The Hindu : Democracy defaced

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Aug 21, 2003

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Democracy defaced

Sir, — The conduct of parliamentarians has defaced the edifice of Indian democracy ("Crimes against Parliament" - Aug. 19 ). What should have been a debate on the issues that gave rise to the vote of no-confidence, virtually descended into the ludicrous. There is no reason to gloat over India being the world's largest democracy when its tenets are not upheld and not even a modicum of respect is accorded to Parliament by the elected representatives.

Anjum Mirza,

Hyderabad

* * *

Sir, — During the debate in the Lok Sabha (Aug. 18), one could see on television that there were frequent interruptions when Mamata Banerjee of the Trinamool Congress stood up to speak. The members should learn to maintain the dignity of the House. It is unfortunate that India's progress has been entrusted to such indisciplined leaders.

G. S. Kiran,

Hyderabad

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Sir, — The economy is looking up after a long time under the present NDA rule; the rupee has been appreciating against the dollar; the annual growth rate is satisfactory; and the forex reserves have touched an all-time high. Moves such as the no-confidence motion only show the frustration of the Congress.

S. T. Rajagopalan,

Chennai

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Sir, — I could not believe that your newspaper could carry a news item on the communication skills of Sonia Gandhi on the front page ("Sonia's day out in Parliament"- Aug. 19 ). Let us not forget that there was no immediate provocation for the tabling of the no-confidence motion. It was a criminal waste of time and money.

M. Anand Ram Seshu,

Mumbai

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Sir, — What is so unique about an Opposition leader delivering a combative speech? That it took her more than five years to make a "forceful" speech speaks volumes of her leadership abilities. And the excitement of the press for this sundry affair defies all understanding.

Vinoo Ramakrishnan,

NJ, U.S.

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