DEFINING A CITY:TRUE IDENTITY LIES IN CITIZEN SAFETY, NOT JUST BUILDINGS—MANJU SINGH

DEFINING A CITY:TRUE IDENTITY LIES IN CITIZEN SAFETY, NOT JUST BUILDINGS—MANJU SINGH

19-JULY-ENG 9

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA---------------------------Patna’s railway station ranks among the country’s best. However, a city’s true identity is defined not merely by its buildings, but by the safety of its ordinary citizens.

When serious allegations regarding crime, illicit activities, and organized gangs repeatedly surface in the capital, the most critical questions must be directed not only at the administration but also at the elected representatives who serve the public from within that very city. Whether in power or in opposition, when the voices of both sides falter on issues that truly matter to the people, it is the ordinary citizen who pays the ultimate price for democracy.

Our greatest tragedy is not that crimes occur; rather, it is that we view every incident through the prism of caste, political party, and ideology—prioritizing these over humanity and justice.

Be it the death of Bharat Tiwari or the murder of Bunty Yadav, both incidents raised distinct questions. One case cast doubt on police action, while the other highlighted the growing audacity of criminals. Yet, every such incident serves as a reminder: when an individual raises their voice against corruption, crime, or systemic flaws, ensuring their safety and justice is the responsibility of any civilized society.

Consider this: criminals never attack someone only after asking their caste. Bullets do not discriminate by caste, crimes are not committed based on religion, and injustice does not knock only at the door of a specific community. Today, we remain silent when someone else’s home is devastated, only to find that same pain knocking at our own door tomorrow.

But what do we actually do? We ignore the real issues and start counting castes. Some say, "The Chief Minister belongs to my caste," while others say, "The leader is from my community," leading us to gloss over their every mistake. It is this blind support that shields the system from accountability. Remember, no one’s hold on power is permanent, yet the weaknesses of the system eventually force every citizen to pay a price. Therefore, do not turn any politician into a god. In a democracy, leaders are servants of the people, not objects of worship.

Real change will begin the day we rise above caste considerations to speak of justice, security, and accountability. Otherwise, while it is someone else's turn today, tomorrow it could be yours.

The choice, therefore, is yours: do you want to protect caste interests or the well-being of society? Do you want to shield a politician or safeguard the future of coming generations?

Rising crime statistics in Patna, the capital of Bihar, are a cause for concern. Recent reports indicate an increase in incidents of murder, robbery, and extortion in the city. This situation not only raises questions about law and order but also instills a sense of insecurity among citizens.

Sociologists believe that as long as we view crime through the prism of caste, the justice system will continue to weaken. For genuine change to occur, civil society, the media, and political parties must come together to ensure accountability.

Ultimately, every citizen must decide whether to remain silent in the name of caste or to raise their voice for a safe and just society. The power to transform the city's identity lies in the hands of the common people.