Personal Note::Great game of blind political patronage

Great game of blind political patronage

In one of the many biographies written on Abraham Lincoln, there is a particular narrative of an event leading up to the appointment of Salmon P Chase as the Chief Justice of Supreme Court, USA on December 6, 1864.

Biography contains that Salmon P Chase on his own merit as politician, professional and activist deserved to be there however, given the estranged facts that he ran against Lincoln for Republican nomination in 1860; later resigned unceremoniously while serving as Secretary of the Treasury (1861-64) during civil war. Many republicans felt that Chase as a jurist per se, deserved to be the Chief Justice but were wary of Lincoln since it was well known fact that Chase had superior complex over Lincoln.  Lincoln took his time of 2 months to nominate him in December, much after the death of previous Chief Justice in October 1864. While justifying the time taken, biographer quoted Lincoln of stating that he himself wanted to be sure of being unbiased to have an optimum working relations, in the larger interests of the nation.

The post was/ is a political post, appointed by the President, US of America. And Abraham Lincoln was exceptional.

The significance of re-rendering the narratives is for the larger benefit of the political leaders in our state of Arunachal Pradesh to understand that even in political appointments, one can see through the authority’s personal character and commitment to the governance and larger interest of the society.

In political appointments, it’s a given condition, there’s no consideration for competence or suitability. However, when largesse is announced, financial implications must be considered in a state like Arunachal where fiscal balance is hanging by a thread. One can’t close eyes and wish away the dark clouds when scientific calculation indicates that it shall rain, heavily. By more of such financially over-bearing appointments, one is creating a legacy of disservice, blatant and blind patronage, which is not considered good today and shall earn even more wraths, when authority is no more in power. History shall judge; and shall judge it as quixotic decisions.

In a society dominated by “thinking people”, expectations would have been “strictures for austerity measures”, led by example from the top leadership team. Consideration in rainy days should have been reviewing of non-value adding posts and positions, mergers of roles and responsibilities but what we are witnessing is a complete contrast picture. Gloomy picture is sheer arrogance, almost like making a statement – “My team and I don’t care!”

Blind political patronage has reached its peak, from where it is destined to dive south.  Its only befitting to quote Lincoln:"Nearly all men can stand the test of adversity, but if you really want to test a man's character, give him power." It is more than evident, leaders in the state are faced with adversities and besieged with power; not knowing what to do with first, they are fiddling with latter.