Points of view
* This refers to Rashtrapati Bhavan laid low by a road (IE,April 15). Delhis central vista,including the approach to Rashtrapati Bhavan,was designed by the architects Lutyens and Baker after much deliberation and an in-depth study of aesthetics. The question of the slope of the road from the foot of Raisina Hill to the main entrance of Rashtrapati Bhavan was debated between the two. Baker suggested that the road be kept horizontal for 500 metres and then dip. Lutyens was for a direct descent right from the main entrance,so that the whole building was visible while driving from India Gate to Rashtrapati Bhavan. Baker felt this would be a security hazard. The matter was resolved in a formal meeting with Lord Irwin,who agreed that only the central dome of the building should be visible from India Gate. The rest of the building should be visible only to a restricted few. The issues raised,discussed and decided are still relevant. Privacy,security and aesthetics should be taken into account when making new plans for the road.
X.K. Mahto
Delhi
CM vs CM
* APROPOS The problem with Modi (IE,April 15),Indians want leaders who are tolerant,gentle,well-educated and have the vision to compete on the global stage. Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is not Atal Bihari Vajpayee,who was acceptable to a cross-section of people. The Congress has Rahul Gandhi,who has charm,although he lacks vision. India needs visionary,secular leaders who can take decisions in the interest of the people. Unfortunately,the country depends on mediocre leaders today. Modi may be popular in Gujarat,but he still cannot reach out to people.
Uttam K. Bhowmik
Tamluk
* BIHAR Chief Minister Nitish Kumar seemed to allude to Narendra Modi during his speech on Sunday (Nitish pulls no punches,BJP hints enough,IE,April 15). He made several references to Modi without actually mentioning him,raising several issues on which Modi is widely criticised. Although Nitish showed an inclusive approach,his words lost credibility because in Bihar he runs a government in alliance with the BJP. Nitishs state government,moreover,has been criticised for several irregularities. If Nitish and his party are really concerned about the plight of minorities,they must part ways with the BJP in Bihar.
Mohd. Mudassir Alam
Kishanganj
Not fast enough
* AJIT PAWARS fast does not fool anyone,least of all the people suffering from the drought (Repentant Ajit sits on fast,Oppn dismisses it as drama,IE,April 15). His mindless remarks may have unnerved his party,not because of their insensitivity,but because they might be electorally damaging. Fasting was used by the Mahatma against injustices done by the British. Here,it looks more like a farce,staged by a leader who thinks that public opinion may be swayed by such drama.
Ashok Goswami
