Al Masayea, p.10, (1-10-2008)

We wish we would be Indians!

By: Samir Beheiri

Egypt, the cradle of civilizations, should have now been as advanced as other countries that have started the development process tens of years after us. In this regard, I will not compare Egypt with Japan, but only with India whose population exceeds one billion and 200 million, while the Egyptian population is 77 million, if we deduct the number of the poor people killed in Al Doweika disaster.

Both Egypt and India have great histories that date back to thousands of years. The difference between the two countries emerged in the mid of the last century as India progressed quickly after 74 years of British occupation while Egypt lagged behind after 74-year British occupation as well. India progressed as it adopted democracy that respected the views of the people. It is the Indian people who lead the government, not the opposite. Now, India has contributed to modern life with its advanced technologies, fine arts and unique multifaceted culture. Although India has 150 religions, its minorities have never called for concessions. They respect religious beliefs and it is difficult to differentiate between a Hindu and a Muslim for they all are Indians.

India is the first country to export computer chips to the world as the US company Microsoft opened a centre there benefiting from India's cheap labour comparing to the labour in the US and other western countries. Consecutive Indian governments implanted the love of the country in the people. The people know they are in safe hands and they share decision making. The different ethnicities of India are one whole. Therefore, the Indian economy grew fast and its standard of living rose over the last 50 years.

The situations in Egypt are so different. The July revolution marked the end of the British occupation. Since that time, 3 presidents ruled Egypt. Gamal Abdel Nasser ruled Egypt for 18 years. This period had negative as well as positive aspects. Anwar Al Sadat succeeded Abdel Nasser and led the country for 11 years. When the people asked for their rights, Al Sadat imprisoned all his opponents.

The attitudes of the Egyptian regime have become clear. The law is not implemented. In addition, the emergency law was used to deprive the people of their freedoms and of democratically sharing decision-making according to law. Hence, the decline covered the political, economic, cultural, sports and other fields. In general, the situations deteriorated in Egypt.

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