Aheli Moitra
…democracy, we all fall down. But such is the nature of love. It institutionalizes format, unacceptable as it might be. It cares not if it creates war, and calls it fair. But like nationalism, everyone accepts its fallacy without a thought. After all, what could possibly be wrong with love?
Look at the love for democracy here, for instance. One man in one of the most advanced districts of Nagaland, Mokokchung, was beaten with a hammer the other day. He was for the ‘other’ candidate. Unbeatable love. People are so enthusiastic about electing the right leader that they are smashing the heads of those opposed to their right leader—with a hammer.
But one must struggle for love, as much as the love for democracy. So to ensure “smooth polls”, the Indian government will deploy 230 companies of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) apart from all the security already present in Nagaland. This will help prevent incidents such as above. To add to the security of a smooth democracy, the underground governments have also relayed that they will provide additional security to the polls by keeping their arms intact, inside the camps and out. If the Indian security forces can, why ever not the Naga forces?
Love, after all, is in security.
These security measures, as per plan, will take care of, say, the mobs in Wokha that are moving around to show their love for democracy. For instance, when the authorities intercepted 432 cases of Indian Made Foreign Liquor in one of its constituencies, mobs moved in to save the cache. They managed to save 3-4 bottles and democracy heaved a sigh of relief. The leaders of the future could at least ensure something to its people. Though this is a security conundrum, it will lead to a ‘democratically elected state government’.
Besides, the love of, and for, democracy lets people enjoy more than Christmas time. Perhaps, during the birth of Christ, one had to buy gifts for oneself and their loved ones through hard earned money. That penance paid off when the elections were announced. Now the real worth of money could be known, and spent for what it’s worth—endless debaucheries and possibly a new wardrobe. There’s little more one could ask for.
Love, after all, is in giving and sharing.
Why, it doesn’t end there. The love of democracy in Nagaland has kept people up all night. Leaders, and intending ones, are visiting far flung areas even in the dead of night. What was not possible in the five years of the practice of democracy, has been made possible by declaring its candidature one fine day. It’s a new promise for a new future.
Love, after all, is in the promise of a bright future.
But love is, after all and most of all, the delight that makes the most of hope. We need not fall for our love, as for the love of democracy. Instead, we could break out of format, of institutionalization of love. It could well change the way we behave towards politics.
