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

Khaps are not a law unto themselves

I do not agree that Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh’s decision to set up a Group of Ministers (GoM) for enacting a law for preventing the honour killings is timely and apt (editorial, “Reining in khaps: Hasten law on honour killings”, July 10). How many GoMs will be set up by the government to tackle the various social, economic and political problems faced by the country?

If every important decision is to be taken on the recommendations of the GoM, what is the Cabinet for? The recommendations by the Cabinet as a whole carry more weight and conviction than those by the GoM. Moreover why can’t we discuss and debate these issues in the legislatures? We are spending crores of rupees on the functioning of Parliament and assemblies.

It is worth mentioning that most of the existing problems, the country is passing through stem not from the lack of effective laws but from the vacillation and prevarication by the powers that be.

Even the present Indian Penal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code can go a long way in stopping the “honour killings” if our politicians allow them to be implemented without fear and favour. But our caste-ridden leaders drag feet to enforce them for the fear of losing their vote bank. Khap panchayats cannot become a law unto themselves without the tacit support from our opportunistic leaders.

Joys of childhood The middle “A moment in the rain” (July 12) by Geetu Vaid aptly compared the human life full of zeal and enthusiasm with childhood. Childhood is devoid of feelings of avarice, jealousy, hatred and revenge, etc. If a human being sheds off his inhibitions, he can certainly enjoy the bliss of life. Only we need to realise the essence of life. In fact we make a shell around ourselves and refuse to come out of it. This hinders us from enjoying the elixir of life. The unadulterated fun of life is possible only if we enjoy every moment with jest and energy. SURINDER KUMAR MAHNA, Karnal

Uncooperative stance

The editorial “Mehbooba must co-operate: No settling scores at cost of  peace” (July 13) appropriately suggests that all parties should rise above their differences and work together to reach a consensus regarding steps to be taken to find a peaceful situation in Kashmir.

Ms Mehbooba should not forget that as responsible Opposition, it is expected of her party to contribute in the progress and prosperity of the state. In the interest of the state, she should ignore the utterances she finds unpleasant.

The intelligence agencies have again failed to assess troubles in time. When information is available in advance, the security forces can plan their actions for effective control of such events.

The local politicians must remain in touch with the people, especially youth, and expose the intentions of secessionist elements. Spreading information about the welfare and other projects and involving participation of locals in these activities, will enhance confidence in the local administration.

Politicians irrespective of their political affiliations must focus on peace and progress. The government must fulfil all the genuine requirements of the people to regain their faith.

S C VAID, Greater Noida

Impolite language

The way the BJP President Nitin Gadkari uses foul language against his opponents is abominable (news report, “Gadkari ruffles Cong with Afzal remark”, July 10). In fact, it shows his lack of political wisdom. The BJP leaders must hang their heads in shame. The party president does not know how to talk, what direction and vision can he give to the party and people?

Such immature politicians should not occupy high posts and should be told to mind their tongues in future. Mr Gadkari must tender his apologies to the nation. Politicians like him need lessons on how to talk. 

Capt AMAR JEET KUMAR, SAS Nagar