Speeches in Parliament Vol. (IV)-141

Now, with these things, how is this Government going to give a lead to the nation when the country needs a lead? This is the time when Government and the leaders must come forward and give a lead to the people and say, ‘Here we are with you; these are your difficulties; and these are the solutions that we want to give you.’ That is what is expected of a Government. A democratic government does not merely want to rule; it has to lead the people, in every day life, in everyday situations; in every day problems. That is what we understand by democratic way of life.

This is the economic situation we are facing; this is the political situation. This is the feeling of the Harijans. What is happening to the Harijans? They are still the same neglected and exploited class in this country (Interruptions) We made a noise about it, we tried to do whatever we could, but we have not been able to achieve much. These are the issues that need answer, these are the issues which need leadership.

Government must provide the leadership and if the government is unable to provide the leadership, the only alternative before them is to get out. There is no other situation. It is not a question of trying to be goody-goody because as I said am doing my national duty. I am not speaking against anybody in any sense of hostility or dislike of anybody. I have got personally good feelings for everyone of you. But it is not the personal relations that matters most. It is the national issues and solutions for them that are needed.

Mr. Speaker, I do not want to take more time at this stage. I will have the right of reply to the points that will be made on the other side. I think l have taken 30 minutes and I think it is more than enough for me at this stage.

I move my motion and hope that the House will accept it.