రాజకీయ నేతల క్రీడలకు బలిపశువులు కావద్దు - యువతకు జేపీ విన్నపం

Don’t fall prey to politicians’ Games, Dr. JP tells youth

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today appealed to youth in Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema not to become scapegoats in vote bank games being played by political parties.

Addressing a media conference, Dr. JP referred to the report of a youth committing suicide in the wake of the Delhi decision to carve out Telangana as a separate State and said there is no place for suicides, hatred and enmity in democratic polity.

Dr. JP said all mainstream political parties have used youth as pawns in their political games. As a result, the economy of the State and the brand equity of Hyderabad have suffered enormously. The youth of Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema should not repeat the mistakes of their counterparts. “Don’t cut your nose to spite your face,” he counseled. Constitution of a new State is not a catastrophe. The drawing of a line on the political map of Andhra Pradesh is not going to make any change in the lives of people. It cannot be compared to the partition of India and Pakistan. Indians, as per the Constitution, can live and work anywhere in the country. The bifurcation of the State is not going to abridge the rights of people of any region.

Dr. JP said the Lok Satta Party welcomed the decision of the UPA and the Congress to respect the long-standing aspirations of Telangana people. The Lok Satta Party has always welcomed the formation of Telangana as part of a comprehensive and amicable solution that protects the interests of all regions.

Dr. JP pointed out that the way Delhi took the decision to form Telangana rather than the decision itself hurt people in other regions, especially in Rayalaseema. Delhi should have associated all the stakeholders in arriving at a decision instead of giving the impression of riding rough shod over them. He hoped that the Union Government from now onwards at least would change its style of functioning in taking the decision forward. The Center will be violating the spirit of the Constitution and harming the federal set-up in the long run if it chooses to ignore the Andhra Pradesh Assembly and imposes its decisions.

Dr. JP underlined the need to draw up special plans for the development of Rayalaseema, north coastal Andhra and backward regions in Telgangana. It should create the climate to attract investments to Hyderabad, which is one of the engines of growth in the country.

Dr. JP said that the capital of the residual Andhra Pradesh should be located in tune with the wishes of the people of coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema after full consultations with them. However, steps should be taken to ensure that development is not confined to the capital as it happened in the case of Hyderabad. Hyderabad has become the political, economic and cultural capital of the State because of excessive focus on it.

Dr. JP welcomed the Delhi decision to confer national status on the Polavaram project and said that it will benefit Rayalaseema and Telangana more than Coastal Andhra. If the Godavari water can be tapped to irrigate the Krishna delta, the Krishna water can be utilized to benefit backward regions in Rayalaseema and Telangana.

Replying to a question, Dr. JP said the Pranahita-Chevella lift irrigation project is totally unviable. The Government can utilize the funds meant for the project to benefit Telangana in better ways.

Dr. JP said that formation of a new State will not bring about any transformation in people’s lives unless district governments – the third tier in the federal setup – are empowered, corruption eliminated, citizens guaranteed the right to Government services and every one ensured quality education, healthcare and employment opportunities.

State Lok Satta Party President Katari Srinivsa Rao, Vice Presidents Bandaru Ramamohana Rao and Secretary Nanidpeta Ravinder took part in the media conference.

హేతుబద్ధత, శాంతిసామరస్యాలు, పరస్పర అవగాహన, సహనం కావాల్సిన సమయమిది: జేపీ

Now is the time for reason and calm, Understanding and patience: Dr. JP

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan this evening appealed to all people in the State to maintain peace and harmony and participate in the discussions on future arrangements and safeguards to protect the interests of all.

In a media statement issued in the wake of the UPA and Congress Working Committee’s decision to carve out Telangana as a separate State, Dr. JP said: “Now is the time for reason and calm, not for emotion and triumphalism. … We need now the language of love, understanding, patience.

Dr. JP said: We need to ensure that

• Interests of all regions are protected
  
• Conditions are created for Assembly’s endorsement
  
• The growth of investment in and around Hyderabad are promoted, and
  
• Harmony among all Telugus and growth and prosperity of all regions and future States are ensured.
  

I appeal to all sections to maintain peace and harmony, and participate in the discussions on future arrangements and safeguards to protect the interests of all.

Drawing a political boundary is just a line on the map. All Indians and Telugus will enjoy all rights in full measure in all regions. And all will have opportunities to fulfill personal goals, while promoting public good.

We need now the language of love, understanding, patience.

Proportionate representation in political system stressed

The need for electoral reforms and cleansing of the democratic system was stressed by the speakers at the Indian Association of Lawyers (IAL) sponsored seminar on the pros and cons of the Supreme Court judgement on ‘Representation of People Act’,- that called for preventing criminal politicians from either continuing or contesting in elections. Representatives from various political parties attended the seminar and shared their opinions on the new development.

A Chakrapani, Chairman, AP Legislative Council, Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy, CPI General Secretary, Jayaprakash Narayan, MLA and Lok Satta President, S Veeraiah, CPI (M) Central Committee Member, A Narasimha Reddy, Chairman, Bar Council of AP, M Rajender Reddy, former Chairman, Bar Council of AP, AV Krishna Rao, President, IAL City Committee and Chalasani Ajay Kumar, Working President of IAL, spoke at the seminar, which was attended by many advocates.

Suravaram Sudhakar, CPI General Secretary observed that the act can be misused against the social activists who fight for the peoples’ movements, by arresting and jailing them, which would disqualify them from serving in political office. He said that sincere people may distance themselves from active politics because of the act. He opined that the ever-prolonging judicial process in disposing cases off needed to change and that the cases involving politicians needed to be expedited within a year. He felt that the judges needed to be made accountable for the disposal of cases. He said that ‘Damasha (proportionate representation) system’ was the only way forward, if the sad state of political system needed to change.

A Chakrapani felt that the act can be misused by the ruling party and said that electoral reforms were necessary and that the democratic process had to be cleaned first. Jayaprakash Narayan, MLA and Lok Satta chief supported the judgement saying that it was very carefully delivered according to the various acts defined in the framework of our constitution and the current political situation. The judgement which says that a person under lawful police custody cannot contest elections could be misused. He suggested that an ‘advisory board’ should be appointed in order to perform enquiry on very serious offences within 15 days before arriving at a conclusion about disqualifying an individual from contesting elections.

He also said that the society needed to move away from caste, money and muscle politics and that strong electoral reform were needed to correct the political process. He felt that there cannot be a situation where there is obstruction of justice by those in power.

BJP leader K Laxman said that even the local body elections, which were supposed to be free of political influence, have become polluted. He felt that mere acts were not enough and that proper implementation was necessary. He too echoed that it was high-time ‘Damasha system’ needed to be followed in getting peoples’ representation in the political system. He opined that voting needed to be made mandatory.

The former and the present Bar Council Chairmen felt that the act cannot be looked at in isolation and that it had to be viewed in an integrated way. They decided that a national seminar had to be organised, involving advocates and judges of Supreme Court, various political parties in order to study the consequences of the judgement thoroughly and come up with a concrete proposal and submit it to the Government.

