IDEA – Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

 

Dear  Ms. Arhant,

I received your letter expressing your support for fully funding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). I appreciate the time you took to write and welcome the opportunity to respond.

As you know, when Congress enacted IDEA in 1975, it authorized the Federal Government to contribute up to 40 percent of the cost associated with educating students with disabilities.

This commitment was to ensure that the nearly six million students with special needs receive the same quality of education as their peers without overburdening local school districts.

To date, this commitment has never been fully funded. During fiscal year 2010, $11.5 billion was provided to states for special education, roughly 17 percent of the total cost.

In fiscal year 2009, the Federal Government provided 34 percent of the cost of special education with additional funding provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

This was the closest the government has ever come to matching the 40 percent commitment. As states cut back on education budgets, local school districts have been forced to cut some of their services or raise taxes to pay for the special education services they are mandated to provide.

I share your concern that school districts may be overburdened by the costs of special education.

During the 111th Congress, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) introduced the “IDEA Full Funding Act,” which would have fulfilled the commitment to fully fund IDEA over an eight-year period.

That bill did not get passed before Congress adjourned, so it will need to be reintroduced to be considered in the 112th Congress. Ensuring that all students receive a quality education is a priority of mine, and it is helpful for me to hear your views on this issue.

As Congress considers the reauthorization of IDEA, please be assured that I will work with my colleagues to find responsible and cost-effective ways to provide school districts with adequate special education funding.

Once again, thank you for writing. If you have any further questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact my Washington, D.C. office.

Best regards.

Sincerely yours,

Dianne Feinstein
United States Senator

Further information about my position on issues of concern to California and the Nation are available at my website, Feinstein.senate.gov.  You can also receive electronic e-mail updates by subscribing to my e-mail list. Click here to sign up. Feel free to checkout my YouTube Page

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From:  Padmini Arhant

To:  U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein

Honorable. Senator Dianne Feinstein

Dear Senator Feinstein,

Your update in response to my petition on IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) funding is much appreciated.

There is no doubt that fiscal budgets’ priorities are misplaced with education, health and essential services marginalized over wasteful spending.

As stated in your letter, I concur with you in entirety on this issue that –

IDEA Full Funding Act introduced by Senator Tom Harkin requires reintroduction in the 112^th Congress.

Again I would go further on this matter to request Congressional members on both sides of the aisle to not only reconsider but also stamp their approval without any procrastination to prove their commitment to American families.

Federal funding towards vital programs such as IDEA providing equal opportunity to significant population with special needs is prudent investment that guarantees quality education resulting in brighter future for all.

It is reassuring to learn about congressional initiative to reauthorize IDEA and your dedication along with other esteemed members cooperation would expedite the passage of this important Act.

School districts are faced with a dilemma in the mandatory compliance not backed with adequate federal or state funding forcing them to streamline overheads, which means credentialed and skilled educators are no longer affordable.

Other undesirable alternatives are eliminating core services that could potentially transform life for talented students qualifying under IDEA including others seeking basic to advanced assistance.

Investments in education and health for citizens across the social, economic and political spectrum are monumental for national progress.

It can no longer be categorized as discretionary spending especially with definitive returns on these crucial programs directly benefiting the economy and the general society.

I extend my support to issues related to enhancing American lives and humanity at large.

Thank you for your solidarity and look forward to successful IDEA enactment.

With Best Wishes,

Padmini Arhant

Patriot Act Repeal

By Padmini Arhant

Following the 9/11 homeland terrorism, the Patriot Act was introduced under the guise of curbing terror and,

Simultaneously Guantanamo bay, renditions, denial of habeas corpus, diverse torture techniques prominently waterboarding…accepted without any moral concerns exemplified in disregarding Geneva Convention and international law on human rights.

Not to mention fear mongering using color codes as security alert advising residents to duct tape their homes dominated mainstream media.

Since then terror adopted under national security pretext violating civil liberty that constricts freedom as a strategy for mass mind control.

The status quo remains with Patriot Act extended today fomenting targeted prejudice against specific segments in the society ranging from warrantless search, NSA wiretapping, access to citizens’ communication, profiling and biometrics with not only finger printing but also retina scan for exclusive identification.

Patriot Act unleashes aggressive infiltration in the nationals’ private life.

The policy makers legislating as well as executing the unlawful and unethical government intrusion in citizenry personal matter are sworn to secret society pledged to world dominance signifying the hypocritical stance and diabolical double standards.

Meanwhile the architects and authorities abusing the executive power with Congressional complacency and complicity on a large scale granted impunity in a manner replicating the fascist era.

Patriot Act is anything but patriotic.  It is undemocratic, illegal and defies constitutionality of a sovereign nation that has been long governed by unscrupulous hegemonic power escalating totalitarianism through blatant suppression of republic rule.

Ironically, the real terror pervasive in the contemporary world with truth subversion, false propaganda and distortion is upheld by the so-called democratic society and,

The legislators overwhelming approval of authoritarianism reflected in the Patriot Act confirms the democracy demise.

The executive branch is exempt from transparency and accountability with privilege availed for extra-judicial execution in foreign land and declining public request for any evidence in the self-proclaimed mock human sacrifice.

A dangerous trend with the looming apocalypse slighted by the presumptuous powers refuting inevitable downfall despite history serving as testimony.

The Pseudo Empire operating behind the scenes claiming to be illumined minds and proudly admitting treason against own country,

Notwithstanding egregious collusion with forces responsible for genocide in the pre-world war II subsequently defending the victims’ descendants is disingenuous in semblance with consistent betrayal of humanity.

