burden is of looking after such a vast number of people. The threat to our security and stability is also very real.
Our progress has sharpened our people’s impatience. It is not true to say that the poor are poorer, because even the poor have advanced a bit. But it is true that they see their poverty with much sharper eyes. It is true that they are not prepared to wait any longer. We have taken the path of socialism because we feel there cannot be real democracy if there is a very great economic inequality. Even thought the Constitution gives equal rights, if a very large part of the population is not able to benefit from what the Constitution gives them, then democracy cannot be complete. So if India cannot maintain its stability. I think it does threaten Asia and it does threaten world peace as well. Governmental and parliamentary leaders from many countries have shown understanding of the issues involved, but many others are acting, may I say. with somewhat lack of insight.
I am thankful for the understanding and sympathy which I have found in Austria. Many ordinary people, a woman who sells vegetables, children, different groups like this, have come to me to express their sympathy, and even to give small donation. I am grateful for this sympathy and appreciate the fact that people should extend a hand of friendship at this difficult time. This is the basis of peace in the world: when we can regard the trouble of others as our own and try to help.
