January 4, 1999

ONION
Pungent Reminder

Of all the edibles, it is the onion that may have a mind of its own. The first evidence is of course its lachrymal effect, lending a tragic touch to kitchen work. But this smelly bud of the lily family can affect the tear glands of politicians too. In the weeks before the November polls to four state assemblies, the pink staple of Indian diet made a disappearing act from the bazaars, pushing up its price to Rs 60 a kg. The Central Government blamed the weather and pro-Congress conspirators in that order but the country's voters didn't quiver on judgement. They swept the BJP out of power in the states of Delhi and Rajasthan and blocked it in Madhya Pradesh. The job done, it returned to the market in full force, at half the price. Onion, as it seems, knows its onions.

© Living Media India Ltd