The dubious empirical monopoly has been successfully established in the global resources exploitation made possible through territorial invasion and annexation –

In turn achieved at the obedient troops’ deaths and innocent civilian massacre across the globe.

Treachery, deceit and brutality being the tyrannical conglomerate’s philosophy, the crumbling citadel epitomizes the return on the investments chronically lacking in human characteristics.

The mighty and powerful have succumbed to the sinister activities thereby the end justifying the means.

Cabal exposure revealing explicit universal dictate with corruptive tactics is a wake up call for global revolution to peacefully and non-violently reject the surreptitious coup d’état in motion.

Patriot Act is politically convenient to deny citizens the individual rights in every aspect with the federal agency and telecommunication industry unprecedented access to private affairs of the general public.

The open violation carried out to masquerade the tailored or manufactured events by the real perpetrators – those holding the mantle of power.

Preserving extraordinary powers to deprive the rest peaceful existence is state sponsored terrorism designed to promote polarization in achieving the ultimate goal – political empowerment to enslave the vulnerable world population.

The quest to rein in free and open society is a sign of weakness exhibiting loss of control over personal will power to contain excess greed and contempt for moralistic guidelines.

United States is a nation founded on leaderships sacrificing their life for emancipation proclamation, civil rights with liberty and pursuit of happiness guaranteed to all regardless of social, religious, economic or political background.

Sadly down the line as the society progressed in many frontiers, the political leaderships under the economic powers’ influence have systematically steered the nation in reverse course on human rights, democratic values and core principles tarnishing national image and integrity they falsely represent codifying status according to the apex power will.

Mankind failure and civilization collapse has been triggered by a few wielding enormous power revolving around the ‘Me, Myself and I’ concept to the self-righteousness peril.

Hence refusal to reconcile terms with reality is entry towards cataclysmic destination chosen at personal discretion.

Repealing not re-enactment of laws such as Patriot Act is the honorable action for any society eliminating fear rather than engendering phobia in the rapidly deteriorating ruling class governed by instinctive desire to propitiate the axis in disguise.

There is an urgent need to resurrect people power and mobilize civil participation to restore democracy truly representing utilitarianism against prevalent system based on global productivity for selective income distribution.

Otherwise embracing globalization to generate profits, however enforcing protectionism in wealth amassment.

“One voice can make a difference and one million or more could change the world – a better place for all.”

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

United States – Congressional and State Elections 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Special election scheduled on May 24, 2011 in New York 26^th Congressional district is on spotlight with the race between the Republican candidate Jane Corwin and the Democrat Kathy Hochul reportedly in dead heat predominantly due to GOP plan to overhaul Medicare and Rep. Paul Ryan’s controversial budget.

Democrat contender Kathy Hochul is presumably neither self nor special interests-funded and projected to be a fierce fighter for working class given her impressive track record as the Erie County Clerk and having previously worked for Congressional members John LaFalce and the late US Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan distinctively confirming Washington experience compared with her opponents in the election.

In semblance with the dilemma experienced by mainstream representatives against lobbyists’ funded political opponents in any election,

The disproportionate money factor is a major challenge for the determined and dedicated political aspirant, Kathy Hochul.

Unless the tradition is broken with massive voter interjection rejecting such candidacies, it would be extremely difficult for any genuine leadership to emerge at the local and national level.

As stated earlier on numerous occasions, politics run by corporate power and multinational influence is formidable with the political mandate easily swayed through smear campaigns distracting public from electorate-concerned issues.

Reiterating the previous statement in this regard, people have the power to enforce the change necessary beginning with invalidating the money power right from the campaign trail to the Congressional halls and chambers that has successfully undermined democracy rendering the electoral process a mere formality.

Democrat nominee Kathy Hochul is favored to counteract the multi-faceted representation in Congress on various issues and apparently committed to her constituents in NY-26 district including the people across the state and the nation.

The voters in New York 26 Congressional district are requested and urged to pay attention to the prevalent trend with campaign promises made to the people remaining a political rhetoric,

While the pledge to campaign contributors fulfilled in legislation prepared and drafted by none other than the relevant industry and foreign interests.

Please come forward and contribute to Democrat Kathy Hochul campaign for meaningful democratic voice in Congress conspicuously missing among the majority responsible for the status quo.

The democrat Kathy Hochul’s triumph in the red district could make history given the election in the constituency won by republican candidates with the exception of three democrats’ success in the past century.

Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike have a unique opportunity to elect the democrat Kathy Hochul in promoting the average American cause.

Please extend your generous support with affordable donations to democrat Kathy Hochul’s campaign for a landslide victory on May 24, 2011.

Similarly the state of Wisconsin is set for recall elections in July 2011 with six Republican members failure to address the state problems and,

Instead launched attacks on workers and middle class families – the contemporary political scapegoat for lawmakers sworn allegiance to campaign financiers.

Wisconsin Republican candidates against ordinary citizens are endowed with political cash machine operated by veteran election maneuverers like former political adviser to Bush-Cheney administration, Karl Rove and Koch Brothers in addition to corporate money supply.

Their agenda has been to eliminate middle class and push the lower income families to the lowest economic strata.

Sadly, they have achieved their goals widening the gap between the haves and have-nots.

Republic rule has been systematically replaced with corporate and finance sector dominance buying elections through investment in political campaigns ensuring phenomenal returns on specific industry oriented matter much to the population detriment.

The question is directed to the victims – the people in the state of Wisconsin, Ohio, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey…and across the nation.

