Congressulations!

2009 parliamentary election couldn't have come at a better time for India. With global economy in dire states, bailout packages flying like pack of cards and governments busy preparing stimulus plans, circulating money and increasing spendings had become need of the hour. Like all other economies, Indian economy too needed a jolt. And it came in the form of 'elections 2009' - a 6000 crore stimulus!

There was excitement in the air on the eve of the election. After the Mumbai attacks, it was expected that people would come out in large numbers to vote. But it wasnt to be. In fact, the voting percentage in Mumbai declined to 42%, about 3% less than last time. Scorching heat, long weekend or mere indifference, whatever the reason be, it was just dissapointing!

16th May 2009 - the D-day. With EVMS in place, the counting was expected to finish in half a day! Thats awesome for a developing country like India. As expected, Congress started with a big lead. Faring better than NDA was definitely on the cards, as NDA lacked a strong leadership (contrary to their claims of 'mazboot neta, nirnayak sarkar). The country seems to have matured a lot, with a clear understanding that religious fundamentalism at the center could do no good to a secular state. Moreover, the people are tired of the riots and hungamas based on fundamentalism. Also, the general anti-incumbency mood was missing. The only threat could have been from 3rd front, and some spurring alliances. As the counting completed and results came out, it was clear that Congress had thwarted all the threats to record a historic performance, winning over 200 seats. With Mayawati falling flat on her face, Left having no place to hide and Advani dream of becoming PM remaining a dream, its a red carpet for Congress. Led by Manmohan Singh (who eventually turned out to be sashakt neta), India is looking forward to a progressive, decisive, sobre and a strong government.

As Left's left out of the government, we can expect reforms to take place at a faster pace. The first task at hands for the new government would be to get the economy back on track. This task seems to be in safe hands. The second task would be to strengthen the foreign policies, and third, to prepare for countering any threat from neighbourhood. It is to be seen whether the Congress, with a younger team, does meet the burden of expectations. But at the moment, it can just rejoice and celebrate the wonderful performantce. An apt Pankillism to conclude the election story - "Congressulations!"