Courtesy: The Hans India

Proportional representation form of elections need of the hour

The CPI general secretary S. Sudhakar Reddy and Lok Satta president Jayaprakash Narayan on Sunday pitched for proportional representation form of elections in the country on the basis of population to cleanse politics of crime.

Asserting that the recent judgement of Supreme Court barring jailed leaders from contesting elections was no solution to break politician – crime nexus, Mr. Reddy told a seminar here that leaders will be forced to quit public life if the norm was implemented. He said leaders as Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhash Chandra Bose would not have been in politics in such a situation. In fact, the latter won as Mayor of Calcutta when he was in jail.

The seminar on ‘Representation of People Act – Supreme Court recent judgement’ was organised by the State committee of Indian Association of Lawyers.

The CPI general secretary said proportional representation in elected bodies will be a deterrent to parties from giving ticket to aspirants with criminal background. Otherwise, the parties were looking at winning chances of candidates, no matter their background. Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan said electoral reforms should include proportional representation of people as a way to curb crime in politics. Crime was only one aspect as there were larger issues to be addressed in politics. People entering politics brought with them caste, money and a political infrastructure that shielded their criminal background.

He said there was nothing big in the judgement as the court did not touch Constitutional validity of election processes. He also said the verdict no doubt gave scope for misuse by ruling party but it was welcome because there was no meaning to democracy if convicted leaders were elected. Legislative Council chairman A. Chakrapani said it was “too much” to bar leaders from contesting elections even if they were in lawful custody. BJP leader K. Laxman and working president of State IAL C. Ajay Kumar also spoke.

Courtesy: The Hindu

30న పూణెలో సివిల్స్ విజేతల జాతీయస్థాయి అభినందన కార్యక్రమంలో పాల్గొంటున్న జేపీ

Dr. JP visiting Pune on July 30

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan will be the special guest of honor at a function being held at Pune on Tuesday, July 30 to felicitate successful candidates in the UPSC Civil Services examination – 2012.

MIT School of Government is organizing the fifth national-level ceremony at Ganesh Kala Krida Manch, Swargate, Pune.

Mr. N. Gopalaswami, former Chief Election Commissioner of India and Prof. Vishwanath D. Karad, founder of MAEER’s MIT group, are the other participants in the function.

MIT School is arranging lectures by distinguished leaders to motivate civil service entrants to render national service.

Lok Satta Party's Letter to TDP on Avanigadda By Poll

నిధులు దుర్వినియోగం చేయొద్దు

Courtesy: Sakshi

ప్రజల సంక్షేమం కోసం కృషి చేయాలి

Courtesy: Eenadu

నిజాయతీపరులను గెలిపించాలి

Courtesy: Eenadu

వ్యాపారంలా మారిన రాజకీయం

Courtesy: Eenadu

పంచాయతీలకు నేరుగా నిధులు అందించాలి

Courtesy: Andhra Jyothy

ఓటర్లు లొంగొద్దు

Courtesy: Andhra Jyothy

The freebies that take voters for a ride by Radha Krishna, M.D., Andhra Jyothy

The following are ‘rough-and-ready’ excerpts from the Sunday op-ed article by Mr. Radhakrishna, M.D, Andhra Jyoti, in the issue dated July 7, 2013.

The Supreme Court has at last frowned upon political parties promising freebies with an eye on elections. They long ago bade goodbye to the practice of winning the hearts and minds of people with their ideologies and policies. Up to three decades ago, they used to announce what they would do if voted into power. Later on, they began to publicize what they would give to voters if elected into office. It was Mrs. Gandhi as Prime Minister who initiated distribution of dairy animals etc. to weaker sections. Subsequently, parties unveiled plans to write off loans. In the recent past, political parties have begun to offer something or the other to everyone. Some States are offering rice at one rupee a kg while some others are eager to distribute free of cost. All the expenditure on freebies has to be borne by the State exchequer. In other words, political parties are squandering public money to come into power.

We have recently been witnessing political parties or their candidates trying to win elections by distributing money among voters. In addition, they are now offering freebies. Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy initiated the practice of squandering public money in the name of welfare schemes. Enamored of the freebies, people have not bothered themselves about the loot of the public exchequer. Attracted by the novelty, other parties too are coming forward to offer freebies.

Although the Supreme Court has declared that offer of freebies cannot be termed as a corrupt electoral practice, it is more dangerous than corruption. For instance, in Andhra Pradesh all the people have been mentally corrupted in the name of welfare schemes. As a result, people are openly saying, ‘We are not concerned as to how much money you make so long as you offer us something.’ They do not have the time or patience to focus on high-level corruption, when there is little to distinguish between one party and another; they believe they should patronize the party that offers them most in the form of freebies. All parties are caught up in the vicious circle of freebies. Voters are in no mood to listen parties that seek votes on the basis of policies and programs. The state of parties like the Lok Satta exemplifies the trend. Those who promise to build a healthy society are viewed as mad caps. ‘Tell us what you offer us today and not what you will do tomorrow’, is people’s refrain.

******

Lok Satta founder Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan says he loses sleep as he ponders over developments in the country. All those who are concerned about the future and the generations to come will find themselves on the same page. But unfortunately, political parties which should be concerned about the country’s future are not bothered. Their thoughts are confined to winning in elections. Let us consider the demand for the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. The Congress High Command is not considering formation of a Telangana State to satisfy the demand of the people of the region. Its entire focus is on winning the maximum number of seats either by dividing the State or keeping it united. In other words, it is prepared to carve out a State or keep a State united just to win elections. All parties are thinking on the same lines. We too lose sleep like Dr. Jayaprakash Narayn if we ponder over the fate of our children’ and our own future in the hands of politicians who harbor such dangerous and narrow thoughts. Yet we are reconciled to such politicians since parties have made all of us too self-centered.

All of us are enveloped in hypocrisy. Those who speak the truth find themselves in the dock. Given to self-deception and blaming others, we have not been able to call a spade a spade. The BJP MP, Gopinath Munde’s episode is just an example. Munde said that he had to spend Rs.8 crore to get elected to the Lok Sabha in 2009 as against a mere Rs.29000 in the election to the Assembly in 1980. He was honest in making the admission. But his straightforwardness has landed him in trouble. The Election Commission has issued him a show-cause notice for spending more than the specified limit and concealing the fact from it. We can fault the Election Commission. The ceiling on electoral expenses fixed by the Election Commission for a candidate for the Lok Sabha election in a large State is Rs.40 lakh and in a small State Rs.16 lakh. Expenditure beyond the ceiling is a crime. But let us take a look at ground realities. Can anyone get elected to a House without spending crores of rupees? A person who was elected to the Assembly in the last elections in our State spent Rs.25 crore. Since he did not disclose it publicly, none issued him a show-cause notice. Those who were elected MPs from our State spent a minimum of Rs.10 crore and a maximum of Rs.50 crore. The Election Commission, judiciary and media are all aware of it. Since we continue to live in a world of hypocrisy, it does not seem to be a wrong.

