Dr Ambedkar had a vision for reservations of backward castes because
discrimination was institutionalised and an important part of our ancient culture for millennia. As it was not realistic to change the mindset of more than two hundred million Indians, the size of the population at the time of partition and freedom from colonial rule, he opted for reservations for a limited number of years. He, no doubt, was a self-made man.
Mahatma Gandhi who always had his heart in the right place ordained the low-caste people as the children of God and, in effect, sanctified poverty raising it to the level of a virtue. He did not aid the unfortunate and exploited section of our society and show them the way to social, economic and psychological freedom. However, contrary to his good intentions, it made them feel even more comfortable living in a perpetual slum, in every sense of the term, with the blessings of God. Psychologically, he made them even more resigned to their fate.
Unlike the people of India, American Indians nowadays are known as native Americans but with the election of Donald Trump as president-to-be it may change in the near future. They may have to revert to their old label as American Indians again as they are not an integral part of the American dream. However, they have a saying which reflects a culture of self-help: They say no-thank-you when offered fish and ask to be taught how to fish instead!
With demonetisation and a series of supporting surgical strikes the Prime Minister has removed a lot of dust from the eyes of the people of India which is not to say they all like what they see! The honest who by definition are mostly the poor are elated although they have to stand in long queues to receive their own money. Obviously, the smoke has ascended high up into the sky and the poor and honest are able to see far and wide even though it may not be a clear day. Prime Minister Modi is a beacon of hope.
Our politicians of all hues and colours need to stop asking the poor and backward castes if they want some fish. Instead, teach them to fish.
