One of the common denominators between Chief Minister of
Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal and Greek Prime Minister, Alexis Tsipras, is – they both have
promised the moon to their electorate.
It is also clear from the very
start that the stated mission of both these leaders, is going to be, if not
impossible, then a real challenge to meet.
Tsipras has assured to renegotiate the terms of the Greek
bailout deal, raise the minimum wage, re-hire public sector workers and reduce
taxes. In Delhi, Kejriwal is no short of promises too, he is expected to dole
out 20,000 litres of free water a month to all household, cut electricity rates
by half, create 500 new schools, 20 new colleges and to top it all, abolish
contract labour everywhere.
The common man in both Athens and New Delhi is hopeful and
impatient. Neither they understand implications of freebies and nor do they
care.
Renegotiated bail out in Athens will not come, only on the
symbolism of Tsipras not wearing a tie. Similarly, the now iconic muffler will
not ensure reduction in electricity rates.
The Germans have already rejected Tspiras demand for $11
billion of Second World War reparations, calling the Greek government’s claims
“baseless”. Full statehood for Delhi, given the security constraints will also
not come on a platter.
The situation in New Delhi may not be as desperate as in
Athens but empty promises will soon start pinching and an effort to give
immediate doles, will put at risk, of what can be salvaged through pragmatic
decision making.
Kejriwal’s party in its manifesto promises to look for
innovative solutions, spend efficiently and raise revenue. For starters,
however, they have asked for Centre's support in the swift regularisation of
unauthorised colonies and aid for the development of rural areas.
Singing a
similar tune, Tsipras is already shifting the burden of performance on others
and said that it is essential for all of Europe, not just Greece, that his
government succeeds in reshaping its bailout programme.
As both leaders move ahead, they should know that blaming
others for non-performance may not settle well with their voters. Greece has
already seen six elections, Delhi should not go that way.
On a lighter note:
“Delhi mein Shah Alam;
Lal Qile se Palam”
