VINDICA

Everyone seems to agree that Prop 13 that limited property taxes in California is to blame for the crisis. There is however, a large majority that believes that the law requiring 2/3 majority for raising taxes was a good idea. Now consider what has happened. Instead of raising taxes on cigarettes, the legislature was forced to cut spending in health care. This is inspite of the the fact that cigarette tax would naturally lower health care costs. Cutting health care would in fact RAISE healthcare costs since more people will drop through the cracks and start visiting ERs. The 33% minority that blocked the cigarette tax must be held accountable for this travesty.

Sashi Taroor used to be a UN Technocrat and India's strong preference to take over the Secretary Generalship of that organization. He was also the insider and in all respects the ideal candidate for the job. However, his candidature was torpedoed by a US veto and heavy money fuelled diplomacy in favor of Ban Ki Mooon. I remember thinking this was a travesty and a tragedy. However, the world's loss may well prove to be India's great gain. Mr. Taroor has just been elected to the Indian Parliament from Trivandrum . It would not be a great surprise if he is given a minor portfolio in the Government in spite of his first term status.