THIS REPUBLIC DAY HAD NO PLACE FOR POLITICAL STATEMENTS

I was in Chikmagalore yesterday on the occasion of Republic day. After the National flag Hoisting function, there was a customary Press Conference. Friends from the media were eager to get my reaction/response/views about the Governor- Government imbroglio, post sanction scenario etc., But I decidedly excused myself from making any political statement “on this particular day”. 

My belief is that at least on occasions like Independence day, Republic Day, Gandhi Jayanthi and other days of national significance, we should suspend declaring political statements which seems to be the stuff on any other day. These days must surely be utilized to discuss larger and the serious issues. I am happy to say that my Journalist friends agreed and endorsed my views.

I seriously ponder “why the Republic Day remains just a Government Function? Why common man does not participate? Why the occasion has failed to become the Society’s celebration? Why only School children, NCC/Sevadal/Scouts-guides/police.. are only the mandatory participants? And why the ‘public’ is nowhere in Re’public’ day function?!

In the stadium where the flag hoisting function was held, citizen was conspicuous by his/ her absence. One should perceive Republic day as the one which gave you the Freedom (of speech, expression) and Fundamental Right (Yes including the duties) to Indians (Citizens) through Constitution, where as Independence day was the day that gave Freedom to India. But, generally Republic Day goes unobserved by the public and it will be an extra Holiday (paid Holiday for those in organized employment) For a Country to become vibrant, these occasions should be used to recharge the national resolve for a confident tomorrow, in spite of happenings and lacunae in the system which makes us cynical.

S.SURESH KUMAR