Tangential Planes

Ms. Sucheta Dalal,


I realize that as a journalist, words are immaterial for you. Also granted that Journalists are more preoccupied with fitting reality into narratives than vice - versa.However that still doesn't justify your article in Indian Express.

Do not get me wrong, it is no one's case that Mumbai has no problem. Also conceded that many problems arise simply due to venality and sloth of political class and bureaucracy.Roads, Traffic, Electricity, Water, Drainage these all could have been much better than the present state where every monsoon many parts of Mumbai are marooned.

However what one doesn't understand is what it has to do with terrorism.

Terror attacks are problems at National level, to expect local leaders to tackle terrorism is beyond absurd as is connecting outrage with terrorism to local problems.*

Because that way lies the path of obfuscation, and contrary to what old saw said ignorance is not bliss, instead it is a hell lot of pain.
Terrorism is not going away any time soon, more so if incoherent and self serving approach of our political class is to be considered.
Terrorist are going to inflict pain and destruction to Indians (which includes me), Mumbai being financial capital of India can expect more than fair share of it, as can Banglore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Delhi. It is absolutely essential that Indians understand this and act accordingly.

*Actually local leaders can do something, by not paying secretarian politics.

Addendum: While we are at it, can we please go easy on filmi isshtyle "Mumbaikars will teach terrorists a lesson" schtick. While this grandstanding one can withstand, I think it is time to "get real". Terrorism is a national problem and it has to be tackled at national level