Author: Editorial
Publication: News Today
Date: July 25, 2008
URL: http://newstodaynet.com/newsindex.php?id=9477%20&%20section=13
The Speaker of Lok Sabha was summarily dismissed
by his party for going against its diktat.
When Somnath Chatterjee celebrated his 80th
birthday, in normal circumstances it would not have been reason enough for
the visit of high profile politicians particularly from the UPA to his house.
But now the changing tides of political sea
has washed him away from the party that anchored him so far.
But it is unimportant whether he switches
loyalties or remains to steadfast to Communism, The bigger task for him is
how he handles the CD on the 'bribe for votes' sting operation conducted by
the BJP and recorded by a private TV Channel.
The disturbing factor in the whole episode
has been the undue 'delay' of the TV Channel in handing over the recorded
CDs to the Speaker and so far, it has not given a convincing reason for it.
The history of the so-called sting operations
conducted by the media shows that the recordings have been broadcast first
to the public and then handed over to the respective authorities.
Whether the exposures are genuine or doctored,
the concerned channels have brought them out in the public domain first.
The tradition being so, it is a surprise that
the said channel has decided not to show the recordings in public, which causes
suspicion on its intent. Moreover, the channel's delay in delivering the CDs
to the Speaker's office also lead to misgiving in certain quarters whether
the recordings have been tampered after.
It can be said that the BJP's seeking help
from the channel itself was to take the matter to the public, and in that
case, it is a wonder why the channel refrained from broadcasting it! It is
reported that the CD contains real incriminating stuff, which could cause
deep trouble for the Congress and the Samajwadi Party.
The Prime Minister, who also met the Speaker
yesterday, seemed to be not bothered at all about the entire episode, barring
his single statement of feeling saddened about it. It is not known if he had
discussed about this issue with the Speaker.
He must realise that his victory has been
tainted; his sudden aggression in politics is being viewed with suspicion
and his carefully groomed 'honest' image has taken a heavy beating.
He must ensure that the government cooperates
with the Speaker in his investigations and the culprits, however powerful
they may be, are brought to book. The Speaker must also ensure a proper and
speedy investigation, as the sting operation has been conducted against two
traditionally rival parties, who have joined together purely on selfish interests.
The Speaker, who defied the whip of his party
on the grounds that he was above party politics, neutral and trustworthy,
has got this case on hand to prove those very same factors and also to assert
his authority and his office's autonomy.
Democracy is sacred and its sanctity must
be reestablished by removing the stains caused by the unscrupulous elements
for the sake of remaining in power.