Dirty Dancing!

It is once again the time to host the 'Once in Five yearly' charade known to each and every one of us as ELECTIONS.... Being the world's largest democracy is certainly no mean feat... In order to ensure that the title is retained year after year, it is necessary to 1.) Remain as close to a democratic form of government as possible, however enticing the other alternatives may be and, 2.) Maintain a high rate of population growth so as to be certain of the "Largest" tag....

Over the years, the cost of maintaining this Facade of democracy has come attached with a very expensive price tag... Billions of rupees are pushed down the drain so that the whole 'Process' appears "Free and Fair"... Another couple of millions are diverted to 'encourage' voters to cast their vote in favor of the highest paying Candidate... And Several crores have to be siphoned off for "Pre-Election Developmental Projects", which thanks to the shortage of time couldn't be completed in the course of the five year term.

Maintaining and Running a robust democracy like India also involves a great deal of Strategic Planning... Political Parties need to decide on the feasibility of provoking violence between communities to garner votes... Or they need to make a choice between castes that get to be nominated to the Hallowed List of SC/ST on the basis of the electoral gains that would accrue... Or they need to pit states against each other, hoping that any violent backlash would ameliorate their Political Fortunes...

Oh, and We must never overlook the growth in certain sectors of the economy, thanks to Elections... One of the sectors that grows exponentially during Election time, is the Arms Sector... After all, Candidates certainly need weapons to aid the electorate's decision making process... Alcohol industries also receive a boost thanks to the demands made by the throats of a parched electorate... And then there is the need for free clothing that needs to be supplied to the electorate so that clothing (or the lack of Good attire) does not impede the turnout at polling booths...

The grand principles on which the foundation of this state was laid have sadly been laid aside... Political battles are now fought on flimsy issues such as caste, religion etc. instead of Vision and national necessities.... Gone are the days when the masses used to look up to their leaders... Today, masses long for a leader who would rescue them and this nation...There is only one way to make change possible.. VOTE for Change... VOTE for a better India... VOTE for a better tomorrow....