An Idea for change

Was the last month’s blow a turning point in India’s history?
Where do we go from here?
An idea for change

For several years now, India has been the soft target of some mavericks who either believe that brutal carnage in this country is their stepping stone to jannat or are probably part of a state sponsored destabilizing operation. Given the coordinated manner in which these barbaric acts are being conducted, coupled with the privileges and funding they enjoy, I am more inclined to believe the latter. In the process, its leading to unimaginable mutilation of a religion which at the very core , is based on peace loving principles. Its sad to see how any devout follower of Islam can stoop to ridicule their sense of identity. How in jannats name can violence be justified as serving a higher purpose? Why then, haven’t all the other religions of this planet interpreted it, in the same manner? Are they missing something that these fanatic Muslims seem so sure of? Given its irrational belief system, I am of the view that the terror story clearly has a more political flavor than a religious one.

So what should India do? Feel like a hapless victim and point a finger towards Pakistan? While the super powers have voiced their concern and rendered help, I believe India has to fend for herself. This is our battle alone and we have the wherewithal to douse such fires which stem not from strength but reek of fear, insecurity and a false notion of power. Challenging circumstances are an opportunity to reflect, introspect and source from our inner reservoir of unlimited strength and fortitude. Wallowing in pity or indulging in a blame game like our politicians are most likely to do, are reactionary tendencies that will not yield any results. There is nothing that we can do to change our political or bureaucratic system-they are too horribly mired in their web of petty games to expect sound governance from them. Even after 61 years of independence our political leaders have not been able to strengthen the infrastructure in this country. It would be foolish to allow them independence in matters that are critical to the nation’s growth. The current scenario therefore calls for a change in the rules of the game.

The need of the hour is to create an equally powerful constructive force that could negate the inherent flaws and wrongdoings of the government. I believe this force rests unequivocally with Corporate India. No longer can organizations exist in isolation of their socio political environment. There is increasing need for business houses to consider an expansion in their dimension of operation to include an responsibility to people of society and planet in addition to profit. Organizational success and sustainability needs to encompass a triple bottom line concept of people, planet and profit- a paradigm adhered to, by only a few organizations today. Corporate India can no longer afford to let the government take its own course. Our responsibility as part of corporations doesn’t end with making a choice between the devil and the deep sea. We need to build a sustained partnership with those in the political realm. Only a move which goes beyond electing to engaging with them can save the nation from the perils of poor governance.

Such efforts have been initiated but are too small scale to witness a nation wide change. Janaagraha,(www.janaagraha.org )a citizens’ initiative started by ex Citibank honcho, Mr Ramesh Ramanathan is indeed a praiseworthy effort. From a movement to include people's participation in public governance it has now evolved into a robust institution for citizenship and democracy. Its advisory board includes several eminent members from Corporate India. Such bridges of government-corporate partnerships will enhance transparency, accountability and hasten the pace of progress. India Inc probably commands the loudest share of voice in the corridors of political power. As an active partner in decision making, particularly on matters critical to the nation’s growth, Corporate India can ensure that politicians do not get away with murder(quite literally!)

On a program I was viewing last week, titled Ideas for Change, Mr Amit Chandra of Bain India mentioned a public interest litigation filed by them stating a complete action plan to combat issues arising out of inadequate infrastructure. The government has been asked to draft their own timelines for completion, subsequent to which the project execution will be closely monitored. He very rightly called for corporates to change responsibility in CSR to corporate social Necessity. Kudos to him for taking such a constructive action oriented step.

The media can play a crucial role as the official watchdog- such coverage will be more in the nation’s interest than a fear soaked ‘bleeding hearts story’.

So lets stop blaming the government for what hasn’t been done- the time now is to explore avenues of partnerships with them such that a constructive, action led task force can be established. Probably through such engagements, the government might pick up a leaf or two on leading effectively. Who knows- it may even inspire an authentic leader from India Inc to dive into the political arena and change the system.