Protesting amidst a pandemic

The ruling dispensation is good at rhetoric;
Meanwhile, the farmers' protest acquires significance historic.

Democracy works best with dialogue,
Instead of post facto explanatory monologues.

A sincere debate on the floor of the house,
Perhaps would have avoided such grouse.

Politicians now say that tillers can sell at will,
But they don't want corporate tills being filled.

They brace winters harsh;
Politicians continue their microphonic barks.

But an episode or two of Mann Ki Baat,
May not lead to the protesters giving the Sarkaar their saath.

While nationwide attention on this issue is firmly fixed,
Let us not forget that the pandemic has not been nixed.

With the virus evolving newer mutations,
Our country does not deserve further devastation.

It is time to put an end to this impasse,
Be it notifications, repeal or amendments being passed.

All it takes is some will,
Can we please stem the number of those killed?

(Rohan Deshpande practices as a Counsel in the Bombay High Court and writes on law and current affairs. The views are personal.)