Shifting sands in Mali

"Apart from bringing an abrupt end to two decades of elected government, the recent coup in Mali could exacerbate problems extending far beyond the region. "

The Hindu : Opinion / Editorial : Shifting sands in Mali: Given the decidedly mixed results that ECOWAS military interventions elsewhere in the region have produced, it is important that West African states do not precipitate an armed showdown with the putschists. The goal has to be early presidential elections, a return to constitutional order and a peaceful resolution of the Tuareg issue.

Mali is one of the world's poorest countries and can ill afford conflict. More than anything, its people deserve their democracy back.

Undermining the EC is undermining democracy

Former AGI Soli Sorabjee takes a dig at the recent spat between EC and Congress ministers (Mr.Khursheed and Mr.Verma), who have taken EC for a ride by making and then regretting the statements violating model code of conduct.

http://expressbuzz.com/opinion/columnists/undermining-the-ec-is-undermining-democracy/364734.html

The Chief Election Commissioner is given the status of a Supreme Court judge regarding his tenure and conditions of service. The Model Code of Conduct for elections is not a useless advisory parchment. It has to be observed strictly in letter and spirit and its violation can be punished.

Close Shave

India must make ties with Bangladesh irreversible 


Close Shave

-The Times of India, January 23, 2012

The Sheikh Hasina-led Government, after being a firm stand for the ideals of democracy in her country, was suddenly aware of a probable-coup if it were not foiled by the Bangladeshi army. The instilling, and strengthening of, a powerful democracy - which saw the banning of many Islamist Anti-India groups - was most warmly welcome. However, if it were to happen that the Awami League government is not in power after the election, suggested by the history of alternate election since 1990, the opposition in Bangladesh Nationalist Party could reverse the gains of the last three years. 

Minority Report

Our elected representatives aren't very representative at all


Minority Report

-The Times of India, January 11, 2012

Personal Review: Jug Suraiya's views on political representation in India, with a special emphasis on UP.

'We were against Portuguese colonialism - not the Portuguese'

Q&A


with Damodar Mauzo, Konkani writer and Sahitya Akademi award winner, on the struggle for freedom, the experience of liberty, Goan identity - and the importance of a language in shaping identity

Interview - Q&A

-The Times of India, December 28, 2011

2011: Democracy's Odyssey

Protests this year showcased popular yearning for freedom, dignity and participation


Article - 2011: Democracy's Odyssey

-The Times of India, December 28, 2011

Held to ransom

The blocking of FDI in retail shows how pressure groups hijack the agenda

Article - Held to ransom

-The Times of India, December 23, 2011

Year Of Protests

2011 shows that no government can take its people for granted

Article - Year Of Protests

-The Times of India, December 23, 2011

Egypt's difficult transition to democracy

The Hindu : Opinion / Lead : Egypt's difficult transition to democracy:

"With the fledgling democracy expanding the space for political assertion, Egypt's liberals have a chance to enhance their profile in the public domain."