THE FASTING EXTRAVAGANZA

Ramdev- a falsity in itself as per Hindu mythology as Ram always refers to Lord Vishnu and not just a diety, i.e a dev. Pretty early I think I have realised that I dont possess any right to bring into disrepute personal credentials of anyone and dig anydeeper into this field.

So, lets get onto the issue... Fasting is the new manner of forcing the government to accede to the legitimate demands of the electorate. But again it has been politicised. The sanctitiy that once marked Satyagraha has been severly denigrated by Ramdeva’s upcoming Fast Unto Death at Ramlila Maidan, Delhi. The Fasts carried out in filthy conditions, desolate surroundings, oppressive atmosphere and even in prisons were true representative of the fighting spirit. Then Potti Sriramulu’s fast unto death which took a toll on his life can also not be forgotten even though it was for totally different reasons.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in his concluding Speech in Constituent Assembly said that Satyagraha, Civil Disobedience and Non-Cooperation movement dont find themselves a place in a democracy because when these were undertaken by Mahatama Gandhi and others, there was no other option but now there was an option to take the course of law. Keeping this in mind, I can justify Hazare’s fast on the lines that it was undertaken for securing a very strong anti corruption law for tackling corruption; so, there was no way of taking the course of law for that (personal opinion). Moreover, Lokpal Bill envisages the inclusion of every kind of corruption be it money laundering also. There is also a black money suit being heard in SC. Laws are also there in the form of PMLA.

I am not against Ramdev’s crusade against Black Money but he should not make a procession out of it. If he has worked on this issue and has something to bring forth, he can collaborate with Civil Society members or can directly approach public but he has to undertake a fast to show that he cares for his country.. Hah! even goodwill has a cost to it. I m sorry to conclude on this note but coming for fast by flight, putting photographs on billboards, keeping ambulances ready at Ramlila maidan (how can be a selfless man so possessive of his life?) et al is a shame to the institution of peaceful and humble protests laid down by our father of the nation.