Monday, December 20, 2010

The Tribune-Chatterati-20th Dec.10

"Soft-soaping Sonia"

Last week was Sonia Gandhi’s 64th birthday. It seems that her strict instructions of no full pages of advertisement and no launching of new scheme had been followed. There were no celebrations at all. But she had enough callers who arrived early to great her at 10 Janpath. Needless to say that everyone who is anyone in the congress landed up. Surprisingly one of the first ones to arrive to personally great her was Kanimozhi, followed closely by Dayanidhi Maran. It seems that the DMK is a bit insecure after Jaya Lalita declared, she would support the Congress. Surprisingly Karunanidhi out did the sycophancy of the Congress leaders when he made a statement about the UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi “a historic light of scarifies guiding the destiny of India”. It was also Pranab Mukherjee’s birthday last week which would have gone unnoticed had the chamber of commerce not celebrated it a day before. But the leaders who made their birthday memorable in the gone by week by throwing lavish parties with a galaxy of leaders present were JDU Chief, Sharad Yadav and Gopinath Munde. They sure need to make a hungama with their fading political careers.

"Trousseau for hire"

Our younger generation is becoming much savier and money conscious. They do not also believe in old mother’s tales of being “shubh”. I can never imagine my old aunt agreeing to me wearing a rented lengha or sari for my marriage. Today’s kid’s are more practical and do not want to spend huge amount of money on getting a designer lengha for their D-day. So, they go and rent exclusive lengha’s and wedding dresses without having to shell out a bomb. There are rental shops for these modern brides all over Delhi now. They take care of the fittings and give personalized attention. You could always rent jewellery to match with it. The rent starts from two thousand to twenty thousand depending on the style and design. They do not believe in the old tradition of that your wedding dress is supposed to be treasured and it also shows how brides are not bound by profound perceptions anymore. It is economical and it satisfies the bride of not having to burden her parent’s with that extra expense. These professionals who provide the rental trousseau also give you pre-recorded music so that you do not need to hire a DJ. They also provide luxury cars for the bidaai too.

"High-profile weddings"

Destination weddings once reserved for the rich and famous are now the norm even for high profile politicos. Gadkari recently charted aircrafts to ensure that the top BJP brass was able to get to his home town Nagpur from his current official residence in Delhi. N.K.Singh on the other hand ensured that his son’s wedding in Jodhpur acquired a distinctly regal touch, a far cry from his native Bihar. Here too the planes swooped down with guests displaying more that just family warmth. Mukesh Ambani was the top attraction and he certainly made it a family event by being accompanied by wife Nita and children. While Jodhpur was relatively small, the reception at the Taj palace in Delhi had everyone aflutter with the possible attendance of the Prime Minister being rumored. So, the drinks were held back, till Gurucharan Kaur finally appeared on her own. But N.K’s fellow bureaucrats turned up in large numbers and gaggle of politicians ranging from Satyavrat Chaturvedi from the Congress to Arun Jaitely of the BJP made evening complete for N.K and Tiny. Maharaja Guj Singh of Jodhpur lent the royal touch to the evening. N.K’s wife Tiny is Guj Singh’s sister. So, a lot of royalty was in attendance. But conspicuous by his absence the JDU chief Nitish Kumar did set some tongues wagging. N.K. is a Rajya Sabha member from Nitish’s party.

Sunday Pioneer-Dilli-Billi-19th Dec.10

“Delhi’s corridors are filled with powerful people but there are no lasting friendships here”


Delhi is the capital of the largest democracy of the world and so is full of powerful people. Atleast that is the impression that the common man gets when he arrives here. It is a cold and hard city for an outsider. It is a city which thrives on nexus between the Politicians, bureaucrats and industrialist. It is easy for a new comer to get carried away by being in the same sphere with the people who matter. Sometimes he gets carried away with his own self importance. There are enough wheeler-dealers in this town to make you feel they can do anything at a cost. They can easily sell you the story of how they can influence government policies. But are actually only boasting. In the corridors of power here, there are lots of wannabes too. This is a place which is heaven for those who want to make a living by just being seen with the powerful. But, here the powerful also use people as and when they want. There are no long lasting friendships or alignments here. You change friends like you change clothes. In this circle one does not talk to anybody who is not of any importance. An outsider will very easily get lost here. The people here can make your head swollen with attention and presents if you are in any position of importance. The minute you lose that place of importance you are dropped like a hot potato. Then you really do not know what has hit you. People hide when they see you and do not even want to waste their time saying a polite ‘hi’ to you.
I come from a small town and I know that senior politicians who come from different state’s to meet office bearers of different political party’s are shocked and surprised as to how little the leaders in the centre know about grass root. They look down upon these leaders of the states who actually win the states and make them powerful. The leaders in the centre are so arrogant and that these state humble leaders are left wondering why? They feel humiliated when they see that the corrupt and wheeler dealers get more importance here than them. The state guys who are the real winner’s do not wear Armani’s and carry designer’s pens and watches. These simpletons are not used to five star cultures. Their hard work in the state is not judged properly because of their so called senior leaders have the gift of the gab and are savy enough to hog and use the attention of the big guys here. It is a twenty four hour job for the non grass root person. It’s his survival instinct of buttering the powerful in the centre. They work once again in this theory of “you scratch my back and I will scratch yours”. Politicians feed stories to journalists and industrialist also do the same. It’s a small happy family together. If one is caught he is isolated immediately. There is also a use and discard formula.
A holier than thou attitude is not fit for anyone in this town especially not in the corridors of power. This is a town where boasting your access to someone important is a big thing. It is not fair to judge anyone. Everyone here drops name, thinks no end of themselves and no one can afford to point fingers in this town at each other. No one is better than the other. Some get caught and some get away.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Tribune-Chatterati-13th Dec.10

The Obamas vs. the Sarkozys

Delhites are now used to international leaders travelling to the capital. Last month we had the President of America with his vivausious wife in India and now we have the French President and his model wife. People can not help but compare the two heads of the nation and their wives. The Obama’s have a great chemistry; they are warm, cheerful, witty and humorous. They came; they interacted with the young and the old, they danced and were actually charismatic. Michelle went shopping and showed enthusiasm for every thing she picked up. She was at ease playing the wife of the most powerful man in the world. But, she was also comfortable just letting her hair down at the craft bazaar. The Sarkozy’s on the other hand were actually trying to hard to show that everything is alright. We all know that things have not been very good in their marriage. There is uneasiness even when they are trying to hold hands or look into each other’s eyes it’s like trying too hard. Both the lady’s dressed concretively to their trip too India. But, there is no doubt that Michelle has won hands down. In Paris recently I learnt that this first couple had become figures of amusement to the Parisians.

“Amar’s middle name”

Amar Sing and Mulayam are back in news for all the wrong reasons once again. Delhi is now used to Amar Singh and his controversy. He always had a knack of speaking too much. Amar Singh’s once real power duo Mulayam and Anil Ambani have both drifted away from him. Amar Singh has tried tousle the media saying he has a lot of things on Mulayam which if he divulged in Mulayam would be in jail. Meanwhile Mulayam is on a high with his old buddy and party member Azam Khan’s re-entry into the Samaj wadi party. Mulayam’s son Akilesh Yadav is quite amused by Amar Singh’s old tactics of blackmailing and bulling. He is quite open to the challenge and hopefully for once Amar Singh will not be brave enough to take the challenge. He is already so short of friends at the moment. Maybe Amar Sing’s new party will give him some real power now.


“BJP celebrating in style”

The BJP at the moment seems to be in a celebration mood Rajeev Rudy the spokesperson of BJP held a reception of his nephew’s wedding in the capital. Leaders cutting across party lines were seen walking in and out of this reception. The BJP crowd who were present there right from Advani to Arun Jaitely and Sushma Swaraj. The guests were quite surprised by the two minute presence of Rahul Gandhi and Chidambaram. It is the Congress who believes in courtesy and quite willing to mix around with people belonging to the opposition party also. But the mother of all marriages has been of Gadkari’s son. It was a showoff of power with pomp and show cutting across party lines. There was Prithviraj Chavan Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Ashok Chavan followed with officials and big industrial houses. It’s quite amusing to see how lost the Bride can be when you have an overpowering father-in-law and ten thousand people. And of course in cases like this the newly weds just happened to be there. It’s more like a show of strength of political rally. I do miss the days when our dignified leaders used to set an example of small and simple weddings. Their families did not believe in extravaganza. The junior Gadkari’s reception took place at the Vidarbha Cricket Association stadium. Twenty private aircrafts were charted to fly in guest. All hotels in Nagpur had been booked. Even though Gadkari preaches austerity in his own case he surely does not act what he preaches.

Pioneer-Dilli-billi-12th Dec.10

Obamas score over Sarkozys

“There is a stark difference between the US and French first couple, and this has been noticed by all”



Now India is the destination for V.I.P’s and nation’s head all across the world. It is amusing time, for the public of India. First came The Obama’s and now the French president with his model wife Carla. It’s Carla’s state visit to India that had been pending for some time now. The first time she wanted to come, she was still not the first lady of France. So, we had a diplomatic crisis on our hands. She could not have been given the treatment that Sarkozy wanted for her as the first lady and there is no protocol for girl friends yet. But, now as Carla Bruni came into the country as the first lady did she make waves?
I was in Paris some time back and realized that Carla had become a figure of amusement to Parisians. She was leading her life according to her terms. In Paris I realized that the President and Carla had skeletons dropping out of their cupboard very often. At that time there was noise about how Carla was being linked with a young musician. It was such a blow to the president that he wanted his people to spread a story about how he was involved with a much younger lady. Carla’s romance had hurt his ego. How can the first
lady have an affair? So, whenever this first couple made public appearance together they tried to make enough gestures trying to communicate by holding hands and looking into each other eyes to fool the spectators. But actually it did not fool the peering eyes of the French. But trying to show off that there were still very much in love in what actually made them a laughing stock.
On the other hand the Obama’s have a natural chemistry. It is open, warm and sensitive to each other. They are also proud of each other. One can make out there is no acting here. They were so much in tune with each other that one can make out they discuss every action together. It’s like one big family. See them with their daughters it’s like any other ordinary family. The French President and his muse are so uncomfortable with each other and the effort they make just does not work. But on the whole the Obama’s came, saw and conquered. They were charming, witty and humorous. I think as a couple the Obama’s had more class and looked more at ease. The French President looked a bit uptight while his wife seemed to hog all the lime light. No wonder the poor guy is insecure to the extent that he has to wear covered heeled shoes. Back home both the Presidents are also not a secure footing. They will really
need to work very hard to win the next round. So, the first lady of France is beautiful yet cold. There is something that is calculating and clever and all knotted up. The wife of the most powerful man in the world Barack Obama’s is a lady who knows her strength and yet is warm and in a sense humble too. Intelligent she is no doubt but, not knowing all like the French one turns to be.

