There’s hardly been another decision by any government in the post-independence era which has affected the whole country so tangibly and in such a direct manner as the decision taken by the Modi government on 8th Nov, 2016 to demonetize the 500 and 1000 Rupee currency notes. The rationale given behind this massive exercise affecting millions is to take out black money, keep a check on counterfeit currency and curbing financing for terrorist activities. When these claims started getting punctured, of late the government representatives have started emphasizing on yet another reason: to move towards a cashless economy. But how do we know what’s really going on! They said that it’s going to be a short-term pain for a long-term gain and people should sacrifice in the interest of the nation. We must ask whose gain and whose pain. If we think deeply we’ll find that there’s a catch – the nation! Whose nation? The nation they are talking about is not a homogeneous entity with everyone having equal access to the public services and all the basic necessities of life. In fact, demonetization has affected people in proportion to their position in the economic ladder; the lower the more severe has been the impact! There are people who weren’t affected at all, there is yet another card holding class who was affected a little but by and large has been cheerleading the decision, then there are people who have lost their jobs or even died! So, it’s not all roses as they want us to believe. There are people who will gain in long term and there will be losers. Is it going to be the majority of people dependent on daily wages for sustenance who will ultimately gain? Or will it be the top 10% who already own more than 80% of country’s wealth? Any inquisitive and rational person can’t help contemplating on such issues. We invite all such people to take part in a discussion being organized on this issue in Lamakaan on 25th Nov, 2016.