•The unfortunate death of Y.S.R. Reddy has shocked the nation. India has just lost a seasoned politician and a dynamic personality, who was one of its best chief ministers. YSR, a capable administrator was loved by the masses and admired by his opponents for his capabilities. It is rare to come across a politician who has not lost an election; and YSR sustained this performance in his

30-year career. The vacuum created by his tragic death will be difficult to fill.

— S.N. Kabra

Mumbai

Irreplaceable?

•Y.S.R. Reddy’s career has not been one of political manipulation; he conducted his affairs earnestly and honestly. His 1500 km padayatra across Andhra Pradesh in 2003 was not performed for the sake of votes alone as one could see his consistent efforts at bettering the livelihood of the state’s residents after his 2004 election victory. YSR successfully implemented various projects for rural employment, irrigation and rural healthcare. That he personally oversaw most projects earned him the respect of both the masses and politicians. It will undoubtedly be difficult to replace him. But one wonders though how even VIPs don’t have adequate travel safety. The cause of the chopper

crash must be investigated thoroughly.

— Bidyut K. Chatterjee

Faridabad

•It is saddening to hear of YSR’s death, and one instinctively questions our aviation safety standards. Did the relevant authorities not advise him that bad weather would be a hazard or did he travel nevertheless? This is a loss for many. Given that he was respected by so many, the Congress will struggle to find a successor. Further, he was a younger member of the party, capable of changing things.

... contd.