The Gopinath Munde episode raises certain basic questions. Should we continue to indulge in self-deception by presuming that laws which cannot be implemented are adhered to? Or should we change laws in tune with changing circumstances? With election expenditure galloping continuously, prospective candidates are afraid of throwing their hat into the ring. A majority of voters are not prepared to vote unless they are paid. But do they vote for the candidate who pays them? They take money from all and vote for the candidate of their choice. Here, voters too are lacking in honesty. Still, candidates fear they cannot get even those votes unless they distribute money. Voting by accepting money is a crime. But can voters be punished. Are we acting against parties that distribute money during elections? If, however, anyone discloses the facts honestly, everyone will be eager to pounce on him and make him a scapegoat. Is it not ridiculous on the part of leaders like Digvijay Singh of the Congress Party to demand action against Gopinath Munde? Does he not know how much his own party candidates spent in Andhra Pradesh? Does it not amount to self-deception and blaming others?

**********

Those who would like to render public service are not able to enter the election arena since only multi-millionaires can spend the money required. Even if someone who is honest chooses to contest, he does not get public support. Voters are not cognizant of the fact that by accepting money from contestants they are giving them a license to loot public money. People regard all candidates in the fray are of the same ilk. Some of them ask what alternative is left for them. Their argument is rational. The only option left to them is to choose the least harmful of the candidates in the race. It is foolish to expect a change in the stance of political parties when even a movement-based party like the Telangana Rashtra Samithi is planning to issue tickets only to the moneyed? Contesting elections has invariably become multi-crore rupee exercise. The Election Commission is incapable of preventing it.

*********

With the State Election Commission announcing the schedule for panchayat elections, people of some villages are getting ready to elect those as sarpanches who are prepared to spend the maximum amount on village development. Media is dubbing such unanimous elections as an auction system. It is indeed a type of auction. The Election Commission has threatened to initiate criminal action against those who get elected as sarpanches thus. The Election Commission is correct in its perspective. Here again, we are indulging in self-deception. Initiation of criminal cases can prevent such auctions. But can purchase of votes in elections be prevented? In the recent elections to cooperative societies, there were reports of a vote being bought for Rs.20000. Some spent Rs.25-30 lakh to get elected as sarpanches in the last elections. The expenditure exceeded a crore of rupees in some instances. Is not paying money to voters a crime? Why should we, who cannot prevent money distribution, regard those who are prepared to spend money on village development as criminals and give them adverse publicity? How does spending one’s personal money for village development, instead of for buying votes, constitute a crime? Since the law does not permit it, it should be amended to facilitate unanimous election of those who are prepared to spend their personal funds for village development. But hypocrisy comes in the way.

*********

Let us revert to the issue of freebies. Although the Supreme Court has declined to consider freebies as an electoral malpractice, they are much more dangerous. Political parties are corrupting the entire society through indiscriminate offer of freebies. In a way, they can be termed a sort of quid pro quo. They are luring the poor who constitute the majority with freebies. Government policies invariably are bound to be pro-rich as a majority of legislators are rich people. Nobody bothers about middle classes and they are losing faith in the political system. Since people belonging to rich and middle classes keep away from voting, it is the vote of the low-income people that enables a party to come into or lose power. This is more so in urban areas. As a result, political parties are keen on garnering votes of the poor by unveiling one freebie after another.

Electoral reforms are essential if the situation were to change. Steps should be taken to limit expenditure incurred on election publicity. There has been a proliferation in media outlets these days. The expenditure can be brought down if the campaign period is limited to a week. Political parties should be made accountable for the freebies they promise.

The most important reform is introduction of a proportional representation system. If political parties, instead of individuals, are in the electoral race, they can be spared from blackmailing by candidates. As of now, political parties do not know with which party their candidates will sail after elections. The candidates believe they are being given party ticket because they have money to splurge. As a result, political parties have to spend a lot of time on preventing the defection of their elected candidates. If there is proportional representation, political parties, depending on the percentage of votes they poll, can nominate candidates of their choice to the legislature. That will put an end to the ‘Aaya Ram, gaya Ram’ culture.

The days of a single party coming into power all over the country are gone. The proportional system, therefore, does not inflict any new damage on the polity. If the Supreme Court takes the initiative to usher in electoral reforms, it will render great service to the country. After all, since political parties will not come forward on their own to reform themselves, somebody has to take the initiative. The people, who should be exerting pressure in such matters, have become inert. They are not in a mood to react whatever happens. Those who are trying to transform society too are overtaken by despair and disappointment as people have become self-centered. Although the judiciary may be accused of crossing its limits, people will support it even if it takes action in the interests of society. Let us hope the judiciary will initiate measures to rein in offer of freebies and facilitate electoral reforms by exerting pressure on the concerned.

ఇది ఉచితమేనా?

Courtesy: Andhra Jyothy

లోక్ సత్తా ఉద్యమనేత రాజమౌళి మృతి పట్ల జేపీ ప్రగాఢ సంతాపం

Lok Satta Times July 16th-31st, 2013

Lok Satta Times July 16th-31st, 2013 can be downloaded from the following link.

http://www.loksatta.org/cms/documents/lstimes/lstimes-2013-07-16-31.pdf

25న నిజామాబాద్ జిల్లాలో జేపీ పర్యటన

Dr.JP Visiting Nizamabad on July 25

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan will be taking part in three programs in Nizamabad district on Thursday, July 25.

He will address a public meeting at Krishnajiwada in Tadwai mandal of Yellareddyguda Assembly constituency on local governments and women empowerment at 9-00 a.m.

He will take part in the swearing in ceremony of the sarpanch at Narsingpalle in Nizamabad Rural Assembly constituency at 10-30 a.m.

He will interact with people of Mutyampet in Domakonda mandal of Kamareddy Assembly constituency at 3-30 p.m.

ఎన్నికలకు ముందు మునిసిపాలిటీలకు నిధులు అధికార దుర్వినియోగమే: లోక్ సత్తా

Tampering Civic Bodies on Election Eve Is Abuse of Authority: Lok Satta

The Lok Satta Party today questioned the propriety of the government move to release funds to municipalities on the eve of elections and requested the State Election Commission to intervene.

In a media statement, Lok Satta Party state vice-president DVVS Varma said, the government’s move is nothing but a blatant attempt at influencing voters. By proposing award of works on nomination basis, the government is trying to benefit the ruling party contractors and enable them to induce voters to unfair means. Otherwise, there is no reason for the government, which has repeatedly postponed municipal elections under some pretext or other and kept civic bodies under special officers’ rule, developing sudden love for urban people. Since special officers function under the thumb of the government, funneling funds to ruling party politicians will be hassle free.

Mr. Varma appealed to the Election Commission to take cognizance of the government’s move and nip it in the bud.

బెల్టు షాపులు తొలగించే వరకు మహిళలు పోరాడాలి

Courtesy: Andhra Jyothy

ఏ వృత్తిలో వున్నా జాతికి సేవ చేయాలి

Courtesy: Andhra Jyothy

పార్టీలకు ఓట్లు నోట్లే ముఖ్యమయ్యాయి

Courtesy: Eenadu

మద్యంపై సర్కారు తీరు దారుణం

Courtesy: Sakshi

ఓటు బ్యాంకు రాజకీయాల వల్లే నిత్యావసరాల ధరలకు రెక్కలు: జేపీ

Vote bank politics to blame for rise in prices of essentials: Dr.JP

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today termed the unusual spurt in prices of certain essential commodities like onion, tomato, pulses and edible oils as a clear indictment of short-term, knee-jerk vote bank politics pursued by successive Governments and political parties.

