This refers to the reports “Protesters battle police at India Gate, several injured,” “Police hit back, protesters untamed after evening assault” and “Students upset at protest turning political, violent” (Dec. 24). The land of Gandhiji and the Buddha seems to be going the way of regimes that crush even the slightest forms of dissent. It is inconceivable that there was no advance intelligence information on the protests. India has to bow its head in shame.
Vishal Arora,New Delhi
The December 16 brutal gang rape in the capital has awakened the inner voice of the people. The anger and helplessness of citizens against the government and the law and order machinery’s owl-like syndrome is genuine. However, there is no instant solution to a serious problem like rape. Instant punishment cannot be dispensed without a trial. As the judiciary, the government and the United Progressive Alliance have assured us of all possible measures to chalk out a tough law, it is important to await the government’s response.
Capt. T. Raju (retd.),Secunderabad
The fear of stringent punishment may help women to some extent. While women in the metros may feel a little safer, will anyone spare a thought for women in rural areas?
G. Geetha Sowmya,Chennai
First we criticise the authorities for inaction and then expect immediate action. In the Delhi gang rape case too, we are after quick results.
We want the police, the government and courts to solve what is primarily a societal issue of changing the mindset of a few men. We forget that we have our collective individual responsibility rather than protesting against the ills in society. When we see someone in distress, we often flee thinking only about ourselves.
Prabhu Raj,Chennai
“The rage after the rape” (editorial, Dec. 24) has rightly pointed out that a number of Opposition politicians have started an irresponsible debate on the need for the death penalty, or castration of rapists. However, until a long-term solution evolves, women will have to remain cautious and vigilant as the government’s promises to protect its people still sound hollow (“There is genuine and justified anger, says PM,” Dec. 24). We also need to introduce value-based upbringing of children in homes and schools. Such an approach may also help douse India’s anger.
Rajesh Vishwakarma,Hyderabad
The need of the hour is for persons in authority and all political parties to restore calm by making the law even severer. The parties should also display the courage to make MPs and MLAs who are facing charges of rape resign. The people are at the end of their patience.
R. Vasudevan,Chennai
