Janadesh 2007

People’s Verdict 2007

A March beginning on October 2^nd, 2007

“Democracy is all about people’s capacity to control the state when power is abused.” – Mahatma Gandhi 

A 300-Kilometer march is being planned in October 2007 from Gwalior to New Delhi in India as a way to demonstrate people’s power in the country’s capital and to make the state responsible and accountable to its people.

Why hold a march?

People are hopeless in large number across the Indian sub-continent. The trickle down development of this and preceding governments have failed to give people the basic means of survival. The jargon used by our leaders of good and democratic governance is hallow and exists more in policies and laws than in practice. Either people accept this with resignation or they challenge the state system. By marching to Delhi they are taking up a challenge of voicing their discontent in spite of the consequences and the might of the state. This march will also aim to galvanize larger groups of people suffering the similar problems in other countries.

Who is joining the march?

20,000 people including village leaders and activists who have been part of social movements for many years, along with intellectuals and other diverse actors will join the march. In the capital it is expected another 1,00,000 people will join.

Why does the march begin in Gwalior? 

The walk begins in Gwalior because it is the historic place where 500 outlaws (dacoits) surrendered their arms in front of the photograph of Mahatma Gandhi in 1972 and is historic in terms of non-violent action.

Why is the 2^nd of October? 

One of the largest non-violent struggles in history took place by Mahatma Gandhi in India during the freedom struggle. October 2^nd is his birthday.

Why India? 

There is a history of non-violent struggles in India there are many going on today. It is believed that the aggressive force of capitalism can be redirected in favour of a more equitable political order through people’s dissent and voice for change. This can be model for other smallest states where global economic forces are destroying their land and livelihoods and increasing poverty, migration and violence.

What will happen in Delhi? 

This march culminates in the capital. Many people will join and sit on indefinite Satyagraha. If the march and the satyagraha dies not get the attention of the state in tem of addressing the basic concerns o land an livelihood, then the people will have no option but to remain in front of the parliament indefinitely showing the mockery of the parliamentary system. This is also server to prove that non-violent continues to play an important role in political change

Why is this an international action? 

There are various efforts – big and small actions going on in different parts fo the world but bringing disparate forces to one point and creating a critical mass so that the walls against equity and justice will be demolished is important. Because of the history of non-violent movements and the large population of suffering people. We feel this is the place and the time for action. The success will depend on the solidarity of people within India and across the globe

What is planned in the next two years for the 2007 campaign? 

On October 2^nd, 2005 there will be an international committee meeting to plan the 2007 action preparation.

On October 2^nd, 2006 there will be a larger international meeting to give final shape to the Verdict 2007 program

How will the 2007 action be coordinated? 

There will be an Indian working group to enroll people at the national level.

There will be a larger international working group which will promote and publicize the event in countries throughout the world.

There will be a charter committee that will be refining the agenda of action