• Words and phrases used by Shashi Tharoor have not only hurt people’s sentiments but also shatterproofed the difference between neta and janta. Tharoor forgets that he was voted to power by the so-called cattle class. And the same class can oust him. He must realise that a vast majority still dreams of travelling only cattle class. The austerity drive will go a long way in inspiring others, but it seems this sudden love for austerity among our leaders is nothing but a political stunt. Besides, India has a huge middle class, and most people travel economy class. By travelling economy, leaders will inconvenience regular passengers. Nevertheless, what the Congress needs is to send a strong political message of solidarity with the worst sufferers of the economic distress.

— Vinod C. Dixit

Ahmedabad

• The frontpage report on Shashi Tharoor’s OSD was a delightful read. But what’s difficult to believe is that the gentleman under public glare was an international civil servant, in fact, a UN under secretary-general, with no absolute control over his tongue or pen.

— M.K.D. Prasada Rao

Ghaziabad

Nothing new

• This isn’t the first time the government has attempted austerity measures. And like earlier instances this too may fizzle out. Austerity confined to living quarters and transport expenses will reflect the spirit behind the principle, but offices deserve all the conveniences and appropriate ambience since these add to the nation’s dignity in the eyes of visitors. In the past, government offices looked like “cattle sheds” with broken, stained furniture and crude stationery. Austerity is a noble principle no doubt but there’s no harm in indulging in luxury provided we end corruption and leakage of revenue in projects.

... contd.