When I entered journalism over half a century ago, Maharashtra was a different state altogether. It was known for its progressive outlook, robust administration and cultured politics. Since then, I have been observing politics of the state in particular and of the country in general. I have had access in the corridors of power, in the intimate circle of many top political leaders and senior civil servants. I am constrained to admit that the level of political discourse in our society has been vanishing rapidly, being replaced by vulgar and indecent language. It is sickening to listen to the uncivilized and mud-slinging discussions on television channels, nothing to say about the highly derogatory language used freely by certain politicians in the state.
The current exposures about the impact of money power in politics makes one shudder to think about the future of our democratic institutions. Unabashed arrogance, shameless protection of own party leaders, promoting one’s own family members and the increasing lack of courtesy in speech and behaviour are some of the elements that have established their grip over our public and personal life.
When old timers in politics are asked about their feelings of current politics, most of them express exasperation. There is nothing left to talk about politics, they say. Some say there are feeling worried due to continuous downward trend of public debates.
The perception that politics is just excessive abuse is spreading rapidly. If this perception becomes widespread across the country, there is a fear that even in day-to-day life, people will resort to such conduct. Already, we see clashes occurring in public places for trivial reasons. If this deterioration continues, there will be no true people’s democracy. Might will become right. The erstwhile harmony in democracy is being eroded, the culture of listening to each other is disappearing in Maharashtra. This picture is disturbing.
Till a couple of decades ago, there used to be personal warmth, mutual respect and readiness to cooperate despite political differences. In contrast, the level of today’s politics has indeed vitiated so much. This politics overflows with accusations and counter-allegations. Who remembers when was the last time any serious state issue was discussed in Maharashtra?
Fiery speakers like Acharya Atre, Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, George Fernandes, Madhu Limaye, Pramod Mahajan, Jambuwantrao Dhote, Keshavrao Dhondge, Pramod Navalkar, N.D. Patil, Chhagan Bhujbal, Mrinaltai Gore, Ahilya Rangnekar, Manohar Joshi and Gopinath Munde are some of leaders who could sway a decision with their oratory. Their sophistication was palpable and motives transparent. Their genuine concern for society could be felt. Their sincerity and explosion of their ire sprang from their commitment.
Earlier chief ministers like Vasantrao Naik, Vasandada Patil, Shankarrao Chavan, Sharad Pawar, Sudhakarrao Naik, Vilasrao Deshmukh, Sushilkumar Shinde and many leaders from both sides stood out for their polite demeanour. There was a galaxy of efficient ministers like Madhukarrao Chaudhari, Ramrao Adik, Sheshrao Wankhede, Rafiq Zakaria, Rohidas Patil, Shivraj Patil Chakurkar, Sudhir Joshi, Shankarrao Gedam, Sundarrao Solunke, Shankarrao Gedam, Nitin Gadkari, R. R. Patil or a loner on opposition benches like F.M.Pinto or Dr Datta Samant. They were model legislators, to say the least.
Violent language like taking revenge or teaching a lesson or breaking bones is nowadays common. Once upon a time, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh were mentioned contemptuously by political observers in comparison with Maharashtra. Why did this repute disappear and how fast?
In those days, many politicians did not have much formal education but the level of behaviour was very high. Some of the politicians were definitely budding while some others had a shady background but they were careful to remain within limits. They did not openly support the base element in society. In short, morality, human dignity and respect were seen in most politicians of that time. Naturally, the behavior of those leaders worked like a charm. That was the reason why thousands of ordinary people used to participate in the opposition morchas or attend public meetings on important issues. Many leaders often headed marches of thousands of people but the police never had to use force to keep them under control. A word uttered by the leader and a raised finger would keep them peaceful. That type of mass protest is not seen nowadays for obvious reasons.
Courtesy and gentle behaviour were once abundant in the state’s politics. Leaders in politics were well aware that aggression leads to rashness, agitation, abuse and hitting below the belt.
Although it is true that degradation is a natural process and it can be halted with due effort, the speed with which degradation is occurring makes one wonder if it can be stopped with individual or collective efforts. Any sensible and sensitive person can become disturbed in this atmosphere. But even more serious is the hatred or aversion that arises in the minds of the younger generation towards politicians.
This arrogance has led to harsh isolation and extreme bitterness. There is hardly any room for civility. Electibility is the main qualification.
Over the years, civilized and blemish less political workers are becoming scare. If available, they stay away from the election arena. In such a scenario, will it be reasonable to expect good people not just to enter politics but even to find time for voting?
How can we blame sensitive, thoughtful people and the youth if they stay away from voting because there is a lack of civilized, polite and sensible candidates in the election arena?
Politics was once a mission. It has become a ‘commission’ now. Elections have become an ‘event’ and ‘managers’ have sprung up to make them a free for all. ‘Manipulation’ has become a key word.
Fortunately, some positive signs have started becoming visible. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has vowed to cleans the state politics of power brokers and fixers. Expectedly, there is some uneasiness but hopefully, that stage will soon pass. Once again, Maharashtra will return to its earlier glorious traditions and customs. The people, too, have a responsibility to support such noble efforts. Remaining aloof will not serve the purpose. Proactive participation by the common Maharashtrians is the need of the hour.
A Column By
Dilip Chaware – Senior Editor
A media professional for 43 years, with extensive experience of writing on
a variety of subjects; he is also a documentary producer and book author.
