Mani in British Parliament and Oxford University
On 6 September 2012 at a meeting held at the committee hall of the British Parliament in London, Mani, who is also the architect of the ‘Theory of the Toiling Class’, said that the Indian Constitution was modelled on the basis of the parliamentary democracy followed in the UK and was a source of inspiration, hope and strength for democracies all over the world. He said that the theory of toiling class could be viewed as the people’s socialism and was an alternative to communism and capitalism which had their own drawbacks and demerits. China adopted socialist market economy in lieu of the command economy, he observed. Mani said that the ‘Theory of the Toiling Class’ was written long before the collapse of the world communism.
Communism and capitalism are not suitable ideologies to establish an egalitarian society, and thus a third alternative is imperative. Socialism without democracy will lead to totalitarianism and democracy without socialism will create an uneven society leading to concentration of wealth in a few hands, Mani said. ‘’A socialist order within a democratic system is needed,’’ he said. Nigel Evans, Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, released the ‘Theory of Toiling Class’ in the presence of Shadow Cabinet Minister Steven Evans and Business Forum chairman Veerendra Sharma. MPs, Lords and representatives from Oxford University and London School of Economics were also present.
Mani’s ‘Theory of the Toiling Class’ came up for discussion among academics at Oxford University. Mr. Mani, besides delivering an hour-long lecture at the university, fielded questions on his theory from students and teachers, mostly focused on its anti-communist and anti-capitalist aspects. The participants also wanted to know more about the development strategies he adopted in his capacity as Finance Minister. Mr. Mani said that the secret of his success was the emphasis he gave to farmers and weaker sections of society. Mr. Mani also gave a copy of his book to the Oxford University library.
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