The fallout of the brutal rape and murder of a young girl have yet again demonstrated that the society still has a long way to go when it comes to displaying attributes such as civility, trust and restraint . The unfolding of events have once again brought to the limelight the ugly face of mob influence which is increasingly prevalent in our society. Somewhere along the way, we, as a collective, have somehow become restive, aggressive, impulsive and inconsiderate. But the most immediate concern is the growing negativism and distrust being displayed towards everything that has got to do with the state government and its methods of administration. We have taken recourse to implementing destructive and disruptive means at the slightest instance to air our grievances and our intents known. Perhaps, it is a reflection of the growing pessimism and dwindling confidence in those who are supposed to be upholding and dispensing the law. The increasingly apparent chasm between the haves and the have-nots, between the influential and the commoners or the powerful and the general public is a clear indication of the extent of disconnect that has come to exist in the society today. But is it right to vent our frustrations and anger on any and all incidents without considering the situation? What are we trying to prove when we assume the role of the judge and the jury without extending the opportunity to be heard and be represented? Who are we to act on our own assumption that the family of a criminal will always be as guilty of the crime? How do we seek to improve, rather demand the improvement of the law and order situation when we ourselves are hindering the process and taking away the atmosphere conducive to its functioning? On the other hand, why is the government and those who are responsible not exercising the authority to upkeep it, rather than engaging in its abuse to their own personal advantage? Why is the government letting the mob pry away its hold on the responsibility to dispense fair and swift justice? For a government to govern successfully and efficiently, an efficient, just, swift and upright stand need to be taken when it comes to the question of upholding and implementing law and order. Discrimination, lethargic and favoritism in dispensing justice or administering law is bound to make matters worse. This dangerous and undesirable precedent needs to be nipped in the bud. Only an upright, proactive and earnest authority willing and prepared to face resistance and setbacks to prove its absolute intent can make that much needed turnaround. Every single individual in the state needs to delve on the matter and not leave it to the suspicious and greasy hands of those who have evidently failed to walk the talk. We also need to exercise restraint, practice tolerance and repose our faith in the judiciary and the executive authorities.
