survey numbers 128/1, 128/2A, 128/2B, and other lands proposed for acquisition by KIADB. In 1992, the KIADB had issued preliminary Notifications to acquire certain lands in Kengeri for establishing Industries. The owners of the lands in Survey Numbers 128/1, 128/2A, etc., filed a writ petition in the high court challenging the acquisition. The high court in 1993 disposed the writ petition after the submission of the Government, that it would not acquire the lands under emergency provisions and the High Court had directed the petitioners to submit their objections to the land acquisition. 

 Acting on the directions, the petitioners filed their objections and the Land Acquisition Officer had recommended the acquisition be dropped. But the KIADB officials were not prepared to accept the recommendations of the LAO. 

 FINAL TRY

 The KIADB further issued a final notification for acquiring the land, and in this final notification, it stated that the lands are required for KSRTC workshop and for the residential quarters for KSRTC employees. 

 The land owners again challenged it in the high court. In 2000, the single judge of the High Court allowed the writ petition and held that the Government has not considered the objections of the land owners and the recommendations of the LAO and the KIADB officials issued the final notification without application of mind. Moreover, there were serious discrepancies in the preliminary notification and the final notification. 

 Interestingly, the KIADB did not file the appeal against this single judge order. Rather, the KSRTC, which suddenly found place in the final notifications, filed the writ appeal. The division bench in 2003 set aside the order of the single judge and allowed the appeals. The bench held that it was not necessary to state the purpose for which the beneficiary uses the acquired land. This would mean that, once the KSRTC gets the lands from KIADB, it could damn well use it for any purpose. 

 Quite natural, the land owners filed a Special Leave Petition in the Supreme Court in 2003 against the orders of the division bench. The Supreme Court after hearing the matter admitted the Special Leave Petition and issued a “stay” against the orders of the division bench in 2004. Later, in 2005, the Supreme Court extended the stay but, what happened then is really shocking. 

 EXTRA ORDINARY POWER

 On 25-09-2006, the Government through its Industries and Commerce Secretariat issued an extraordinary Gazette Notification proclaiming that the lands have been acquired for KIADB as per modifications. This implies that the Government had exercised the emergency powers to acquire the lands. In fact, the extraordinary Gazette Notification was a clear case of violation of the Supreme Court order and since it was a low key affair it did not receive much publicity too. 

 Then, out of blue, the Village Accountant of Kengeri suddenly came into the scene on 16.07.2007. Acting under the pressure, he put up a file for effecting the change of Khata and the Mutation for the disputed lands. Being the grass root official, he knew the legal battle in respect of the lands and moreover he was the custodian of land records in the village. The Village Accountant was also aware of the Supreme Court order as well. 

 THE SUPREME CHANGES 

 Yet, he put up the file for change of Khata and Mutation to the Revenue Inspector who is the competent official to do the necessary changes. The Village Accountant had based his proposals on the extraordinary gazette dated 25.9.2006 and asked for the orders to effect the change of mutation. However, he put up the file for orders to effect the changes in the Khata and Mutation on 16.7.2007, after almost 10 long months of issue of the extra ordinary gazette. 

 Since the acquisition was proclaimed through an extraordinary gazette, the Village Accountant should have acted immediately. In stead, he waited for more than 10 months to initiate action on the gazette notification. The reason for this is very simple. The Village Accountant was well aware of the Supreme Court ‘Stay’ which was still effective and did not want to risk initiating the actions immediately. 

 ALL IN A DAY

 But later, things changed and the Village Accountant displayed his guts. He took the Law into his own hands and mocked the Supreme Court order. He boldly put up the file for effecting the change of Khata and Mutation to the Revenue Inspector who without caring for anything in the world simply accepted the proposal and ordered for effecting the necessary changes in the land records, on the same day, that is 16.7.2007.

 In one go, all the lands whose acquisition was “stayed” by the Supreme Court, got transferred to the KIADB in the revenue records, on the basis of the extraordinary Gazette Notification issued by the Government in September 2006, in blatant violation of the supreme court “stay”. 

 STRONG BACK BONE

 The Village Accountant and the Revenue Inspector successfully ganged up to play mischief on the Supreme Court ‘stay’ by proposing, accepting and effecting the change in mutation- all in one day. It is simply incomprehensible that these two petty officials would dare to mock at the Supreme Court order unless they have the support of the higher ups and politicians in power. Even after the change in mutation, effecting the gross violation of the Supreme Court order, no senior revenue official bothered to take any action against this duo. 

