All said and done, one thing is clear. If there is a public with a conscience, it is in Bengal.
What is happening in Nandigram is criminal, and unacceptable in a democracy.
But what is heartening is the response of the public. Sure - it led to Bandhs, which disrupted normal lives. But the situation is EXTREME! What else can the public do, when their so-called representatives turn out to be their biggest enemies? India's identity is at stake in Bengal and Gujarat - its time to protest!
I used to live and work in Bengal, and left the state disgusted with the Bandhs and lack of work ethics. But given a choice - between so-called development and an idea of right and wrong, I will choose the latter, any day.
Our democracy cannot survive if rapists and murderers go unopposed, as in Gujarat. The crminals may come to power through terrorising and rigging, but the public should have the moral strength and voice to protest.
Compare to states where mass-murderers who have been exposed go about proudly and get support from people (even on these forums), it is heartening to see a public with a conscience in Bengal. A protest might be inconvenient, but when it is for the right cause, and defends basic rights of the people, it is what is the foundation of democracy.
So all those people who compare Bengal to Gujarat - shame on you! Gujarat may get more dollars in investment, but 2002 is a national shame. It seems rape of innocent women is ok with you.
