Democratic Republic of India, backwards?

Since its inception, the Democratic Republic of India has reserved a certain fraction of central jobs for SC/ST/OBCs. Today, the point of having these reservations seems moot for an urban dwelling citizen like myself. More so - when it comes to reservations in educational institutes. Given that I do not have the perspective to analyze the β€œreal” social reasons for creating reservations 50 years ago, I will approach this burning topic with caution and my own reasoning.

Indian democracy is often portrayed as the largest, most diverse in the world. One look from the outside might even highlight that our Prime Minister and Preseident, put together, are more learned than the entire cabinets of many countries! This is part politics, but more fact that our democracy has made rapid strides in education and learning. Starting from the green revolution in the 70’s that has made us self reliant to the IT revolution in the 90’s – research, education and hard work of citizens has kept us moving. Most have access to primary and secondary education, the cost of college degrees is reasonable as compared to similar education elsewhere in the world, and most central colleges have open entrance examinations for admissions. In all, the system looks transparent and meritous. For the past 50years, we have worked hard at it and as a result, Indians, and therefore India, has done well – socially and economically. Our GDP is up by XX% and growth rates keep beating the highest targets. This has put India on the economic world map – a benefit that India is beginning to reap generously – from foreign investors and increasingly its expats. It is no secret that we are admired for or hard work and academic diligence – MIT has 15% Indian origin faculty. It therefore hurts me to see that the very foundation of our ancient society is being corroded by selfish politicians. Remember, even Nalanda Vishvavidyalya had an entrance test – only the most merituous would enter – regardless of caste, color or creed.

Society (any society) unfortunately has as much of a dark aspect as its good. For centuries, a section of out society was oppressed – socially and economically. Historically, the class system was created to maintain a functional society – every one had a function to perform thereby maintaining the overall sanctity of labor and means of living. With the advent of imperialism and modernization, equality and democracy have become the norm of the day – all for a good cause as we see today. Therefore, the makers of our constitution gave these oppressed people a right to correct the past and have a better future. After 50 years of setting things right, it seems we have come a full circle – more people are backward or minorities – there is more economic disparity than there ever was – and there are more reservations. If 50years (and the fast paced last 10years) have not helped, why do our law makers (remember that our government is for the people, by the people) think that reservations will help in the future? The whole world is progressing – why should 50% of India be backward?

It depresses me to read the inside columns in newspapers – how dalits are mistreated,– SC/ST’s being given diktats – it is a failure of the law itself, not a question of how many opportunities (reservations) are provided. Unfortunately, while we look towards adopting western culture and ways of living, we have forgotten to clean our own backyard. If the central government is genuinely concerned about relieving these poor people (mind you that there are lots more poor people than just SC/ST/OBCs) of their misery, then launch rural welfare plans. What politicians, law makers, enforcers and public servants pocket (read as taking bribes, swindling money, misusing public funds) every day should be stopped. Someone should have the balls to get up and do the right thing. Mr. Prime Minister and President – you have probably more education and experience than most Indians in the world. Why then, do you stand by such a mockery of the very system that has helped you reach where you are?

You see, the problem with politics (all over the world) is that it always gets worse – votes are all that matter – like money for capitalism. Lets put an end to our backwardness – why should someone like to be called SC or ST – the very name is racist. Our aim should be to eradicate these names from our constitution itself.