Monday, December 6, 2010

The Pioneer-Dilli-billi-5th Dec.10

Scams and scandals, tapes and taps, theft and trickery, all there and more have dominated the capitals chatter circuit for the last few months. It just does not seem to stop. Yet it follows a some what pathetic life cycle of its own. An expose or an exposion followed by preventing a public anger, fuelled by a media circus. Then comes governments delayed and often apologetic response, a promise of action and some minor punishments for those caught in the live light. A few months of being treated as tainted and then it’s back to normal. The tainted and the painted, the pathetic losers unite around their favourite watering spots again and life is back to a new semblance of reality for those who survive the onslaught and manage to retain the loot. Whether it’s the CWG mess, the ‘adarsh land scams’ the, ‘housing collapse’ or the ‘media gate’ exposes, this pattern seems to repeat itself. Most of the time it is the ‘little guy’ who is caught and punished. The big guys after all are a part of the establishment and must come back to prop up the barl. The moment one scandal rocks the situation an earlier one get a convenient burial. But beneath all this there may well be a flood of public anger which we don’t see yet. The public will often wait to settle scores, not just once but even twice, as the Bihar elections and the destruction of scams fuelled Lalu seems to prove.

It is actually a shame that senior journalist have been dragged into it. They have spent all their lives making a name for themselves. I personally do not think that their credibility is at stake. It is a journalist’s job to try and get information from every nook and corner.
It is absurd if anyone thinks that ministers can be made and sacked due to a journalist talking or putting forward a name. It must be a very weak government which even listens to an input from the journalist as to what their union cabinet should look like. We have experienced, knowledgeable people at hem of affairs forming the cabinet. But in the case of this particular scam. The telecom minister was made by the supremo of DMK sitting in Chennai. To be truthful even the Congress did not have anything to do with it. It is insane to think otherwise. The DMK wanted five ministers and it was for them to place them in any portfolio they wanted.

The public does wonder. What happens to the big corporate who appoint middle men for their own benefits? Why it is that they are left untouched after all they are the ones to benefit maximum. After all the middle man gets a very small amount in the loot which is made by the corporate houses by indulging in these practices. Is it time that someone take actions against the business houses that start sleaze. We are aware of big names who twist government policies. They are never touched. Even as they manipulate the system. Which the middle man or the journalist cannot even think of doing nor has the power. Whatever impression he may give to the outside world is immaterial. It is more loose talk than anything else and self importance. Our politicians are too smart for them. Rest, it is easy to put some one’s dignity and integrity on doubt which has been built over the decades of hard work. And yes! If you start tapping phones randomly even more professionals’ and business men’s reputations will be at stake by some innocent remark. It’s absurd!

The Tribune- Chatterati-6th December.10

"Time for Congress to put its house in order"

As the page3 chatterati are busy discussing the various scams in the country. The Congress leaders are trying to get their house in order. At the moment their major problem seems to be “Jaganmohan Reddy” from Andhra. People are wondering, whether he is a real threat to the Congress or is he going to fade away like Kuldeep Bishoni of Haryana. There is a strong resemblance between the two. Kuldeep’s father was a Congress veteran; Bhajan Lal and Jagan’s father YSR were at one time indispensable for the congress. Kuldeep has always displayed a burning desire and impatience to become the Chief Minister of Haryana. Jagan seem to be going the same way. His brashness is there for all to see. The father’s of both the young men have had a history of rebellion. Which the son’s have inherited. The Congress hopes that Andhra in the end will go the Haryana way. Hooda has won over Kuldeep’s supporters and the new Chief Ministers of Andhra will hopefully poach into Jagan’s support base. Making personal attacks to the Gandhi family is not always a very good idea and the Congress will not easily forget that.


"M P’s make the best of both worlds"

Our Member’s of Parliament are on a holiday mood. And all together in the capital nowadays, its party time. They go to parliament for an hour in the morning and then they have their own programs for the day. Some take rounds of various ministers for their constituency work; some are seen lunching together with friends at famous joints. The BJP leaders use this time effectively discussing their next agenda on how to create a pitch on various corruption issues in the country. But, Last weak all MP’s across party lines were united and together to welcome film actor Aamir Khan to the parliament. This actor belongs to a group called “Citizen Alliance” that generates public awareness on malnutrition. He met the Prime Minister, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi too. Aamir has always been known to take up social issues effectively. Aamir through his various films like Tara Zameen Par, Peepli Live has highlighted these issues, of concern. If this has anything to do with the actor’s campaign for Oscar for Peepli Live then it’s a good start. The movie and the issue highlighted farmer’s suicide and the issue on poverty at the grass root level in India. Aamir Khan got all the attention of the parliamentarians cutting across party lines. The holiday mood of our MP’s continuing. It’s a good time for some of the MP’s as it is a kind of a paid holiday as they go around checking new malls and eating joints in town. In the evening too they are busy as they end up dining in some MPs house together. At the cost of ex-checkers it’s a shame that the deadlock is of no value to our members of parliament.

"Anish kapoor, the global artist"

The return home of mega star artist Anish kapoor exceeded expectations even for someone of his stature. Sonia Gandhi choose to inaugurate the event. That itself pitched the showing at the level that most artist can only dream off. Besides that the cultural secretary and worthies from the British Government and of course the MD’s did the necessary genuflection. Mrs. Gandhi used the platform to highlight the fact that the Indian cities need to focus more on public art, not just from gigantic figures like Anish but, also from best of local talent in our country. Indian born Anish Kapoor, even by the attention and reverence he got locally. Staunchly see himself as a global artist with strong sense of origin rather than any singular sense of identity, having over the last few decades. The UK’s most favored artist in residence. His gigantic sculptures evoke strong emotions in the view and he has reason to be proud that his message has been cut out nationality and even age groups. Now soon Anish’s show is travelling to Bombay. A great welcome for the hero of art.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

The Tribune-Chatterati-29th November.10

"Some politicos richly deserve praise!"

Our politicians are not as rich as they seem. The richest Member of Parliament at the moment is Praful Patel. His wealth has nothing to do with politics. In fact Praful is the “beedi” king of the country. So he was a successful business man even before he entered politics. Jyotiraditya Scindia’s the Maharaja of Gawlior’s wealth is all ancestral. What amazes me is the lifestyle of our “Netas”. Sharad Pawar is much poorer than his other state leaders like Praful Patel and Murli Deora. A. Raja the head of a telecom scam has only a crore or so. Mamata Banerjee is the poorest of the lot. Senior minister like Kamal Nath has brought a Nano car while our defense minister A. k. Anthony had to borrow money from a bank to buy a second hand wagon .R. one does wonder of all these scams one hears off so often. If they are true then where do they put their money? Does the government of India know? Does it mattes because as a new scam come to light the old one moves away from the headline. It is also good to know the assests of several ministers to see that most of them are really not rich at all.

"Life cycle of scams"

Scams and scandals, tapes and taps, theft and trickery, all there and more have dominated the capitals chatter circuit for the last few months. It just does not seem to stop. Yet it follows a some what pathetic life cycle of its own. An expose or an exposion followed by preventing a public anger, fuelled by a media circus. Then comes governments delayed and often apologetic response, a promise of action and some minor punishments for those caught in the live light. A few months of being treated as tainted and then it’s back to normal. The tainted and the painted, the pathetic losers unite around their favourite watering spots again and life is back to a new semblance of reality for those who survive the onslaught and manage to retain the loot. Whether it’s the CWG mess, the ‘adarsh land scams’ the, ‘housing collapse’ or the ‘media gate’ exposes, this pattern seems to repeat itself. Most of the time it is the ‘little guy’ who is caught and punished. The big guys after all are a part of the establishment and must come back to prop up the barl. The moment one scandal rocks the situation an earlier one get a convenient burial. But beneath all this there may well be a flood of public anger which we don’t see yet. The public will often wait to settle scores, not just once but even twice, as the Bihar elections and the destruction of scams fuelled Lalu seems to prove.
The BJP is on a high and in a mood to celebrate. And rightfully so. The victory in Bihar has given them a new life. It is amazing how the young leaders of BJP like Arun Jaitely and Nitin Gadkari are articulate and above all. That gives them the moral ground to talk on any matter eloquently. After the Bihar landslide victory, on 3rd of December in Nagpur there will be more celebrations. The BJP president’s son Nikhil is getting married there and a lot of invitations seem to have gone out. Gadkari does not forget to ask everyone personally in town, if they have received the card. The card very clearly says’s that no presents and no bouquet’s not that people will adhered to that. If you happen to attend a wedding in Delhi you actually end up feeling bad at the waste of beautiful flowers lying around crushed at one end of the stage. So, it is literally ladoo time for the BJP and its allies even though some of the senior leaders are diabetic and Nitin is always trying to say that he needs to diet.

