The King makers

It's a con job. So we all say, and so we all believe. But talk is cheap. Putting our vote where our mouth is, has been a difficult task for most Indians. For a country, which has had a succession of different politicians at the helm, it is still starved for a 'leader'. In terms of an individual and a political party. And this hunger breeds mistakes. A vicious cycle emerges, with very limited scope for exit.

Voting rules are very clear. Familiarity wins votes. Between the known devil and the unknown one. Any chance of reprieve is minimal, because when India votes, and it does it so often, habit overtakes instinct. The need for change is enormous, but the ability to effect one is limited. Priorities are very clear and short term. Roti, kapda aur makaan. Nuclear policies and trade regulations be damned. How do you explain to an average Indian, that this party will bring Kentucky Fried Chicken to India, vote for them? He will vote for the party, which gives him a blanket, some bread and a spot of money.

And the not so average Indian? The urban dwellers, in a semi high rise with a car, maybe. "I know that X is a better person, and his party will do a better job. But, my uncle knows Y, so my tenders will get passed, train tickets won't be a problem, my life will be much simpler". Stamp.

Is it really as simple as all that? Maybe it is. The larger picture for a voter is not whether his neighbour's life will improve, but maintaining and improving his own standard of living. And, why not? Elections were never about selfless motives and altruism. Not for the voter or for the votee. I will bring you electricity and you will bring me power, yes? A loud resounding yes. From the illiterate, poverty stricken and desperate masses, such belief and hope is acceptable. But when an educated, affluent (relatively) individual makes the same mistake, there can be no excuse. Because, he/she knows better.

And the elite Indian? Cielo, Opel, Mercedez even. NCPA towers and Pali Hill. Or a bungalow in Juhu. Putting the stamp where their money is. The industrialist is a man (or woman) who is clear about his (or her) inclination. You reduce the ceiling on land, and your campaign will be the glitziest yet. Cynical view. Even dangerous. But, largely true. Bollywood has an opinion on this, which is not all filmi.

And, last but not the least, is the Indian who just doesn't. Vote. A waste of time doesn't know how to, who to for. So, somebody else votes for him/her, which is really neighbourly, but defeats the purpose somewhat?

Having said all this, one cannot forget the Indian who votes with stars in his/her eyes, believing that this would be the last time in a long time. I hope others think the way I do. The army deserves it. The children need it. Annually, semi-annually even, he keeps the faith and does the right thing. First time voters can be that way too.

The trouble begins when an opinion leader sways them, or when disillusionment sets in. The shine ebbs, and we resort to type. Stamp.