Ratna by sms?

In my view, the Bharat Ratna should not be a subject of politicking as this is conferred to honour distinguished personalities who have contributed in a significant way to the upliftment of the nation. It was a welcome gesture that leaders like Jyoti Basu and Bal Thackeray declined to join the race. It is time for other parties to show dignity and stop clamouring for this prestigious award. I am sure Vajpayee would not like his name dragged into this debate.

The role of the national media in heating up the issue is also worrying. While political parties are using the matter for their narrow gains, the media has found another opportunity to provide some spice to it8217;s audience. A more responsible and judicious approach should have been adopted before taking the matter to various opinion polls. India is such a diverse country where people will have diverse opinions on any issue and I would not be surprised if most people support Salman Khan8217;s name for the Bharat Ratna!

I respect citizens8217; right to participate in all democratic processes. However, the Bharat Ratna is not something that should be decided by 8216;sms polls8217; and emails. The decision should be the prerogative of the government, as it always has been.

Of late, awards in all fields have generated controversies as many people are eager to get them irrespective of their credentials. Media attention and a 8216;VIP8217; tag make some people scream for awards. Padma awards and the Bharat Ratna have always risen above such controversies and I hope everyone continues to uphold the sanctity of these awards.

R-Day realities

India is celebrating its Republic Day tomorrow with an impressive parade at Rajpath, showcasing the country8217;s economic and military might with the army, navy and air force, and tableaux from various states. In addition, a large number of children are participating in various shows. Parades and shows on various scales would be replicated throughout India which make every Indian proud of their country.

However, the preparations and rehearsals for the celebrations which start well in advance give some food for thought on certain humane issues. Parents and schools who are keen to ensure the participation of their children make them rehearse for days in the morning hours 8212; as early as 4 am 8212; so that they do not miss their school. It is highly inconsiderate to do this to small children in a place like Delhi, where the temperature dips to two degrees. The least which can be done is changing the timing of school childrens8217; rehearsals.

Seats reserved in the VVIP enclosures should be done only with the confirmed participation of those invited. Last-minute seating adjustments to fill this gap create disorder. This also denies the opportunity to others who wish to attend the function such as former governors, chief ministers, bureaucrats etc.

The receptions in Rashtrapati Bhavan on Independence Day and Republic Day should be organised with greater care. The number of people invited for the reception has increased from a hundred people a few years ago to over a thousand people these days. This results in chaos. People queue up to show their faces to the dignitaries and it is a big hassle for invitees to get even a cup of tea. Security people often have to put ropes to prevent people from disturbing the dignitaries.

The writer is a Congress MP in Rajya Sabha