patriotism is like charity -- it begins at home.

Professionalism : The meaning of this word has changed to me over time. When I passed out of college I wanted to be a professional, I believed it means someone who has an attitude to bring effectiveness and efficiency. Unfortunately it only means someone who does not have a heart, emotionless creatures trained to follow standard set of procedures which they themselves may not believe in.

 If I have to compare our “free media” and politicians, there is at least one thing in common. They are both hardcore professionals, the only difference may be that they have different rule books and code of conduct. Both are equally heartless and ruthless. This became all the more evident after November 26^th.  

The Tag “Breaking News” Has become as annoying and meaningless as speeches of politicians. When Government, opposition, common and uncommon should all have look concerned and united. They all looked at it as opportunity. For some it was an opportunity to ask for resignations while for others it is there chance to be CM. If few have shown insensitivity by visiting the “Wrecked Palace” to visualize climax of a film, others have ensured they make it an issue that takes priority over all.

After 26^th I have been asking these questions to me.

Is this an attack by Pakistan and should we attack them back?

Unlike the popular, and my initial, reaction I would say, no. I too believe that these organizations are the pets that the masters can no longer control. It should not be mistaken with a cancer which goes off with the patient. It will just transfer its roots. The country which can help the most is the one who helped them grow in there backyards. We need to pressurize and persuade Pakistan to help eradicate them. We should look at the facts that now these organizations are biting there own masters more then they have barked at us.

Is this terrorism preached by Islam?

Well, no straight forward answers. But if I have to be precise, the religion is certainly used as a tool. Not most Muslims are terrorists but unfortunately most terrorists believe they are Muslims. They believe they are doing it for Islam. I really appreciate many Islamic organizations which have come out after the attacks and shed tears and shown resolve to fight terrorism. It hurts when I see my Muslim friends lower there eyes in shame, because they feel guilty, as these people have shared the same religion. We should also understand that the bullets that take life do not ask religion.

Are our politicians at fault and should we ask them to resign?

Fault Yes, Resignations No. Till now I have always tried to pick lesser of the evils, but no more. At least on this subject I am pretty clear in my head. Resignation of Home Minister or CM and getting a new one is not a solution in fact it is a distraction that should not have happened. All common and uncommon should participate in devising a system that can bring accountability and transparency. I want to remind you all what happened on 22^nd of July, when the MPs flashed money in the parliament. Irrespective of whether it’s true or not, it is a bigger shame and threat than the attack by outsiders. These were our very own representatives. The outburst of Narayan Rane after not getting the chair “Post of CM Maharashtra” was another act. It seamed like for him what ever happened was nothing but just another opportunity. At least here I should mention the name of “Raj Thakre” and “Shiv Sena Leaders” who chose to keep quite and not trying any of the political gimmicks. I have seen a few ambulances sponsored by MNS and Shiv Sena helping people that day. Although I would love to ask him if he still think Mumbai should not welcome people from other parts of India. Has this changed him from a politician to a human, an Indian, a Mumbaikar. Well I guess it would be clear as soon as he opens his mouth.

We need a change in the overall legislative system. Judicial, Police should all get a overhauling. We need a system that promotes Nationalism rather than Partyism. We need to get a structure where performance of ministers can be evaluated on a quarterly basis. Office holders should have the right qualifications and experience. Accountability should come in. Ministers swapping loyalties, having a criminal record, with foul language, and those who misuse government machinery for personal or political use should be trialed in the court of Law and should not be allowed to contest again. Well unfortunately this would mean 90% pink slips.

Let us not mourn 26^th of Nov, but celebrate it as a Day when a Nation awoke. Let us make proud all the Martyrs and our brothers and sisters who lost there lives or loved ones. Let the spark that has ignited simultaneously in our heart, not faze out. Please do not waste your anger out on streets in protests, keep it within and channelize it constructively to form a revolution. We should have woken up a long back, but lets not waste this one. Let us throw out the fear and start asking questions. Only the right Questions

 

NEWS CHANNELS AND REPORTERS:  PLEASE BE A BIT SENSITIVE. WE NEED A RESPONSIBLE AND UNBIASED VOICE TO REPRESENT US