In a media statement, Dr. JP said, “The price of any commodity is a function of demand and supply. Agriculture is subject to natural vagaries as well as farmers’ preferences and therefore gives rise to serious fluctuations in supply of commodities. Each time the onion price increases, the Government and political parties overreact and seek to ban exports, import them at any cost, impose unreasonable restrictions on trade and storage and depress the market. This in turn leads to the price collapsing and the crop acreage dwindling. This cycle repeats itself endlessly. Tomato, which now costs Rs.30 to Rs.40 a kg in the retail market, will not fetch even Rs.2 to the farmer soon. Every year, farmers destroy the crop as there is no prospect of recouping even the investment.”

Dr. JP said that “after decades of such follies, we must learn lessons.” For non-perishable commodities, adequate storage should be provided and farmers enabled to get pledge loans on the produce to meet family and crop expenses. In case of perishable commodities, aggressive food processing facilities should be put in place so that the failure of crop in one season does not result in serious shortages.

Dr. JP said that it is again India’s short-term, vote bank policies that are contributing to large-scale imports of cooking oil and pulses year after year. The Government should boost indigenous production by imposing moderate import tariffs on such commodities and plough the revenue thus realized to boost production of pulses and oilseeds. Such a policy will ensure food security and increase the income of farmers which in turn will lead to an increase in aggregate demand and economic growth. It will help the Government save more than $10 billion of precious foreign exchange in these times when the country is going through a serious current account deficit.

Dr. JP appealed to media to exercise restraint in depicting short-term fluctuations in prices because of the operation of basic economic laws but focus on policies that help the country and the farmer in the long term.

21న మద్యనియంత్రణకు జనచైతన్యసభలో పాల్గొంటున్న జేపీ

Dr. JP to take part in meeting on restraining liquor consumption

A public meeting to promote awareness among people on the importance of curbing liquor consumption is being organized at the SSS Kalyan Mantap in Padmaraonagar division of Sanatnagar Assembly constituency at 4-00 p.m. on Sunday, July 21.

Giving this information in a media statement, Mrs. Hyma Praveen, Lok Satta leader, said that Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan, freedom fighter Mrs. Mallu Surajyam and social activist Mrs. Satyavani will take part in the meeting.

ప్రత్యేకశైలి గల రాజకీయవేత్త కోటగిరి

Lok Satta tribute to Kotagiri

Expressing its shock and sorrow over the sudden death of Mr. Kotagiri Vidyadhara Rao, the Lok Satta Party described him as a leader known for his unique style of working.

In a media statement, Lok Satta Party state Vice President D. V. V. S. Varma said Mr. Vidyadhara Rao, transcending party lines, got along well with all sections of people. Adept at getting things done at the Government level, he played a key role in the development of his Chintalapudi Assembly constituency.

వృత్తివిద్యా కళాశాలల్లో ప్రతిభ ఆధారంగా ప్రవేశాలకు నిర్దిష్ట చర్యలు చేపట్టాలి: జేపీ

విలువలతో కూడిన రాజకీయంపై చర్చించనున్న ఢిల్లీ రౌండ్ టేబుల్

Delhi Round Table to discuss value-based politics

A group of prominent citizens drawn from all over the country are meeting in New Delhi on July 20 to draw up an action plan to “restore value-based politics by weeding out business-minded corrupt politicians and win back the common man’s faith in democracy.”

The participants include Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan, Justice Santosh Hegde, Mr. K. N. Govindacharya, Mr. Arif Md. Khan, Mr. P. V. Rajagopal and Mr. Chiranjeevi Singh, former Chief Secretary of Karnataka.

A round-table meeting on alternative politics is being organized in the morning at Deputy Speaker’s Hall, Constitution Club, and a public meeting at Mavalankar Hall, V. P. House in the afternoon.

The organizers of the meeting point out that at a time the country is passing through serious problems the present political leadership has failed people.

“This is mainly due to the drastic deterioration in the quality of political leadership from service-minded persons in the early fifties to business-minded persons today. In fact, for many politicians politics has become a business venture. No wonder, there is no end to the series of scams getting unearthed.”

As a result, common man is not in a mood to trust any political leader, say the organizers. Since the country cannot be allowed to go into the hands of extremists or drift into anarchy, concerned citizens should strive to preserve the democratic system and win back the common man’s faith in democracy.

The organizers feel that the political vacuum has to be filled through alternative politics. The problems that warrant immediate attention include growing threats to national security and social harmony, imbalances in economic development and ecology, rising crimes against women, competitive corruption and galloping unemployment.

The organizers of the Delhi meetings feel it is time that all those concerned about the deteriorating political situation intervened in the political process without waiting for self-correction by professional politicians.

Ensure merit-based admissions in professional colleges: Dr.JP

The Lok Satta Party today deplored the Andhra Pradesh Government’s failure to ensure fair, transparent and merit-based admissions to professional colleges under management quota.

In a media statement, Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan accused the Government of allowing educational institutions to become illegitimate profit centers.

He demanded that all seats in under the management quota be filled on the basis of Eamcet ranks and the willingness of candidate to pay legitimate fee by cheque.

“It is true that professional colleges invest huge amounts in infrastructure and spend a lot on salaries and maintenance every year. The colleges will become unviable if they cannot recover costs. An honest and fair mechanism should enable colleges to collect a reasonable fee for all categories of students. The students can obtain bank loans and the Government may subsidize education of the needy and deserving.

“Instead, the Andhra Pradesh Government is artificially reducing fee for those who are admitted on the merit-based Eamcet rank and allowing managements to collect illegal capitation fee in cash and offer seats to highest bidders. Meritorious candidates are not able to get seats because of fierce competition and limited number of seats. There is total lack of transparency in admissions made under the 40 percent management quota.

“Year after year, courts issue directives to the Government and the Government in turn makes perfunctory noises.”

Dr. JP recalled that reputed institutions like Manipal University admit students based on their merit in a competitive examination and collect legitimate fee to cover their costs. At present, the fee for a medical seat in Manipal University is Rs.7 lakh a year.

The system obtaining in Andhra Pradesh undermines merit, fair competition and trust in educational institutions and makes professionals, cynical, self-serving and greedy.

ఎఫ్ ఢీ ఐ నిబంధనల సడలింపును స్వాగతించిన లోక్ సత్తా

Lok Satta welcomes relaxation in FDI norms

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today welcomed the hike in limits of foreign direct investment in a number of sectors saying that foreign currency flows in the form of equity are desperately needed in the short term to stem the rise in current account deficit (CAD).

In a media statement, Dr. JP said that in the present globalized world what matters most is not the source of investment but enhancement in productive capacity, creation of jobs and promotion of exports. India’s current account deficit stands at a record five percent of the gross domestic product. Both the Indian Government and entrepreneurs have to repay debts of over $100 billion in the next few months. In the absence of foreign currency inflows, debt servicing will become a huge burden.

Dr. JP said that a high CAD is resulting in rupee depreciation which in turn results in prices of fuel and fertilizers galloping and the Government’s fiscal deficit shooting up. Against such a backdrop, attracting foreign direct investment in the short term is absolutely imperative.

