Take a stand

Take a stand

It is heartening to read about the recommendations of the Justice Verma committee to protect women against all forms of sexual violence and to punish those who attempt to commit such crimes ('The Verma manifesto', IE, January 25). For these recommendations to result in tangible laws and action, it will be necessary for our parliamentarians to set aside their political differences and pass bills to amend the CrPC, the IPC and so on. Alas, given the track record of misogyny that most of our political parties share, it is very likely that the Verma committee report will be consigned to some standing committee, where it will gather dust for a few decades. It is for society at large to keep this issue alive. Perhaps one way to do so is to demand that every political party take a clear stand on the Verma report before the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

— R.P. Subramanian

Delhi

Smothered voices

THIS refers to 'States of abdication' (IE, February 1). Our growing intolerance of free expression has something to do with our mindset. We seem to believe in hiding things rather than facing the facts, and lack the courage to defend the freedom of expression. By banning and censoring, we hope that we can avoid major crises but in reality, bans create an intolerant society. Without the freedom of speech, we would be unable to demand our rights and become subject to the whims of vested interests. As states ban books, films and artists, the Centre seems to have completely abdicated its responsibility to protect free speech.

— Ashok Goswami

Mumbai

Not doing the job

THE police play a vital role in tackling crime and maintaining law and order ('Dhule imperative', IE, January 31). They are expected to be gender sensitive, cooperative, efficient, effective and respectful of human rights. Unfortunately, the police violence in Dhule demonstrates otherwise.The problem seems to lie in a faulty recruitment policy, ad hoc training, frequent transfers (resulting in poor morale among policemen) and low levels of education.

... contd.

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