Date:24/04/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/04/24/stories/2006042402831001.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Ungovernable?

The article "Is India becoming ungovernable?" (April 20) has rightly pointed out that the party in power is latently in a majority but patently in a minority. The minority groups/players are in the real seat of power. The majority is reduced to a backbencher dancing to the whims of smaller regional parties.

R.N. Agarwal,
Bikaner, Rajasthan

* * *

The article puts forth some good suggestions, which if given formal shape to could ensure a semblance of good governance.

Criminals and those with dubious records should be barred from contesting elections. The minimum voting age should be restored to 21 years. Candidates who have successfully contested for two terms should not be allowed to contest again.

A mechanism should be evolved which renders votebank politics ineffective.

J.L. Ganjoo,
New Delhi