Dr. JP said that measures to attract foreign investments are necessary but not sufficient. Liberalization of foreign direct investment in retail has not seen any significant results so far. Many Indian investors are wary of investing in new ventures and expanding existing ones. Huge investments already made in sectors like roads, power plants and coal mines have become unproductive and are turning into non-productive assets.

Dr. JP said that abnormal delays in decision making, absence of a level playing field, lack of transparency and fair competition and monumental corruption have all contributed to undermining investor sentiment. In addition, the reckless rise in Government’s expenditure in unproductive sectors has been seriously eroding our production base and competitiveness.

In the long term, there is no substitute for laying emphasis on the manufacturing sector and making our exports competitive.

“We have to produce more and sell more to the rest of the world if we have to get over current account deficit problems. I appeal to all parties to transcend party affiliations and ideologies to join hands and address the challenges plaguing the Indian economy. Our single-minded focus should be on manufacturing, jobs and exports.”

Dr.JP for reforms to curb criminals’ entry into legislative bodies

Lok Satta national President Jayaprakash Narayan underscored the need to bring political reforms to check the increasing entry of criminals in legislative bodies in the country. Participating in a debate on ‘Supreme Court verdict- Criminalization of Politics’ organized by HMTV here, Jayaprakash suggested three steps to cleanse politics from criminalization of the system.

In the first step – the electoral battle should be a level playing field for all, while the second step should ensure internal democracy in all political parties. The third step should stop promoting caste, creed, gender and religion in politics and offering freebies to woo voters for short term political gains.

Stressing the need to bring proportionate representation in the election of the representatives to legislative bodies, the Lok Satta party leader said it was unfortunate that criminals and corrupt politicians were fighting the elections and the honest people, intellectuals and social activists were staying away from active politics. NALSAR Professor Madabhushi Sridhar said the YSR Congress party President YS Jaganmoahn Reddy, who was languishing in jail in connection with assets case, is technically barred from contesting elections as per the recent Supreme Court judgment. Though Jagan was not found guilty, he was a main suspect and under trial in the case. Misusing power was a big crime when compared to other crimes mentioned in Section 18 of the Cr PC.

Taking a dig at the political class for opposing the Supreme Court ruling, Sridhar said the apprehension that the provision would be misused was nothing but an evasive tactic. “Those who have the ability to apply for bail will not have any problem. They can come out clean if they don’t commit any sin” he added. The apex court has struck down an anomaly in the law which has been going on unaddressed in our electoral system for the last 63 years, he explained. Sridhar further suggested that even if there was an apprehension of misuse, it could be corrected by political class. “The persons who were arrested need not be disqualified from contesting the polls at the time of filing of FIR. They can even be allowed at the time of charge sheet. But they should be disqualified if the court takes cognizance of the offense and if the judge finds prima facie evidence. The law can be amended in that way” he opined.

Ramachandra Rao, senior advocate, argued that there is some possibility of misuse as several governments in some states and the Centre have been using the law enforcing agencies to score some political vendetta or the other of late. “There may not be much problem if the case pertains purely political in nature. But a person should be disqualified if he resorted to moral turpitude” he felt. Concurring with his view Sridhar said the people of the country cannot allow a rapist, who is in jail, to participate in making an anti-rape law. “This list of heinous crimes has been mentioned in the law which include murders, rapes, moral turpitude etc. Moreover, those who won the elections take oath to abide by the constitutional norms. When he himself violates the constitution, how far it is justifiable?” he asked.

Jayaprakash Narayan narrated how the criminalization of politics has grown over the years. “There are more than 1500 people with criminal background in our legislative bodies including parliament. They included more than 700 hard core criminals. Another 1000 people have been entering the law houses without cases. Many number of people have been winning the polls by rousing the passions on caste, religion and regional lines. Our political parties have been crying foul because many criminal elements have strong network to win elections” he castigated.

Suggesting a panel under the chairmanship of a Judge to look into factors which can lead to misuse of the law enforcing agencies, JP said the move by Supreme Court, even though very small, should be widely welcomed.

Courtesy: The Hans India

Dr.JP's Chat in IBNLive on SC order to decriminalize Politics

The Orders of Honourable SC is mostly likely to be challenged by the government and almost all political parties. An appeal is likely to stay operations of the verdict. Would this require a more wide debate and reframing of PR act ?? Asked by: sundar1950in

The SC’s order on disqualification of MLAs/MPs and conviction are unassailable. Reasoning is sound. A review as well as any further amendment will fail in judicial purview. Equality before law is a basic feature of constitution. Courts merely upheld, govt and parties will be foolish if they tried to reverse it, will face public wrath.


What are measures to be taken to restore faith in law and law enforcement agencies? A simple civil case these days runs for years. "Justice delayed is justice denied". Does increase in number of courts solve the problem? Asked by: Revanth D

Speedy justice is vital. We need many measures: More courts; local courts; simpler procedures; minimum adjournments; more effective conciliation and plea bargaining provisions etc.


For people at large in immediate sense this is a welcome decision . having said that , given that judiciary is taking such a proactive role in critical aspects of democracy , Will it lead to a day where legislature looses the confidence of people to judiciary which is not good for the balance among democratic institutions of our country ? Asked by: Rajendra Boppana

Undoubtedly there is a lot of anger against politicians. People are looking up to courts to solve all problems. But Courts have their limitations. Deep political crisis cannot be resolved through judicial measures. The only antidote to bad politics is more politics and good politics – NOT no politics.


Politics has become a family affair. Politicians promote their son or daughter or wife to hold office for him. This in turn has led to an erosion of fine talents from coming into politics. Is it time that people reject family politicos unless they have shown an interest in serving people? Asked by: EM

True. All MPs below 30 years of age, 65% between 31 and 40 years of age, and about 40% between 41 and 50 are there because of pedigree and family. Primary elections for choice of candidates, more assertive electorate and electoral reform bringing in proportional representation will eliminate dynastic politics and allow clean and competent citizens to be elected


Sir, why not make voting mandatory in India. If we all are forced to vote then all the lazy and educated people go to vote and most of them will not vote for a person with criminal record or not good to represent them. This will also bring lot of normal and educated people into politics and give us a chance to become a developed country. Please let us know your thoughts on this? Asked by: Ashok Chava

Evidence shows that with compulsory voting the polling is 10-15% higher. Our democracy will improve only if middle classes and youth vote in larger numbers. Compulsory voting will certainly help. We need to build consensus among parties


Sc ordered that those not eligible to vote are not eligible to contest. those on bail can contest.Persons for minor offence as under trial prisoners can not contest whereas persons with serious criminal charges out on bail can contest. Does it not seem to be defying logic ?/ Asked by: sundar1950in

Application of law can lead to some aberrations. The court’s verdict is technical in nature. Those in lawful custody are not electors; only electors can contest.


Sir, don't you think the percentage of politicians with criminal cases pending against them is much more in our country compared to other country which has prompted SC to deliver the present judgment? Asked by: Shyam Vadalker

One out of six legislators has serious criminal record. We must exclude those who are charged with offences related to agitations. A crime lord brings caste power, big money and organization to politics, and is much more likely to be elected than others. That’s why we need deeper electoral and police reform.