The Pioneer-Dilli-billi-28th.November.10

“The Collapse of a building in east Delhi has yet again pointed towards unscrupulous builders”

This is not the first time that a building has collapsed in Delhi and that the blame game started between the Delhi administration and the MCD. It is unfortunate and extremely sad at the way lives are lost and people are left handicapped for life. Money is announced by the government for the families who have lost a dear one. That I find again is a joke. In this recent building collapse a seven year old was left an orphan how much money will be enough to compensate for his lonely life and secure future.
Around 60 deaths on the whole. The occupants were mainly migrants from Bengal and Bihar. In some rooms a dozen lived in a room. There is no way you can stop these migrants as they are looking for work and prosperity as they come in the town. The unauthorized buildings and various constructions crop up everywhere under the eyes of the authorities. There is no checking on safety norms followed in most of these buildings. The question that comes in everyone mind is, Is their a way to stop this illegal construction. It is the same old answer to it we have to stop bribe and start punishing the guilty. Who either shut their eyes or are paid in large amount to pass the plans of the building, also not to visit the site, or to check the material that is being used. Savy builders are hand in hand with the corrupt officials who break all rules and regulations. Corruption is so seeped in our system that we all have in a way just given into it. The builders are happy, the occupants are happy till the disaster occurs and in most cases the politicians are silent either because he has a share in loot or look s at some kind of vote bank.
It is high time that the “Jungle Raj” of these builders stop. The Prime minister and the Supreme Court is on a cleaning up of these corrupt tribes they should take stern actions. Whoever is involved in it should also be punished. We are proud of the growth rate of the country but such incidents do point to the systematic failure of governance planning and regulations. We do need to punish the municipal and the other officials involved. This leaves a bad taste in our daily lives. It is the poor who suffer. If it was a building of the rich or famous. What a rakus would have been created?
It is an eye opener if one visits these clustered colonies. You look around and see open cable electricity wires and get scared. Gutters are lying open and the roads have holes which can be a death trap for anyone. There are municipal officials and local politicians who can not see all of this? They choose to be blind, deaf and dumb. They are all of course hand in glove with the builders who build these blocks. No, checking of the material used is ever done. Illegal floors are constructed in front of all. Why they are not sealed or pulled down there and then? Why a notice is not given to them at that moment? Isn’t it high time that the top officials of the government strike now on these killers? Should they not check the track record of these builders? Some of them are even black listed but then bounce back and we all know how. Well, it’s a shame and an early action which is followed up should be one remedy for sure.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Pioneer-Dilli-billi-21 Nov

"Weed out the corrupt"

The BJP and the Congress should not be taken for a ride by their coilation partners

Thanks to the media, it is not only the common man who gets to know about the various scams in the government but it seems even the high up’s in power get to know from the same medium. It is the media which make the public aware and the opposition to make noise about the leaders involved in the corruption cases. I can not; for one minute believe that the high command does not know what is going on in the different ministries. I am sure that through various agencies they do get their reports. If not then, they must be some thing really wrong with the system. And it needs to be put right immediately. Why t a spectacle is made by delays in pulling up the slimy ones. All corrupt members involved are left till the last minute to take action. It is absurd. If the media knows then the public has an inclination of things happening too. The journalist knows it but, how come the head-of -government does not know? It is a shame that when we have a whole lot of clean, experienced and capable senior’s at the helm of affairs we have to face these embarrassing situations. Parliament is stalled. Media goes hoarse crying about corruption charges as we are becoming a laughing stock world over.


Asking the resignation of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra was an excellent move by the Congress. Suresh Kalmadi was thrown out after the Obama visit. Would it not have been better if, without the media making noise when corruption is so much on the face the high command should take action as soon as they realize that the politicians are making so much money so that it can set a standard? Half these leaders claim that the money they make in their respective states is handed over to the leaders in centre. Are they saying its kind of “Hafta Vassoli”. But the Congress has made sure that once their leaders are caught they are thrown out. So, the clever ones remain while the clumsy ones go. There are of course bigger fish who go untouched. Infact they get promotions.


But it is amusing; to the common man when the BJP chief ministers are openly corrupt. If we look into Karnataka who can be more bluntly corrupt then the ‘Reddy’ brothers with, who the BJP leaders dine and wine with. BJP leadership is blind to their charges. The BJP does have so many clean yet capable Chief Ministers. Jayalalitha talking about corruption is a joke. DMK I am sure has a whole library on her. We have today nearly all leaders of various regional parties with some corruption story or another. Except Mamata Banerjee the Lalu’s and Paswan’s all of them are the same.

We have a clean P.M with many clean senior ministers. So, why do they have to tolerate corruption? Its all for power. The problem of coalition politics. So, it’s better for the Congress and BJP the major two national parties to go alone in the elections now. It will be easier for them to win back their carde and vote banks. But a couple of more scams of their regional partners and the now aware public will want single party rule soon. So, it’s best to let these regional leaders make a nuisance of themselves and then strike. They really do not need to be so power hungry and should not let the Raja’s, Maya’s, Jaya’s blackmail them.

The Tribune-Chatterati-22nd Nov.10

“Stars at big, Fat Dilli shaadis”

Shaddi time is always fun time for “Delhities”. Delhi being a cosmopolitan city we have all kind of weddings here. The expenditure of a wedding can vary from a thousand rupee’s to crores. Elaborate and over the top is an understatement here. This year it seems there is a craze for Bollywood stars performing in the wedding. There is also demand for Pakistani gazzal and sufi singers. Recently, we had the not so busy star like “Ameesha Patel” perform. Singer Sunidhi Chauhan in fact acted pricey and so arrogant at a sangeet even though she had charged a large amount for her performance. The host had to ask her to leave with out performing. The Gutka weddings in town were paying approximately 25 crores for stars like Katrina Kaif, Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan all there. But, the designers who dress the Bride and the Groom also get richer by lakhs. Real crystals and gold embroidery etc. It is not rare in Delhi for the bride to be wearing a lengha worth 10 to 15 lakhs. The card itself for these wedding cost anyway between 15 to 20 thousands. It is amazing that while the rich have so much to spare, the poor in India hardly afford one decent meal a day. Witnessing all this even though India is on a rise economically, I would still support the Indira Gandhi regime rule of serving four kinds of potatoes and simple marriages with limited baraaties.

“Builders’ jungle raj”

This is not the first time that a building has collapsed in Delhi and that the blame game starts between the Delhi administration and the MCD. It is unfortunate and extremely sad at the way lives are lost and people are left handicapped for life. India may be emerging as a large economic power in the world but, we have a lot of poverty.
A six storey building in which 200 hundred people lived where around 80 died were occupants mainly migrants from Bengal and Bihar. Some had dozen’s living in one single room. There is no way you can stop these migrants as they are looking for work and prosperity as they come in the town. We are all aware of the fact that the unauthorized buildings and various constructions crop up everywhere. As a result of these accidents, there are orphans, widows left alone. Is their a way to stop all this? The answer to it is by stopping bribe and punishing the guilty. Officials are bribed to pass the plans, not to visit the site, or check the material that is being used? When unauthorized floors and constructions are done one wonders whether the department officials were sleeping? Corruption is so seeped in our system that we all have in a way just given into it.
It is high time that the “Jungle Raj” of these builders is stopped. At this time when the Prime minister and the Supreme Court is on a cleaning up spree of the corrupt tribes stern actions should be taken on these killers. We are proud of the growth rate of the country but such incidences do point to the systematic failure of governance planning and regulations.

“Farooq the star”

The evergreen energetic leader from Kashmir Dr. Farooq Abdullah is clearly the flavour of the season. He was the chief guest at the Godfery Phillips Bravery National Awards ceremony. This ceremony is held every year to honour the brave hearts of our society. Farooq is clearly the star at any do that he attends. The evening was anchored by film star Kabir Bedi. Here Farooq had a special word for each winner, applauded and appreciated each one individual. There was a musical recital in the capital last week were he was in full tune with the singers and was actually the star of the evening. He had everybody amused by his great sense of humour. His party M.Ps swear by him and claims that he is the best crowd and vote puller for them. He clearly is a man who is popular with all classes of people and is yet humble and grounded. He is one politician who can easily be said as not a hypocrite because his way of life is an open book and he has his fundas all clear.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Pioneer-dilli-billi-24th october.10

"Time To pat our backs"

Delhities are patting their backs for good behaviour during the CWG. They think they managed to deliver the best possible. It was a matter of great concern to all as the media went hysterical over the bad arrangements and corruption in the Organizing Committee. As usual after the 15 days of extravaganza the politicians and the public started blaming the media on how they go crazy about certain matters. But on a serious note had it not been for the media exposure would we have witnessed such an affair?

Today, we have a brand New Delhi with us. Wide roads, metro, new buses. A friend of mine who attended a lot of sport events has not stopped singing praises of the smooth sailing he had as he traveled to the stadium. He could not imagine in his wildest dream that the Police force on duty was so polite and helpful. Their uniforms and mannerism were impeccable. They were helpful and guided everyone with a smile. They were so polite yet firm. It’s surprising that there were hardly any complaint of pick pocketing or eve teasing. It was such a refreshing change to see our youth who were volunteers go about their duties with such pride. I must say the youth of this country need to be saluted for their patriotism. Well, the youth leader Rahul Gandhi along with his mother UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi returned their official tickets and bought ordinary tickets and sat with other spectators to watch the wrestling competitions. They cheered the wrestlers through the game. It was such a delight for the citizens of Delhi to witness their leaders sit amongst them as one of them. Dr. Manmohan Singh also came for some sporting events. But surprisingly his colleagues from the Cabinet and members of Parliament were no where to be seen except for the opening and closing ceremony.

On the whole of course we did a great job thanks to the PMO interfering. Sheila Dikshit taking over and the Home Minister and his team made us all proud. The public of Delhi was on their best behaviour. The shopkeeper’s courteous and reframed from over charging the tourist. No major health causalities thankfully. Let’s hand it over to the media for exposing everything in time. So, those precautions were taken in time and things went off smoothly. This also proves that we are capable of delivering as good as any other nation in the world. And above all also behaving ourselves when it comes to matters of national pride. The opening and closing ceremony were spectacular and has left us all beaming. Hopefully, the leaders in charge will gracefully take the thank you from the public. The guilty should be punished and the people who delivered should be rewarded. It was the part of the duty to deliver after spending the tax payer’s money but we really do not want to see any slanging matches in public. Let’s handle the after effects as gracefully and competently as we handled the games.

