All set to govern

December 27, 2013 12:54 am | Updated 12:54 am IST

Though the Aam Aadmi Party is short of an absolute majority to form a government on its own, the Congress party has done us a good thing by deciding to lend issue-based support to it (Dec. 26). Both the national parties, Congress and BJP, must now allow Arvind Kejriwal to function on his own terms till at least the 2014 election is over. It is hoped that he will be above bias and not belie the hopes of the people. Finally, he must resist the temptation of going on a witch-hunt.

M. Somasekhar Prasad,

Badvel

Nationally, almost a third of the country’s lawmakers face criminal charges and many are shielded by a slow-moving legal system. Now, with the AAP making its moves known on a Jan Lokpal Bill and insisting on probing alleged scams during the 15-year Congress rule, citizens are bound to follow the news closely! While other points in the AAP’s manifesto — up to 700 litres of water free every day and electricity prices being halved — sound impressive, the party’s deal with the Congress could stymie this radical agenda.

Reehana Kabeer,

Thiruvithancode

The point in the graphic, “Team Kejriwal” (Dec. 26), on the absence of a minority member as Minister in the AAP cabinet, and its being a first, is a bit surprising. The media need to remind all of us in India that we are equal. Please do not divide this country on a religious and caste basis.

V. Balakrishnan,

Chennai

When he took office, U.S. President Barack Obama had a refreshing slogan, “Yes, we can.” Many expect the same thing from Mr. Kejriwal

Arif M.,

Palakkad

Under the given circumstances, the AAP had no option but to form the government and with Congress support. Even if it survives for a short period, it can still leave its imprint on Indian politics. In this context, I recall the Tamil film Mudhalvan , which revolves around an ambitious TV journalist who becomes the chief minister for 24 hours out of compulsion. He proves his mettle, changes the mindset of the public, wins their confidence and goes on to rule for long.

K. Manasa Sanvi,

Srikalahasti

At last, the sarkar of the Aam Aadmi will be sworn in soon. Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi and other Young Turks in the party who have suddenly discovered the virtues of talking about the need to fight corruption must join hands with the AAP. By identifying itself strongly with an anti-corruption platform, the Congress will have a chance to revive its sagging image.

Comdt G.V. Mathew,

Thiruvananthapuram

The AAP has planned to have its swearing-in ceremony on Ramlila Maidan with a special platform being built. Is this necessary? Can’t this be done quietly in the Assembly hall? Does the event require such ostentation? The founder of the party, who is on record as having relinquished an official bungalow and shunning the red beacon, should have set an example to other parties by taking over on a low-key. A self-proclaimed common man’s government should have avoided this. The next question is: who is bearing the expenses? The party should not create a feeling that it is old wine in a new bottle.

V. Rajagopalan,

Chennai

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