E-Paper
"Politics can transcend caste"
Author and lecturer Saradindu Mukherji discusses Bihar's recent history and fall in educational standards.
Saradindu Mukherji, who teaches History at the Delhi University and has authored Peasant Politics and the British Government (1930-40), discusses Bihar's post-Independence history and the deterioration of education system with Saif Shahin.
Has Bihar's polity declined over the years?
Yes, it definitely has. I think the deterioration began in the late sixties, from around the time of chief minister KB Sahay. The idealism of the freedom movement had died by then, and people with no commitment to public welfare started coming to power.
The bureaucracy was forced to become a part of the corrupt system, and help politicians make money.
How has the failure of land reforms contributed to Bihar's poverty?
Significantly. Land reforms were successful in West Bengal and Kerala, and just look at the difference they have made there. In Bihar, they were totally neglected.
Their failure has also affected Bihar socially. Bihar has seen no "renaissance", like some other states. Caste consciousness still remains extremely strong, which is not the case in states like West Bengal.
But given an opportunity, politics can transcend caste. A good example is that of George Fernandes who, in spite of being a Christian and a Kannada, has been winning election after election in Bihar.
Why has industry not developed in Bihar?
Bihar has always lacked an entrepreneurial class. States like Gujarat and Maharashtra have had plenty of local entrepreneurs, who have contributed to their state's prosperity. But their absence in Bihar has meant that there has been no private push for industrial development.
This has translated into lack of political encouragement for industry and the consequent absence of even basic infrastructure.
Why is education in such a mess?
Originally, the education system was not so poor. Bihar produced some great students, like Rajendra Prasad. The system has declined only in recent years.
I think the reason is its politicisation. For instance, most vice chancellors appointed to Bihar universities in the last two-three decades have not come from academic backgrounds. They have all been political appointees. Student politics has also deteriorated in this period.
Then, there have never been many takers for English education. The first English school in Bihar came up in Patna as early as the 1850s. It was known among locals as "shaitan ka ghar" (the House of Satan).
Most students don't have any English background whatsoever by the time they reach university, and then they come across books that are all in English. They naturally suffer.
