Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

A disservice

Sir, — The Gujarat Chief Minister, Narendra Modi's outburst against the Chief Election Commissioner, J.M. Lyngdoh's decision on the Gujarat elections reflects his devious mind. He has no business airing such views as the caretaker Chief Minister. It is an irony that while fringe rightwing as represented by Governor Wallace of the U.S. and Enoch Powell of the U.K. have been marginalised by popular vote or by time, it is our misfortune to see a culture with tolerance as its touchstone sprouting such individuals. While the silent majority among the Hindus would certainly not subscribe to Mr. Modi's views, they do disservice to Hinduism by remaining silent when the religion and the country are being hijacked by politicians.

Ravi Mani,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — The utterances of Mr. Modi against the Chief Election Commissioner are unbecoming of his position. He has unnecessarily attributed religious and political favouritism to the Election Commission for its decision to postpone the Gujarat elections. While it is the duty of all political parties and leaders to uphold the dignity the Election Commission and the Supreme Court, Mr. Modi has talked in an irresponsible manner. If he has any difference of opinion with the orders of the Commission, he could have approached a court of law. In fact, the Centre has taken up the matter with the highest court by a Presidential reference. It is ideal to wait for the court verdict.

P.R.V. Raja,
Pandalam, T.N.

* * *

Sir, — The Election Commission's order to defer the Gujarat Assembly polls is meaningful because the memories of communal violence have not yet faded from the minds of Indians. The NHRC has said the law and order situation has worsened. Holding elections in these circumstances will only benefit the power-hungry politician.

M. Mahendrakumar,
Pathapatnam, A.P.

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