Sir,

This has reference to the article Does Mysuru need an NGO platform like the one provided by MGP ? by Dr. Bhamy Shenoy (SOM dated Feb. 20, 2021) and a rejoinder from Ashvini Ranjan (MGP — A need for a stronger NGO platform in SOM dated March 1). Both of them have well established for a dire need for an NGO like Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) and no doubt a stronger one than the present or the earlier working version of MGP.

It is a stark fact that MGP is an NGO without a body but only a soul (as described by one of the MGP Past Presidents). It does not have an office premises of its own and a staff to do its self- proclaimed work (of acting as a bridge between common citizen and the powers that be). Does this speak of its vibrant existence all these years? Was it not possible to find a physical place of its own for so many years knowing all the resourceful persons in the corridors of administration? Or was it a wilful self negation? A newspaper establishment such as yours have better body with muscles to take up many issues affecting the citizens.

As per the survey figures quoted by Ranjan, it is very difficult to meet either a public representative or a Government Officer and hence the need for an NGO like MGP. But what does a common citizen facing several issues unresolved for a long time find when he approaches MGP? No-body-but-only-a-soul advising him to follow certain procedures or file a case in Consumer Court for redressal ! How does it change the ground reality for the common citizen by mere existence of MGP without a body?

An honest way would be to receive many such issues from time to time from several citizens from different areas, discuss them in detail as to the causes, think of solutions and take it up with the authorities concerned and get the solutions implemented, while keeping the complainant constantly informed and apprised. At least it will do justice to its name — Grahakara Parishat.

No doubt the health and vibrancy of MGP needs to be restored but not allowing once again indulging in unconstitutional activities outside the frame of working for all such NGOs. The act of supporting the administration and the elected representatives, after they come into the office duly elected, is a part of NGOs’ work to redress the grievances. But supporting some political candidates during elections, financing some of the campaigns are different. Let us not confuse between them to be same. This violates the framework of all NGOs.

How can MGP deal with the elected representative whom they had indirectly opposed by campaigning for the rival candidate?

The previous working group of MGP was suspected to have been engaged in such acts besides being autocratic and being manipulative and hence the General Body took serious view of it and forced an election for the first time in the history of MGP.

Lastly, referring to the last para of Ranjan’s letter, it is appropriate to remember what the British PM Sir Winston Churchill said on transfer of power to Indians. If we approve of his statements coming out of fear for stability, was there a plan B? Yes, there is no end to learning! Each one of us is a student till death!

– Prof. B.S. Shankara (Retd.), Life Member-MGP, Ramakrishnanagar, 8.3.2021

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