Politics Defeats People's Choice

By Murli

One of India's most popular Presidents Dr APJ Abdul Kalam has been caught in the rough and tumble of dirty Indian politics, though he gives the impression of thoroughly enjoying himself in the race! Initially, when Dr Kalam indicated his reluctance for a second term, the nation, predictably, lost interest in the presidential race, as it is difficult, if not impossible, to think of a replacement that would match his eloquence, energy, enthusiasm, charisma, character and magical ability to connect with the people, especially, the youth of this country. No one in his senses would suggest that the present presidential aspirants match Kalam's qualities. Without being judgmental about their individual traits, it is plain to one and all that what they bring to the table is peanuts, compared to the rich flavour and spread of Kalam Sir.

However, no one expected the sudden twist in the presidential tale when Dr Kalam confounded even the shrewdest political brain with his willingness to take a plunge for a second term, if his victory was "certain". Immediately thereafter, the political scientists went to work, trying to unravel the mind and mystic of India's most popular space scientist. First he said he would contest if he was the unanimous choice. Now, he is saying he will contest if his winnability quotient is "certain". Has there been a rethink? If so, why? Is the President saying something between the lines? If so, why, and what? Or has the President been unwittingly used by the avarice and ambitions of our various political parties? And finally, is Kalam, horror of horrors, a victim of his own grandeur, his own popularity?

Such questions don't look good to the endearing appeal and image of our most beloved President. As Chandrababu Naidu, the former CM of AP pointed out so succinctly, were the Indian President been voted directly by the people, Dr Kalam's election for a second term, would have been a foregone conclusion. You don't need the world's most rigorous electoral exercise to test this President's popularity, a voice vote would suffice to put to rest any doubt.

It's an irony most people have overlooked. The people's number one choice for President is not the number one choice of our politicians. It shows starkly, the wide disconnect between we, the voters, and our elected representatives.

As for the new incumbent at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, one really feels sorry for him/her. Given the high profile background of the President he/she will be following, it would be next to impossible to follow in Kalam's footsteps and beat him in the popularity stakes. Most likely, Rashrapati Bhavan will see a re-run of Games Politicians Play - the only way it can be in the limelight in the future.

Can Dr Kalam pull off a Houdini trick and beat the rest of the presidential hopefuls? For the country's sake, let us hope he will. Otherwise, the presidential election will go down in history as a singular instance of a popular, people's choice being determinedly defeated by our politicians.