 Of course, the senior officials of the Revenue department too cared a damn for the Supreme Court order. There are a lot of senior officials involved in the process. There is the special DC (Revenue), Special DC, KIADB, special Land Acquisition Officer and above all the Revenue Secretary. The special DC (Revenue), special DC KIADB, were all parties in the Special Leave Petition in the supreme court. They can not feign ignorance of the SC order as they have been represented in the court proceedings. But still, they issued extraordinary gazette notification in 2006 acquiring the lands and despite the SC order which had directed that the statuesque be maintained. 

 WHO IS SUPREME?

 And what does the entire episode indicate? It simply means that the Village Accountant and the Revenue Inspector enjoy superior and supreme powers than the Supreme Court in India. Need there be any other explanation or conclusions.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter CYBER FRAUD

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 CYBER FRAUD 

 Huzaifa a business man from city Market area decided to go for Airtel Dish Antenna DTH. He searched the internet and came across a website of Airtel. He then registered his address and contact numbers as requested by the website and later received a call from a person named Amit Sagar who gave his number as +911204087604 and discussed the plan details and packages with him. He offered him plans of Rs. 1690/ 2590/ 1590/ 3999 etc. and finally Huzaifa accepted the plan of 1690/- in which he was given 3 months subscription free and would be charged at 275/- per month. 

 Huzaifa after acceptance agreed to make the payment through cheque or credit card but Amit at the other end advised him to make the payment in cash since it is a very small amount and assured him that he will arrange for the delivery and installation at his Gottigere address within 48 hours. Huzaifa then agreed to pay the amount in cash and within moments, though it was raining heavily, a representative met him for collection. He issued him a receipt of M/s Vriti Infocom P Ltd, collected the cash and disappeared. But, then, nobody came up for installation. 

 Huzaifa, then once again checked the website and called up a Mobile number 9845903388, as given on the website. At first, the person who responded merely said that he will check the status and call him back, but he did not. 

Later, Huzaifa continuously called up the same number and also the one provided by Amit Sagar, but no one picked up the call. He then called up Airtel office and was told that there have been many such complaints and that he has been cheated. He then personally visited Airtel office on Bannerghatta Road to submit a written complaint for installation of DTH but was refused by Airtel representatives. He was told that Airtel does not accept any written complaints but only through e-mail. He returned helplessly and sent a complaint to Airtel through an e-mail requesting for the DTH installation. But till now, Airtel has neither installed a DTH at his address nor replied to him on his complaint.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter MOBILE MENACE

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER

 MOBILE MENACE 

 Savitri, a 24 year old married lady joined Nemmadi Mane Trust, a social organization at Tumkur, as an office assistant. She was provided with a mobile phone with number 9241006982 by Nemmadi Mane Trust for office use. But, the Mobile seems to have made her life hell as she started getting obscene & vulgar messages on her mobile. She immediately informed her employer, who decided to lodge a police complaint which was filed at Tumkur on dated 01-09-2010. 

Tumkur Sub Inspector, Mr. Dinesh Patil after receiving the complaint started his investigation and found out that the Sim Card number 8867158933 from which the obscene messages were sent was purchased on the name of Anil Kumar, No.134, Bagalkot Bagalkot Dist. However, the police were not able to trace the address, said Nagaraj, the Managing Trustee of Nemmadi Mane. 

 Further the nasty messages continued and in fact increased. Then, Savitri’s husband called up to the number and asked him about who is he and why is he sending obscene messages to his wife. To his shock he was threatened and then he too started getting vulgar messages from him. Later, Savitri’s relative, a 65 years old lady decided to call and speak to the person and request him to stop sending lewd and threatening messages to Savitri and her husband. 

 More shockingly, even she too started getting the messages on her mobile from which she had called up. Now more than 600 messages have been send from the said number and they also sometime gets threatening calls on their respective mobile numbers, added Nagaraj. 

 When TBMR spoke to the Sub Inspector of Tumkur, Mr. Dinesh Patil on 14th Sept 2010 about the case, he confirmed that yes they were not able to trace him because of the incomplete address & the person from the above number only called up matrimonial offices. He had also called up to Belgaum from the same sim number and threatened the lady working there and sent her obscene /vulgar messages. How ever, since he was not in the station, he could not provide us with more details on this. 

 While we can understand the mental trauma of Savitri and her husband, the most terrorizing is the fact of not tracing the Sim card holder. The breech or security lapse is so common in our country. If any man can take up a Sim card and use it to harass women, it is not a wonder that anti social elements also obtain mobile numbers and then use it for disturbing peace and harmony in the country.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter OFFICE BURGLED ON SP ROAD

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

OFFICE BURGLED ON SP ROAD 

 Stealing and theft have of late become routine at the Sadar Patrappa Road, famous for Hardware and Computer market. 

