A Padma for Courage?

We, the undersigned, comprising students, activists, bloggers, academicians, and other concerned citizens of India, as well as friends across the world demand of the Indian Government to confer the Padma awards on Mrs. Nilam Katara, Ms. Sabrina Lall and Mr. Chaman Lal Mattoo.

Many famous and worthy persons, from a variety of fields, make the cut to the Padma Awards given away by the Honble President of the Republic.

It makes us think: Why should the country not honour a chosen few among its citizens for displaying raw courage, commitment and unwavering perseverance in the face of mighty odds?

Each of these individuals managed to overcome personal tragedy to fight against the most rotten substructure of the Indian state. Their courage helped restore, albeit to a limited degree, a measure of faith in the criminal justice system of India.

If one were to choose the most serious amongst the countless ills plaguing the country, one cannot look further than the almost complete collapse of the rule of law. In fact, most of Indias problems can be traced to this malady. Democracy itself is threatened by our systemic tendency to twist the law to suit the accused.

Each one of the three Katara, Lall and Mattoo dared to fight against powerful elements who are still deeply entrenched in the system. They did not flinch in the face of disappointment, sensationalism and at times, sheer coercion.

We do recognize that the desirability of the very existence of state awards is open to question, however we can only say that as long as such honours exist, they should at least be bestowed on the right people. While we've identified Mrs Katara, Ms. Lall and Mr. Mattoo by name, we would wholeheartedly support any recognition conferred on other individuals who've served society in a similar manner.

We hope that the powers-that-be take notice of the valour shown by these heroes and by honouring them, raise the prestige of the Padma awards.