Undue delay in justice delivery
With reference to the editorial ‘Tytler in the dock’, the 1984 anti-Sikh riots remain one of the darkest episodes in the history of independent India. The Delhi court’s order for the framing of charges against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in connection with the Gurdwara Pul Bangash killings is welcome. But such an inordinate delay in the delivery of justice is deplorable. All cases must be settled or disposed of within a given time frame. An undue delay and unnecessary legal hurdles are weighing down the Indian judiciary.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Misuse of stringent laws
Refer to the editorial ‘The PMLA paradox’; despite the surge in PMLA cases, the conviction rate remains dismal. It seems like the law has become a weapon to target Opposition leaders. The Supreme Court has reiterated time and again that bail should be the norm and jail an exception. Even those charged with crimes under the PMLA or UAPA should not be denied bail. No accused person should have to stay behind bars for an extended period without trial. Probe agencies and lower courts must pay heed to the apex court’s words.
SK Singh, by mail
Ensure prompt justice delivery
Apropos of the news report ‘Prez: Generation passes awaiting rape case verdicts, end adjournment culture’; President Droupadi Murmu is right to express her anguish over the ‘culture of adjournments’ and call for prompt delivery of justice, especially in rape cases. It is common for defence advocates to seek adjournment on flimsy grounds just to delay a verdict in favour of the victim. In view of the Kolkata rape-murder case and other heinous crimes, there is a need to overhaul the system.
Upendra Sharma, by mail
Rift within NDA
The upcoming Jammu and Kashmir elections have exposed a rift within the NDA, with the JD(U) proposing the release of political prisoners and stone-pelters, challenging the BJP’s hardline stance. This promise of peace and reconciliation could attract the Valley’s disenchanted voters. But it risks being seen as appeasement by the BJP’s core base. The JD(U)’s divergence — seeking the restoration of statehood and special protections for locals — seems to strike a chord with the sentiments that many locals share. Yet, this approach starkly contrasts with the BJP’s anti-separatist policy. As the NDA allies tread different paths, the alliance’s unity faces a severe test. Will the pursuit of peace in the Valley come at the cost of coalition integrity? The NDA must decide if its partnership is a strength or a liability as it confronts Kashmir’s unique challenges.
Sahibpreet Singh, Mohali
No place for bulldozer justice
Apropos of the front-page news report ‘Can’t raze house even if person is convicted: SC on bulldozer move’; the apex court has rightly stressed that there is no place for bulldozer justice in our country. It is unfortunate that such heavy-handed measures have become the order of the day. The powers that be waste no time in razing the houses of persons accused of serious crimes. They usually do so just to quell public anger. But they must not forget that we are a nation of law and order. State governments must not overstep their boundaries to score brownie points with the masses.
DVG Sankara Rao, Vizianagaram
Check spike in student suicides
With reference to the article ‘Spread awareness about mental health to tackle suicide epidemic’; the recent spike in student suicides is a matter of grave concern. The government must take a serious view of the epidemic and take concrete measures to arrest the trend. Each loss of life is a loss for the nation. The fact that more students are dying by suicide now than farmers is telling. Initiating programmes to improve the mental health of students might make a difference. It is time to bring about a positive change.
S Kumar, Panchkula
Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit.
These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: Letters@tribunemail.com
