The Great Indian Political Circus

At the time of going to press battle lines are drawn, politicians at centre are seen busy straining every nerve and Manmohan Government is busy fighting its last ditch battle. For him it is a question of “to be or not to be.”

Lok Sabha is heading to one of the bitterest wars of words and show down. New deals have been struck and new alignments have emerged. Small parties with 2, 3 or 4 members had never such importance. Even independent members are enjoying their heyday. Things were never so good for them. They are basking in the warmth of new found glory.

It is being alleged that money is playing its role and big business people have opened the strings of their bags. High level horse trading is taking place. But this is a business in which only humans indulge, as poor horses never betrayed their masters. They are known for only their unlimited sturdiness, valour and loyalty. Among these political animals we see in these trying times disloyal fence sitters, side changers and loyalty switchers. At least Mr A.B. Bardhan of CPI has openly alleged that UPA has been purchasing MPs for Rs. 25 crore each piece. The common Indians are watching this circus in disgust.

The future of central government is at stake and instability is staring in the face. Every Indian is sitting with cross fingers and with bated breath waiting for the outcome of the Nuclear Debate which is to decide the future of UPA government and the country also.

Some strange phenomenon is that our MPs are less interested in the future of the nuclear deal. They are seen to be more interested in their own future.

If the UPA government falls, new alignments may emerge. BSP supremo Mayawati, who did never hide her prime ministerial ambitions, is hopeful that the changing scenario may uplift her from CM’s seat to PM’s chair.

Even if UPA government survives, it would be a lame duck government which has to depend on the crutches of its partners, especially the newly acquired ones who may insist on having their several pounds of flesh. If the government falls, it has to go for fresh elections within months. Next election may see Congress and SP going hand in hand in Uttar Pradesh and giving a tough fight for BSP there. Also it may give greater national role for BSP. We pray God save the motherland.