The top 1 percent deriving economic prospects at the remaining population expense having become the norm,

What would it require to energize the voters with real power in restoring the government of the people, for the people and by the people?

Indeed there is greater urgency to reverse the process – only possible through active voter participation to reclaim fair income distribution and equality in many aspects.

Electorates can no longer be complacent to the systemic abuse of democratic system increasingly exploited by various business and political factions focused on self-interest than citizens’ or national interest.

Therefore, the electorates in New York 26^th Congressional district could potentially alter the course in a positive direction by casting their vote for democrat Kathy Hochul and,

Likewise electing Progressives against Republican lawmakers recognized for their crusade to protect the wealthiest and disenfranchise the rest is paramount to revive economic and political viability.

Please exercise diligence in the democratic right by electing leadership loyal to voters and not sponsors of the individual political career with vested interests.

Best Wishes and Good Luck to Democrat Kathy Hochul of New York 26^th Congressional district, Progressives in Wisconsin, Ohio, Michigan, New Hampshire and other parts of the nation for a glorious electoral outcome.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Democracy Revival – Saving Grace

By Padmini Arhant

Truth is the first casualty in politics and war.

Since the Presidential declaration of Osama Bin Laden allegedly killed by the American Special Forces on May 1, 2011, the controversies surrounding the event has raised legitimate doubts about Operation Geranimo and,

The bizarre developments leading to more questions for the members refuting reality.

Prior to proceeding with the specific requests for clarifications in this matter, it is important to focus on two issues relevant to the mysterious operation.

First, the CIA creation of Osama Bin Laden as Mujahidin and Al-Qaeda  – vehemently denied by the authorities despite proof via documentary and several national and international reports.

The visual content is available in the website’s featured video.

Source – TheSottReport  – Thank you.

News articles:

BBC News – 20 July, 2004 UK

“Al-Qaeda’s origins and links  – During the anti-Soviet jihad Bin Laden and his fighter received American and Saudi funding.  Some analysts believe Bin Laden himself had security training from the CIA.”

Germany – Spiegel International

“The United States also supplied Afghan freedom fighters in the 1980’s with money and arms for their struggle against occupying Soviet troops.  One of the best customers for the CIA back then was Saudi millionaire Osama Bin Laden.”

Former UK Foreign Secretary and Leader of the House of Commons – Robin Cook:

“Throughout the 80s Osama Bin Laden was armed by the CIA and funded by the Saudis to wage jihad against the Russian occupation of Afghanistan.

Former FBI translator Sibel Edmonds – Reportedly stated –

“The U.S. was on intimate terms with Al Qaeda and Taliban and used them to further certain goals in Central Asia.”

Guardian U.K. – Anthony Sampson, Thursday 1 November 2001,

“CIA agent alleged to have met Bin Laden in July – French report claims terrorist leader stayed in Dubai hospital.

Two months before September 11 Osama bin Laden flew to Dubai for 10 days for treatment at the American hospital, where he was visited by the local CIA agent, according to the French newspaper Le Figaro.”

Osama Bin Laden’s death in Dec 2001 reported and acknowledged by several leading news papers, Pakistan Presidents, U.S. government and intelligence agencies – references cited in the preceding blog post titled – ‘Democracy under Siege.’

Most importantly the Bush administration had knowledge about Osama Bin Laden’s demise for it was published by –

Foxnews.com – Wednesday December 26, 2001:

Report – “Bin Laden Already Dead”

Subsequently the Bush-Cheney administration dismissal of Osama Bin Laden video with strong affirmation that Al Qaeda leader was dead per –

The Telegraph,

By Toby Harnden in Washington, 12.01AM GMT 28 Dec, 2001

US casts doubt on Bin Laden’s latest message –

The recording was dismissed by the Bush administration yesterday –

“As sick propaganda possibly designed to mask the fact the al-Qa’eda leader was already dead.”

“Hunting for Osama Bin Laden.’

Not barring the specific instruction to the U.S. armed personnel by the then commander-in-chief and former President George W. Bush, the former Vice President Dick Cheney and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld not to capture Osama Bin Laden in Tora Bora considering their claim that Osama Bin Laden was behind the 9/11attack.

Similarly former Iraqi PSiresident Saddam Hussein was also linked to 9/11 for invasion of Iraq.

The recent revelations on Osama Bin Laden not charged by FBI for 9/11 and the former Vice President Dick Cheney in concurrence with that position during an interview in 2006 (included in the Featured Video – alqaeda doesn’t exist – documentary Part 1) stated that,

‘There has never been forthcoming evidences against Osama Bin Laden in the 9/11 attack. So we decided not to press charges.”

Simultaneously the previous administration solemnly proclaimed Osama Bin Laden as the terror mastermind behind 9/11. The inconsistencies and evasions call for in-depth independent inquiry in the 9/11 horrific homeland terrorism.

The escalation of warfare up until now in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen… on false pretexts with thousands of brave men and women in the U.S and coalition forces sacrificed,

Not to mention the millions of innocent lives lost and several millions displaced as refugees alongside economic liabilities contributing to burgeoning national debt predominantly from illegal wars deserves objective and impartial hearing in public view.

Failure to uphold the principle – “none are above the law” upon which the great nation was founded has set dangerous precedence granting unlimited executive power rendering democracy irrelevant.

When ordinary citizens commit a crime, the law enforcement agencies, media and the political voices demonstrate the individual capability to bring the perpetrators to justice.

At the same time such clamor is ominously missing against political establishment with abstinence or extreme collusion having become the trend in contemporary society.