Sir, I have two questions regarding the ruling of the SC. 1) How can it be ensured that the ruling is not used for political vendetta by the party in power as is the case with CBI that we are seeing? 2) Also, the govt. is already trying to come with the modifications to the RPA Act to suit its needs for which I think all the other parties are willing to support unilaterally though we see such unity very rarely in public related issues. What purpose is it gonna serve if a ruling of Judicial review can be overridden with such ease? Thanks Much Asked by: ChintuAnkith

As far as Section 8A is concerned, the Supreme Court verdict cannot be altered by a law or an ordinance. The court merely upheld equality before law which is the basic feature of the Constitution. Conviction is not in the hands of the CBI or the police, and therefore there is no reason to fear that SC verdict will be used to harass political opponents.


Sir, don't you think sometimes the political parties have to give tickets to the tainted candidates out of compulsion as the WINNEBILITY factor is equally important? Asked by: Shyam Vadalker

A crime lord brings caste power, big money and organization to politics, and is much more likely to be elected than others. That’s why we need deeper electoral and police reform.


What kind of candidates you will keep in your party? Those have past criminal records or wealthy candidates or middle class or educated? how? and why? Asked by: Naresh

We look for clean, credible, acceptable candidates who have balanced views, a track record of service, organizational ability and leadership qualities.


The SC order is clear case of overreach and sound death knell for democracy and the illness of democracy can be cured by more democracy, unfortunately the judges seems to have forgotten this, isn't it? Asked by: kochappan

I do not agree. SC merely upheld rule of law. The law so far is the sitting MLAs and mps are different from other citizens. Ordinary citizens are disqualified on conviction. But Sec 8 (4) says MLAs and MPs are will not be disqualified until their appeals are disposed of. Plz remember that judicial verdict takes years and years. Rajiv Gandhi’s assassins were convicted 8 years later! And then only six percent of criminal cases end in conviction unless there is confession. And if after all that, a convicted MLA / MP cannot be disqualified, then politics truly becomes the refuge of scoundrels and criminals.


I think sir, it has not given up hope, but is once again reminding them to clean up the mess. Indeed, there is lot of pressure on the political class. RTI, MEDIA, COURTS, PIL have indeed made it difficult for the politician. I really liked the arguments proffered by you on the national television. How would you explain, this : LALU WAS CHARGE SHEETED IN THE FODDER SCAM, HIS WIFE BECOMES THE CM. Centre of power did not move from him, he still was the defacto CM. Don’t u think this should also be stopped ? Asked by: S ESHWAR

True. All MPs below 30 years of age, 65% between 31 and 40 years of age, and about 40% between 41 and 50 are there because of pedigree and family. Primary elections for choice of candidates, more assertive electorate and electoral reform bringing in proportional representation will eliminate dynastic politics and allow clean and competent citizens to be elected


Parties themselves encouraging criminals in politics.. Any political party has guts to disqualify their member who involved in criminal activities? Asked by: Sravankumar Gantala

Judicial verdicts and public pressure will certainly force parties to change their behavior. But we need three important steps. 1. Those who are charged with serious offences by a court of law after prima facie enquiry should be disqualified by law, subject to a review by an advisory board headed by a High Court Judge. 2. Genuine police reforms eliminating political interference in crime investigation and prosecution need to be carried out. Otherwise politics will attract criminals like a magnet and those in power can clean up their records by controlling the police. 3. As stated before, criminals eminently electable in our electoral system as they bring caste base, big money and organization to politics. We need PR system to make clean, credible and competent candidates electable. Parties have not taken a vow to destroy India. They do everything possible to get elected and to stay in power. We need to create the right kind of incentives so that the dirty deeds and criminals do not enjoy an advantage.


JP Sir, The few eminent, and qualified people like you in politics, are not focussed on success in the elections. One thing they are failing is to connect with people and publicize the good they are achieving. Isn't this making it easy for the criminals, and the corrupt to market themselves as electable? Asked by: Aditya D

Success at what cost? If clean people adopt unclean methods, then the incentives change and they can no longer remain clean. They’ll become part of the problem. Given our conditions, most traditional parties have reached a low level of equilibrium. They found that unethical and irrational politics is sustainable in today’s power game. Our challenge is how to make ethical and rational politics sustainable. In our anxiety to win the battles, we cannot afford to lose the war.


Its a welcome judgment. But will it totally stop criminals entering into politics / public office? Asked by: chandramouli

Judicial verdicts and public pressure will certainly force parties to change their behavior. But we need three important steps. 1. Those who are charged with serious offences by a court of law after prima facie enquiry should be disqualified by law, subject to a review by an advisory board headed by a High Court Judge. 2. Genuine police reforms eliminating political interference in crime investigation and prosecution need to be carried out. Otherwise politics will attract criminals like a magnet and those in power can clean up their records by controlling the police. 3. As stated before, criminals eminently electable in our electoral system as they bring caste base, big money and organization to politics. We need PR system to make clean, credible and competent candidates electable. Parties have not taken a vow to destroy India. They do everything possible to get elected and to stay in power. We need to create the right kind of incentives so that the dirty deeds and criminals do not enjoy an advantage.


Sir, as you rightly said more courts and local courts will ensure speedy justice but how we are going to face the scarcity of judges to do as such? Asked by: Raghu

There are plenty of qualified lawyers who can be appointed as judges. Rule of law is the first responsibility of the govt. We need political will to provide adequate resources for justice delivery, to simplify procedures, and to improve recruitment process at all levels of judiciary.


JP-sir, I have a feeling the SC order is half-baked, convicts' sentences will in future be 'adjusted' accordingly, your opinion? Asked by: Hari from ShantalaDamle Campaign

As I said before, SC merely reiterated equality before law. There are only a handful of sitting legislators who have been convicted. Therefore, this verdict does not really make a big difference. It is a small, justified step. No more. We need to do a lot more as I outlined earlier.


DEAR SIR, I AM CONFUSED KINDLY HELP TO UNDERSTAND, SAME COURT GIVING THE BREATHING TO SCAM KING OF DECADES TO RELIEF, AND SAME TIME COURT GIVING THE DIRECTION FOR REPUBLIC OF INDIA HOW TO ACT !!!!!! WHO IS GOING TO CATCH THE CAT UNTIL CENTURY OLD CONSTITUTION WHICH IS NOT OURS PERTAINING IN OUR SYSTEM,DO YOU THINK OUR YOUNG GENERATION ADHERE TO IT ??? Asked by: Biswajit Pandey

Courts are good at interpreting grand constitutional principles. But they are weak in ensuring speedy and efficient justice. There are many delays; incompetence and even corruption are not uncommon. Procedures are complex and dilatory. The system is stacked against the victims and general public, and works in favour of the corrupt and the criminals. Therefore significant judicial and police reforms are equally the need of the hr. Lok Satta worked for local courts with simpler procedures. We are now working hard for a National Judicial Commission, Indian Judicial Service, autonomous crime investigation and prosecution with accountability, and other measures.


