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