 Obviously because there are myriads of shops here, crooks expect money in the drawers and attempt to break in. The burglary which was most common to the ground floor shops forced the shop owners to take preventive measures. They installed multiple locks, additional collapsible gates and enhanced the security features of their respective shops making it tough for the crooks to break in easily. 

But the thieves had another alternative. They then started to break in shops located on the above floors which are least expected to be burgled and less equipped with safety measures. Several theft cases occurred in the establishments situated on the upper floors and it continues. 

 Recently, another establishment by name M/s Pioneer Sales Corporation, situated on the first floor at Mandi Veerappa Lane, SJP Road cross, was targeted by the thieves. The owner of the shop Mr. Mufaddal Kapasi when came to his shop on 1st September 2010 at around 10.30am, was shocked to see the lock at the entrance collapsible gate on the ground floor broken. He went up the stairs to find 2 locks on his wooden door and another on the additional collapsible gate broken as well. He immediately informed the control room and soon a constable from Halsuru gate Police station visited the spot. However, he said that this spot comes under SJP Road Police Station limit and he would inform them. 

 Some time later, a constable accompanied by a lady colleague from SJP Road Police Station visited the spot, said Mufaddal. They opened the office door and found that everything inside was ransacked. Upon verification I noted that all stock items were intact but my Laptop was missing. The constables left asking me to visit the station in the afternoon and I did so. However, the Inspector at the SJP Road Police Station refused to lodge an FIR citing the reason as non availability of serial number of my stolen Laptop. 

 The Inspector told that even in the court I am required to provide the serial number of my stolen laptop, therefore, no complaint is registered by the Inspector yet, said Mufaddal kapasi.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter CHOPPING OFF THE LEGACY

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 CHOPPING OFF THE LEGACY 

 Dr Suresh, an Orthopeadic from Kims Hospital, attempted to chop off a huge tree near his house for the second time but was unsuccessful due to timely intervention of the neighbours. 

 The Doctor who is residing at 67/1, Sri Rama Mandir Road Baswangudi, Bangalore, had already chopped off a huge tree a couple of year ago despite resistance from the neighbours. And this time he decided to go for another chopping of a huge tree on the corner of the road outside his compound wall. But, his neighbours were stiff in resistance. The moment they saw the officials planning to bring down the tree, one of the neighbour, Mr. Taher immediately called up TBMR. Our photographer immediately rushed to the spot and as he started taking pictures at the spot, the officials panicked. Fearing the outcome, all the officials from BESCOM, FOREST and other relative agencies ran helter and skelter leaving the tree un-cut. 

 Taher Siamwala, who did not want the tree to be cut said that even 2 years back, a huge tree was cut by the Doctor. Actually when we resisted he stopped but he then played a smart game. Soon there were Holidays for about 2 or 3 days continuously and the Doctor arranged for the chopping during this time. Though we resisted, he could successfully chop off a huge tree since we could not contact anybody due to Holidays. 

 

However, the Doctor said that he will plant two saplings against the chopping of this tree. He stated that he had chopped off a tree earlier because it was covering his garage and now he wants to remove another huge tree because there are cracks appearing in his house. 

 “This time he has made excuses that there have been cracks in his house due to the tree. However, I have seen his entire house, there is no such damage but mere hair like cracks on the ceilings which is not because of the tree. He actually wants to chop the tree for the sake of outside elevation of his house. There is a definite possibility that he will take another chance during Holidays, like he did earlier to chop off the tree”, added Taher. 

 The TBMR team demanded the order copy for the chopping of the tree from the Doctor who agreed to issue us a Xerox of the same. But then the Doctor spoke to the Deputy Conservator of Forests (R.R.NAGAR) Mr. Venkatesh, who instructed him not to handover the order copy to us. The Doctor then refused to give us the order copy. 

 Taher also said that even during the earlier chopping he had promised to plant 2 trees, but he never did so.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter BALANCE SHEET OF MISCALCULATIONS BBMP BUDGET IS JUST MANIPULATIVE MATHEMATICS

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 BALANCE SHEET OF MISCALCULATIONS 

 BBMP BUDGET IS JUST MANIPULATIVE MATHEMATICS 

 The first ever Budget of the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagar Palike is finally out and has indeed shocked everybody. The BJP Government which is controlling the BBMP has set out a whopping Rs. 8500 crores budget which has not only shocked the die hard BJP loyalists and the common man, but also puzzled mathematicians and economists. In addition, the budget is released in the mid financial year which means, the BBMP will have to raise and spend Rs. 8500 crores in just seven months. 

