Why do we like Robinhoods - The Verappan Story?

BBC NEWS | South Asia | Veerappan remains hero to poor

First of all, I am glad that Verappan is dead. It was long overdue. But, I guess connections (the criminal-political nexus) can keep you alive for a while. It is bit like a slow spreading variety of cancer - it keeps you alive for a while but it certainly will kill you.

What I found interesting about this story is that public seem to take the side of Verappan. They believe that the police faked the encounter. They believe that Verappan was a hero and helped the poor. Yet, no one knows anyone who has been benefitted by Verappan.

What is the heroism in killing elephants for ivory, felling the sandalwood trees, kidnapping people and killing people? Did Verappan transfer wealth from the rich/corrupt to the poor and honest? There is no evidence of that. There is evidence to the fact that he killed honest law enforcement officals in cold blood. His actions put the very villagers that he was supposed to be helping at risk.

And, Is he a Robinhood? I don't know. Even if he is a Robinhood, why do we like such figures? The fact remains that all Robinhoods broke the law, did not use their power to create social change. Instead they relied on fear and loyalty to survive and never took responsiblity for their actions.

Are we so disgusted with the politicians whom we elect, the government and its representatives that we subscribe to "enemy's enmey is my friend" doctrine? We need to ask ourselves - "Are you willing to walk with the devil to cross the bridge?".