The writer has rightly pointed out the airs political parties sport in trying to arrogate to themselves the right to influence a court judgment (“ >Dangers of imperious impatience ,” Oct. 2). Intimidatory tactics will certainly harm their interests. In this case that involved Ms. Jayalalithaa and her associates, party cadres must remember that the case was prolonged for 18 years. Therefore, how can bail be granted within two days? They must ponder over the legal procedures observed in the past, especially in corruption cases that involved political luminaries. Finally, they must remember that the law treats cobbler and caliph alike.
N. Ramkumar,
Chidambaram
The writer has the right words of advice to those people in Tamil Nadu who may be over-reacting to the conviction of their leader. They are only weakening her position. Such a politically motivated reaction also proves that corruption even at the highest level is of no consequence to the average citizen, and more than the values and standing of the country it is the personal “glory” and mass appeal of the person in question that matters. It is equally unfortunate that the State government appears to be looking the other way.
J.V. Carvalho,
Chennai
It is only natural that loyalists and the cadres of the AIADMK will be upset over the verdict. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam and other Ministers should make it clear that the government will not permit protests and other forms of disruption to normal life. The persistence of various forms of protests will only mar the reputation of their leader. Suffering, when patiently borne, has its own persuasive effect and the cadre must learn to be patient.
R. Sridharan,
Chennai
