The act of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar returning Rs 5 crore given by Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi as aid for the Kosi flood victims (June 20) is unfortunate. This was not expected of a leader of Mr. Kumar's stature. Like all other governments, the Gujarat government too sent aid, doctors, relief teams, men and material for the flood-ravaged people. Returning the aid is nothing but political.
N.R. Ramachandran,
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Mr. Modi did not give Rs. 5 crore from his personal account to Mr. Kumar. It was the money of the people of Gujarat. On the one hand, our leaders talk of national integration but when their personal ego is hurt, they behave like children.
Sukumar Talpady,
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Mr. Kumar has insulted not Mr. Modi but the people of Gujarat by his act. Vote-bank politics, a disease that has infected all political parties, perhaps requires him to distance himself from Mr. Modi. But if he can stay in power with the help of the BJP, why should he frown upon individuals in the party and play politics over flood relief? Coalition dharma demands that he deal with awkward situations in a detached manner if he is to remain in power.
V.N. Ramachandran,
Vadodara
Mr. Kumar has created a bad precedent in inter-State relations. The Bihar Chief Minister may have political differences with Mr. Modi but it does not mean he can act in a manner that is prejudicial to the interests of the people of both States. The assistance was provided by Gujarat from the State exchequer, not from Mr. Modi's personal account. Mr. Kumar should have respected the sentiments of the people of Gujarat who are known for rising above political considerations to render succour to victims of calamities.
T.N. Ramachandran Nair,
Thrissur