Let action speak

Let action speak

This refers to 'Only a-twitter' (IE, February 5). The public has high expectations of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, but he seems unable to match his words with firm actions. In the case of the young musicians of Pragaash, Kashmir's first girl-band, he should have demonstrated the will to fight against hardliners who threatened their safety. He should inspire a sense of hope among the youth of the state instead of making empty promises. His apparent lack of conviction is particularly unfortunate in a state that would benefit from a strong leader.

— Bal Govind, Noida

Time to talk

THE BJP does not seem to have learned some crucial lessons from the Congress ('Boycott politics', IE, February, 4). The Congress, and consequently the UPA, has been hindered by the lack of adequate communication in the past. Instead of following suit and boycotting Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde, the BJP should behave maturely. Shinde's comments on Hindu terror should be addressed on public platforms and in Parliament, where the BJP must respond astutely to his criticism. If the BJP remains silent on the issue, an opportunity for healthy dialogue will be lost. Instead of disrupting the next session of Parliament with a boycott on Shinde, the BJP should address the concerns of the public.

— Ganapathi Bhat

Akola

Beyond law

IT IS futile to place the burden of a woman's protection only on the law ('Illusion of law', IE, February 5). The real change needs to take place in the minds of people. Society needs a mindset that does not put women in a vulnerable position. Once men begin to treat women with greater respect, laws that protect women's rights will become more effective. A woman is entitled to her freedom, and our society should not treat this as a favour bestowed upon her by men.

... contd.

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