• Mihir Sharma’s ‘Mamata Cholbe Na’ has rightly described the obstructionism of Indian political parties whenever they sit in the opposition. For a democracy to function, the opposition needs to be responsible and constructive. The licence to oppose is not one to cause chaos. The opposition cannot claim to be the sole representative of the people. For the benefit of the nation, politicians like Mamata Banerjee need to change their methods of protest.

— Satish Dayal

New Delhi

• Mihir Sharma is right in saying that Mamata Banerjee’s politics of “negationism” might negate her chances of ever becoming CM. Mamata’s politics are unsuitable for electoral victory. However, one cannot say that her variety of politics is not desirable at all in today’s Bengal. Had there been no Mamata, the CPM would have got away with Nandigram and much else. In fact, Mamata’s “Cholbe Na” politics has given a voice to the oppressed, at the cost of her becoming CM. This is a laudable sacrifice.

— Debashis Pathak

Kolkata

Justice delayed

• This refers to 'Cruel to be kind'. Milind Murugkar has rightly analysed the typical instrument used by the government to safeguard the interests of urban consumers at the cost of those of farmers. Even today, there isn’t any organised and effective agriculturists’ union to fight for farmers’ rights. No political party seems interested in exploiting this opportunity either.

— Shishir Sindekar

Nasik

Bad precedent

• The three service chiefs have delayed the implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission’s recommendations cleared by the cabinet. To use parity with the civil services as an excuse to challenge the government’s decision, however unjust it may look to the defence personnel, is not in the right spirit. Disobedience of any sort is a serious offence in the defence forces. Therefore, the three chiefs have left a lot to be desired.

... contd.