Articles by Kamaroopi

In South Africa's second democratic elections the issues of the consolidation of the democratic order, transformation of the state, reconstruction and development are critical. Despite all the promises and visions of their manifestos, none of the parties opposing the African National Congress (ANC) even pretends that it will be in a position to form a government. The ANC, still carrying the aura of having been a liberation movement, is poised to secure a decisive, perhaps even an overwhelming, victory.

state-run programmes like the WDP, Mahila Samalehya and the ICDS is the first step, with the provision and protection of basic rights. It becomes the responsibility of autonomous women's groups to assist in and catalyse the building of an organised power at the ground level. A power in which ASSAM Bhawari is an active participant in its creation and in wielding it. As long as Bhawari is reduced to a passive link-agent of the state, an individual women wronged, justice coming her way will not only be delayed, but ultimately denied.

Back to Bad Old Days Kamaroopi The resumption of the agitational programme by the All Bodo Students' Union and the Bodo Peoples' Action Committee marks a formal declaration of intent to renew hostilities, presaging the return of the 'bad old days'.