They were discussing politics, each one often countering the other's views. But, anyone observing their conversation interspersed with loud laughter, would be inclined to conclude that two friends were conversing cheerfully about things they cherished or relished.
"Four years have passed since Devaraj was elected the President of our country. During these four years, the country has been ruined in most of the areas. The economy has nosedived. Millions of people have lost their jobs. thousands of small and medium enterprises have closed down. Increasing poverty, the consequent suicides and our neighbouring countries getting emboldened to cross the borders and attack our troops are the only achievements of this government!" said Kadhir.
"Some people like you have been making this kind of complaints. But Devaraj has the support of people. There is no leader from the opposition, capable of contesting against Devaraj, in the election to be held next year" said Sundar.
"That may be the case. Raghuveer, who contested against Devaraj in the last election, has been keeping a low profile, from the time he lost to Raghuveer. Occasionally, he would spring up from nowhere, raise an issue and then go into hibernation for a long period. But, I don't go with the popular perception that Devaraj has people's support. It is an open secret that Devaraj won the last election, only by exploiting the divisions among the people. It is also widely accepted that his government has been working against the interests of the common man."
"Even when Devaraj does something good, people like you find fault with him. Recently, his government scrapped the Minimum Wages Act. Taking advantage of the minimum wages rule, employers had avoided paying the workers more than the minimum wages stipulated. With the scrapping of the Minimum Wages Act, workers get a chance to be paid more. Either without understanding this, or refusing to accept this, a section of the workers has been opposing this move and indulging in protests, by joining hands with anti-national forces and some foreign powers."
Kadhir laughed loudly.
"Are you really so naive, or are you pretending to be naive? It is only because there is a law requiring employers to pay minimum wages, that the workers are getting the minimum wages, at least. If this law is rescinded, will the employers feel obliged to pay the employees more? Will it not lead to the danger of the employees getting even less than what they have now been getting, since the employers are not obliged to pay the minimum wages to the employees? What is the basis for Devaraj's supporters claiming that with the scrapping of this Act, employees' earnings will go up? If the government wanted the employees to get more, it should increase the quantum of minimum wages. How can scrapping the Act be good for the employees?
"Devaraj stubbornly refuses to hold talks with the workers' unions. The ministers, officials and celebrities supporting Devaraj denounce the workers' protests and scandalously allege that the protests are instigated and funded by foreign forces. These disparaging attacks are made almost on a daily basis, apparently with the approval and blessing of Devaraj.
"Devaraj has been leading a luxurious life. He has been touring the world with his family members, on government money. He has bought a very expensive aircraft, fitted with all luxurious facilities. His family members have been using the aircraft every day, the way they will use a car. He has announced his intention to buy a luxurious ship also! Claiming that the present official residence of the President is not big enough, he is constructing a big mansion for use as his official residence. There is no end to his excesses!"
"Whatever critics like you may say, Devaraj is going to win the election again. You people can continue to sulk!" said Sundar, with a feeling of excitement.
"I don't know. But I am still optimistic that people will put an end to Devaraj's misrule. Even kings with unbridled powers, who ruled tyrannically and oppressed the people, have been dethroned as a result of some unexpected developments. Can't such a development take place in a democracy?" said Kadhir.
"You are entitled to your dreams. But, the reality is that there is no one in the political front to oppose Devaraj. Raghuveer is in deep slumber. Of late, Darwin, a young leader from a remote corner of the country has been making some noises and getting media attention. Maybe he will defeat Devaraj and make your dream come true!" said Sundar, mockingly.
"Even that is a possibility. There is the story of the mighty Goliath having been beaten by the little boy David. That story can take place here. I find the name Darwin to be significant. After all, it is a name linked to evolution and change" said Kadhir.
In the election held next year, to the surprise of all political analysts and experts, Devaraj was defeated by Darwin.
thaN padhaththAn thAnE kedum.
No comments:
Post a Comment