A Lesson from British election: Give our young Indians a chance

Posted on May 16, 2010
Filed Under Blogging, India | 4 Comments

How many of you keenly followed the UK election? A poll here recently divulged that not many were keen on the politics there. Well that may be the case but I strongly suggest you to muse on the election of British Prime Minister David Cameron who became the youngest prime minister in 198 years history. We Indians do have a lesson there.

The world is resuscitating politics by giving chance to the young. Look at the US where Barack Obama from being a virtual unknown leapfrogged into a leading figure despite the age difference. The same with Russia’s Dmitry Medvedev. Young minds in politics are very crucial for a stable government. That does not mean we ignore the old and experienced. They indeed undoubtedly will remain the impetus for the success of our younger politicos. The question however is: Are we giving a chance to the young cream of India to showcase their talent, to raise their country from ashes to glory.

I still remember the heated debate and hullabaloo within the BJP and chauvinistic-natured fringe groups after there was hearsay about Rahul Gandhi becoming the Prime Minister during Congress Party’s success. We still are holding on to old and illiterate politicians who continue their wealth-mongering attitude. They have amassed a fortune. There was no chance that a traditional, conservative India would have given chance to Rahul Gandhi to become the Prime Minister. Me, Sam, like many have no complains about it. May be he is young, inexperienced or whatever. And there was no valid say from Rahul on him becoming one. But the question here however is will India give a chance to the young? Can we broaden ourselves and shun the parochial attitudes.

I strongly see a reason for India to mend its ways and salvage its future by embracing the young and modern of our people into politics. We have a lesson from the election of UK’s David Cameron. Dave, who is known to ride a cycle to the House of Commons, indeed comes from an influential family just like Rahul Gandhi. That sure did not stop the people from voting for him. Rahul Gandhi has faced scathing criticisms for his rich lineage.

This cannot continue. Our government is full of old, weak, illiterate politicians who love their portfolios and their foreign trips while totally ignorant of people’s suffering. Remember our former Home Minister Shivraj Patil? He was hugely criticised for having seen in three different suits on the day of the Delhi serial blasts in September 2008. He was too concerned of his attire when Delhi was burning? This is the sort of politicians we have. Oh! who can forget the recent politician who was caught for his Swiss accounts with huge money stashed. How about BJP Minister Jannardhan Reddy who gifted a $96 million diamond crown to Tirupati temple. The poor deity there was dying for a diamond-studded crown eh? Can’t stop laughing! This is the scenario. There is another popular guy, Laloo Yadav who travels to US with highly educated Indian delegation whose chief job is to hold an urn for him to spit paan.

No doubt we dont know how to use our young elite Indians. So who’s using them? The US, UK, Germany, France…that’s where their talents are pooled in for the betterment of those countries. Not India! Our kleptocratic government has no idea on the potential the young hold. It is time we tap in their energy before the American dream lures them. We need them more. But sadly, they are not given a chance like the US or Europe where anyone with talent gets an opportunity. In India, however it is those with popularity and wealth that wins. We have caste system upon that to subjugate the gifted brains. Upper class, lower class..dalit…etc…it is sad how one has to surmount this ancient brainless class formation to achieve their dreams. Give them a chance. Let us build a better India. Let us welcome “CHANGE”. Let us broaden our mind and open to new ideas. I am for a better India, how about you?

Comments

4 Responses to “A Lesson from British election: Give our young Indians a chance”

  1. Jinumon on May 17th, 2010 5:05 am

    Glad to see you back blogging Sam.

  2. Kiran on May 17th, 2010 1:59 pm

    I agree with you. India never gives young a chance. It is all the old and dying ruling our government. Look at the powerful politicians like Advani, Vajpayee, and many others who ruled India at their peak ripen age.

  3. Keziah on May 17th, 2010 6:47 pm

    Its not just about age, its about the perspective and vision with the desire to bring about change that can make a difference. If age or youth is the criteria, Varun Gandhi could be one of the most eligible leaders. What perspectives drive you, who controls you and what changes you envision is what matters, We cannot rule out the experience and contribution of the seasoned politicians, how intelligently can we use their experience and vision and enthusiasm of the young leaders without either of them overpowering each other is what matters. If our young elites are going to other countries, its because of their own choice and charm for a ‘better’ life. How can we use the talent for our good when they themselves look down upon their country & choose to leave. I would still go for a balanced leadership, difficult to rely completely on the opportunist, self seeking youth. No offense Sam, I understand what you want to say and am with you for a better India and ‘Change’ but each of us needs to change oneself first before we seek change from others.

  4. Sam on May 18th, 2010 6:09 am

    Agree with you kez. Perspectives in someone very much matters and we never can ignore the contribution of seasoned politicians. I just intended to highlight the parochial attitude many of us have in politics by subduing the young.

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