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This is an archive article published on December 31, 2009
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Opinion Real issue

The quantum of S.P.S. Rathore’s sentence — inadequate as it is — is no longer the issue (‘Fresh FIRs filed,new law coming on sex offences’,IE,December 30)....

The Indian Express

December 31, 2009 03:15 AM IST First published on: Dec 31, 2009 at 03:15 AM IST

The quantum of S.P.S. Rathore’s sentence — inadequate as it is — is no longer the issue (‘Fresh FIRs filed,new law coming on sex offences’,IE,December 30). The issue now is whether social pressure can coerce the government — both at the Centre and the state — to prosecute criminals. These include the police officers,politicians,administrative officials,Ruchika’s school who directly or indirectly contributed to the family’s tragedy. Shorn of the “justice for the victim” syndrome,the zealous pursuit of the case is in public interest. The stated intention to make fresh laws is typical of efforts to obfuscate issues. All that is required is that the existing laws be applied with integrity.

—Arun Harkauli

Lucknow

The need of the hour is that the law and its procedures are not influenced by politicians,bureaucrats and the powerful. Upholders and implementers of the law should be allowed to apply the law sincerely and honestly. Making the law bulkier may not serve the needs of the innocent and poor. It is the approach,outlook and respect for the law that should be given priority. Those with power need to indicate that they will not sidetrack it.

—Mool Chand Gupta

New Delhi

Serious talk

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This refers to ‘Gov’t blinks,says will review ‘tough’ visa rules in six months’ (IE,December 30). It seems as though MoS for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor keeps landing in trouble. Does the first-time MP think tweeting is the best way to remain in the news? Issuing of visas is a serious matter,determining the kind of people visiting our country. Tharoor should perhaps apologise for his comments which are out of context and on a platform that is more than fun than serious communication. Finally,while there’s a hue and cry about our visa restrictions,what about developed countries that reject our visas even when all documentation is provided?

— S.N. Kabra

Mumbai

Oversight?

The decision of the Congress to distance itself from former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao and not give him any credit for the economic reforms is lamentable. It is worthwhile to remember that it took a major financial crisis for the economic reforms to happen. During Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure external debt of the government had been increasing. Some credit can certainly be given to Rajiv Gandhi’s government which put special emphasis on the electronics and telecommunications industries. However,Rao appointed as his finance minister Dr Manmohan Singh and spearheaded the reforms of the ‘90s. Success,as we know,has many fathers. 

— Dipu Shaw

New Delhi