Security lapse

Sir, - While one is happy that seasoned Mr. Advani and Mr. Fernandes are manning the Home and the Defence Ministries, it is unfortunate that there are ``weak links'' in many departments, as evident from the successful attacks by foreign agents on the pre- selected targets both in Kashmir and the ``impregnable fortress of New Delhi''.

Years back, when the Congress was in the driving seat and the present rulers were in the opposition, the latter were spitting fire and lashing out at the then Home and Defence Ministers charging them that they lacked the calibre that was needed to face the terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and in New Delhi.

Today, even after the hi-tech modernisation in the country, the terrorists have proved that they can forewarn and successfully carry out their deadly missions in the very heart of the Capital. Although no one is demanding the sacking of Mr. Advani or Mr. Fernandes, the attacks are going on under their very nose. The people expect them not to waste their time and set aside their political fights against their local adversaries and devote whole time to the weeding out of the anti-national and anti-social elements from the Indian soil.

The recent successful attack on the commando at the residence of the Navy Chief and the terrorist intrusion into the Red Fort has exposed the callous attitude of some who are not very serious about the responsibility placed on them.

Because of the irresponsibility of the few who are manning the intelligence and security, many of our brave soldiers have to become the victims of the terrorist attacks. The fact that power went off for a few seconds immediately after the terrorists finished their task, allowing their safe escape from the Red Fort, speaks volumes of the vision of the officers who are managing the security in New Delhi.

K. N. Bhagavaan,

Bangalore

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