The prevalent norm that punishes the innocent denying due process with fabricated convictions while the guilty favored permanent impunity for political or economic advantages conclusively define double standards in the apparent distinction between the privileged and the average class.

Justice department and intelligence agencies held under the executive branch have been politically convenient to remove whistle blowers and retain conciliators with public information ‘classified’ for an indefinite period.

With respect to relentless wars in Islamic nations and oil rich Middle East –

The legislative branch with the exception of lawmakers, albeit a minority holding strong reservations for disproportionate defense expenditure largely attributed to the alarming national debt invariably cast their votes to prolong foreign occupation and invasion in the so-called war on terror.

Paradoxically, the same legislators threaten to shut down the government, filibuster legislation related to improving American lives, environment or social equality.

The misplaced priorities continually result in Washington gridlock eventually benefitting the segments with influential lobbyists reining control over all three branches of the government as witnessed in the –

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Chief admitting the role in the Supreme Court decision on Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission blocking ban on corporate political spending.

The era dominant by the powerful conglomerate comprising royalty, governments, corporations, media moguls, and military institutions along with intelligence agencies as the New World Order conducting secretive meetings on global matter and discreet policies proved detrimental to the environment and humanity at large is nearing end.

The entities are directly or indirectly pledged to the undemocratic system providing immunity on crimes against humanity.

Hence, restoring democracy by rejecting secrecy is quintessential to validate republic rule.

Additionally application of law across the society and thorough investigation with appropriate findings would exemplify real democracy in the land of justice.

Breaking hierarchy set up to proliferate rather than prevent systemic abuse of power is required more than ever to safeguard freedom and sovereignty.

Perhaps the saving grace in democracy revival.

It is incumbent upon Congress, Judiciary and civil society members to probe the dealings of the earlier and current administration about Osama Bin Laden, the justification of war based on falsehood and deception bearing serious ramifications on human lives and the planet.

In the latest operation Geronimo – the White House, the State Department and Defense Secretary are obliged and not slight the plea for the release of evidences methodically eliminated with refusal to share them.

Besides ignoring the national and international disbelief in the global issue.

Why was the operation carried out during blackout?

What was the factor behind the alleged dead body of Osama Bin Laden disposed in the sea contradictory to the treatment towards Saddam Hussein and his sons targeted and killed by the U.S. mission?

The unilateral decision to strike a potential suspect arguably a CIA asset in a sovereign nation depicting extrajudicial execution followed by systematic removal of evidences at Presidential discretion is stretching the executive power as the ultimate rule of law.

There are entities in the United States and other parts of the world wanted for various crimes associated with political, tax fraud and economic activities…causing immense suffering to the population.

Should they follow suit with extradition treaty either selectively exercised or being ineffective?

United States epitomizing leadership is honorable in adherence to international law and not displaying dominance and superiority.

In light of non-cooperation and the entire operation severely lacking in credibility,

The White House and the key cabinet colleagues – the Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert Gates are to be subjected to transparency and the law of the land that would otherwise be enforced on mainstream population in similar conditions.

Any favoritism or reluctance to pursue the truth conspicuously subverted in the narration and operation would represent complicity on the part of the responsible authorities and members in the society.

Democracy is increasingly threatened with the majority marginalized on national issues defying accountability.

People have the power to reverse the rapidly deteriorating moral and ethical efficacy in the political, economic and social apparatus.

Only then democracy could prevail as the government of the people, for the people and by the people.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://youtu.be/K6C24GpgQTQ http://youtu.be/M8vFSqYXJ8U http://youtu.be/08TV7MabJw0 http://youtu.be/Ct9xzXUQLuY http://youtu.be/FrQYP-lbuFM http://youtu.be/ip3BGa5tAQA http://youtu.be/JQ5jnBOvNbo http://youtu.be/pBq8CGwDuxM http://youtu.be/kR_Q1KxSx8o http://youtu.be/jz5IWZRwIml

Democracy under Siege

By Padmini Arhant

President Barack Obama declared the alleged killing of Osama Bin Laden during the U.S. raid in Abbottabad, Pakistan a week ago with Presidential speech, statements and CIA director interviews raising more doubts due to incongruences pronouncing the inherent contradictory presentations thus far.

In the absence of evidence prior to and after the alleged shooting of Osama Bin Laden – an established CIA asset ‘died’ December 13, 2001 acknowledged by Pakistan Presidents and United States government as well as central intelligence forces,

Notwithstanding news articles confirming on Dec 26, 2001 that Osama Bin Laden is deceased.

Pakistan Observer reporting the death at the same time.

Prominent Egyptian newspaper Al-Wafd reported Osama Bin Laden’s death and the funeral rites.

Foxnews.com – Wednesday December 26, 2001:

Report – “Bin Laden Already Dead” and

Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf  – ‘He died of Kidney failure.’

Israeli Intelligence in 2002 reiterated “Osama Bin Laden dead and all new videos are faked.”

Further, Osama Bin Laden kidney ailment and dialysis treatment were published and broadcast by U.S. New Channel – CBS news (presented in the blog post Featured Video).

Then the article By Anthony Simpson – The Guardian, Thursday 1 November 2001

“Two months before September 11 Osama Bin Laden flew to Dubai for 10 days for treatment at the American hospital, where he was visited by the local CIA agent, according to the French newspaper Le Figaro.”

In 2001 – the French newspaper Le Figaro is reported to have claimed per intelligence sources close to Osama Bin Laden that ‘Osama Bin Laden ordered kidney dialysis machine in 2000.”

