Notes on Mao and Orissa.
Rise of Maoism in India is definitely a threat. But not to the our nation, but to the systemic deficiencies of our nation.
Tribal belt of Orissa is an area which is slowing turning into a Maoist stronghold. The government machinery controlled by Indians themselves has been in operation in this land for the past 64 years. The region is rich in Iron Ore, Uranium, Aluminium, hydel power and other natural resources. For such a rich region the development and standard of living is not commensurate with any reasonable expectation.There are no good schools or universal medical facilities other than those setup by Christian missionaries. Given their dire living conditions I can’t blame tribal Indians on nurturing a proclivity for an alternate world vision.
If all the governmental funds directed for the backward had reached them such a situation would never have risen. This points the finger to public servants who has been complicit in siphoning off funds by private contractors. If you look at the condition of roads here, you will know what i am talking about. I feel that huge scams like CWG or 2G does not directly affect the poor. What affects him most is the Rs.100 demanded by the village officer to issue caste certificate or Rs.500 demanded for a new telephone connection. That is a more grievous crime.That is ‘aam admi’ against unorganised poor.
Casteism is another systemic vices that weighs heavily against social acceptance of tribals. The importance of caste rather than merit in career growth in public offices has encouraged nepotism. Tribals have been treated as untouchables for centuries and their respect for their identity has been stolen from them. When they talk about reservation in higher education or public offices, i feel as if i have heard a sarcastic joke.
Maoism is a misnomer. Mao is irrelevant. Only thing relevant is the oppression of the defenceless. People around me tells me that things have improved slowly here.Increased attention from media and general public has slowly decreased the magnitude of corruption. That is a good news with a bitter aftertaste. It implies that public consciousness and government machinery do not heed petitions and appeals; they listen only to bombs. So if a region needs development the most effective step would be procurement of RDX. That is a bad news.
The treatment of Dr. Binayak Sen is a conspicuous example of poor understanding of ground realities by general public. Helping poor tribals is not sedition; it is the most exemplary kind of patriotism. Life imprison meted out on him will discourage other altruistic people from delivering much needed medical care to the poor. We need to adopt a more holistic understanding of the crisis brewing in the heart of our nation.
I am no way supporting violence used by the MCC cadets. Violence is never a sustainable solution (expect in China ,of course) . But i cannot think of any other alternatives when you are pushed against a wall. Nowadays satyagrahs are the intellectual property of the organised class.
So next time lend an ear to a dozen people gathered in front of the state secretariat. Don’ wait till they blow up the bus in which you are travelling.
