The veteran Gandhian activist Anna Hazare, who began his second hunger strike against corruption in politics and the Government of India on August 16, is now into his ninth day. He has appealed to the Indian nation to support the passage of a strong anti-corruption bill in Parliament which establishes an ombudsman with independent powers.
The response from the people has been striking and millions have become involved. They include both the disadvantaged mass as well as some from India’s privileged classes. Notably, large numbers of youths have enthusiastically joined in.
Hazare has consistently urged that his followers renounce any form of violence and his message has been thus far accepted. An effective tactic has been for protesters to approach legislators’ residences with a flower and a prayer appealing to wisdom (and a vote) in favor of reform.
The national government, recognizing the popular support for Hazare’s proposal has taken a respectful stance. Police have forsworn the use of unnecessary force against supporters. The movement has serious momentum and there are signs the government will honor his demands, at least in some modified form. (In this example, the pressures on government to act come not only from public scrutiny, but from international observers as well.)
These events demonstrate, the very powerful potential of non-violence in the social and political context. So-called ‘people power’ organized this way can certainly bring about very significant change. Hazare’s target has been India’s endemic corruption. His history as an activist equips him well to focus public discontent and his reputation for modest living and overall integrity are gilt credentials.
Here in America, another personage with similar credentials as a plain-speaking man of principle, the billionaire Warren Buffet, has recently taken aim at his fellows among the wealthy elite. He wrote recently that the disparity between the tax burden borne by the wealthy few and that of the great mass of Americans was patently unfair and urged reform. “My friends and I have been coddled long enough by a billionaire-friendly Congress. It’s time for our government to get serious about shared sacrifice.’
What a refreshing thing to hear from a respected member of the wealthiest class in America, especially at a time when we see our country is in a deep ditch. Only concerted, cooperative effort can lift us out. Rigid ideology inhibits progress. Supporters of Buffet’s appeal might consider showing up at their legislator’s front door with a flower and a prayer.
Dial V. Gidwani-Gandhian Activist, Founding President American Institute of Sindhulogy to promote knowledge of Sindhu & Saraswati Civilzation--Nonprofit, Nonreligious, Nonpolitical
1740 Ridge Avenue #LL15 B
Evanston Illinois 60201
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Introduction to the Non Violence Program--PROJECT 2010