Date:14/10/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/10/14/stories/2004101403601000.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Time for optimism

Sir, — I refer to the editorial, "Looking for a breakthrough" (Oct. 13). Leaders of the People's War have raised only issues concerning the common man. The Andhra Pradesh Government should have the courage to identify them as such and study the ways of redressing them before starting the dialogue process. A solution in Andhra Pradesh could pave the way for negotiations in other States too.

C.P. Velayudhan Nair,
Kochi, Kerala

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Sir, — The peace talks will certainly be a walk on the razor's edge for the Government. If it responds to the PW demands sincerely and flexibly, all that has started well should end well. Optimism is the need of the hour.

R. Ponnarassi,
Vellore, T.N.

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Sir, — The step taken by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Rajasekhara Reddy, for direct talks with the PW is most welcome. It is hoped that the Government does not submit meekly to all the demands of the naxalites.

S. Janakiraman,
Coimbatore, T.N.

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Sir, — The PW had already cashed in on its large number of meetings and their live telecast on the television channels. Now it is the turn of the Government to make a point. It is necessary to decide on the course of action in case the talks fail. The intelligence machinery should gear up to the situation because the PW will not let go of the opportunity to expand its base while its leaders are overground.
Anil Pr. Lingam,
Gudivada, A.P.

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Sir, — In your eagerness to project a good image of the PW, you have glossed over its blood-stained deeds. The offer of talks reflects the Government's weakness. And the message is: indulge in all sorts of atrocities and you will get invited for talks, not an arrest warrant.

S. Sundar Rajan,
Nagercoil, T.N.