There is no use of taking credit as the whole world knows who did what. Sure, Kalmadi did his two bits but the other’s involved had to put things together or this nation would actually have been shamed world over.

Pioneer-dilli-billi-17th october.10

“She Delivered Well”
As I was driving on one of the streets in Delhi my driver commented on how clean the city was looking. This is an uneducated but responsible citizen of the capital. Delhi seems to have become a new city in the last one year there are no argument to the fact that “Sheila Dixit” has delivered. This grandmotherly lady has faced one hurdle after the other but has come out clean. She took criticism in her stride. She was positive even as the media lambasted her time and again. This is only because she was confident that the end result of the inconvenience to the public would only be temporary. This is a lady who knew her goal. This is not my observation but the observation of my driver. This is the major population of the city. The poor as the call them.

For the common man who is, the real voter has been provided all facilities possible. To a tourist Delhi now looks like the capital of the largest Democracy in the world. The metro has connected commuters from New Delhi to gurgoan with in half an hour. The new buses are air conditioned, swanky and on time. The BRT lanes which got Sheila a lot of flak from the middle class and the elite today are so happy because it is commuting without any hitches. It is Sheila Dixit who has worked with the plan and that plan worked. She has moved the Basti’s by giving them stable houses and school for their children to study. The Bhagidari programme got her lots of votes in the last elections. The ‘Ladli’ scheme also did wonders and so their is no opposition to her. She is respected with out any doubt across party lines. Taking criticism in her stride. She never let it take her away from her focused goal. There are no false promises here.


The image of Delhi has undoubtly improved thanks to CWG. I just hope that this ‘Jugaad’ work lasts. As we are all aware the work was left for the last moment. So, whether the cement was set or not top coating were plastered. Flower pots were put in the dug up pavements. Dirt and filth was hidden behind huge hoardings. Well, can this be permanent some will argue. But what we do need to see is that Delhi is new now. ‘Kacha’ or ‘Pakka’ is besides the urgency way have been three times the budget that would actually been spent in other circumstances.


Now, even as the CWG games got the flak world over Sheila had to step in last minute to take the charge. She took the challenge, got all her resources and her good will to act and delivered with in days. The saving grace has been Sheila in the end.

Pioneer-dilli-billi-3rd october.10

Will the young get a chance?

Last week I wrote in the same space about how the CWG games have become a matter of national pride and we should all do are bit to make them a success but as the games approach the callous behaviour of our organizing community has left us wondering if they really care.

I overheard a group of youngsters the other day abusing the organizing community and the government for the way these games have been handled. The younger generation is an educated lot, they have seen the world, are exposed to all kinds of things on the net sitting at home. I’m not able to answer their question as to how and why our system runs like the way it does. Some of these kids have studied abroad and sum locally, they want to know why the games were handed over to people who couldn’t deliver. And also not that they have such a great reputation. Seven years is a long time for the infrastructure to be maid. Why was everything left for the last minute? They feel that the organizing community was so busy making there own under hand deals, travelling the world with family and friends at the organization expenses. The young generation is completely in agreement with the former union sports minister Mani Shanker Iyer that these games were a sham right from the beginning. It was useless exercise. A waste of tax payers’ money which could have been used for better to better use for the poor. I’ve realized during my interaction with modern young professionals that they think that our system stinks. They would prefer a Hitler like dictator at the top. They want some one to crack the whip and punish the guilty so harshly that the others would learn a lesson. They see us day and night bribing the system. They know it’s an easy way out for us too. Otherwise your work will be stuck in the system for years. We are also lot more patient than the youth. They want instant recipes.

They are fed up as everyone else in the country of the nexus between the politicians and the bureaucrats. They have huge hopes on Rahul Gandhi and his way of politics but they are not sure that the system would allow him to emerge as he aims too. This system is full of corruption, Sleazy ways and everyone is hand in hand in this. Will Rahul be able to clean the system and get some efficiency or will the politician ruling today for there own survival will confuse and disilioun him. He is trying to set new standards. But will the others allow them to change. Rahul Gandhi is a youth today. He also must be felling suffocated in this system. Cutting across political party lines the youth all want a change. But the elders who should be retired are getting extension all the time. When will the young get a chance? When they are also old? Well, they have a stronger and more aggressive voice than we ever did. Hopefully it will work.

The Pioneer-dilli-billi-14th november

All thanks to the media


Thanks to the media, it is not only the common man who gets to know about the various scams in the government but it seems even the high up’s in power get to know from the same medium. It is the media which make the public aware and the opposition to make noise about the leaders involved in the corruption cases. I can not; for one minute believe that the high command does not know what is going on in the different ministries. I am sure that through various agencies they do get their reports. If not then, they must be some thing really wrong with the system. And it needs to be put right immediately. Why t a spectacle is made by delays in pulling up the slimy ones. All corrupt members involved are left till the last minute to take action. It is absurd. If the media knows then the public has an inclination of things happening too. The journalist knows it but, how come the head-of -government does not know? It is a shame that when we have a whole lot of clean, experienced and capable senior’s at the helm of affairs we have to face these embarrassing situations. Parliament is stalled. Media goes hoarse crying about corruption charges as we are becoming a laughing stock world over.


Asking the resignation of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra was an excellent move by the Congress. Suresh Kalmadi was thrown out after the Obama visit. Would it not have been better if, without the media making noise when corruption is so much on the face the high command should take action as soon as they realize that the politicians are making so much money so that it can set a standard? Half these leaders claim that the money they make in their respective states is handed over to the leaders in centre. Are they saying its kind of “Hafta Vassoli”. But the Congress has made sure that once their leaders are caught they are thrown out. So, the clever ones remain while the clumsy ones go. There are of course bigger fish who go untouched. Infact they get promotions.


But it is amusing; to the common man when the BJP chief ministers are openly corrupt. If we look into Karnataka who can be more bluntly corrupt then the ‘Reddy’ brothers with, who the BJP leaders dine and wine with. BJP leadership is blind to their charges. The BJP does have so many clean yet capable Chief Ministers. Jayalalitha talking about corruption is a joke. DMK I am sure has a whole library on her. We have today nearly all leaders of various regional parties with some corruption story or another. Except Mamata Banerjee the Lalu’s and Paswan’s all of them are the same.

We have a clean P.M with many clean senior ministers. So, why do they have to tolerate corruption? Its all for power. The problem of coalition politics. So, it’s better for the Congress and BJP the major two national parties to go alone in the elections now. It will be easier for them to win back their carde and vote banks. But a couple of more scams of their regional partners and the now aware public will want single party rule soon. So, it’s best to let these regional leaders make a nuisance of themselves and then strike. They really do not need to be so power hungry and should not let the Raja’s, Maya’s, Jaya’s blackmail them.

The Pioneer-dilli-billi-31st october.10

Give the same treatment

I was traveling to America after nearly twelve years and I was apprehensive and so hyper about my trip. I had heard stories of how the strict security rules there end up hassling our VIPs. So, traveling alone to New York there was a fear which I realized even the frequent visitors to America in the plane had.
As I landed in JFK airport there was no line at the immigration and must say to my surprise it was smooth sailing. I let out a sigh of relief as I got into my cab and was on my way to the Hotel in hardly half an hour. So, a happy start made me cheerful as I went about my work in New York also keeping enough time for shopping and meeting friends. As my Hotel was right in the hub of downtown the famous and fashionable Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue were hardly five minutes away. I noticed one thing immediately that the police, security personals, and cop cars with their trained dogs were every where. Obviously, this must have come up after twenty six eleven. Manhattan looked very secure and safe. So, I went about happily all alone discovering different lanes, walks to the Central Park and trying out the new popular restaurants.

As I got talking to different people I was shocked at one thing that they all had in common. They were all feeling let down by Obama. The much hyped President of the United States the most powerful man in the world has not delivered what he had promised and what he had set out for he could not achieve. The fresh young President was not experienced according to them. It was an amazing revelation for me that right from cab drivers from world over, professionals whether doctors or engineers were not happy. Bank or large company executives were not satisfied or up beat with his policies and the way he took decisions. The recession was no where near gone and the extra taxes in New York City had most essential things out of reach even for the middle class there. The tax is obnoxious even for a visitor. Unlike Europe and UK there is no VAT refund as you leave the country. So, if it’s a shopping trip to America its best to leave out New York and Los Angles and head to places nearest like New Jersey etc. Half an hour away and so much cheaper. In fact a Pakistani cab driver of mine told me that on his day off that’s what his family does. They head off to buy their essential stuff from out of New York border limit. Asians are loosing their jobs fast. The Americans go around doing their work with swollen sulking faces.

One complaint that all Indians had in common was that they were very upset and hurt when top officials and politicians of our country are at times stopped and hassled at Airport security. Whether it was George Fernandez, Shah Rukh Khan and recently Praful Patel. Some senior ministers have been asked to strip and frisked .The demand was, when American officials travel to India they should go through all our security norms and regulations.
Must say in the end I realized that our nation is progressing well and we Indians are a proud lot where ever we travel in the World today. Our Prime Minister’s policies have made sure we are a nation which is progressing steadily and confidentially. We should take offence when our respected leaders are not facilitated as we do theirs. America’s top guys should also be given the same treatment as our leaders of the country get there. Rest, Mr. Obama really needs to do some thing about his image and policies. His over hyped PR during the elections seems to have fallen flat now. The expectations were too much with the publicity and obviously it is impossible to deliver in such a short time. He needs more time and experienced people around him.

