Whenever a point needs to be conveyed, be it against government policies (which usually is the case) or endeavoring to make a point(s) heard by the administration, us Indians revert to Bandhs and Mass Rallies.

Logically speaking such protests and issues can be delivered in other non-time consuming methods and peaceful procedures like submitting memorandums and taking the assistance of media to propagate the concerns. Media, unquestionably is a powerful tool and needs to used optimally to succeed in achieving what Bandhs or Protests cannot.

The recently called All India Bandh was a disappointing event. Though it is being termed successful, I feel it was disgrace on the image of the political parties of the country. It also put a question mark on the Police and Administration capabilities.

In the Bandh on September 20, we got to observe wrecking of shops and ill treatment of the general public who were operating their services to serve the citizens who needed them.

· Bandh affects business and daily life · Terrorises the general public · Revenue and property loss to the exchequer

According to my opinion such demonstration and strikes are nothing but a platform for anti-social elements and street walkers who are allegedly hired by the politicians to get together and speard distress and fear in the city.

After noon, they might all get together, have a party, eat and call it a day. So much for protests.

I should say it is a shame on the political leaders who make use of such anti social elements to spread fear among the very citizens who vote for their leaders.

I believe it is high time that the citizens to take up a stand and protest against protests, mass rallies and Bandhs that are called by self-interest groups, as these not only disrupt daily life, but also cause pain and discomfort to general public.

To quote an example, some business groups supported yesterday’s Bandh and carried out a rally, protesting against rise in prices and FDI in retail. The irony is that all the Mercedes, BMW, Chevrolets, and Jaguars that are being driven by them is a result of the FDI policies two decades ago.

Also, export and business augmentation is also a result of FDI policies that came into place two decades ago. Then why the hypocrisy.

Let’s see what we can do to make democracy successful at local levels.