Most relevantly  – According to The Telegraph,

By Toby Harnden in Washington, 12.01AM GMT 28 Dec, 2001

US casts doubt on Bin Laden’s latest message –

The recording was dismissed by the Bush administration yesterday –

“As sick propaganda possibly designed to mask the fact the al-Qa’eda leader was already dead.”

Osama Bin Laden death in 2001 was obviously well known among the intelligence, army, political and media circle – the conglomerate in control of the world affairs.

Now the question arises about the artful manipulation of facts, truth subversion to prolong foreign occupation and warfare not to mention the resurrection of Osama Bin Laden to life through fake videos and subsequent alleged death in the recently asserted American operation.

Most importantly, the Presidential discretion along with the key cabinet colleagues viz. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert Gates recommendation defying the request to produce evidence in public matter is a dismissal of democracy.

As for the press and media commentary – ‘Osama Bin Laden Killed in U.S. raid’ is acceptance of the purported action made complex with operation conducted in deliberate blackout eliminating every possible image and statements lacking in credibility is suggestive of the privilege granted to the powerful political establishment regardless,

While such benefit of the doubt not extended to mainstream population in a democratic society.

Ref; The Telepgraph.co.uk Thursday, May 05, 2011

Osama Bin Laden dead: Black out during raid on Bin Laden compound

“The head of the CIA admitted yesterday that there was no live video footage of the raid on Osama Bin Laden’s compound as further doubts emerged about the US version of events.

Leon Panetta director of the CIA revealed that there was a 25 minute blackout during which the live feed from cameras mounted on the helmets of the US Special Forces was cut off.

A photograph released by the White House appeared to show the President and his aides in the situation room watching the action as it unfolded.  In fact they had little knowledge of what was happening in the compound.

In the interview with PBS, Mr. Panetta said “Once those teams went into the compound I can tell you that there was a time period of almost 20-25 minutes where they really didn’t know just exactly what was going on. And there were some very tense moments as we were waiting for information.”

Complacency and complicity are the major threats to democracy promoting abuse of power at the helm expected to epitomize transparency rather than refuting reality especially in the purely circumstantial based operation as revealed by the CIA director Leon Panetta resulting in loss of lives.

More details in this context will be presented shortly.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

http://youtu.be/qmsIR9BxOwo http://youtu.be/yKRJ2elpOJ8 http://youtu.be/w-JqyiYVYlw http://youtu.be/W64oq1nqLJI http://youtu.be/2ZGaDyo8rNk http://youtu.be/DIwfp6YDXTM http://youtu.be/HrHZb1mYV6M

Libya – Leader Muammar Gaddafii’s Last Opportunity

By Padmini Arhant

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi reportedly lost his family members – sixth son Saif Al-Arab and three grand children in the latest NATO air strike.

Any loss of life is deeply regrettable and condolences are conveyed to the grieving family on the tragedies experienced by them.

However, the Libyan leader since uprising escalated unprecedented violence against own population leading to the status quo.

The shroud of sorrow on the Gaddafi family today were long endured by Libyan people under the leadership’s tyranny and oppression unleashed over four decades especially in recent response to citizens’ peaceful plea for Gaddafi government’s resignation in order to realize real political freedom.

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and loyalists remain defiant and unwilling to honor the national will by stepping down from office despite the personal loss proving the individual priority i.e. to cling on to power regardless of massive bloodshed, chaos and destruction causing immense grief all around.

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi’s desperate attempts to extend power under false propositions that were previously not fulfilled and unlikely to happen at present or in the future demonstrates the leadership seizing every available situation to self-advantage.

Such governance having failed to win the citizens’ trust and confidence can never prevail in prolonging power against national and international dissent or poignantly deliver the promise.

Therefore it is important for the leader Muammar Gaddafi and his family to accept reality by quitting from power and prepare to permanently leave Libya not forgetting the consequences of earlier refusal resulting in family deaths largely attributed to the leadership’s presumptuous decisions ignoring population plight.

As for the supporters – Gaddafi family and leadership have no gratitude and bound to be let down sharing similar outcome considering their attitude towards own family displayed in the obstinacy to move forward with the political agenda.

The unwavering loyalty to the violent regime rather than the people would accordingly deliver the end justifying the means.

The security personnel and others backing the regime are urged to pay serious attention to the unfolding events not sparing the offenders’ lives revealing the inescapable fact that violence begets violence and eye for an eye would only make the world go blind.

All those behind the embattled leadership crumbling from the helm to the bottom have no option but to lay down their arms and ammunition for the tide is turned against them.

Underestimating the developments would be naïve and rejecting the inevitable defeat is denial that could only expedite the regime’s expulsion.

Hence allowing wisdom to guide the moral engagement through immediate surrender by renouncing power and presence in the country could perhaps alleviate the regime’s burden on crimes against humanity.

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and heir apparent notwithstanding the rest of the government have the unique opportunity to reconcile terms with the people in their acknowledgment of the Gaddafi era coming to conclusion.

It is a non-negotiable and unequivocal demand seeking the regime’s rapid exit from the nation with the accumulated wealth in their possession to be withheld for national investment.

The courageous Libyan people sacrifices will not be in vain with every life lost in the political struggle cherished as the beacon light for an independent and prosperous Libya.

Please do not lose hope with freedom on the horizon.

Best Wishes to the resilient Libyan revolution for a glorious victory in the political liberation.