 In straight words the Rs. 8500 crores budget of BBMP is nothing but manipulative mathematics of the Politicians and Bureaucrats who can make two plus two as twenty two. 

 Let us understand the manipulative mathematics of the BBMP budget- 

 The BBMP has raised heavily from the Banks. It has raised over 2700 crores from 21 Banks and it is yet to clear the bills of contractors up to the tune of Rs. 2000 crores. Together, it becomes 4700 crores rupees. Now, even if the BBMP pays the minimum interest of 11% annually, it has to shell out around Rs. 500 crores per year as interest only. The loan repayment and clearing of pending bills still remain in place. 

 TAKING GOVERNMENT GRANT FOR GRANTED

 Arguably, the Budget is mainly based on the availability of special grants from the Government. Here too, there is no word of commitment from the Government, but, the BBMP is banking on the same. The BBMP budget has put the State’s special grant at Rs. 1900 crores and in fact, it has already taken this figure as ‘revenue’. On the face of it, this figure is highly exaggerated. While last year the BBMP expected the special grant of Rs. 550 crores, the Government actually gave only Rs. 400 crores to it.. Hence, this year they can only expect an increase of about 100 or utmost 150 crores. There is no other way as there are set of rules and guidelines for giving special grants to local bodies. Thus, the budget already shows a highly inflated figure of almost Rs. 1200 crores in ‘revenue’. 

 AKRAMA/ SAKRAMA TACTICS

 Further, an estimated Rs.750 crore ‘Receipts’ from Akrama/ Sakrama scheme is also hard to digest. Even though the Akrama/ Sakrama scheme is already approved by the legislature, the Governor has refused to give his assent and asked for detailed discussions in the legislature. This is because the Bill was passed by the Government in just few minutes while the opposition was staging Dharana. The Governor may therefore send it back to the Assembly for discussion and that means the Bill is still pending. 

Even if we assume that the Governor gives his assent, the scheme cannot be implemented immediately. The Government has to frame the rules for its implementation and the draft rules have also to be published for public information and also for inviting their suggestions/ objections to the same. This will obviously take months. Besides, the Akrama/ Sakrama scheme is already questioned in the High Court as well and as such there is no final conclusion over the scheme. In such a case, how can BBMP include the estimated Rs. 750 crores in its budget as ‘Receipts from Akrama/ Sakrama scheme’? 

 Now if we calculate honestly, the special grant of Rs. 1800 crores plus the Akrama/ Sakrama scheme receipt of Rs. 750 crores, totaling to Rs. 2550 crores is dubious. Assuming that the Government gives the special grant of Rs. 600 crore, even then, there is an inflated receipt of almost Rs. 2000 crores. And that reduces the BBMP budget to Rs. 6500 crores from 8500 crores. 

 PENDING BILLS AND SALARIES

 Again, out of this amount, the budget has earmarked 4878 crores rupees towards payment of bills for the completed and to be completed development works. About Rs. 600 crores are set apart for repayment of loans and interests. It also has to spend about Rs. 500 crores towards Salaries and administrative expenses. All these come to about Rs. 6000 crores and that leaves BBMP with a mere Rs. 500 crores for the actual works and proposals. 

 DON’T FORGET THE WARDS

 In addition, the BBMP has also set up Rs. 2 crores for each old BMP ward and Rs. 3 crore for the newly added 100 wards for short term works and sanitation. This would also consume the remaining Rs. 500 crores. 

 ADDITIONAL PEANUTS

 It is also true that the BBMP has successfully tapped some other resources to collect about Rs. 250 crores through taxes on high value buildings, Trade Licences etc. It is also hoping to get Rs. 200 crore from JNNURM, additional Rs. 400 crores from the State Finance Commission and Rs. 125 crore from the 13th Finance commission. But, all in all, it would add up only to about Rs. 1000 crores, which is peanuts, considering the thousands of crores worth works as proposed by the BBMP. 

 

HIGH END PROMISES

 The BBMP has proposed many high cost projects like underpasses, signal free roads, elevated High ways, etc. which would in all cost not less than Rs. 5000 crores. Besides, it has also proposed projects/schemes like General Hospitals, Multi level Parking lots etc. which would at least cost another Rs. 3000 crores. 

