Month: July 2009

Caste System

Democracy with a difference? The curse of caste based politics in India

India, undoubtedly, is one of the largest democracies in the world. And, in terms of free and fair elections at all levels, India may be way ahead of other democratic giants. Central elections, state elections, district level, city level, you name it, we have them. On top of it, the trade unions have their own …

Reflections

All in one; And one for all—The Newspapers

The demand for newspapers (or print media, as they call it) is diminishing all over the world, specially in developed countries. We have ever so many news channels on TV and on top of this, we have the all-embracing computer. Then, why on earth do you expect us to buy or read a newspaper which …

International issues

Hillary Clinton’s visit to India

The US secretary of state, Hillary Clinton’s visit to India would’ve helped the two countries come closer on various bilateral and international issues; but if you are to look beyond these official matters we see a charismatic lady who is at ease with anyone she comes across. And, when she chats with them it is …

International issues

Obama’s inspiring speech

 Plenty of concessions, reservations and freebies aimed at the emancipation of the poor and the down trodden will serve a limited purpose but if you expect these people to scale great heights you need an inspiring person like Barack Obama. He is humble, humorous, sincere and above all serious when he is in the midst …

Poems

When the rain out-shone the sun!

It was a marathon innings The rain was going great guns And, at stumps he’ was not out The sun was at his wits’ end… Bumper, Beamer, Yorker Inswinger outswinger And all other weapons in his arsenal Produced no result. The rain hit them… All over the park And, the umpires were busy Signalling fours …

International issues

Religion and government

Every religion sticks to certain practices which are not relevant in modern age. Some religions are so rigidly attached to such practices that they won’t compromise on them, come what may. Any attempt to violate or disobey the religious codes which include the dress you wear will be dealt with severely. But interestingly most of …

News: My opinions

Religious leaders condemn gay sex

Ever since the Delhi high court declared section 377 of the Indian penal code unconstitutional and decriminalized unnatural sex among consenting adults (gay marriage, to be precise), there have been heated debates on this issue. The country witnessed celebrations in some places following the judgement and also strong criticism from those who were of the …