Colour of Democracy – VII
Colour of a Neighbour

It is felt by many that the ballot is the real test of democracy. Quite true. But, what happens when any scope of using the ballot vanishes from the scene altogether? Then, does the time come to install democracy by force? Again, does that kind of a democracy survive? These are perhaps some of the questions that are being faced by a neighbour in the midst of turmoil at this moment. Moreover, the political situation in this country affects the interests of the ‘South Asian Giant’ quite closely. And, what kind of “remedial action” has the giant taken? Not too impressive – sorry to say folks.

With all due respect, Karan Singh seems to have whispered something into the ears of Gyanendra that must have prompted him to take one step forward, two steps backward. Otherwise, what else would explain New Delhi’s support to the queer proposal made by the monarch? Prior to Gyanendra’s announcement, it was reported in the media that Singh came back as good as empty handed, owing to the obduracy of the monarch. Then, things took a turn in a direction which might have been unanticipated. History lessons tell us that when Nepal had faced a similar crisis more than fifty years ago, New Delhi had acted as the benevolent host to the fleeing monarch – King Tribhuvan (Gyanendra’s grandfather). There is another account of how Dwight Eisenhower, when he was the most powerful political executive, had to yield to the stubborn attitude of King Mahendra (Gyanendra’s father), to receive the latter personally on his visit to the US. So, is it strange that Gyanendra has become a tinpot dictator now? Will it be more strange if he decides to settle down in a bungalow on Akbar Road or Race Course Road if he is driven out of Narayanhiti Palace? Doesn’t this run in the family?

At this moment, I would not hesitate to say that the Nepali people may be quite right in pointing fingers at us. Would we like it ourselves if some Big Brother comes and tells us that only some parties can choose our leader, not an elected parliament? During the Bangladesh War, Nixon and Kissinger called Indira Gandhi quite a few names for protecting the Bengalis. Now, they (with one from the grave) must be joking privately about us – who wants a Yahya now? All in all, would it be wrong to say that Messrs. Singh & Co. have committed an Iraq-type act in a modified manner? Gentlemen, don’t wait to realize the value of something unless and until it is forcefully taken away from you. Please be……….a little bit wise.