Lalu managed to rule the kingdom of Bihar for so long by whatever means. but then he is no different from other politicians in that respect. However the reason why he’s being voted in the office term after term might lie in the very tangible line of caste along which our country is divided socially, politically as well as electorally. A society is built upon a heirarchichal structure that priviledges some at the expense of others. this also decides who gets the privildge of education and who doesn’t. What u’re discussing here, the problem of literacy is but mere symptom of the deep rooted disease of casteism and oppresion.

when an ‘illiterate’ person from the scheduled castes of bihar votes, then globalization, economic reforms and other so-called pan indian issues are not on his mind. his only concern would be to make sure the upper caste of the village (backed by the poiliticians of the constituency) don’t make life hell for him and his family.

As for the “liberal” educated west, the fact that bush got two terms in a row, especially at the time when his infamy was at its peak following Iraq war…what does that tell u about the educated west? “when in doubt, play safe” that’s the motto of West. In war times, americans do NOT change their Presidents. that’s that.
This year, with a Black democart in the race, the presidential race has grown complicated. And with “change” being the lietmotif of this black democaractic candidate, knowing well the American double standard regarding radicalism when and as it suits them….i wouldn’t sweep aside Vir Sanghvi’s observations ina a hurry.