Relying on NGOs

Uphill tasks

• It is worrying that the Congress and the saffron combine are opposing the move of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to limit the Amarnath Yatra to 30 days instead of the two months demanded by the Shrine Board.
If the government feels that it would not be able to provide adequate security cover to the yatris, then it is a genuine concern that all political parties should understand. After all, who will take responsibility for any casualties in case of militant activity?
Instead of protesting and trying to gain political mileage from such a sensitive issue, it would be better if political parties displayed some level of maturity, understanding, cooperation and actually made attempts to convince agitated yatris about the authenticity of the government’s decision.

— V. Rajesh Mumbai

Disruptive parties

• The opposition parties have announced a nationwide agitation to protest the removal of four governors. They will address rallies and organise demonstrations all over the country. It will need a strong police bandobast to avoid any problems. Since BJP leaders have announced this agitation, they should be held responsible for any confrontation/conflict on the street jeopardising normal public routine. Opposition parties have the right to oppose government moves when there is a strong reason for it, not to mechanically stop the government from functioning.

— Divyesh Raythatha On e-mail

Congress challenge

• Even if the BJP has no right to challenge the appointment of tainted ministers, the citizen of this country has that right to protest against being governed by criminals and crooks. The Congress, which was shaped by people like Gandhi, Nehru and Patel, should gather courage and show to the country that it can stick to its principles even at the risk of losing power.

— Tryambaklal U. Mehta On e-mail

Wrong diagnosis

• The news item ‘Hon’ble Minister to AIIMS: get me dhaniya, dal, ghee, mixie, etc, etc’’ (IE, July 2) is in bad taste and does not merit such attention. Improvements and procurement of materials from time to time are ongoing processes in the guest house. The items that have been procured for the AIIMS guest houses have been properly sanctioned and accounted for. The stay of the Hon’ble Health Minister in the Institute’s guest house, when he has not been allotted government accommodation, is perfectly in order as similar courtesies are also extended to other members of the Institute Body and Governing Body.

— Mayank Sharma Dy. Director (Admn) AIIMS New Delhi