May 4, 1998

Dilip Bobb

As governments go -- and his looks headed that way -- the Vajpayee-led coalition has undergone some radical changes during the one month it's sort of been in power. The biggest change, of course, is that it is now referred to as a Jayalalitha-led government since the prime minister seems to have gone missing, as have some of his cabinet colleagues. Till he is found and returned to the rightful owner, here's the Government's monthly report card.

Law and Order: Has failed to keep this vital area under control. Every time another bomb explodes in Chennai, there is an immediate fall-out in the Cabinet. Buta Singh has already fallen out with the BJP, and other victims of terrorism in Tamil Nadu could follow. Blackmail is on the rise, as is the threat of violence from people like Pramod Mahajan. The battle lines are clearly drawn, between South Block and the other South bloc.

The Economy: The downturn continues with very few investors willing to support a volatile market. The original round of pre-election mergers and acquisitions have proved a flush in the pan. With the Government seeing its reserves dwindling with each passing day, the deficit could prove unmanageable, if it hasn't already.

Governance: Has a tendency to speak in many voices which can be confusing for the general public. There is the Tamil voice, the RSS voice, the official spokesman's voice, and, of course, Ram Jethmalani's voice. The Cabinet is divided since every resignation leads to another division of departments. The only voice which cannot be heard is that of the prime minister since he only speaks on the telephone, communicating with His Master's Voice.

Employment: Another area of serious concern. The Government's election manifesto promised employment-generating schemes, but the schemes that have been given priority, like Woman's Empowerment, have actually cost jobs, mainly in the Cabinet. Unemployment could rise further unless steps are taken to match supply with demand.

Health & Family Welfare: Another case of a mix-up in ministerial responsibilities. The minister for urban development has hijacked the Health Ministry's responsibilities by threatening to exterminate certain pests and insects. His legal background is no reason for him to indulge in such crass examination.

Power: Official assurances that there will be no interruptions in power have proved baseless. The lack of base means that power cuts will increase as the heat is turned on. Ask Buta Singh.

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