Just a few days ago, as the nation was celebrating 75 years of its independence, 11 convicts of rape and murder were granted bail and welcomed with sweets and garlands; a 9-year-old boy was beaten to death by his teacher for touching a pot of water; the farmers geared up to return to Delhi because despite promises, their demands have not been met.
Everyday the democratic and secular fabric of this nation is being torn further and further apart. But there is still hope, for the citizens of this nation continue to speak up in diverse voices.
One such voice is Mumbai-based poet, Alolika Dutta, who reads her poem, At the Stroke of Midnight, and reminds us that just as India awoke to life and freedom at the stroke of the midnight hour on August 15, 1947, “In time all palaces will have collapsed. In time, we will have inherited our country.”
