FAST ANNA FAST!

By SANDEEP SRIVASTAVA

Two things are pretty certain: A Lok Pal Bill of the Anna Hazare version will be struck down by the Supreme Court because it seeks to destroy the checks and balances provided in the Constitution; and a snap poll will expose the fragile base of the so-called civil society, with many of its members or nominees not getting elected or losing their deposits. The Lok Pal commotion is a media creation and does not enjoy mass support, especially in rural areas. But it can give sleepless nights to Dr Manmohan Singh and his spin doctors.

Imagine Anna Hazare gets the nod for holding the televised fast-unto death show somewhere in the capital, and a two lakh-strong crowd landing on the scene. Some miscreants plant a bomb leading to panic! The blame game starts and the Administration’s energy is diverted; planning and governance come to a grinding halt and fire-fighting mode prevails. Who benefits? Not the nation but the TRP-hungry TV channels seeking action and drama even when there is none. Of course, the actors of the so-called civil society will get a larger-than-life picture on live TV shows at the expense of the poor people of India.

Fortunately, we have a prime minister who understands economics. Look at the debt crisis mess America is facing! Think of Greece and its crisis. European economy is the doldrums. Starvation is a startling reality in Africa. If Indians are enjoying a modicum of prosperity and our job scenario is better than most countries, it is because we have a buoyant economy that enjoys the confidence of the global community. If you want to disrupt all that for a few moments of television glory, go ahead!