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Truth Sorting

I love the intent and design of Politifact and could not help wondering what might happen if we "borrowed" this idea and applied it to politics in India. Internet access is fairly common now so a large part of the electorate can easily participate in this on-line truth sorting exercise. Instead of being the largest democracy in the world only by virtue of headcount, we could become the most significant one by level of energy and active participation in the political process.

Imagine having the ability to jam a politician's phone lines and in-boxes when they are seriously under-delivering on their promises. Better still have the truth-o-meter displayed prominently on major news channels so the citizenry is able to remain vigilant of the performance of their "public servants" at all times. Actions like these, would force elected representatives to emerge from the shadows they thrive in and account for the yawning gap between what they say and what they do.

You don't need any talking heads to parse the events of the day ad nauseum to help you get to the truth - the data should say it all. Besides, a visual is worth a thousand words and makes for a consistent story that cannot be spun for either entertainment or edification. For a country whose national motto is Satyameva Jayate (Truth Alone Triumphs), what better way to empower truth and get it to work for the people.

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