Addressing the nation from the Oval Office, President Biden (he still is the President) said “We must unite to protect it (American democracy). In recent weeks, it has become clear to me that I need to unite my party in this critical endeavour. I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, and my vision for America’s future, all merited a second term. But nothing, nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition. I revere this office. But I love my country more,” the US president said.
That was the US President, speaking to the nation after he decided that he would not contest for a second term given his failing health and falling support within the party. He “admitted” that his governance record was exemplary and the next six months would not be sedentary! He said he would, however, serve out his term. (like any good convict would have to!) (He is a prisoner of his convictions!)
Hopefully, those echoes will be heard in our own country, given our numerous mountains and valleys. Hope lies eternal! Or does hope lie eternally?
That a lotus might bloom in the White House this way or that (Literaturely speaking of course), is a matter of boundless joy in India. Indeed, the white house staff, have apparently contacted, significantly, not those foreign-sounding paint companies, but Asian Paints, for a supervised paint job of the house for the incoming President / Vice President and their families in keeping with the theme. It also appears, that they have disowned the colour Green, as it is the colour of the card, none of them want to play, because of its distracting presence in the game of imminent immigrant vs eminent immigrant!
Speaking of literature, I am reminded of the historical novel,“A Tale of Two Cities,” written by Charles Dickens. The Novel is renowned for its vivid depiction of the period, its memorable characters, and its exploration of themes like resurrection, sacrifice, and the impact of historical events on individuals and societies. It is also truly relevant today! Indeed, the story begins with the famous line, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,” capturing the contrasting conditions of that era and this!
And it is in these contradictory times, that a new tale was written – A tale of three cities. Author unknown. All capitals. Delhi, Patna, and Amaravathi. The first recorded hefty short-term capital gains, while the latter recorded heavy Long-term capital gains. The rest of us – both short and long-term capital pains. They say they have prescribed an epidural, to ease the pain, but to no avail, unless you avail it, painful as it is!
As a subplot within the tale, came the tale of a regime; an income-tax regime. Though intemperate, it is probably an appropriate word in how it is applied to a fraction of the total population. The rest are exempt for one reason or another, but primarily votes. But the plot of the tale thickened with the 3 employment schemes that compel existing Employers to be Additional Employers – like additional secretaries perhaps?
And then came the final straw on the camel’s back! The intention was not to break it but to strengthen it! A panel to review the Income Tax Act to make it simpler! But I have a doubt. Maybe you too! If it is made simple, will all the employment schemes be defeated by the amount of unemployment it would generate? from the Courts to tribunals, to accountants to bureaucrats! Or would that be too simple a question?
Perhaps if we revisit Yes Minister” and “Yes Prime Minister” the British television sitcoms that satirize the workings of the British government and civil service we will understand the intent better! Yes Sir!
It is the best of times, the worst of times, depending on your news channel!