News: Front Page | National | Southern States | Other States | International | Opinion | Business | Sport | Miscellaneous |
Advts: Classifieds | Employment | Obituary |

Sir, - It is not clear why the NDA-led Government is trying to push through the controversial POTO. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) as well as Amnesty International have strong reservations over POTO. The earlier TADA was used to arrest people indiscriminately but the conviction rate was dismally low. Moreover, hundreds of prisoners are still awaiting justice. Nothing much is gained by passing a measure like POTO. It is not some magic wand to wish away terrorist acts. Strengthening the intelligence network and involving ordinary citizens in the fight against terrorism are far more effective than any law. Unless there is a consensus, POTO or any variation of it should not be passed. The BJP should not see POTO as a tool to further its electoral prospects in Uttar Pradesh.

D.B.N. Murthy,

Bangalore

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Opinion