There is an attractive argument that is gaining currency. Reportedly it may become the BJP’s poll argument to draw mileage from the alleged involvement of Hindu outfits in terrorism. The argument goes something like this: Yes, terrorism is bad. But for how long can people remain passive when the government refuses to take effective measures to curb it? It is human to react and that is what the alleged Hindu terrorists did to counter the continuing jihaadi terrorist assaults.
That terrorism is irrational and undesirable on both sides is not denied. The argument being advanced is that Hindus cannot remain supine against jihaadi terror indefinitely. Inevitably, some Hindus eventually had to retaliate against the jihaadis. If the police leaks conform to the truth – and that is always a doubtful proposition – then this argument is blown sky high. If the police are to be believed, the accused pro-Hindutva army officer has confessed to providing the RDX that blew up the Samjhauta Express »» More

The Barack Obama poll campaign gripped the world’s attention. But it was small stuff for Indians. We are in poll mode somewhere in India each day of the year. Right now we are in the midst of six state assembly polls. After that we will start the Lok Sabha poll campaign. Polls are a way of life for us. For many people polls are religion. They must thank TV channels to keep their faith intact. TV makes things so exciting! This is how it reports our poll scene.
Pretty young anchor woman: “With the poll campaign hotting up our channel presents exclusive live coverage of some key constituencies. Let’s first visit Rishwat Nagar which is a crucial assembly seat. Bunty, what is the situation in Rishwat Nagar?”
“Babli, the poll fever is mounting. We are witnessing a neck and neck race in Rishwat Nagar!”
“You mean the Congress and BJP are running even?
“No, I mean Pandit Neck Chand is battling it out with Choudhary Neck Ram.”
“Who’s winning?
“That’s »» More