 REALITY BITES

 Now the most important question is where is the Money honey? Though the BBMP has already released a glamorous budget, but in reality it actually does not have money even to fulfill 25% of the budget proposals. Then, it again has to raise loans. Now make a note, we have learnt that the BBMP can raise 20% of its budget estimate as loan. Perhaps that is why it has prepared an inflated and manipulative budget for Rs. 8500 crores, so that it can raise about 2000 crores in loans. 

 All said and done, going by the facts and reality, the glamorous BBMP budget is nothing but a shining example of manipulative mathematics. 

That’s all.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter HEALTH DEPARTMENT NEEDS A CHECK UP Health Department’s Purchase of Heart Care equipments gives Heart Attack

BY. FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 HEALTH DEPARTMENT NEEDS A CHECK UP 

 Health Department’s Purchase of Heart Care equipments gives Heart Attack 

 We had exposed the manipulations of the Health department in the past issue pertaining to the irrational purchase of High Frequency sophisticated X-Ray machines in the name of up gradation of the Government run hospitals. We bring to you another open and clear manipulation undertaken by the officials of the Health department to mint money out it. 

 This time it is with regard to the purchase of ventilators and Defibrillators for the District hospitals. Ventilators and Defibrillators are basically first aid equipments used in heart care and it did not cost more than Rs. 2 lakhs in the market in the year 2006. 

 However, the Directorate purchased 25 ventilators at the rate of 5.50 lakhs and 27 Defibrillators at the rate of 6.25 lakhs. The entire script for this scam was written by Ramesh, the DD(M) and executed to perfection by Eswar Prasad, the then Health Equipment officer, approved by the then Director Prasad and CAO Krishnappa, who put his financial seal on this financial blunder. 

 TENDERING THE FRAUD

 It all began in the year 2006 when the Director of Health &Family Services floated a tender for supply of 25 ventilators and 27 defibrillators for District Hospitals in the state. The tender process was itself a hush hush affair. Save Meditech System which is a supplying firm, made a bid for the tender along with other two created Benami firms. Obviously, the other two bids submitted in the name of Benami firms got eliminated in the tender on technical grounds, as per the plan and only Save Meditech Systems remained as the potential bidder. Actually in such circumstances, the Departments are required to go for re- Tender process, but since the ‘deal’ was already fixed before and the tender process was meant for a mere eye wash, Save Meditech System was awarded the tender. 

 THE HEALTHY UNION

 Ramesh, a DD (M) is an expert personality in manipulative tenders and purchases. The DH&FS Prasad is also a famous corrupt to the core official. The CAO Krishnappa can do any damn thing for the sake of money. And Eswar Prasad, the Health Equipment Officer too was an exceptional in manipulative purchases. With such a great team of dedicated and apt corrupt officials, the Health Department was destined to excel in the field of manipulation and swindling. Thus, the tender was meant for the Save Meditech System. 

 NO, NOT ENOUGH

 But what about the purchase price of these equipments? While both the Ventilators and Defibrillators did not cost more than Rs. 2 lakhs in the open market, the firm quoted the price of about Rs. 3 lakhs in the tender. This was inclusive of VAT charges and the kickback amount as required for the Health Department officials. However, the officials were not satisfied the amount they would earn out of this deal and therefore blatantly decided to raise up the cost of purchase. Since there was only one single potential bidder by now, it was very easy for them to change the quote for an extra amount. After all their internal calculations and manipulations, the quote in the tender was raised to Rs. 5.50 lakhs for each Ventilator and Rs. 6.25 lakhs for each Defibrillator. 

 PUBLIC MONEY, OUR MONEY

The supply order was then immediately issued to the firm. In fact, the supply orders were split and the firm was actually given repeat orders totaling to a massive Rs. 3.06 crores. It is indeed a shock to imagine the Directorate placing the orders for equipments at three or four times its market rate. While the entire procurement would not have cost more than Rs. 1 crore if proper and competitive tenders were obtained, the Government had to actually shell out Rs. 3.06 crores of public money all because of the crooked Health officials. 

 CHANGING THE HISTORY

 It is also learnt that the crooked Health officials have misplaced the file and also tempered with some details pertaining to the procurement of these first aid equipment. Whatsoever, the fact is that even today; the Ventilators and Defibrillators do not cost more than Rs. 3 lakhs in the market. 

 All said and done, the Health Department officials jointly with the supplier have successfully made a good fortune out of the procurement deal and still moving about freely. We bring to you this scam with the hope that the culprits are booked and penalized for their frauds which also eventually helps curb down the manipulations undertaken by the Health officials of the department.

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!