Satyagraha Unplugged!

June 7, 2011, New Delhi: Messages circulating, social networking getting crowded, surveys, speeches,

fasts and a great hullabaloo all across India – bottom-line - crackdown in the midnight. After being

detained from New Delhi, Yoga Guru Ramdev Baba continues his fast against corruption in Haridwar.

Baba’s step against Government has raised an uproar among people in the nation.

A fierce streak of energy has been noticed amongst the youth in the Satyagraha. The agitation has seen

lot of youngsters revolting and raising their voices. Though, contradictory perspectives are seen as well.

IT employee Sanjay says, “I don’t understand the point behind such a physical humiliation in the middle

of the night, especially, when things were coming to a certain agreement. Baba had been informed

regarding the withdrawal of permission to conduct the Shivir. Still, he continued and further, jumped off

the stage. Such scene wouldn’t have occurred I guess. One cannot blame the Government alone. It is a

two way rivalry where both the parties are at some blame from their ends.”

Vijeta Gautam, a teacher shared, “I wish more efforts were taken towards achieving 24*7 electricity

and water and also, reduction in the petrol hikes. Objective to make English as secondary may not

bring any help as the entire world is going the English way. Though, Baba’s other objectives are worth

appreciation and no less challenging. I wish it brings some goodness to the nation and the people.”

In the process of agitation, approximately ten supporters of Baba were arrested for causing property

damage, rioting and obstructing public servants from their duties. This has added to the fuel and there

might be more repercussions. On the other hand, Anna Hazare is also sitting on a one day hunger strike

on June 8th, 2011. His strike is attempted as a mark of unity against the midnight crackdown against

Baba.

Jyotsna Singh, sales analyst with an IT company says “I am coming across such a fight for the first time

in my life. Both the leaders, Baba Ramdev and Anna Hazare have brought a sudden revolution which is

definitely, encouraging youth like us. I have enrolled myself into the volunteering activities initiated by

indiagainstcorruption.org. My responsibilities include making banners, posters and writing brief reports

on the various occasions of protests. We hope, efforts come out with positive results.”

Satyagraha 2011 calls for a difference where it is Government Vs people. With further protests by

both the leaders will tell us how democratic we are. After IPL, it’s another striking match to watch and

support for! Whom do you support?