India and the marines

Lady Justice is depicted wearing a blindfold, indicating that justice is meted out objectively, without favour and regardless of identity or impartiality (“Centre drops charge under anti-piracy law against marines,” Feb. 25). But today, the Indian authorities appear to be blindfolding themselves to facilitate a possible escape route for the Italian marines by introducing questionable legal loopholes even before the case is admitted in court. If the two Italian marines are set free citing these loopholes on account of the callous handling of the case, it will be a blot on upholding our sovereignty.

Haridasan Mathilakath,

Kochi

Though piquant, the government’s decision is on expected lines. India lost momentum as soon as the case was shifted to Delhi. Meanwhile, the woes of the families of the fishermen whose lives were snuffed out off the coast of Kerala are mounting. The Supreme Court needs to intervene.

K. Rajendran,

Chennai

The case seems to have been handled in a confused manner, first by Kerala and then in Delhi. India should have been able to handle it in an amicable manner without damaging ties between the two countries. The fact that Italy has kept its side of the bargain tends to show India in poor light.

Vijay D. Patil,

Pune

The incident took place in 2012. Despite court orders for a speedy trial, the government seems to have been dragging its feet, assuring Italy that it would not seek the death penalty. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Italy is being targeted and Italy wants to raise the issue at the level of the U.N. and the EU. Why is India so lethargic even in international matters? Why not go for an out-of-court settlement and let the marines go?

Ramabhadran Narayanan,

Coimbatore