Last Diwali, pollution levels shot up dramatically in Delhi over and above the already existing dangerous levels. All well known surgeons, doctors and pollution institutions were alarmed. Young children's lungs were most affected similar to heavy smokers and shops ran out of gas masks for people. Besides a half-hearted odd/even car restriction which fizzled out, nothing seems to have been done.
The Supreme Court at last acted under right to life and banned use of firecrackers. Now the producers of firecrackers and shops stocked well for Diwali as usual naturally object to their livelihood being suddenly put into great loss. The sentiments of some traditionalists are hurt, and some sanctimoniously say regulate do not ban. Other sensible states are firing from the shoulders of the Supreme Court to ban it in their jurisdiction.
The executive takes no moral or any responsibility. For example the inquiry report on the Mumbai railway stampede reportedly blames the rains and people carrying heavy luggage and nothing is said about the narrow bridge overdue for attention, as the main cause.
There is also the need for people to stop old traditions and customs which are very harmful today, for example like immersion of idols. The sea and water bodies cannot take it anymore. The festival of lights can very well be celebrated less noisily and safely. Are we worthy of democracy? In a democracy we get the government we deserve?
John Eric Gomes Porvorim
The Supreme Court at last acted under right to life and banned use of firecrackers. Now the producers of firecrackers and shops stocked well for Diwali as usual naturally object to their livelihood being suddenly put into great loss. The sentiments of some traditionalists are hurt, and some sanctimoniously say regulate do not ban. Other sensible states are firing from the shoulders of the Supreme Court to ban it in their jurisdiction.
The executive takes no moral or any responsibility. For example the inquiry report on the Mumbai railway stampede reportedly blames the rains and people carrying heavy luggage and nothing is said about the narrow bridge overdue for attention, as the main cause.
There is also the need for people to stop old traditions and customs which are very harmful today, for example like immersion of idols. The sea and water bodies cannot take it anymore. The festival of lights can very well be celebrated less noisily and safely. Are we worthy of democracy? In a democracy we get the government we deserve?
John Eric Gomes Porvorim