JP: Due to this new judgement, what will happen to Mr.Y.S Jaganmohan Reddy in AP? If he gets bail before Loksabha elections, will he be able to contest and otherwise he can not? Your thoughts please! Asked by: Nagesh Marudadu

As per the latest Supreme Court order, those in lawful custody are not electors, and, therefore, cannot be candidates. Therefore, if during the election process, a person is in lawful custody, he or she cannot contest until the ruling is reversed or the law is amended.


In the present situation what are the chances of misuse of the order by politicians by foisting false and fake allegations or stage manage incidents to get the rivals into the disqualified group ?? Asked by: sundar1950in

Conviction is not in the hands of politicians and policemen. As I explained above only a small percentage of cases end up in conviction after years of delay in investigation and trial. Therefore there is no reason to fear that politicians can influence conviction. But if we bring in the law to disqualify those who have been charged by a court with serious offences, then there is danger of manipulation of the process by rival politicians. Therefore in such cases a safeguard is needed in the form of an advisory board headed by a High Court Judge with the power to review framing of charges.


Dear JP sir, this sure is a welcome ruling. But, 1.)Does it not signify judicial over-reach? 2.)How to ensure against this rule being abused for political vendetta? Asked by: Ramesh V

Please see the answers above


Corruption exists at all levels in the Indian society and the root of this is corrupt leadership ... did SC realize it just now? SC's judgement is welcome, but it's laughable that it took so many years to arrive at such a decision. There will still be loopholes in this decision that will be exploited by these expert conmen. How many MPs/MLas have been convicted till date? After this decision, will we see more convictions? NO! Does this decision affect any of the current politicians? ... hardly. The judgement should have been to disqualify MPs and MLAs the moment they are chargesheeted. But I doubt Indian judiciary has the spine to give this kind of judgement. The judiciary itself does not have a clean image for that matter. Asked by: Chetan Arshid

You are right. It is a small step merely reiterating equality before law. This does not really change things. As I explained above a lot needs to be done to clean up politics.


sir, how about to set some qualifications and some experience in administration/public service need to nominate for MLA/MP? Asked by: srikanth

It will not work. Instead, a more sensible electoral system to make clean and competent candidates electable, empowerment of local governments to allow the rise of time tested leadership, and primary elections within parties to choose the best candidates are the necessary steps to ensure that the best and brightest can play an active role in politics.


Will such orders from court hasten the process of reforms in Judiciary and start cleansing operations at their home front also ,which had been commented upon by the judges themselves.? Asked by: sundar1950in

There are plenty of qualified lawyers who can be appointed as judges. Rule of law is the first responsibility of the govt. We need political will to provide adequate resources for justice delivery, to simplify procedures, and to improve recruitment process at all levels of judiciary


Is it not more better to prevent the profit-minded people(business people) and evil-minded people(convicts) from participating in the public life(including political parties) ? Asked by: B SANKARANARAYANA

The present efforts, though insufficient, are meant to reduce the role of criminals in politics. But it is neither feasible nor desirable to prevent entry of businessmen or for that matter those in any other profession, into politics. As long as a person is involved in a lawful activity, he or she should be free to enter politics and should be judged by leadership qualities and record of service.


How do we create a path or way to make good souls who want to serve into politics. Asked by: prabhakaran

1. Those who are charged with serious offences by a court of law after prima facie enquiry should be disqualified by law, subject to a review by an advisory board headed by a High Court Judge. 2. Genuine police reforms eliminating political interference in crime investigation and prosecution need to be carried out. Otherwise politics will attract criminals like a magnet and those in power can clean up their records by controlling the police. 3. As stated before, criminals eminently electable in our electoral system as they bring caste base, big money and organization to politics. We need PR system to make clean, credible and competent candidates electable. Parties have not taken a vow to destroy India. They do everything possible to get elected and to stay in power. We need to create the right kind of incentives so that the dirty deeds and criminals do not enjoy an advantage.


How black money developing in the coutry can u Please tell me? Asked by: Naveen Reddy

Massive corruption, undervalued real estate transactions involving cash and illegitimate, vast election expenditure in elections are the key sources or drivers of black money. Earlier tax evasion was the key driver. But with more rational tax rates, better tax administration and increasing computerization, tax evasion is coming down.


The onus in implementing the latest SC verdict lies on the political parties. Why don't they act accordingly, in reforming the Indian politics? Why don't SC make a compulsion on them(political parties)? Asked by: B SANKARANARAYANA

SC’s order is binding on all parties and the election commission. There is no possibility of convicted persons being put up as candidates. The real problems are those charged but not yet convicted, known criminals who could not be convicted for want of evidence and political interference in crime investigation which makes it easy to doctor evidence and clean up the record of many criminals. I have outlined earlier the steps needed to address these problems. In addition, we must go in for electoral reforms in such a manner that corrupt netas and criminals do not have an advantage in politics, and clean and credible candidates become electable once again.


Govt is gearing up to challenge this ruling. A common man can see this only as a step to protect the political interests of criminals.Isn't, challenging this ruling showing utter disrespect to public interest & the country. What are your thoughts on this? Asked by: Vijay Sumanth

A legal challenge to SC verdict is bound to fail. It is impossible to argue that MLAs / MPs should be treated on a higher pedestal before law. But the SC ruling regarding ineligibility of those in lawful custody (during investigation / trial ) could perhaps be challenged or the law could be amended. But even that would be difficult to accomplish because it will be politically unpopular, and parties which defy public opinion will pay a price at the polls.


Can this be extended to people who are out on bail? Asked by: Abhimanyu Reddy

The present SC order regarding those in lawful custody does not apply to those free on bail. Those on bail have a right to vote under the law, and therefore are electors. They can contest elections. But those who are charged with serious offences by a court are disqualified through an amendment of the law, those on bail will not be eligible to contest.


Sir,Do you think, this law will be enacted strictly or like so many laws it has so many loopholes? Asked by: Kranthi

