Wednesday, September 9, 2009

5 Star politics


It is a well known fact in my friends circle that I am an ardent Congress supporter. I have been a fan of the party even during the lean period of the late 90's. Now, I am really proud to say that the party is moving from strength to strength. This is very evident from the fact that the party has decided to ask two of its ministers to move out of 5 star accommodation. How does it become a great thing? Its true that other parties such as BJP are facing deep organisation issues while the Congress can focus on developmental issues. But beyond that, I believe that this was a strategic move and a signal to the members of the government and the senior bureaucracy as a whole - that they need to be the role models for the entire nation. It also sends out the message that this government is damn serious about its intentions. A lot of commentators do say that this is a non-issue. But I believe that this is really good PR. This is bolstering party's image with out causing harm to any body. What's wrong in them going for good accommodation, as long as the burden is not on the exchequer? Also, please note that both the ministers who were apparently reprimanded belonged to the INC, and of the same ministry. Sorry, too much of Steven Lewitt and Malcolm Gladwell there.

I hope that this effort by the party is for real and for ever.