Indians as a rule are either too docile and sycophantic or on the other extreme, far too aggressive when a cooler but firmer head will do equally well.
In my opinion, this has to do with extreme subjugation in one's childhood. Indian parents are far too restrictive with their children, in the name of discipline and good manners, thus setting the foundation for weak self-esteem in later life. I don't know if it is prevalent now, but in the day, you were made to listen silently to anybody older than you, be it the priest, the teacher or an uncle or aunt, even if they were wrong and you right. The other unwanted trait Indians have absorbed is from their previous colonial masters, whether British or Portuguese. I am referring to the extreme deference given to authority, treating them on par with royalty or God. No questions asked, no logic presented, no service demanded in the nature of them being Public Servants. Just shake your head and nod, is what is expected and performed. Take Aires Rodrigues' frequent opposition to the unauthorized use of the Red Beacon by Goa's minor and tinpot functionaries. The Supreme Court had listed those who can use the beacon on the cars, but that list itself is a yard long. Why should anyone including the Governor of Goa use the beacon to clear roads for his car. Can he not make allowances for expected traffic and leave earlier. And if the Governor does it, why not the Chief Minister or Leader of the Oppostion. Will the Vidhan Sabha burn down if they are late to attend? India should attempt to leave the ranks of backward countries and join advanced nations where the red lights are used only by Police, Ambulances and Fire Departments and that too only on duty calls or emergency situations. For example the Fire Trucks put on sirens and lights when rushing to a fire and will turn them off on the return to the Station. Perhaps if the Tinpots travel like the public, they will have the same mortality risks as them and have a better appreciations for the traffic problems they face. Roland Francis Toronto.