The Tribune- Chatterati-18th. october.10

After the storm, the sunshine

In the end India has won not only a hundred and one gold medals but also an applause world wide. Everything was in order. The financial mismanagement, the threat of diseases and the over bridge that collapsed was in the past. It was a complete Indian wedding being put together in a chaotic manner and as usual everything ended well. The hard work of the athletes gained a renewed interest and respect for a variety of sports away from cricket. The Pakistani delegation in the opening ceremony got applause of a lifetime. The 71 countries that participated in the two week’s fun and games went home happy and satisfied with everything. There was non-stop entertainment and excitement from the beginning till the end. The markets in Delhi were full of visitors. The one person who was booed through and through was Suresh Kalmadi. During the week, when he went for dinner at a local restaurant the crowd went hysterical and asked him to leave the restaurant. They did not want to share the space with somebody so corrupt and shameless. Everybody is now waiting and watching with interest as how Suresh Kalmadi is going to answer at the mismanagement of funds. As the country powerful and elite sat with the common man to watch the 15 days of the largest sports event that the country has ever hosted there is matter of national pride which has been saved world wide.

Social worker galore

Uttar Pradesh has the largest numbers of Social Workers elected to the Parliament. It seems all our big wig politicians like Kamal Nath, Farooq Abdullah, Bhajan Lal and Lalu Prasad Yadav are also Social Workers who have drifted into the Politics. The Member of Parliament from Andhra Pradesh who has become famous for slapping the bank manager is also a Social Worker.

This is the list of professions that the newly elected members of Parliament have given to the Lok Sabha Secretariat. The second largest numbers of members of Parliament are Agriculturists. Sharad Pawar, Deve Gowda and his sons are all Agriculturists Charan Singh’s son Ajit Singh has listed himself as Computer Scientist; the Industrialists are Praful Patel, Milind Deora and Navin Jindal. We have two Professors in Parliament Girija Vyas and Manohar Joshi. The lady speaker Meira Kumar is the only Civil Servant who has come to Parliament.

It’s a great mix in variety where Jaya Prada being from the Film Industry and what a co-incidence that Rahul Gandhi’s brigade including him are listed in the Farmer’s list. The Lawyers who are the party’s best spokesperson also are Kapil Sibal, Salman Khurshid, P. Chidambaram and Sushma Swaraj. Its an interesting list of personalities but the Social Workers take the cake.

This is truly a house whose occupants are democratically equal in wealth. Among the 55 members elected to the Rajya Sabha from 13 States, 43 are crorepaties with their average net worth being Rs. 25.24 crore. The richest of the new lot is United Breweries Chairman Vijay Mallya with Rs. 615 crore. The second time MP from Karnataka is an independent member of the upper house. MP Y. Satyanarayanayan Chowdhary from Andhra Pradesh is worth Rs. 187 crore, while MP Kanwardeep Singh has Rs. 82.6 crore in his kitty. The poorest Rajya Sabha MP is Anil Dave from Madhya Pradesh, according to a survey by the association for democratic reforms. Quite like the Lok Sabha, the upper house is not bereft of its back either, 15 Rajya Sabha MP’s have criminal charges pending against them, with six involved in attempt to murder, cheating and forgery cases. These notables cut across all party lines and belong to the Congress, BJP, TDP and NCP.

The Tribune-Chatterati-27 october.10

National Pride, taken for a ride


The CWG organization community has never had it so bad, the capital pundits are having a field day being paid for the predicting to find out if the games will be a success or not. The shoot out at old Delhi, was enough to scare the visitors from abroad. The diseases are spreading like wild fire has put everyone’s programme on hold. The day the OC opened the games village and everyone was busy giving sound bites to the media, enjoying the luxurious spread of food. There was chaos as a water fountain had burst and water came gushing. To top it the power department is now not sure about there services. The rain God’s have also not been kind as the rain have been hampering the CWG project’s progress.
The response of the CWG officials on the filthy state of the village was understandable. But Indians could not help get angry at the response from OC official saying ‘Hygiene Standards Wary’ Oops! Are we a filthy nation? We claim to be a superpower today but when will we clean the dirt in our system? Most locals have fled from the city while the others will have to wait hours long traffic jams to reach their offices.
Delhiets are felling let down, cheated and ashamed. The sleazy way of the CWG is giving the people here sleepless night. They were o.k. with spending hours in jams, with diseases spreading like wild fire; after all it was for national pride. It was an issue of every Indians pride. But what they saw on media was disgraceful after huge sums of the tax payer’s money being spent on these games what does one get. That we are a super power today but we cannot organize the games. Seven years we had to make the village stadium, roads and the bridges. Obviously too much time was spent on arranging the under hand deals and roaming the world with family and friends and left everything to the last minute. The government too is answerable for leaving the arrangements to clumsy corrupt officials. Do human live have no value? Bridges collapsing, ceiling giving way and water and mud all over the roads. The public is asking for answers but no one has any answer. Delhities are upset and fed up of the everyday chaos and the next two week will only make it worse.

A rich party!

The BJP is concerned about the disappearance of an envelope which contained money during the meeting of the executive members. The Delhi unit president even called the SHO to complain. During the last election a sum of 2.5 crores disappeared and no fuss was created. Loads of money disappearing from the political offices is not a healthy sign. And the BJP high flying Mumbai based treasure should be a worried man. A rich party no doubt where loose charge is in crores.

Didi's cyber enemy

Mamata Banerjee is an impatient angry lady at the moment. Miffed by Rahul Gandhi’s press conference in Kolkata; she has openly criticized the Congress with whom she is partners in the centre. Mamata is known for her mood swings and her temperament. These are things she can handle as she’s is on a high in Bengal. But what she can’t fathom out is the campaign against her in cyber space.” We hate Mamata banerjee” has come up all of a sudden and is getting a lot of response. As the railway minister is not net savvy her supporters have taken it upon themselves to counter this attack. A Chinese company has also hacked the official website of the Kolkata Metro railway. Our ministers should be conscious about there enemy’s inside cyberspace.

The Tribune-Chatterati-1st Nov.10

Delhi Ready To Welcome Big O

As the most powerful man in the world The President of The United States arrives in Delhi next week, the city is gearing up for his visit. He is going to be staying at The “Maurya Sheraton Hotel”, which is now out of bounds for all. The Maurya has hosted the former President George Bush and Bill Clinton. It is also Hillary Clinton’s favourite hotel. Heavy duty security personals and the F.B.I have already started making round of the places that Obama will be visiting. Mr. Obama and his much more popular wife Michelle first stop will be at ‘The Humayun’s Tomb’. The Humuyun Tomb is the 16th centaury epitome. This Mugul architecture is a world heritage site and is in good condition now, as in 2004 The Aga Khan Trust did a lot of restoring work on it. Obama’s reception in The Maurya would be done by girls dressed as “Brides” of India. The floor that Obama will be staying in has a personalized gym and the bathroom has Mother of Pearl accessories. Obama will be addressing the two houses of The Parliament where security will not allow any visitors. Michelle in the meantime will go shopping to ‘Santushti’. The favourite of all dignities. Hillary Clinton always makes a visit there. So, do all visiting elegant first ladies of all nations who have travelled to Delhi.
As India looks forward in welcoming The President of the United States, one can not help notice how the ratings of this President have fallen so low, so fast. In America where I was last week, no one, from the cab driver to a senior executive has a good word for Obama’s policies. Recession is nowhere gone and Obama really needs to thank his over hype stature made by different agencies doing his publicity and public relation during his elections. Today the once charismatic Obama’s credibility is at stake and he needs to act real fast and boldly to put his house in order.

Fashion fatigue

As the fashion week concludes in Delhi, there is obviously a fashion fatigue. For the people of Delhi it’s become an everyday affair where now numerous fashion weeks take place in a year. First it was two a year. The top once like Rohit Bal and Ashish Soni are of course the most well attended. There collection is impeccable with chic cuts, drama, attitude and panache in every show. But, in the last two years fashion week has much more to offer than just fashion shows. It’s the party’s after the shows at different pubs mostly sponsored by some liquor company which are wild and what you can call in modern language “cool”. This is where most socialites, models and the wannabe’s hang around together. Over the year’s our models are more confident and happily carry off a bikini on the ramp. There was a time when socialites were given preference over buyers to sit in the front row but now its buyers who mostly sit in the front row. As designers realize the difference. It’s also the Behenji’s in salwar –kameej and their designer bags who occupy the front row, rather than the stiff lip-ones perfectly turned out women of today. In Mumbai it is always the film stars and especially in the last two fashion shows it is the 30+ actresses who are more out of jobs like Preity Zinta and Sushmita Sen who are either sitting in the front row or are the showstoppers. Our Indian designers are no doubt of international quality but with the international brand easily available in India, they sure have very tough competition and need to work extremely hard. Fortunately there were no cat fights this time, or tantrums. The buyers and designer went off happily and content. This season one saw lots of colour, bold prints and lace with metallic really in vogue.

The Tribune-Chatterati-8.Nov.10

Time to eat, drink and make merry
The holiday mood in Delhi starts near Dussehra and the hangover from Diwali carries on for a week after. So, basically its fun time for three weeks. The Chatterati of Delhi chatted about the pending cabinet reshuffle and the visit of President Obama.The gambling scene in the capital was not so open this time but, the stakes were extremely high. It is the new rich middle class which is having a field day today. The Indian women are having a ball. Their days start from the best spa in town to have their massage. Whether it is to relax or cut cellulite to fit into their dresses in the evening. Then facials and makeup. Everyday their make-up has to match their designer dress ordered for that evening. It’s an amazing life that these bhenji’s have. They roam around in swanky big cars with bouncer like security guards, with their walky-talkies and making the occupant of the car feel and look very important. And in the evening they have a blast, Playing cards, sipping pink champagne, fully loaded with solitaires and confidence. The today’s husband’s earn and spend open heartedly. They spend over the top to get the best event managers to put together even a five table card party. They bet from luxurious cars to farm houses and even half a crore. But these party’s are very hush-hush. They do sometime call in one or two paid celebrities too.
The college going kids of the rich parents do try their hand at gambling at Diwali. If their fathers are betting ‘Bentley & Lexus’ cars then the children bet close to lakhs. They are dressed in the best international branded clothes. They know their wines etc. They are the net age and do manage to change the outlook of their parents too. So, irrespective of class, India’s economy is on high and so are the Indians. Hopefully, the visiting American delegation would have soaked in the new rich India with a positive note and flown back home with a feeling of warmth yet caution when they deal with the new confident India or Indians in the future.