Thank you

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Syria – Violence Against Pro-Democracy Movement

By Padmini Arhant

Political uprisings throughout Middle East and North Africa reveal the common characteristics in the dictatorial regimes – brutal crackdown, eleventh hour false reform pledge to defuse uprising, characterize protesters as traitors when the profile fits the decadent rulers having held the population hostage for several decades.

Not to mention their subservience and loyalty to external sources with vested interests competing against the determined pro-democracy movement.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad inherited power from his father the former President Hafez al-Assad prolonging the dynasty rule since February 22, 1971.

Syria an ally of Iran, the adversary of Israel and Lebanon’s influential neighbor is confronted with people’s revolution currently sweeping across the region demanding the end to tyranny and oppression spanning over half a century.

Again the governments failure to recognize and acknowledge the public rejection of constitutional monarchy via dynastic governance, military coup and totalitarianism,

Notwithstanding the emergence to power through deception and exploitation of citizens’ trust revealed in broken promises are the reasons behind the prevalent political crisis causing trepidation among the corrupt and authoritarian regimes flagrantly backed by similar forces against meaningful democracy.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s violent measures directing armed security personnel and supporters to attack non-violent demonstrators that has claimed many innocent lives is yet another desperate strategy in following Iran, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia…but regrettably not learned from the consequences of such tactics in Egypt and Tunisia.

Anti-government rally in Syria being no different from events in other parts of Middle East is citizens’ revolt against authoritarianism primarily seeking the incumbent governments ouster in a non-negotiable and unequivocal term to facilitate the democratic system onset under republic rule.

The shadow government comprising nefarious representations successfully reins control over democratic and autocratic societies with relentless engagement in debilitating the rise of people power across the globe.

Accordingly the belligerent leaderships responsible for their own citizens’ deaths are divided in their allegiance to factions with synonymous traits and agenda targeting the people and policies favoring national interest.

For instance, Egypt, Jordan, Yemen and Bahrain leaderships protected as strategic allies for military operations while the nations with oil resources are safeguarded as key economic interests.

Therefore the interventions witnessed thus far – the procrastinated actions and deliberate miscalculations costing pro-democratic activists lives compounded with negotiations to extend regime power through heir apparent in Libya is a huge credibility factor undermining the revolutionaries’ victories in the respective nations.

Syria on the flip side falls in the same category due to the leadership alliance with Iran perceived to be the dominant player and the western allies’ regional foe despite the irrefutable commonalities between them – viz. submission to foreign powers and domestic repression.

Hence Iran’s guidance to Syria and the shadow government supported regimes resisting political transformation in the region is presumptuous for the revolutions commitment to prevail in the republic rule establishment can no longer be derailed through bloodshed and unscrupulous means.

The casualties suffered in the capital Damascus, central cities of Hama and Homs, coastal areas of Latakia and Banias, the northern cities of Raqqa and Idlib with the worst massacre in the southern province – Daraa confirm the governments’ irrational and inhumane approach to retain authority.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad renouncing power by stepping down from office immediately along with the loyalists departure to avoid further civilian deaths would prove the leadership’s genuine regard for Syria’s sovereignty.

Any leadership authorizing the use of live ammunitions against the population in the twenty first century is lost in the medieval times and,

Accepting the reality of violent era coming to conclusion with their dismissal from power by the people would perhaps lessen the burden on them in the inevitable judgment for crimes against humanity.

The brave patriots in Syria are commended for their steel resolve and perseverance to achieve political independence. The martyrs’ sacrifices will not be in vain with republic success on the horizon.

Good Luck! To the people of Syria for a glorious triumph in political liberation leading to social equality and economic prosperity.
‘
Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Yemen – GCC Deal and President Ali Abdullah Saleh Resignation

By Padmini Arhant

After months of street protests predominantly by the youth population and now with the rest of the nation behind the anti-government rally,

The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) brokered deal offers President Ali Abdullah Saleh’s resignation in 30 days and impunity from prosecution for any crimes.

It is a standard proposal from the embattled leaderships seen thus far in the Middle East and North African political uprisings.

Accordingly the demonstrators have strong doubts about the Yemeni President’s word on leaving office considering the broken promises earlier that has led to the regime extension over thirty-three years.

Furthermore President Ali Abdullah Saleh possible transfer of power to the Vice President Maj. Gen. Abd al-Rab Mansur al-Hadi (appointed by the President on October 3, 1994 – again over sixteen years in office),

Amid expressing inhibitions on several scenarios such as – potential military coup, insisting on transformation through ballot boxes and referendums – strategy that does not fit in with more than three decades of autocratic power and last but not the least,

Al Qaeda infiltration and Islamists from the Islah Party seizing power in the country on the brink of collapse.

First and foremost the incumbent President Saleh’s forecasts is actuality emanating from political oppression, economic depression and social repression under the present government.

Had the country been democratic with republic rule representing the entire nation, Al Qaeda, militarism and fundamentalism would have no place for the people would ensure that internal and external forces not seize their freedom, opportunities and equal status from them.

Therefore it is important for President Saleh to recognize the failures of his government since the existing problems in every frontier is aptly attributed to the decades old system centered on the political leadership and fewer party loyalists’ self-interest implemented in the agenda depleting national resources.

President Ali Abdullah Saleh can no longer convince the beleaguered nation desperately deserving a sea change in the political, economic and social environment benefitting all rather than the powerful and the affluent groups in the society.

Younger generation have dreams and aspirations to build their nation to conform to the twenty first century in every aspect.  The feat could not be accomplished with political independence denial.

