Election results

While it is laudable that the people of Haryana and Maharashtra have voted decisively, it is the Maharashtra result that is particularly heartening, where the Senas have been cut to size (Oct. 21). In voting for the BJP, the electorate has expressed its disappointment with the Congress and the divisive-minded Senas. By losing power in Haryana, the Congress has paid the price for permitting corruption and ineffective governance. Mr. Modi must now use these mandates to fulfil the aspirations of the common man.

Tharcius S. Fernando,

Chennai

Rather than wait for Mr. Modi to commit blunders — a very unlikely proposition — the Congress must take steps to energise the party cadre and the grass-root worker. What is terrible is the high-command’s intolerance of plain-speaking partymen and its disinclination to accept responsibility for the defeats. It should now focus its attention on Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, and in retaining power in Karnataka and Assam. For that to happen, the lead must come from the top.

Ganapathi Bhat,

Akola, Maharashtra