The Hindu : Scandinavian example

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, May 10, 2003

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Scandinavian example

Sir, — It is unfortunate that the Women's Bill has been deferred. Recently, the Finnish Parliament opened with women at the top jobs. They form 37.5 per cent of the total strength of their Parliament. It is also no surprise that the Scandinavian countries, where reservations for women exist, are today among the most developed. Throughout history, it was only men who had caused unwanted war and destruction. Let us hope that the Government is able to provide for the genuine empowerment of women.

Malolan Cadambi,
Texas, U.S.

* * *

Sir, — When Mr. Vajpayee and his allies could push down the throat of an unwilling nation a draconian Act such as POTA, which even today hangs as a Damocles' sword over the heads of the very people who supported it, I find it surprising that Mr. Vajpayee could not usher the Women's Bill through. I feel this Bill will only get passed when a woman Prime Minister, like Indira Gandhi, takes charge at the Centre. I am sure women would not accept the alternative of party-level reservations as that would again be a mere farce with no guarantee of adequate representation in Parliament.

R.B. Easwaran,
Chennai

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Sir, — It has been proved that women are in no way inferior, as we have seen them occupying eminent positions in banks, industries, media and almost all assignments by virtue of education and ability to do work honestly. There is no need for any reservation. What is required is free education or subsidised fees for them to get educated and become aware of their rights. By women's reservation, there is every possibility of the family members of politicians and their dynasties occupying Parliament and the Assemblies. Instead, our honourable MPs must worry more about eliminating criminals from politics, enforcing minimum qualification for members of Parliament and Assemblies and tackling corruption.

B.S. Ganesh,
Bangalore

* * *

Sir, — How can anyone expect the Women's Bill to be passed when you have men who think that the right place for women is limited to the hearth and home and not Parliament. Why did the women MPs not walk out in protest? Laloo is opposed to all women, except his wife, for he is holding the lathi. Women's organisations should mobilise support and march to Delhi and stay put there until the Bill is passed.

Kamala Menon Cochran,
Secunderabad

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