President Saleh in the latest speech advised the youth to form a political party and challenge the ruling government in the election.

Although the belated suggestion to set up political party is motivating, the timing implies the political maneuver to let the quest for democracy dissipate with the expectation for situation reversal i.e. political governance under President Saleh.

Protesters anguish and mistrust against the GCC mediated offer is justified due to the key elements in the agreement viz. President Saleh departure from office delayed by 30 days and immunity granted to all those involved in violence against unarmed civilians reportedly claimed 130 lives until date.

People’s decision is clear in this regard seeking President Ali Abdullah Saleh to step down immediately and not in 30 days.  The terms are non-negotiable and the wealth accumulated during the entire period to be retained for national investment and not personal acquisition.

The military in Yemen is urged to safeguard boundaries and territories in addition to citizens’ lives as opposed to aiming for political power,

Notwithstanding extending support to President Saleh government or any partisan groups threatening national security.

The fundamentalism cannot survive in the political evolution began through educated youth movement having attracted remaining citizens from across the country with the activists in southern city Taiz and capital Sana focused on modern society establishment in the post political freedom.

President Ali Abdullah Saleh honoring the republic will by renouncing power in entirety would be a dignified exit as the inevitable developments could neither be stalled nor stopped across the region and elsewhere.

No leadership could assert authority through use of force and insist on continuing in power despite the bloodshed and economic severity affecting the nation.

The government resistance to political dissent only exacerbates the crisis facilitating stalemate serving none especially the defiant authorities in power for history is testimony in the past and recent times that velvet, jasmine and lotus revolutions have prevailed in ending decadent rule setting a precedence in synonymous cause.

Yemeni citizens are commended for the courage and patience in their effort to political liberation.  The determination to succeed is evident in their relentless pursuit for democracy.  Staying on course to achieve the goal is quintessential in the political struggle.

Every individual pledged to restoring sovereignty is a formidable opponent to the authorities and the martyrs’ sacrifice will not be in vain.

President Ali Abdullah Saleh term in office is effectively over and clinging on to position against people consent is anything but democratic.

Acknowledgment of reality is the peaceful and viable solution to the ongoing political standoff between the deposed leadership and the people.

Best Wishes to the people in Yemen for a resounding victory in political emancipation leading to social progress and economic prosperity.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

Dalit Representation in the LokPal Panel

By Padmini Arhant

The statement from the Lokpal committee undecided member Mr. Santosh Hegde on dalit representation that-

“Lokpal panel is five men panel with no room for such representation.  Such request made to derail Lokpal bill” is precisely required to be transcended with their inclusion in the highly politicized national cause.

Lokpal panel claimed to be premised on Mahatma Gandhi’s principles yet disenfranchising the society’s specific segment – the dalits unequivocally supported by Mahatma Gandhi in the crusade for social reform is contradictory to Gandhian philosophy of inclusiveness rather than exclusivity.

Further the committee need not be strictly restricted to five members considering the representation of a secular diverse society in every aspect.

The female member absence in the committee pronounces the gender alienation and therefore the recommendation of Mrs. Kiran Bedi, a dedicated social activist with relevant knowledge in the matter was made to reflect the contemporary society.

It is important for all concerned parties to prioritize national interest and set aside the personal and political differences for greater good.

The unique opportunity is available to exemplify the individual commitment to national service without heeding to distractions from sources against the phenomenal step to renew the image of a country that was established in moral and ethical governance.

Again it is earnestly hoped that Lokpal bill will be passed with overwhelming approval in the Parliament to begin a new chapter in history for the world’s largest democracy.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

India – Anti-Corruption Bill By Indian Civil Society

By Padmini Arhant

Indian politics is not different from the rest of the world on issues like public dissatisfaction with bureaucracy, corruption and political scandals.

In fact politics without corruption is analogous to fish on the land with the permeating odor affecting the surroundings upon contact.

Indian society has been long dealing with corruption from top down in public and private sector.  The nation has developed immunity to the virus resistant to both prevention and cure.

India’s independence movement began with sentiments contained on the surface and underneath simmering frustration on the bondage endured in homeland from foreign oppression.

If not for the strong and courageous leadership of the nation’s founding father – Mahatma Gandhi and several committed freedom fighters,

Indian history would perhaps be similar to the nations struggling for political liberty in the twenty first century.

Subsequently complacency to corruption, nepotism and cronyism predominantly contributed to the status quo – tax evasions, embezzlement, money hoarded in Swiss bank accounts and tax havens, complicity to atrocity against humanity,

Notwithstanding systemic abuse of power benefitting the powerful, affluent and influential in the society with demography at the lower economic strata marginalized including lagging investments in infrastructure and green technology.

As previously mentioned, no political faction is “Sanctus Stephanus Protomartyr” given the erupting political scandals.

The prolonged investigations and judicial process are still underway with prime suspects committing suicide or fleeing town to avoid trials against them.

Invariably all political parties and governments slighted the citizens’ voices against corruption and requests to address the issue over four decades leading to the recent hunger strike by a seventy two year old citizen Anna Hazare – reportedly Mahatma Gandhi follower, a former soldier in the Indian Army then a community organizer and later became a social activist.

The senior citizen Anna Hazare claimed to have written to Prime Minister DR. Man Mohan Singh and the ruling Congress Party President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi earlier this year on the worsening corruption situation.  Mr. Anna Hazare confirmed there was no response from either political leader to the plea.

Mr. Anna Hazare launched his fasting in mid-April that soon galvanized into national rally demanding government attention to the overwhelming corruption charges and allegations against ruling as well as opposition political parties at the central and state levels.

