Sitar legacy

Sitar legacy

* On the passing away of the legendary sitar maestro, 'His last bow' (IE, December 13) paid a rich tribute to Ravi Shankar. Shankar remained popular without being a purist, and left behind a great legacy of world music. The editorial rightly concludes that his melodies will always be intrinsic to the Indian imagination, although he took the beautiful notes of the sitar to the West. He will continue to inspire generations of musicians. His passing leaves a void — India has lost one of its greatest ambassadors, and the world of music, a master.

— Dilbag Rai

Chandigarh

House in disorder

* THIS refers to 'Call to order' (IE, December 14). BSP chief Mayawati's outburst against Rajya Sabha chairman Hamid Ansari was unfortunate.

Although she was quick to make amends the next day, the unruly behaviour of all political parties in both Houses has become common. The Chair cannot be empowered unless political parties agree to bring much-needed amendments to Parliamentary procedure. Our elected representatives should no longer be granted immunity for repeatedly disrupting the House. Perhaps members of Parliament must be expected to complete a minimum number of working hours in the House in order to enjoy their perks and privileges.

— Vijai Pant Kashipur

Quota spat

* APROPOS 'No SC, ST, OBC candidates for 40 pc "backlog vacancies''' (IE, December 14), it appears that scholarships, vocational training and other government schemes meant to uplift the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes are not properly implemented. Politicians must take this seriously, because these schemes could offer a great opportunity to improve people's lives. Forty per cent of seats should not remain vacant on the grounds that eligible candidates are not available after other parameters, such as experience, are relaxed. Instead of sparring over job quotas, our leaders should focus on giving SC, ST and OBC candidates employability skills so that they are better prepared to join government service.

... contd.

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