Opinion Options to consider
To provide for additional seats in Parliament and state assemblies,and for double-member constituencies....
•I agree with Rajindar Sachars One-third quota,double vision (IE,June 11). To provide for additional seats in Parliament and state assemblies,and for double-member constituencies,some variant of the voting-counting system should be adopted. That would make womens representation socially diverse,accommodating legitimate claims of under-represented sections of OBCs and minorities. Sachar needs to recall his own report on Muslims,noting their low representation in legislatures and recommending suitable mechanisms for their political empowerment. Total Muslim womens representation in all 15 Lok Sabhas has been less than 20. If by adopting the single transferable or cumulative vote system,the election of sizable numbers of Muslim women and OBCs is facilitated,it would not only make Lohia and Lohiaites happier but also set in motion a socio-political transformation in marginalised segments as well as within political parties. Theres an alternative of uncontested additional seats for the best losers among recognised under-represented groups. This can take care of most backwards castes,communities and regions.
Iqbal A. Ansari
Aligarh
Right indicators
•Saubhik Chakrabartis views on the indicators of efficient government performance are correct (The factory factor,IE,June 10). UPA- II has its task cut out. Assertiveness will be the key as it tries to undertake worthwhile efforts for our economic growth. Just as a teacher is credited on her ability to reach out to the dullest student,a government too will be judged by how it benefits ordinary citizens.
Lancy Fernandes Pune
Not time yet
•I dont think Indo-Pak peace talks should resume,given Pakistans insincerity in punishing 26/11 culprits and dismantling the terrorist infrastructure on its soil (Reaching out,IE,June 11). The optimism that talks would produce some change in the thinking of Pakistans political and military leaderships isnt based on the reality and history of Indo-Pak relations.
M.C. Joshi Lucknow
Doing it right
•This refers to the timely editorial Getting it right (IE,June 9). You have done a splendid job by launching an independent investigation into 26/11. Tactical and procedural lapses actually occurred in tackling the terror attack. This most unfortunate event must be an eye-opener for all concerned. Its time to realise that any repeat of 26/11 would be disastrous.
S.K. Gupta Chandigarh
On Sehwag
•The controversy about Virendra Sehwags fitness was unwarranted. The subsequent withdrawal of Sehwag from the team created more confusion. If Sehwag was unfit,why was he selected in the first place in a T20 tournament where fitness is the key,ahead of skill and talent? Also,the IPL was equally responsible for wearing out our players; it shouldnt have been staged so close to the T20 World Cup. While the BCCI counts its profits,it kills the game.
S.N. Kabra Mumbai
Share
