* This refers to Kapil Sibal dares BJP to name him (IE,November 28) and Parrikar hits back: Does Tejpal accept he is a Cong stooge? (IE,November 28). It is really shameful and sad that politicians are playing these ugly games at a time when they should put up a joint front against rape. The BJP must not fall into Tarun Tejpals trap. This case is not about Tejpals politics as editor-in-chief of Tehelka,or about his relationship with the BJP,or about Tehelkas ownership. It is purely a case of sexual assault at the workplace and should be treated as such. This is a time for solemnity and making sure our institutional responses do not fail the young woman journalist.
R.K. Kapoor
* Who cares whether Tarun Tejpal was supported by the Congress,or if he was pathologically anti-BJP. Surely these facts are not relevant to whether he is a rapist.
The police and judiciary must be allowed to do their work. Political interference so often obscures the debate on the real issues,which in this case are sexual assault at the workplace,the abuse of power,and a slanderous and libellous cover-up.
Suren Abreu
Across the aisle
* This refers to A leftist assault by Tavleen Singh (IE,November 24). The writer must note that the reputation of a political commentator hinges on her ability to be balanced. This is the mark of a genuinely good analyst.
However,Singhs humour is one sided,and therefore it is perceived to be abusive. The writers criticism of Rahul Gandhi is seen as being motivated by her personal prejudice. Polite and courteous criticism attracts more attention than abusive nitpicking. The same logic applies to columnists who attempt to degrade Narendra Modi by calling him Feku. Much of their reasoning even if it is well grounded in facts goes unheard due to the language they use. Interestingly,an article that uses harsh language is probably only read by converts. But a commentator is truly good only if she is read across the political aisle.
Maulik Bhatt
Duty to protect
* This refers to What workplaces owe women by Indira Jaising (IE,November 28). Organisations must protect their employees from harassment,inform them of their rights and set up sexual harassment committees as per the Vishaka guidelines. This is the least they can do given the sweat and blood employees expend for their organisations.
C.V. Aravind
