Bal Thackerays outburst against Sachin Tendulkar underline the reason behind his partys stunted growth: his refusal to understand the mood and drives of young India (Thackeray vs Sachin and the rest of India,IE,November 17). This is where the Congress scores over others like the BJP,SP,BSP and the Left. A contemporary worldview that appeals to the youth,imbued with a liberal education,is what some leaders lack. The problem is not simply of age.
Y.G. Chouksey
Low thoughts?
Maharashtra has produced great patriots who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Though proud of being Marathi,they were not chauvinists. Sachin Tendulkar belongs to that tradition. He is a truly national icon and he spoke like one when he said he is first an Indian. The likes of Bal Thackeray or the MNS cannot understand such noble sentiments. Most Maharashtrians feel outraged by the Shiv Sena chiefs slur on their nationalism.
V.Venkatasubramanian
New reflections
This refers to the editorial Group of Two (IE,November 16). When President Nixon visited the Peoples Republic of China in 1972,he was the first US president to do so. China,then under Chairman Mao,was considered a foe. But that visit aimed to build a bridge between the most powerful nation and the most populous one. The world has now changed once again. Obamas visit to China comes when both states have shared interests as well as competing ones. Caution should be exercised in their engagement.
Sandeep Krishan Abohar
As advised
Pratab Bhanu Mehtas Degrees of half measures (IE,November 17) is an eye-opening prescription for the policy-makers at Delhi University and in Indian universities in general. I too endorse the view that the semester system at DU should only be implemented once concerns that have been raised are satisfied.
D.A.P. Sharma Delhi
Minister absent
Mamata Banerjee must attend to her ministerial duties (Truant Mamata gets Rly homework from PM,IE,November 15). It appears as though she is in a terrific hurry to dislodge the Left Front government in West Bengal in 2011. Mamata may not even mind sacrificing her ministerial berth to succeed in her mission. On the other hand,because of political reasons,the PM may not like to go beyond a point in disciplining her.
Hema Langeri
Hoshiarpur
Damage control
The Shiv Sena is perceived as a key ally of the BJP. Thus,by indulging in linguistic jingoism,the Sena is harming the BJPs image. One should note that India needs a strong opposition such as the BJP to counter the Congress,which is
currently in government. Thackeray should desist from embarking on this divisive agenda.
Ananth Seth Hyderabad
