So far, in the aftermath of the terrible attacks in Mumbai, our anger and frustration has been directed at politicians and bureaucrats. The ordinary citizen’s ire has resulted in a few cosmetic changes – the stepping down of senior ministers – and some other steps that have long term implications, such as the setting up of a federal investigative agency. Gradually our entire security architecture will undergo a major shift and unless checks and balances are put in place, will change the way we live.

For instance, security will be heightened every step of the way in our day to day existence. Entering public buildings, malls, cinemas etc has already changed, but from now on even going to a hotel for a drink will be fraught with logistical complications. Already in Mumbai, many housing societies have put up boards saying outsiders’ cars will not be allowed in and landlords are also demurring over renting out their apartments.

Security is a good idea and should be encouraged, but at one point, commonsense steps give way to paranoia and suspicion. Every citizen needs to be aware of basic security tips – reporting an unclaimed bag is a good idea – but when we start getting jumpy at every step and lose all sense of proportion, we turn into a frightened society. Then we start looking towards instruments of state power to step in and take charge. We have heard voices calling for “army rule” in the fond belief that it will be better than democracy, which is seen as noisy, messy, chaotic and corrupt. Well, all one has to do is to look at the neighbouring countries where army rule has only meant more of those things and dictatorship to boot.

The same kind of mentality has been seen in the demand that the terrorist who has been caught should not be given a fair trial. Lawyers who have said they will defend him have been harassed. This goes against the spirit and letter of our democratic principles. The chief justice has already criticised this tendency and addressed many of the common misconceptions and prejudices about the rule of law. His article can be read here. http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/16/stories/2008121653310800.htm

It is important to know what kind of society we want. The people of many states that went to elections after the terror attacks showed that they were not taken up by fear mongering. They valued their vote and excercised their choice. That is an example we need to follow, instead of craving for some muscular, dictatorial force to take over and run our lives.