I do not know why the Modi Government is facing so much of opposition for many of the bills they want to bring in , particularly the Land ( Acquisition ) Reform Bill? There is certainly something amiss, or else why they were required to agree for 9 amendments.
I am inclined to agree to their recent claim now that the congress and the other opposition parties are eying for elections in Bihar, and hence they are trying to drive mileage out of this issue. But then there are avenues open to them. They should utilize the power of electronic media ( TV ) - Radio and the print media too, to explain to the common man as to what the earlier bill ) introduced by UPA ) had vis a vis the current one, why did they bring new bill, why did they not refined the earlier bill, what were the plus and minuses of both the bills. They should make an effort to educate the common man and take them along with them. Hand - Holding is the need of the hour to win the confidence of the common man. If the opposition and the NGOs like Anna Hazare are not willing for an open debate, then call a meeting of all CMs and other stake holders like leaders of farmers' associations / unions etc.
This needs to be done on priority as it is holding many growth related investments back, including the FDIs etc in infrastructure, Roads, defence etc.
Let them not make it an Ego Issue, Let them not try to call a joint session to get numbers in their favour, because that may lead to more protests and it will be sort of carrot in the hands of the opposition who will not miss the opportunity to spread this move as high handedness on the part of the government. There might be nation wide agitations and the image of the government might nosedive to a point of no return.
I wrote to the PMO India, on their web site the following:
Your Land Reform Bill is facing big time hurdles from all opposition parties. If you and your ministers feel that you are pro - poor and pro farmer and the opposition is just trying to increase their vote bank, why don't you reach the masses through electronic and print media ? Invite media in press conferences, invite leaders from farmer fraternity, invite NGOs and have open debate in HINDI & English. Similarly Spend money on giving full details in Local papers in Hindi and other regional languages. Expose the Congress, Don't Attack them That, in my opinion will be a pro active step. I am ready to provide my services once i am convinced myself that you are on the side of the poor and farmers.
Choice for the government is to win the confidence, by educating the people, taking media in confidence, carry the nation with them. Only PM can and shall do this, if he is convinced that the government is on the RIGHT side of the issue.