Sonia wins over her detractors
As Sonia Gandhi takes over officially as The President of the Congress Party again, one can not but admires the lady. This lady keeps her cards close to her chest and nobody knows what they are she takes over for the forth time but, she has also proved that she alone is the party’s savior. The Congress party has had 71 presidents in the last105 years. Her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi took over the congress party when the party was beset with internal strife but, the party was struggling for survival. In 1998, when Sonia became party chief the congress had 146 seats. But, today after 12 years they have 206 seats. She plays her cards well and has even got her detractors back like the grand Maratha ‘Sharad Pawar’ back in her fold. The allies who showed her eyes are now forced to acknlowging her as a leader. Sonia is 63 years old today and Rahul is in no hurry to take over. So, Sonia Gandhi will carry on being the President of the largest party till Rahul Gandhi is ready to take over the Mattel. The mother and son speak mostly on inflation, and terrorism. But, they can never be accused of over speaking like most politicians.

Offbeat choice
With everyone becoming cautious about health and pollution. Delhi markets were full of healthy sweets. Available were ayurvedic Ladoos made out of 16 medicinal herbs which help in common cold and chest condition. Then there is papaya barfi which sets your stomach disorder’s and lowers your cholesterol. The aloevera halva is known for its anti-ageing qualities. The bharurani ladoo is 700/-rupees per kilo. Most of these sweets do not have sugar and are made out of jaggery or honey. So, they are good for diabetics also. In U.P. if you go pataka shopping you will find Rahul Gandhi’s rocket and Varun Gandhi’s anar and as you light up they burst into shimmer with minimal sound. But, the most amusing are the elephant bomb’s in blue. They have not been given any name but, obviously they are the “Bhujal Samaj party” but, the dabangg bombs dominate the market this year.
We are innovative no doubt.

The Tribune-Chatterati-15 november

Michelle, charm personified
It is not easy to be the wife of the President of America. The First lady has to always be perfect as she represent her country. One has been observing Michelle Obama ever since she started campaign in the U.S. elections for her husband. She comes across as a modern yet grounded and very family oriented person. On her first trip to India she floored the young and the old with ease and charm. Michelle is obviously good at dancing and so struck an immediate cord with the Indians as she spontaneously took to the floor with the right bhangra steps with the special children in Bombay. Her relationship with her husband is a pleasant change after the Clinton’s and Prince Charles and Diana. Unlike these couple’s one noticed that The Obama’s held hands, exchanged smiles and made eye contact which shows that the chemistry between them is strong. Her slick gelled hairstyle, with casual printed blouse and pumps showed great attitude and style. And much like any lady she also ran out of money shopping at the crafts bazaar. Barack Obama has a special connection with India because he is a Gandhi follower and carry’s a little Ganesha in his pocket for good luck. Michelle’s choice of bold colours like hot pink and turquoise showed her Indian touch. She may not appear porcelain perfect like a “Carla Brunei” or “Jacqueline Kennedy” but, she knows what suits her frame and skin tone best. So, she sticks to that. She is a perfect companion to the President of America as she is intelligent, articulate and chooses to support her husband. But, there is no doubt, that she is a star in herself. The guest’s at the Prime Ministers private dinner found her warm, charming, spontaneous and easy to get along with.
Delhi's ethnic scene

While Delhi is dominated by the loud and expanding or rather exploding Diwali culture it is easy to miss out on the growing impact and the influence of festival sub cultures. It is an index of both of how Delhi is growing and expanding but also of how cosmopolitan it is increasingly getting. Barely had the crackers of an unusually loud Diwali died down and hardly had the fire tenders get a chance to rest than the, Chhath puja preparations peaked up. The most auspicious festival for the Poorvanchali. Chhath puja used to be an eastern U.P and Bihar festival but is now a big local event. Big enough, politically too, since this year the BJP has demanded that a public holiday be declared for their festival too. Before the ghats can be emptied out along comes yet another festival ‘the favourite of the growing Oriya’ population and the ISKON followers. Orissa just having got itself renamed as ‘Odissa’ is also an increasingly vocal aspect of Delhi’s ethno-culture scene and demand to be heard too. In between all this one wonders whit the Diwali hangover Delhites will ever get back to work.
'kissa kursi ka'

Politics is a game of musical chairs. We have seen it literally happening all the time. One observes that in the cabinet reshuffle and chief ministers changing. One goes and the other arrives. But each one has his own good luck charms and prayers done before sitting on the chair. Recently when Obama was to address The Parliament, The M.P’s ran around looking for seats in the front rows. Subi Ram Reddy got a perfect seat but Subi being Subi could not sit still as he saw leaders and went to say his ‘Namaste’s’. As it happened his colleagues did not let any one take his seat. So, everything went well. Then came Rahul Gandhi and asked if the seat was vacant for him to sit. ‘Of course’ said the M.P’s and when Subi came back after doing his PR and he had to stand at the back till the end. ‘Kissa Kursi Ka’ is a saying Subi needs to remember in the capital all the time. The others who had tried to sit on Subi’s seat and were turned away were ‘Mohsina Kidwa’ and ‘Moti Lal Vohra’ , but Rahul, who can say no to him?

Monday, September 6, 2010

The Tribune-Chatterati-6th.Sep.10

'Aamir hits the nail on the head'

It is not unusual for ‘Aamir Khan to get enormous attention for his movies. But usually it is because he acts powerfully in them. But ‘Peepli Live’, the darling of the Chatterati class at the moment doesn’t have him in any role at all. In this case the medium and the message are truly his craft work even without any screen work. Because the message is about the sad state of the Indian State, Aamir had to show it to two people at the very top- the P.M and key opposition leader Advani. Both of them not only enjoyed the movie but ensured that their friends and family got the message alongside in separate and exclusive show. Aamir knows how to get the heart of the State when he wants to.

But the boldest move was Aamir’s special showing for media honcho’s, where the likes of Aroon Purie, Rajat Sharma, Rajdeep Sardesai and Deepak Chaurasia and politicians like Kapil Sibal and Salman Khurshid watched Aamir’s take on the silly state of Indian television news reporting. Aamir began the evening with telling his hand picked audience that since they probably would not want to talk to him afterwards he was speaking to them before. The audience watched with rapt attention, the tongue in cheek verging on cruel parody of the television channels obsession with chasing ‘live’ news. The cynical and mindless story of chasing of TRP’s must have made many in the audience squirm. But Aamir’s skill showed in his masterful blending of multiple realities into a canvas of social chaos. It must have thrilled the director that he got a standing ovation even though it was an audience that knew that it cover had been blown in full cinemascope splendor.


'Raising money for animals'


If the invitation card says “Kingfisher” everyone expects Vijay Mallya to be there. A fund raiser was organized by “Kingfisher” and “People for Animals” to raise money for needy animals. The evening was named “Fly a Carpet to Your Wall” where this gathering at The Lalit Hotel in Delhi got a lot of artists, designers and page 3 types to show their love for animals. PFA is run by Maneka Gandhi and her sister Ambika Shukla. The event saw journalist Nalini Singh, designer Ritu Kumar and actor Nasir Abdullah, but the title sponsor Vijay Mallya who I think a lot of people have come to see and meet was nowhere around. This was a limited collection of carpets choreographed by Sunil Sethi included works of renowned artists like Rohit Bal and Paresh Maity. These were hand woven carpets and the designs of these were unique. The money collected by this fund raising exhibition will be used for veterinary shelters for needy animals.

'Lots of drama in India Men's Week'

The India Men’s Week saw a lot of drama, makeovers and activity in the capital last week. As usual there were lots of delays and inconvenience. The designers had to play clever as men’s fashion is not broad spectrum with creativity here. Narendra Kumar’s presentation was an Indo-Japanese which was a tale of shadow warriors but luckily the clothes were fluid in form and the theme was warrior clothes. Samant Chauhan had edgy men’s wear and here he was inspired by the psychic killers and there were socks stitched with pants which according to the designer was the style of a particular killer who didn’t want to leave footprints. The famous Shantanu and Nikhil Mehra did not disappoint the crowds, the highlight here was cable knits used for jackets and there were knitted super fit churidars for men. Ashish Soni is always very practical and so more wearable and his school friend Robert Vadra was present too. But the master of ceremonies as usual was the one and only Rohit Bal. “Gudda” to his friends hired 11 buggies decorated them in his style and lined them alongside the porch of the hotel where show was being held. “Gudda” has always been a master of drama. This show was full of colour, ‘achkans’ for men were embroidered heavily with lots of ‘jhilmil’ and sarees and skirts worn by men. Pravesh (of the “Big Boss” fame) walked the ramp for “Gudda”. But the icing on the cake was that seeing the buggies a group of eunuchs turned up asking for money assuming it was a wedding party. Now was that for real or again stage managed, one wondered?

The Pioneer-Dilli-Billi-6th.Sep.10

'Is disaster looming ahead?'

It was an impressive show of determination, dignity and unity cutting across party lines by our M.P’s in their chorus that the Common Wealth Games must be a success. Even as the opposition leaders echoed that the Common Wealth Games must be a success, during the parliament session last week the corruption charges against the organizing committee were in full swing as the media blew the lid on preparations for it which were full of sleaze and money making and commission to friends and family rather than fool proof arrangements for the participants and visitors.

