Dear Editor
Dear Editor
I am writing to thank you for carrying the informative and educational article entitled "The farce of the parliamentary debate on the Lokpal Bill" in the January 16.31, 2012 issue of MEL. The article is factual and to the point and makes a convincing argument that neither the Treasury nor the Opposition benches of the Lok Sabha were really interested in a principled debate on the subject of corruption and tackling it. The article further points out that in this farcial atmosphere an impression was created that somehow these debates and debates elsewhere in the media represent the vibrant democracy that is prevalent in the country. The article goes on to point out that it is very important for communists and the working people to be always aware that the terms of the debate have been set by the big bourgeoisie, and the parliament is nothing more than a harmless talk shop.
It is pointed out that all the features of the Indian state, its various organs, so called independent Constitutional bodies are all the window dressing of a vicious exploitative system. The final goal of the system is to carry on as before and to ensure that nothing will challenge the hegemony of the bourgeoisie.
It may also be important to remind ourselves that corruption is an important feature of the capitalist system of the world over. It is the essential grease that keeps the machine running. Communists must understand that corruption cannot end until capitalism ends! They must, however, use the opportunity when the cry goes up against corruption to expose the system. To this extent, I am proud to note that our party has not shirked from this issue and has been in the mainstream of the movement. It has given us a choice to put forward our vision for the future. Congratulations to all for this work and onward with that work that remains to be done!
Sincerely,
S. Nair, Kochi