Shekhar Guptas The power of one (IE,July 31) logically concludes that an institution is as high-quality as the person who heads it. While a strong organisational structure and a robust work system are also needed,its the vision,energy,determination and probity of its leader which distinguishes a high performing institution. Of the key institutions,the judiciary in India has its own exclusive cadre and environment which has imbued its top leadership with a high sense of professionalism. The Election Commission works with its processes and decisions in full public glare and,as T.N. Seshan showed,this gives its chief an impetus to innovate. Taking advantage of its nature of work,the government of the day packs the CVC and the CBI with pliable individuals or their favourites. As Gupta points out,we do have people fit for these posts (with a clean past and free from the lure of future gains),but itll require an objective approach and capable individuals to identify them.
Y.G. Chouksey
Due credit
Shekhar Guptas The power of one was thought provoking. He is absolutely right about the Election Commission. However,I disagree about the credit given to former Chief Justice Verma. In fact,its former Chief Justice Bhagwati who should be given credit. The other attorney generals did not leave any imprint on the institution. The CBI would never have such independence because a large number of MPs have criminal backgrounds; in fact,honest and frank officers have only side posts to man.
Chirantan Joshipura
Baroda
No seriousness
This refers to T.V. Rajeswars Lonely in the region (IE,July 30). Hes right in suggesting that weve to become self-reliant and develop our own local solutions to this international problem. Putting together all the facts and analyses,the Indo-Pak conflict seems to be never-ending. The contrast lies in the seriousness of the two countries in resolving this unnecessary conflict. Pakistan is not serious as compared to the ever serious Indian establishment. Every stage and opportunity has been used by Pakistan to trivialise the Indian point of view. After the latest fiasco,any further serious talks should be avoided,whatever the pressure.
Padmesh Pune
Brave David
The editorial Enhanced,enduring (IE,July 31) was apt. British Prime Minister David Cameron proved to be more forthcoming and forthright than US President Barack Obama in nailing his colours to the mast vis-a-vis Pakistans double-edged policy on terrorism. Instead of confronting Pakistan,the US played ball with it and even allowed itself to be victimised. Its to the credit of Cameron that he neither minced his words about Pakistans policy of looking both ways nor budged on his statement despite expected protests from Pakistan and his detractors in London.
Tarsem Singh
New Delhi
