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II
Haryana has become a killing field where youth who dare challenge the diktats of khaps are being killed frequently. Khaps are making a mockery of the law. Such “honour killings” are a national shame. It is shocking that in the 21st century khaps continue to nurse a medieval mindset. The political parties, instead of consolidating their vote banks, must oppose khap’s obscurantist verdicts. NUTAN JAIN, Chandigarh
Control prices
The rise in prices of essential articles or commodities has broken the back of the common man. Housewives are finding it difficult to make both ends meet. Milk has become a luxury and fruits are expensive. The country is in the grip of a food crisis. It is important to overhaul the planning system. Hoarders and profiteers should be brought to book. At least the prices of essential commodities must be brought under control. SURINDER SHARMA, Jalandhar PM’s offer Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has done a good job (editorial, “PM’s offer well-meant”, Oct 30). Indeed, his offer to engage in talks with any group in Jammu and Kashmir as long as they shun the path of violence deserves to be welcomed. The state has suffered a huge loss, economically and politically. It is hoped that the present Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir will try to bring around separatists for a meaningful dialogue with the government. KHAZAN SINGH, Kapurthala
Remember Patel
Indira Gandhi’s death anniversary and the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel fall on the same date. Both were great leaders. However, functions were organised in the memory of Indira Gandhi and the Iron Man of India was nearly forgotten. Even the media did not bother to remember him. It goes without saying that the contribution of Sardar Patel during the freedom struggle and in the accession of princely states was immeasurable. We must remember him and his contribution in the making of India. RAM NIWAS MALIK, Gurgaon
Improve civil services
The editorial, “Assessing babus” (Oct 19) was analytical. Civil servants are the backbone of administration. However, it is an open secret that as value-based politics has declined, civil services too have been afflicted with many ills. Today, merit is ignored and dubious elements find a dominant role. There is no accountability. Handpicked pliable officers are assigned plum jobs and transfers are done in a capricious manner. Unless the psyche of the present polity undergoes a sea change, there is no point in hoping for an improvement in the performance of civil services. V I K SHARMA, Jalandhar
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