One thought that roping in the Oscar winner A.R. Rehman for a song would put at least some life and encourage many at last. One can always be positive when A.R. Rehman’s name is mentioned, but one feels led down even here. Is it that all these scandals did not encourage A.R. Rehman’s lyrics, or was Kalmadi not a good enough inspiration for Rehman, or was the simple South Indian just too disgusted with the stories on the Common Wealth Games but as he was committed he had to come up with something and this was the best he could do, to fulfill his commitment. As if this song of Rehman was not a dampener enough the “dengue” has scared the visitors who were thinking of coming to the capital for these games. The little bookings that were done are being cancelled. The foreigners are thinking twice about coming after the rise in dengue cases in Delhi. The Health Minister has blamed the rise on the digging all over the city for the spread of this.

The Prime Minister has taken a personal interest in the preparations along with the Sports Minister now. It has become a matter of pride for the Nation to make sure that the games go well. After having spent thousands of crores in the pre-arrangements in the last eight years it is a shame that at the fag end when all venues should have been ready and athletes practicing, there is nothing that is completed. The only thing that seems to have happened is that the personal bank accounts of the people involved in these games must have become heavier. People have lost faith that the clumsy and corrupt will be punished as the corrupt are still grinning from ear to ear. With the leaders taking a personal interest now we do hope so that we are not shamed world over. But if these games were no inspiration to a lyricist like A.R. Rehman to come up with a swinging tone what can we expect from our athletes who have not had a single day of practice in the stadium? In London where the Olympics are taking place in 2012 the venues are all ready and their athletes are practicing day and night? Will they not do better than the other participants then? Here in India the caterers are still clueless, the swimming pool is out of proportion, the shooting range is not to any specification and the roads are full of debris. The phrase of ‘Sab Chalta Hai’ seems to be the catch phrase of the moment.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Tribune-Chatterati-Aug.30th.10

"Kids of politicos finding a niche in politics"

Politics seems to be the latest flavour of high powered youth in India. We thus have more sons and daughters of political leaders of all parties joining politics. We had a whole new youth brigade in the Congress which came in with first Sanjay and then Rajiv Gandhi. Some faded away while the charismatic ones stayed on, worked hard and are today India’s top leaders like Chidambaram, Gulam Nabi Azad, Ambika Soni etc. Now as the next generation of Gandhi’s- Rahul Gandhi has moved in he has also got new youth power with him. Witness Jyotiraditya Scindia, Jitin Prasad, Sachin Pilot and others. The difference though being that Rajiv’s youth brigade was not so much from the political class itself, he picked up youth leaders, some from his brother Sanjay Gandhi’s time and some that were totally new. In Rahul’s time the one’s seen in parliament at least are largely sons and daughters of already popular leaders. We now also have Jaivardhan Singh who has joined the Youth Congress. Jaivardhan is a member of a royal family from Guna district in Madhya Pradesh and the youngest child of Digvijay Singh the former Chief Minister and now U.P’s Congress General Secretary. Jaivardhan is a Doon School product and then went to Mumbai for his college. He is fondly called ‘J.V’ by his father. In Madhya Pradesh this is not the first time that a Congress leader has joined politics. Arjun Singh’s son is an MLA in Madhya Pradesh, Jyotiraditya Scindia, (Madhav Rao’s son) and Arun Yadav the son of PCC Chief Subhash Yadav are already in play.


"Checking Mamata's clout"

As the elections are nearing in Bengal all the political parties have taken it for granted that Mamta Didi is soon going to be the next Chief Minister. Karat and his party have more or less given up, the local Congress worker is not only demoralized but is also very upset with the kind of treatment Mamta has meted out towards them. That’s one reason why the Congress in Bengal is very keen to push in Pranab Mukherjee’s son. Abhijit Mukherjee who is the General Manager of the corporate social responsibility department of the Steel Authority of India. He is a low profile government servant and does not interact very often with anyone and shies away from the media. Abhijit is now being forced by the local Bengal Congress men to come and join politics now so that the Congress workers there will be a little more optimistic and strong in the coming elections.


"Games is holiday time for many"
Mani Shanker Aiyer has once again slammed the Common Wealth Games as a work of evil and has said that he will be leaving the country during the two weeks of the games. Well, Mani is not the only who is heading out of the capital during the games. Every Delhiite you meet is planning on leaving town for those days. Can’t blame them either. With rains creating havoc in the Capital and the Common Wealth Game’s work, there is an excess of rubble lying all over so the capital traffic has almost come to a stand still. The spread of dengue too has the blame squarely put on the digging going on in the city by none less than the Health Minister. On Sunday the games lane trial led to traffic jams on it. As the free loaders who are all guests of the CWG from the world over, start arriving in the city around 20th September Delhites are going to find it a big problem to even commute. The Common Wealth Game’s Chief Suresh Kalmadi, the MCD and the Lt. Governor’s office in the meanwhile are busy blaming each other roundly for the mess created. Last week as a not ditch effort Suresh Kalmadi got A.R Rehman to town for the launch of music CD of game’s anthem. But unfortunately for Kalmadi there was no song even ready but Kalmadi made sure that Rehman used the platform to portray a positive image of the country. The lyrics he lamely explained would be ready in the next couple of weeks. With no top athletes coming in, no hotel bookings coming in, corruption charges flying high the fed up Delhites would rather leave town than be stuck in traffic jams powerlessly during this time.

Pioneer-Dilli-Billi-Aug.30th.10

"Hike of being unreasonable"

When the parliament is in session and you are bored just switch on your T.V. you will get to see the live proceedings of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The proceedings are amusing and at the same time very annoying to the spectator. It also makes us introspect that are these the people we voted for or have they changed with power? There is no dignity left in the house with no respect for anyone. The two Yadavs, Mulayam and Lalu are together now. Mulayam being the silent pehlwan and Lalu taking over from where Amar Singh left, being Mulayam’s voice. The hungama created around the pay hike for themselves, these MPs were unashamedly without any self respect clamoring for more. The proceedings were stalled because they want one rupee more than the highest beaurocrat paid in the country. That is after they got 200% increase in their salary. Keeping in mind that these MPs are nowhere near poverty line and with their perks included they get approximately 61 lakhs now. Free housing in the center of town with electricity, phones, and travel all paid for. Free security and perks for the whole family too. They are one of the highest paid in the world. In U.K. they took radical steps to slash salaries of public servants to rein in fiscal deficit. Here while the poor is getting poorer and there are starvation deaths, our MPs are getting greedier and pockets heavier. The politicians themselves are fighting for an increase but do their increase commensurate with their work? No where? Once elected they now-a-days forget their duties. Should there not be a commission of non-parliamentarians who determine what should be the entire package for MPs?

These MPs have prime location all paid for, accommodation in the capital. Why shouldn’t they be given temporary accommodation while parliament is in session? The other times they should be in the constituency where they are supposed to be. Once in Delhi they are not available to their constituents. And for the constituents to travel to Delhi is impossible to pay for transport to reach here. As it is the common man always says that the politicians are self serving class and are insensitive towards the people’s need but are very demanding about their own. The mock parliament enacted by the opposition was so insulting and in bad taste. Thank God! Senior leaders of the BJP also objected to it. But it is a shame that our MPs are not setting a good impression towards the people of this country and abroad. It is o.k. to be vocal about your demands but to stall parliament proceedings which costs crores of rupees is getting worse by the day. Hopefully these M.Ps will not end up looking like a Trade Union of sorts led by Lalu Yadav. It is also amusing to see that most of our Members of Parliament are crorepatis, 58% of them have declared their assets above crores and as they fight for more at the time of high inflation and economic distress the public just watches in dismay. Holding up parliament proceedings has become a done thing for these MPs. It’s a shame and the ‘aam-aadmi’ is disgusted.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Tribune-Chatterati-26th-Aug-10

"Writer daughter raises toast to PM dad"


It was a week of book releases in the capital. The week started with the book release of Prime Minister’s daughter Daman Singh. Must hand it to the Delhiwallahs that even as Delhi was jammed and traffic had come to a stand still because of a heavy rain, the guests here actually arrived on time. This is Daman’s second work of fiction. Daman as in her first book is still clearly blessed with a dry sense of humour which kept the guests laughing. Her mother Gursharan Kaur released the book with most of her family, that is sans papa, were present. Her older sister Upinder with her husband and son were present. Daman’s husband Ashok Patnaik is a senior I.B Officer and they have one teenage son both of who botened carefully as excerpts of the book were read by educationist Abha Adams. Montek Singh Ahluwalia and his wife Isher Ahluwalia were present and looked very much at home as part of the family affair. At the launch of her second book Daman raised a toast to her father for the high moral standards set for her and her sister’s by him. Daman is now turning her attention on her parent’s biography where she wants to understand her parents as a couple and individually too. Though no one spelt it out the day could also have been termed as a celebration of sorts as the P.M has topped the list of ten top leaders of the world just that day.


"Kites dot Independence Day sky"


The sky in Delhi this year on Independence Day saw thousands of kites flying free in the sky. It was a great tribute on 15th of August. The old Delhiwallahs from Lal Kuan where the kite bazaar is, just let loose thousands of peace kites for Independence Day. Though its also part of seasonal joyfulness since traditionally during the saawan kite-flying is a common feature on important occasions like Rakshabandhan and Janamashtami. Even as there are fashionable and modern kites with pictures of heroines, film actors, wrestlers and fancy signs on them, the Tricolor out numbered them all. There are Chinese kites also available now which are a bit more expensive but are in demand for their elaborate and exotic shapes. If you ask one of the old Delhiwallahs about kite-flying being very popular on Independence Day and Republic Day they will give you a variety of reasons. It was an expression of freedom and has been going on for decades. Patangbaazi as they call it in tricolor is to show their patriotism. It is also become a part of specific festivals and occasions in various parts of the country. On other time in Rajasthan and Gujarat it is auspicious on Makar Sankranti, in South it is on Pongal, in Punjab Basant Panchami but in capital it is Independence Day and Republic Day when you will see the sky full of this tricolor kites. It could also be that this generation of elders is trying to introduce the idea of nationalism and pride by involving children into activities like this rather than going to the malls where they are packaging patriotism by announcing promotions and discounts for Independence Day.