Indian citizens gathered in large numbers seeking a committee with members representing the civil society and the legislators from the government to draft a bill against corruption through robust measures to curb the epidemic stalling progress in many frontiers,

Besides tarnishing the image of a great nation poised to lead the world in the most challenging era.

The government’s agitation in accepting the civil society proposition on the committee with fair representation on both sides was evident in the developments involving the panelists nominated by Mr. Anna Hazare.

If the government approach was to adopt a high moral ground in exemplifying the important legislation’s ethical efficacy then it would have been appropriate to begin with their members – the four prominent cabinet ministers as eminent legal minds albeit not without political baggage in their respective domain.

Congress Party has been inundated with numerous allegations from 2G-Spectrum scam, Commonwealth Games Funds misappropriation, bribery charges during vote of confidence in 2008 to the direct implications of the political alliance with DMK and the Chief Minister Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu.

Notwithstanding the corruption cases dropped against the Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi in the Bofors Scandal by the Congress led government in 2009 and,

Closure of CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) probe in the criminal investigation against Mr. Quattrocchi per the Delhi High Court decision in March 2011 concluded after 250 crores Indian Rupees approximately $50 million expenditure in 25 years producing no result.

Likewise on the opposition front, the BJP protection to the Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa alleged dealings and the CM’s defiance in every respect reveals the impunity granted to members across the political spectrum.

The Congress Party President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi’s letter to Mr. Anna Hazare clarifying the disdain for smear campaign against the civil society panel,

Amid the Congress Party General Secretary Digvijaya Singh and the potential coalition partner Amar Singh relentless attacks against Lokpal committee members proved contradictory to the national party position rendering Mrs. Sonia Gandhi’s statements disingenuous based on the reality.

It is well known that politics is served with selective memory and made obvious in Mr. Digvijaya Singh’s analogy of the Congress government’s former Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology Mr. A. Raja – currently held in prison on 2G-Spectrum scandal in the remark against Lokpal committee representatives Mr. Shanti Bhusan and family.

Mr. Anna Hazare began the honorable mission against anti-corruption on the beleaguered victims behalf comprising the vast national majority.

The committee members notably Mr. Shanti Bhushan and his son Prashant Bhushan were nominated by Mr. Anna Hazare despite reservations within the support network on possible nepotism assertions from the groups against the bill.

Furthermore Mr. Anna Hazare previously insisted upon retaining the Bhushans for their legal expertise in parallel to the government’s delegates in the committee.

Now in the wake of controversies emanating from the incumbent party members and government officials’ concerted efforts against civil society panel,

Mr. Anna Hazare is reported to have distanced from his nominees Mr. Shanti Bhusan and Mr. Prashant Bhushan.

Since the legislation concerns the society posing imminent threat to the moral fabric of the nation known for noble Kings and in modern times the patriotic statesmen allegiance to truth, honesty and integrity,

It would be in national interest to select Lokpal (civil society) committee members subject to meeting the specific criteria on legal background i.e. specializing in ethical framework for the society at large combined with legislative procedures and constitutional law.

Mr. Shanti Bhushan and Mr. Prashant Bhushan could relieve the committee from their involvement and let the civil society proceed with the selection of the necessary emissaries in drafting the historic bill.

Social activists Arvind Kejriwal and Kiran Bedi deserve participation in the committee considering their knowledge, familiarity with social plight, dedication and unflinching determination to prevail in the national cause.

It is equally crucial to invite representation from the segments deemed outcasts viz. the dalits in the society.

The non-discriminatory bill aptly reflecting the compliance requirement regardless of political, economic and social stature with legal consequences is paramount to deter corruption and other prevalent crimes related to unethical conduct and immoral dealings costing taxpayers apart from draining national treasury.

Due diligence is necessary to ensure loopholes free legislation to prevent circumvention by authorities at the helm to the bottom.

India could set precedence in passing the monumental legislation and successfully implement the law for national good.

Congress Party and the government through finance minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee pledged to introduce the bill during the monsoon session and the conciliatory exchange is welcome.

The initial acknowledgment of the corrosive elements in the system is a refreshing start and devising methods for systematic elimination required to promote effective legislation.

Although democracy is vibrant with myriad views and opinions on the public matter, the objections from the government’s surrogates characterizing the civil society locally known as Lokpal as ‘anarchists’ and,

The spokespersons interpreting the citizens’ call for government reaction after waiting over forty three years as ‘impatience’ clearly demonstrates the polarity between the mainstream and the political establishment.

The apprehensions on civil society presenting the agenda is ironic in a democracy with the constitution set up to represent the government of the people, by the people and for the people – the recognition ominously missing in the present environment.

When the privileged and the political class could safeguard their prospects through active and passive input in the Parliamentary actions, it is rather prejudicial to question the ordinary citizens’ synonymous rights especially them experiencing the brunt of the widespread corruption in the society.

The government and the members against the anti-corruption bill are urged to refrain from mud slinging witnessed up until now for negativities hurt those harboring than the ones aimed at in the karmic and pragmatic sense.

It is sincerely hoped that the civil society would exercise sound reasoning and judgment in choosing the committee legal experts and the government on their part offer cooperation in constructing a formidable legislation and deliver the promise to eradicate corruption.

Upholding transparency and accountability is a key factor with a unique opportunity for the government to utilize the event by allowing the committee meeting to take place in public view via live broadcast.

Good Luck! To civil society and political leaderships in the social as well as political reform victory.

Thank you.

 

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

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