Yes, he too is a man

He was called a man when he was born He was called a man when he grew up But the day he joined the police to earn his bread His name was lathi, van and rifle

He is the bogey used to put fear into children By the hapless mother of his own kids He is the target at which his own children Join other kids in hurling stones and abuse When the stomping of his boots die out, When the sharp crease on his clothes wears out And his feet touch the ground And his skin touches the air He is a man

When the life sells in the body That gives love to a woman And affection to children Come alive, Behold the khaki dress Hanging lifeless from the roof

***

June 1979 Translated by K Balagopal