December 2: Renowned social worker Nanaji Deshmukh today stunned the audience at a function to confer the National Integration Award constituted by the R G Joshi Foundation by questioning the very purpose of the award at a time when a huge question mark hung over India's integration.

``Integrated India's disintegration is the biggest issue today. What is happening to the country? It's not the average Indian but politicians who are splitting the nation,'' he bemoaned.

In a rousing speech against the present-day politicians, Nanaji castigated those parties known for inciting communalism which were now staking their claim to power. ``Where is integration? Which political party today is integrated without factions? Those who cannot keep their party together, how will they keep the country together?''he asked, amidst huge applause. While thanking the foundation for the award which carries a cash prize of Rs 51,000, Nanaji revealed this would be the last award for him: ``I accepted this award only to expose the farce behind it. Those who take credit, their work is over. This is the first and last time I am receiving an award,''said the 81-year old Nanaji, who himself retired from active politics when he turned sixty to immerse in low-profile social work in places such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

``What have I done? There are countless people working with me with no wherewithal even for a second meal. They have helped in the watershed management wherein parched villages where womenfolk walked 8-9 km to fetch drinking water are now replenished,''he said.

He criticised those who take credit for whatever they do. ``It was said that the sun will never set on the British Empire. Thousands of selfless Indians sacrificed their happiness and families to brave the bullets and destroy that contention. The Congress claims they gave us freedom. In our 50th of Independence, look how we shamefully have no government!''exclaimed Nanaji.

He advocated living with dignity, self-respect and community participation.``Garibi Hatao only profited politicians. You have to take charge of your own lives. You will then not have to go to the government. The government will run and come to you,''he advised.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.