33 yrs on, no lesson learnt from Bhopal

NEW DELHI: It’s now 33 years since the terrible Bhopal Gas Tragedy. I’d call it a double tragedy. Not only because of the terrible harm it inflicted on people who haven’t received an iota of justice till today, but because India hasn’t learnt the lessons at all.

One would have imagined that after the tragedy, India — the state, business and citizens — would realise that poisons kill, both slowly and instantly. One would imagine that they would ensure this won’t be repeated.

Unfortunately, we are in the midst of the worst possible toxic nightmare today. Cities across India are reeling under air pollution. People are dying. Instead of remembering Bhopal, we find runs and cricket matches played with gusto, as if pollution is not a problem. We have other pollution issues too. We can’t drink the waters of our rivers, or assume the soil is safe enough to plant in. Pesticides have percolated everywhere. Although I am tempted to say that all middle-class Indians, sufficiently empowered, should hang their hands in shame, I would much rather we act.

Our laws exist, semi-implemented, but we have to act as communities. A key way forward would be to cut down our consumption by half. This needs community support and action, otherwise you are an outsider. When you learn about polluters ruining entire villages, lend support as best you can.