Whose CM?

Christian organisations work in the field of education and health in rural areas, something not liked by those politically and ideologically sympathetic to the BJP, such as the upper castes and traders.

The very hapless people, whose “forced” conversions the VHP and Bajrang Dal lament, are not allowed to enter temples and upper caste homes. They cannot draw water from their wells. Even today this goes on. Since the church takes an interest in the uplift of these people, the Sangh Parivar attacks Christians.

— M.H. Nayak

Don’t blame him alone

• What happened in Karnataka is criminal. The churches shouldn’t have been attacked. But such violent incidents can occur even in the best policed state.

Perhaps the media is targeting Yeddyurappa simply because he belongs to the BJP?

— Prasad Lele

Mumbai

Go, minister!

• It is appalling that despite increasing incidents of terrorist attacks on urban markets, “the ostrich-like mentality of the UPA and the Congress”, continues.

Home Minister Shivraj Patil’s “phenomenal incompetence” in tackling internal security is now widely acknowledged in political circles, including his own party, by the media and by civil society. Yet, he merrily boasts that he has the confidence of the supreme leader, and that alone matters!

Thus, performance and accountability have no relevance: loyalty is all that matters. Meanwhile, the country bleeds all over.

— M. Ratan

New Delhi

Pakistan’s dilemma

• The defiant statements by the political and military establishment of Pakistan, about upholding the sovereignty of the country in the face of the US’s unilateral strikes against rebels in Pakistan’s tribal regions, are understandable.

Politically, financially and militarily Pakistan is deeply indebted to the US. This has allowed the latter to dominate Pakistan. But, under the influence of anti-American jihadis, the tribals see the US as Enemy No 1 and Pakistan as its No 1 collaborator.

They are ready for a prolonged war against both.

Islamabad, however, is in two minds. It wants to avoid a civil war but doesn’t want to annoy the US either. For its part, the US, long used to having its way, is in no mood to relent. Whichever way Pakistan goes, the consequences of its choice will...