[sadhuji]

One of the TV news channels has brought to light the gaping cracks that have appeared in the ground in several parts of UP, especially in Ettawah and surrounding areas. The land looks dry and parched and such a phenomenon is nothing to worry about. It happens when the temperature rises and the heat becomes intense. It is a result of denuding the green cover which, in turn, leads to a lack of bonding of the soil.

Villagers are alarmed at the sight and, it would not be any surprise if suddenly some God-men reach the place to arrange for offering prayers to appease the Gods. These God-men will convince the superstitious villagers that the cracks are because of the wrath of the Gods. Hence, immediate action must be taken to prepare the people to take part in some massive yagna or some similar ritual. If that is not done, there would be epidemics and havoc. The illiterate villagers are gullible enough to accept the explanation of the God-men at face value and there will emerge a breed of parasites that survive by exploiting such situations to their advantage.