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This refers to ‘Mayawati: Refused Rs 100-crore bribe for nominating Akhilesh Das to RS’ (IE, November 6). BSP supremo Mayawati did the right thing by allegedly refusing to accept money in return for a nomination to the Upper House of Parliament. People who do not subscribe to the views, ideology and programmes of the BSP must not be given party tickets. Unfortunately, this is exactly what has been happening over the past few years. This practice has diluted the philosophy of the great founder of the party, Kanshiram. From a strong and an epoch-making movement aimed at the consolidation of the downtrodden masses in the 1970s, the BSP has been reduced to an inconsequential entity. It has lost its distinct identity. This is mostly because of Mayawati’s patently wrong outreach policy. Her “rainbow coalition” caused her to neglect the core of the party. She must now strive to develop a second-generation leadership that can carry Kanshiram’s message forward.
— B. Mazumdar
Kolkata
Well-deserved break
Kudos to Ambati Rayudu for his timely maiden century. He is a talented and consistent player. However, due to various reasons, he has been kept from his well-deserved place on the squad. I am happy that, finally, he has been given a long-overdue break. I sincerely hope that he finds a more permanent place on the team.
— N. Mahadevan
Mumbai
No more AFSPA
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The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, which provides immunity from prosecution to men in uniform posted in “disturbed” areas and, as a result, emboldens them to commit human rights violations with impunity, should be struck off our statute books without any delay. There is no doubt in my mind that the AFSPA is perhaps the most important factor contributing to the growing sense of alienation among Kashmiris. Draconian legislation such as this has no place in a democracy. The argument that the army needs AFSPA to discharge its duties effectively holds no water. Like any other arm of the state, it is answerable to the people and must be held accountable. The persistent struggle of Irom Sharmila must not end in vain.
— M. Jeyaram
Sholavandan
House of elders?
This refers to the editorial, ‘House of discontent’ (IE, November 7). It is true that the Rajya Sabha has gradually become the place where the rich and influential congregate. Its members are more likely to have lobbying skills than statesmanlike qualities, desperately needed during debates and discussions in the House. As a result, the Upper House has gone down in the public estimation.
— Hema
Langeri
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