L E T T E R S    T O    T H E    E D I T O R

Law-breakers should not be law-makers

Tougher laws are needed to weed out criminals from politics as pointed out by the Editor-in-Chief, The Tribune, HK Dua, the newly nominated member of the Rajya Sabha in his maiden speech in Parliament. Indeed, lawbreakers must not be lawmakers. To end criminalisation in politics, political parties must introspect and reach a consensus not to give tickets to criminal elements.

Every political party must shun criminals. It is the duty of upright, dedicated and honest politicians to exert pressure on their parties to ensure that no ticket is given to persons having criminal background. The “winnability” factor is often linked with money and muscle power of the candidate rather than his clean image.

It is a really a matter of shame that political expediency is being given precedence over values and principles. Politics must be for the good of the nation and its people.

GURDERSHAN SINGH, Chandigarh

Environment

Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh’s candid admission that if there was any Nobel Prize for dirt and filth, India would get it, reflects the nation’s apathy towards cleanliness and sanitation. Mortality due to polluted air and water is high. Environmental damage and degradation of natural resources is affecting country’s GDP adversely.

Undoubtedly, this serious problem requires immediate attention and steps should be taken on a war footing. We need to evolve efficient models of environmental governance.

O P COUSHIK, Kurukshetra

Economic scenario

O P Sabherwal’s article, “Changing face of diplomacy” (Nov 23) was apt and relevant to the present economic scenario. Luckily for India we have in Dr Manmohan Singh an economist of international standing and repute. He is steering the nation in the right direction. Common man’s concern can be addressed by boosting the economy.

SHANTI SWAROOP SHARMA, Dharamshala

Joys of reading

Kudos to Scholastic India Ltd. for organising nationwide campaign “Read for Nation 2009” to encourage and inculcate reading habit among students. Books are our unfailing friends that stand by us through thick and thin. Books broaden our mental horizon and enlarge our vision, acquaint us with many aspects of life, inspire us and dispel ignorance.

Sadly, the evolution in the field of science and technology is eroding interest in reading, especially among children. Instead, they remain glued to the idiot box, incessantly play games on computers or surf the Internet.

The need of the hour is to inculcate reading habits among children. Peers, parents and teachers can play a pivotal role in making students voracious readers. More book fairs and availability of low-priced books can trigger interest in reading.

NUTAN JAIN, Chandigarh

Mass marriages

Usha Rai’s article “Discourage ‘honour killings’ through mass marriages” (Nov 21) was thought-provoking and revealing. The suggestion that spot marriage certificate be given to couples is a viable solution to the problem. This could be a step in the right direction, if accepted by the government.

K K CHOPRA, Guradaspur

Fighting terrorism

It is futile to expect Pakistan to take action against the perpetrators of 26/11 Mumbai attack. As long as the government of Pakistan lives in a make- believe world, it is impossible for them to launch any meaningful fight against terrorism. One hopes saner elements will prevail and Pakistan will live in peace and let others live in peace. There is so much poverty and squalor which it must fight. So, why preoccupy itself with killing innocents?

RJ KHURANA,  Bhopal

Unparliamentary

Our elected leaders lack etiquette and have often failed to maintain the decorum of the august House (editorial, “It’s unparliamentary: Maintain the dignity of the House”, Nov 26). How come similar instances are not reported in other countries?

The proceedings of Parliament can be conducted through healthy debates and discussions. If any member of Parliament tries to disrupt the proceedings he should be disqualified for the rest of the session. Indeed, things have gone too far and it is time to restore the parliamentary code of conduct. 

HARISH K MONGA, Ferozepore City

Deserving honour

The Editor- in Chief, The Tribune, HK Dua’s nomination to the Rajya Sabha is well deserved. He is a man of letters and noted for his erudite scholarship. His writings are always inspiring and constructive.

His contribution in the field of national integration, communal harmony and social service is outstanding. The honour is therefore, a befitting recognition of his service to the nation and lofty ideals and ideas in the field of journalism. Decidedly, the House of Elders will be greatly benefited by the presence of such an illustrious person.

Dr HASHIM KIDWAI, Former MP, New Delhi