"Khushwant, 95, proactive as ever"

The second book release where Gursharan Kaur Singh had a great time was at Khushwant Singh’s book launch. On his 95th birthday Khushwant may have become frail but he is as proactive and productive as ever and his sense of humour is all there. At this birthday party cum launch of Khushwant’s latest book, it was clear that the Prime Minister’s family shared an old relationship with Khushwant. For a change in this book there was no malice just praise for Manmohan Singh. He has rated Manmohan Singh as best Prime Minister the country has better had, even than Nehru. Seated next to Khushwant Singh patiently, Gursharan Singh heard praises of Khushwant Singh from MJ Akbar and Mani Shankar Aiyar. MJ said that Khushwant has trained an entire generation of journalists and how he taught them how to get out of the way and not fall in love with words. Khushwant even praised Mani Shankar Aiyar for his attack on Common Wealth Games Chairman Suresh Kalmadi. With people who have been close to him through his life, Khushwant seemed relaxed and happy on his birthday party. Gursharan Kaur went home happily as Khushwant bookmarked page 69 in which he has praised the Prime Minister and gave to her. It was clear to all that evening that Khushwant had not lost his acidic tongue as he commented on various goings on in the political scenario in the country.

Pioneer-Dilli Billi-26th-Aug-10

"Where were the corporates?"



The world was dumb struck and full of sympathy as one watched on T.V. the people in Ladakh cry and shriek with pain after the floods destroyed the scenic hills and took so many lives.

The J&K government headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah did the best he could under the circumstances. The Indian government sent support and several senior Union Ministers were also flown off to access the situation first hand. I’m amazed at how our corporate world takes so long to save situations and help when tragedies like this hit in remote areas. Every second industrialist today has a private plane, I would have expected them to send relief stuff in bulks to help the affected immediately. It is a shame as usual that it is only the government who is left to provide food, clothing and shelter.

It is unfortunate that once again tourism is going to be hit at this sensitive time in Leh and Ladakh for the future. This was the only part of Kashmir which was termed as safe and beautiful abroad. But the kind of upheavals that the tourists have faced in the aftermath of this tragedy, foreigners will think twice before coming to this area. A wrong message has been sent when you see on international channel of how foreigners are stranded and how the help was too less. Pictures of stranded foreigners were shown time and again as they stood helping in taking out bodies from the debris. The Kashmir government has done their level best but it is also the duty of the central government to make sure that the rehabilitation work is done properly and not only in papers. Prime Minister and Rahul Gandhi’s trip did reassure the locals though.

As it is Omar is stuck in Kashmir between trouble making politicians. Omar is well meaning, well bred, honest and does want to make his stint as a remarkable Chief Minister. But there is no doubt he is inexperienced. The Kashmir politicians that Omar is surrounded with are quietly watching the situation. They could help the situation if they want but are waiting for his government to fall eventually. The internal politics of the Congress in the state is not positive. The PDP the less said the better ‘Mehbooba’ is sitting pretty insulting even the Prime Minister. One does feel sorry for Omar stuck between these hard core savvy leaders. But does he have a choice? At the moment ‘No’. The only choice he has of now is to suggest himself to the Centre that he recommends Governors rule till the situation is better. Then he can step back after a couple of months. There is a wave of sympathy for Omar who understand how he has been targeted too.

The Centre at the moment has given him all support but now they are also a bit jittery. Kashmiri’s are at it everyday, little kids throwing stones, women on the streets shouting slogans and schools, shops all closed. What is the future of these children growing up in these circumstances? Obviously they will be easily swayed by easy money from wrong sources as funding by the anti-national elements is easily available. But whatever the situation one does feel sorry for the common man there. The Home Minister has been a pillar of strength for Omar. But it is sad that the situation is going from bad to worse. The High Command had better take stock or the situation may worsen. The international media is all out showing such a negative side of Kashmir and how the Indian government cannot handle it.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Tribune Chatterati-17th.Aug.10

"Portrait of Rahul, the highlight of the show"

This is not the first time that one of the family members the Gandhi’s / Nehru’s have been painted a portrait of. The famous artist Sanjay Bhattacharya’s portrait of Rahul Gandhi was the highlight at an art show in the capital last week. The art show was called ‘India Imagined in the Present’. The oil painting of the AICC General Secretary titled ‘Let the Flowers Grow’ measured 6/4 feet. In 1994 the same artist Sanjay Bhattacharya had painted a portrait of the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi titled ‘Landscape of a Man’. The background of both the Gandhi’s is of ‘Kashmir’. Kashmir it is a well known fact is specially a soft spot with the first family. In Rajiv’s painting the flower’s symbolized his children Rahul and Priyanka, but in Rahul’s painting the flower symbolizes youth. The canvas was picked up at the very beginning even as Sheila Dikshit inaugurated this exhibition, for 25 Lacs by an unknown buyer. There were many other pieces which had other Indian heroes from Gautam Buddha to Guru Nanak to film star Amitabh Bachan. It was clearly a successful exhibition as within just an hour twenty four art pieces were sold. The Delhi Chief Minister was her graceful self and praised all the artists at the show.


"Walls become a canvas for artists"

Not discouraged by the mess in Delhi thanks to the Common Wealth Committee officials the citizens quietly are doing what they can for the games. Delhi walls have become a canvas for six artists. They are going to make the walls more “alive and interactive”. This is to show the visitors for the Commonwealth Games a more positive and young side of Delhi. This initiative has been taken by six young artists – two designers, a photographer, a PR professional and a restaurant owner. They meet every Sunday at a spot to paint the wall, working 10 – 14 hours at a stretch. Their work has nothing political about it and they don’t want to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments. In the beginning the authorities were a bit apprehensive but now have allowed this group to paint some walls in Hauz Khas Village and Khan Market. Delhites will now have artistic and colorful walls rather than political sloganeering, film, posters and communal graffiti. The response has been great and they always have the general public gathering to encourage them onto their self-appointed efforts.


"Sonia set to make record"

Sonia Gandhi is all set to create a record in the Congress party’s history for being its longest-serving Chief. Her re-election as the Congress President – which has been postponed is just a formality. Sonia is the only Congress Chief who has been in office for 15 years so breaking the party record in general and the existing Gandhi family record in passing.
Sonia was elected party President on December 9, 1998 at the party’s Kolkatta conference. Now after re-election for another three-year term, she would at that time have had an uninterrupted 15 years. The rest of the organizational elections are now likely to be completed by December after the Bihar polls. Sonia’s re-election need not wait till December and any 10 Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) delegates can propose her name. Rahul Gandhi’s desire to bring in transparency in the organizational elections has resulted in delay on his turf. Rahul is trying hard to bring internal democracy in the Indian National Youth Congress and the National Students’ Union of India by holding the organizational elections. But unfortunately the bid to democratize the party has not fructified as complaints of bogus voters clog some States and low enrolment is a problem in others.
Rahul made, photo identity a must for enrolment of new members. There was resistance and as photographers were not available in some villages and women were camera shy in others. Several bogus members were enrolled too, to impress the High Command but the mandatory photo ID resulted in a dip in the enrolment. But at least available members seem to be genuine now. Rahul is interested in going to the grass root and create this new cadre base. He wants to ensure transparency in organizational elections. So enrollment of new members may be less but he insists it should be genuine. We will see the results of these unique moves in the next few weeks and months. Hopefuls are expecting a rejuvenation for a Party that currently looks inexplicably under siege with no real enemies in sight.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Pioneer-Dilli Billi-15th-Aug-10

"Time for accountability"

As the monsoon session proceeds the public is amused, angry and disgusted by
the drama enacted everyday by our law makers in parliament. As of now we have the
corruption in the Common Wealth Games making headlines every minute along with
the price rise . The ordinary citizen cannot figure out the slogan of the Congress –‘Aam Aadmi’ anymore. While the ‘Aam Aadmi’ today is buying ‘dal’ for Rs 150 a kg, theCommon Wealth committee is eating up the tax payer’s money left, right and center. We are used to corruption in our daily life today. But atleast we want deliverance. Where the Prime Minister has made tall claims of India is a force to reckon with, to the outside world, where Obama has said that India’s future is bright, a common Indian feels cheated and insulted by the insensitive government. It is they who have to struggle through the day to make ends meet.

Blaming the Common Wealth Chief is not fair. The whole organizing committee
of the Common Wealth Games is at fault. The government of Delhi is also a party to
all this. I’m of course upset but also so amused by the figures one sees splashed
over the media about the kind of expenses that have been spent on rental of machines
and even garbage bags are rented. My question is the same as every Indian. That
how everything is going to be ready on time? With 50 days left for Common Wealth
Games, with the monsoon in full swing for next 3 weeks, what is that we can deliver?
Top athletes from all over the world have opted out. Indian sports person are
miffed with the kind of behavior they are subjected to by these members of the
committee. There is no accountability, and nobody knows where the buck stops. The
blame game is on. We know, now the work will start on top speed and lots of glamour
will be added as usual. Painting, denting on the top layers will be done leaving the
inside infrastructure weak. Delhiets are not interested in it anymore, we have been
disgraced world over and no amount of frills can hide the dirt and sleaze. So all
the stadiums that are being built should be used for some other resource building
activities and the money we spend on useless infrastructure just for the benefit of
the games should be diverted to more useful ‘Aam-Aadmi’ daily use. There is so much
poverty in this nation, we can use it.


It is impossible that anybody can cover up the scam. Even the Queen in England
has shown concern over it. If the Congress party does not take action, it will be a
wrong signal. It will be a disaster for the Congress party and for anyone else
who tries to cover up this loot where everybody seems to be a partner. Just
throwing out two of Kalmadi’s men and putting a blame on them is again sacrificing
small fish and saving the sharks. The Congress leadership should make sure that the
guilty here are punished and our sports person are given what is due to them.Thatis
by giving them enough time to familiarize themselves in this great mega event, then
atleast we may win some medals.

The people of this country expect some action from the honest Prime Minister and
Sports Minister and an account from Finance Minister of this nation.