The process of reforming and cleaning up our political system is a long and arduous one. It demands patience, professionalism, passion, and perseverance. To take the issue of decriminalization, Lok Satta has been at the forefront of it. Many others played an active and important role. In 1998-99, Lok Satta came out with a list of candidates with criminal record after a thorough,, completely fair, transparent and objective process. The benchmarks of conviction, charges framed by a court, record as history sheeters or rowdy sheeters, and multiple acquittals on charges relating to heinous offences like murder were uniformly applied based on evidence. Enormous spade work was done to collect evidence in the absence of RTI and in the face of official apathy and opposition. Eminent jurists and citizens vetted the process. The list included several prominent legislators and ministers. No party could challenge its credibility. It generated wide public debate on criminalization of politics. Then followed ADR’s petition for disclosure, SC verdict, Lok Satta’s movement for mandatory disclosure, President Kalam’s return of the Ordinance and Govt’s reiteration, the successful challenge of the ordinance by PUCL and Lok Satta, and finally the 2003 verdict, making disclosures mandatory and non-disclosure a ground for rejection of nomination. Then, Lok Satta and others pursued Section 8(4) with Election Commission and the EC gave a ruling applying exemption from disqualification only for that term of office and not for the next election. Now SC verdict removed the anomaly of incumbent legislators being exempt from disqualification even during that term. Lok Satta has worked hard for nearly 15 years to improve the electoral rolls. There is significant improvement, but not enough. In the wake of Tehelka scam, Lok Satta persuaded major parties to amend the laws to create legitimate funding sources for legitimate politics through tax incentives. The result is the 2003 legislation –The Election and Other Related Laws (Amendment Act), 2003. The Parliament enacted this law by unanimous consent. That is how there is full tax exemption to individual and corporate donors for political contributions. This law also provides for free airtime for recognized parties in all electronic media for election campaign. The latter part is unimplemented as the rules are not framed. A lot more needs to be done to transform our politics. Improved voter registration, creating an accessible, verifiable, transparent and permanent mechanism like post offices; Internal democracy in political parties, making cash contributions to parties punishable by mandatory sentence and fine; the steps to decriminalize politics as outlined in the discussion today, and finally far reaching electoral reform by bringing in the Proportional Representation to make clean and credible candidates electable – all these are vital to safeguard our future and to make democracy work for us, the people. And that is not all. We need police and judicial reforms to make rule of law real and effective, strong and independent anticorruption mechanisms, service guarantee law to ensure timely delivery of services, liberating citizens from the clutches of sifarish-corruption raj and empowered and accountable local governments to ensure that authority fuses with accountability and true leadership emerges with citizens’ participation at local level. Many of these changes are in the pipeline. Some are vigorously resisted by the establishment. But some others are supported by parties. We all need to leverage our strengths and adopt practical, sensible strategies to achieve each of these reforms without losing sight of the big picture. Meanwhile, every little positive step is welcome and necessary, but not sufficient.

ఓటుకు నోటుతో చేటు

Courtesy: Eenadu

రాజకీయ పబ్బం కోసమే తెలంగాణా అంశం

Courtesy: Eenadu

లోక్ సత్తా పార్టీ బలోపేతానికి కృషి

Courtesy: Eenadu

రాజకీయ లబ్ధికే కోర్ భేటీ

Courtesy: Andhra Jyothy

21వ శతాబ్దంలో కులం పేరుతో ప్రదర్శనలు అర్థరహితం: జేపీ

Caste-based rallies absurd in 21st century: Dr.JP

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today welcomed the Allahabad High Court initiative in staying caste-based political rallies.

In a media statement, Dr. JP hoped that the High Court notice to all major political parties in UP on the stay will eventually lead to a broad consensus among political parties on putting an end to mobilization of caste and sectional groups for political purposes.

Dr. JP pointed out that the primary duty of political parties is to promote harmony in society by reconciling interests of all groups. But there has been an increasing tendency among most parties to appeal to identity politics, especially caste or religious or regional groups. It is undoubtedly detrimental to harmony in society and the unity and integrity of the nation.

Trying to promote caste identity and divide people to garner voters is absurd in the 21st century, said Dr. JP.

Dr. JP said that Article 19 of the Constitution gives clear powers to the legislature and the Government to regulate peaceful assembly and demonstrations in the interests of the integrity of the nation and public order. Article 51 (A) outlines citizens’ duties which include respecting the Constitution, cherishing and following the noble ideals of the freedom struggle, and promoting harmony and spirit of common brotherhood among all communities and groups.

Therefore, any effort to regulate or prevent demonstrations by caste-based groups is perfectly legitimate and constitutional.

సుప్రీం తీర్పు చిన్న అడుగే

Courtesy: Eenadu

నేరనేతలపై సుప్రీంకోర్టు తీర్పును ఆహ్వానిస్తున్నాం, కానీ అది సరిపోదు: జేపీ

SC judgment on convicted politicians welcome, but not enough: Dr. JP

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan has welcomed the Supreme Court verdict holding Section 8(4) of the Representation of the People Act (RPA) ultra vires. The provision protects convicted lawmakers against disqualification on the ground of pendency of appeal against their conviction in higher courts.

In a media statement, Dr. JP said the Supreme Court in its landmark judgment has struck a blow for equality before law by treating ordinary citizens and legislators alike. “This is a small but significant victory for the Lok Satta which has focused its attention on criminals in politics since 1999.”

“Although the Supreme Court has given a decent burial to the patently unconstitutional and self-serving provision of the law, we cannot expect dramatic results until a lot more is done.”

Dr. JP said that the real challenge is two-fold. Politicians with a record of crime continue to function as legislators since conviction by lower courts takes an interminably long time. For instance, the assassins of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi were not convicted even after a decade of the assassination. Technically, the assassins could have contested elections and continued as legislators. Dispensation of justice by trial courts has to be speeded up if such anomalies were not to recur. Alternatively, people against whom charges have been filed in a court of law in respect of serious crimes should be disqualified from contesting elections until the cases are disposed of.

Again, many politicians with criminal antecedents influence crime investigation and ensure there is no evidence of their crimes. It is because crime investigation continues to be under near control of politicians. Criminalization of politics cannot be ended until crime investigation and prosecution agencies are made totally autonomous and shielded from political influence, said Dr. JP.

11న గుంటూరు జిల్లాలో జేపీ పర్యటన

Dr.JP Visiting Guntur District

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan will be visiting Guntur district for a day on Thursday, July 11.

Dr. JP will be inaugurating the Lok Satta Party office at Piduguralla at 10-30 a.m. and the district party office at Guntur at 4-00 p.m. It may be recalled that Dr. Mogili Ravi Babu, a prominent dermatologist hailing from Piduguralla, joined the Lok Satta Party recently. He now heads the ST cell of the party.

At both Piduguralla and Guntur, Dr. JP and State party President Katari Srinivasa Rao will be addressing party workers.

Dr. JP will be delivering the Captain Yerramaneni Vijaya Prasad Memorial Oration on ‘Democracy and national security’ at Tenali at 6-00 p.m. Captain Vijaya Prasad, belonging to Tenali, lost his life in a fight with the LTTE off the Sri Lankan coast in 1988.

రాజధానిలో సురక్షితంకాని భవనాలపై తక్షణం చర్యలు చేపట్టాలి: లోక్ సత్తా

Lok Satta calls for drive against unsafe buildings in city

State Lok Satta Party President Katari Srinivasa Rao today asked the Government and the civic authorities to launch a drive to identify all structurally unsafe buildings in the 400-year-old city of Hyderabad and take steps for their demolition in the wake of the collapse of a hotel at Ranigunj in Secunderabad early on Monday morning.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao, who visited the scene of the tragedy and called on the injured at Gandhi Hospital, said in a media statement that the Government as also all political parties should allow laws and regulations to take its own course in respect of grant of permissions for new buildings as also demolition of unsafe buildings. He pointed out that there have been instances of the Government permitting construction of malls and commercial complexes overruling objections from the police and fire service departments and politicians interfering in matters that should be left to civic authorities.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao also underlined the need for the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation to equip itself with latest equipment and technology to handle disasters to minimize loss of life and limb.

He appealed to people not to impede rescue operations by gathering at sites of tragedy in large numbers, although they are welcome to join rescue efforts.

Lok Satta Party Greater Hyderabad unit president and vice-president Dosapati Ramu, Gorthi Srinivas accompanied Mr.Srinivasa Rao.

విద్యార్థులకు పాఠాలు బోధించిన ఎమ్మెల్యే

Courtesy: Eenadu