The conviction of RJD leader Lalu Prasad in the fodder scam has come at a crucial time. Justice is one of the key pillars on which democracy rests. Elected representatives are drivers of parliamentary democracy. The perception that political leaders can get away with almost anything undermines people’s faith in democracy and its institutions. That the gap between publicly held beliefs and judicially attested convictions is narrowing is a healthy sign for democracy. This sign, when seen against the backdrop of the anti-corruption wave, demand for better governance, safety for women, legislation for socio-economic justice, etc., is enough to offer us the hope that democracy’s roots have been strengthened in India.
Amulya Nidhi,New Delhi
Lalu Prasad’s conviction, though belated, has raised the hope that even the mighty cannot escape the clutches of the law, however slow the trial process. There are many leaders like Lalu Prasad, at the Centre and in the States, powerful business tycoons, bureaucrats and others whose cases are pending in courts. Some may even die before they are convicted. But nothing is lost. Lalu Prasad’s conviction marks a good beginning for cleansing public life, especially politics.
V.S. Ganeshan,Bangalore
The verdict is late but not too late. It has, in fact, come at the right time — when the mood of the whole country is against corruption. The conviction and barring of Lalu Prasad from contesting elections are a landmark in Indian politics.
Manish Kulkarni,Bangalore
The verdict is a major blow to Lalu Prasad. The judgment has great significance at a time when the ruling UPA government and the BJP are locked in a war of words over the ordinance with regard to convicted politicians. It also sends a strong warning to corrupt political leaders.
K.A. Solaman,Alappuzha
Now that Lalu Prasad has been convicted, the UPA government is most unlikely to go ahead with the ordinance protecting criminal MPs. Besides, Prince Rahul has expressed his unhappiness over it. Above all, the nation is in no mood to tolerate corruption.
V.S. Ganeshan,Bangalore
The nation and the Congress, including its leadership which had its head buried in the sand all along, should thank Rahul for his just-in-time intervention to scupper the ordinance that could have protected Lalu Prasad. He has saved the Congress a huge embarrassment.
A. D. Vasudevan,Bangalore
While Lalu Prasad’s conviction must be sending shivers down the spine of many politicians, it has brought cheer and hope for the common man. That said, the Constitution should be amended to ensure speedy justice.
A.E. Charles,Coimbatore
