Thus Danced Democracy

Since Karnataka elections and after, the two main political rivals were on a game of जोड़-तोड़ of MLAs. The victors, soon after collecting their certificate, was on a bus -- or a plane -- on way to a luxury resort.

Perhaps they spent more time in resorts than in Vidhan Soudha! I wonder!

It was clear that the BJP was slowly -- but surely -- pulling the rug away from under the JDS-Congress coalition. Yet they fought back, led by the indomitable D.K Shivakumar.

But at what cost?

Will anyone ever calculate the expenses incurred on these MLAs during their sojourns? Will anyone try to trace the origin of the funds?

Not too long ago, a similar situation was witnessed in Arunachal Pradesh. The ruling party was reduced to insignificance in the Assembly and the CM had to bow out. Just like Karnataka, MLAs were being wooed, tempted or coerced by the political parties even while the Supreme Court was seized of the matter.

Another CM had ended his life!

Every time, under these circumstances, we all remember SR Bommai and his case against the Union of India. For the records, Bommai is credited to have installed a Janata Party government in Karnataka in early 80s.

Be what may, but is it worth the naked, cruel dance we see whenever the ruling and opposition parties are close in numbers in state Assemblies? Isn't it said that a strong opposition is required for a strong democracy?

And now, say reports, next stop Madhya Pradesh...!

(This post is the musings of Jayanta Bhattacharya. It has nothing to do with where he works or what he does to earn his bread. In case of any criticism or suggestion, write to @Jayantab15 on Twitter / Facebook or jayantab15@gmail.com on email)

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