Nothing is black and white in Politics. So do our perceptions about Politics. We don't hate politics. We don't like it either. Then what does Politics really mean to each of us?

I set out to find myself an answer. And I would like to know what do you all think about it. And understand your take on Politics. I would like to call this series of exploration, "Political Perspectives".

And I am happy to share the first of its kind, an interview on Politics. I asked one of my friends, Arvind, a few questions to begin this series. Thank you Arvind for volunteering and sharing your perspective of Politics and thanks a ton for allowing me to share your views to the 'Yes to Politics' community.

Here is the transcript of the interview: 

1.  What is the first thing that comes to your mind when I say 'politics'

Arvind: Mean, corrupt, exploitation. But politics is something I hate, but believe it is also something you can't live without it. In a sense, this is something you can completely escape out because you hate it. In a way, you are already part of it you hate it or dont.

2. Were you involved in Politics in any way earlier?

Arvind: First of all politics is so immoral and corrupt, you don't want to involve yourself in that mess.  Never engaged any time in any way. And its not that easy to participate in politics. Because, if some one want to come to politics or engage in politics, he won't be allowed in the first place if all he has is some interest, great plan and great understanding of the place. Entry is pretty much closed to a select few. you should be famous or rich or some political family or shoud belong to a specific community and rich enough or criminal. Its a big clout. Its pretty much visible in India.

There is no democracy in the party itself. Even the smallest decision to elect a member has to be decided by so called high command or somebody else. So, if you wnat to contest say as MLA, its not enough to have a great interest or plan to so something great. but you need THOSE credentials. Only party highcommand decide the seats/tickets. So its like party leaders picking candidates they want, rather than any democracti way or considering people's choices, atleast people inside the party.

No agenda based politics. It all happens on what caste/section you belong to even to get the ticket. 

There are so many poor people that vote. They only think about the survival. They can't afford to think about politics. You have to your basic wealth even to venture out in to politics.   

You would be much better and chances to be honest if you are not in politics. 

Quoting the story of a friend, who is an IAS officer, that gave up honesty after a tough fight, it is better, wealthy and safer to be corrupt when you are involved in Indian politics rather than suffer and risk for honesty.

3. Regarding NRI VOting Rights

Arvind: NRIs bring a lot back to India. They kind of keep the economy float and bring forex, trade, entrepreneurship etc. But it is surprising that they can't cast their vote by provisional ballot or something. Only military and some govt services cna do.

In that way, Politics in India are much more corrupt and the democracy is pretty nascent. Compare to US democracy is much more matured. They don't have to protect their ballot boxes or anything. Early voting allows you to vote any time in 15 days in most convenient of locations. Because, they care and they want you to vote.

Lots of NRIs would like talk about and discuss a lot about Indian politics. Infact, most are very keen on the subject. But nobody want to do anything.

4. Do you get involved in some way if parties like LokSatta comes in?

Arvind: I definitely do, atleast think about it. It is very good to have something like that. But I also get equally suspsicious about the party when once it gains momentus and comes to power. Because, amany cases peopole are honest because they couldn't be dishonest. But when opportunity strikes or power comes, they may become easily corrupt. I do not discredit loksatta or it would become one, but I will always have that suspiciion based on the history of some other such organizations and the way they ended up. 

5. How and what do you epxlain to your kids about politics?

Arvind: It would be difficult to explain in a way to them. But I will do. Simply put, nothing will be like black and white and there are so many factors that go in. Like when they ask why not everyone is not rich. You could say hardwork and all, but the next question will be why not every one work hard. There are other things like environment. If you born in a rich family, you have much more chances to become rich compared to another kid that is born in a hut.

Date: 11.00AM - 11.20AM 21st January 2009

What do you think? Please drop a line at the bottom of the page or write your own opinion as a seperate post.