Offensive against the Taliban by Pakistan and US forces apparently is not successful possibly on account of Taliban’s familiarity with the rough terrain and the tough foreign mercenaries fighting alongside them. One reason could be lurking sympathy for fellow Muslim Talibans, which probably is responsible for leaks that give the Taliban advance information about planned military operations against them. These developments raise grave concerns for us, especially in view of the ominous Taliban threat to target India. The consequences of Pakistan’s nuclear armaments or even a part thereof falling in Taliban hands are extremely terrifying for us and also for the international community. It is imperative that swift enforceable contingency plans are in place. Its details should be a matter of utmost secrecy. Ay, there is the rub and the real problem.

Changes in Britain

In a country which is generally conservative, the establishment of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom in October 2009 is a milestone in British legal history. The new Supreme Court building will be in the renovated Middlesex Guildhall. In the courtrooms, the judges will sit on the same level as the advocates, not in their formidable wigs and gown but in their new attire of a black coat buttoned up to the collar, resembling priests. And why not? Courts are supposed to be temples of justice. However, there is no fundamental change in the role of the highest judiciary. If any legislation contravenes the UK Human Rights Act 2002, the Supreme Court can only issue a declaration of incompatibility of the legislation but cannot strike it down as in the US and in our country. The ball is thereafter in Parliament’s court to take appropriate steps to rectify the shortcomings pointed out in the judgment. And that is usually done.

... contd.