The conviction of 23 persons for the massacre of Muslims during the post-Godhra riots in Ode village (“Justice will be done,” April 11) is a sad reflection on the Modi government's (mis) handling of the law and order situation in 2002. That the SIT found no proof against Mr. Modi in the Gulberg Society massacre case does not exonerate him fully as he failed in his capacity as Chief Minister to maintain peace in the State.
P.K. Varadarajan
Chennai
The conviction has reaffirmed the common man's faith in the Indian judiciary. It is true that the precious lives lost cannot be brought back. But we should move towards building a harmonious relationship between Hindus and Muslims for the sake of the future generation. The Ode verdict should be one of the meaningful starting points.
S.A. Thameemul Ansari,
Kayalpatnam
Thanks to the trendsetting initiatives of the judiciary, the conviction rate in cases of organised communal violence has gone up. We owe a special word of appreciation to activists whose dogged pursuit against all odds has yielded results. It is also heartening to know that avenues are still open to contest the closure report on the Gulberg Society massacre case. In cases where strong political complicity is alleged, it is better to establish facts beyond doubt.
Gnana. Surabhi Mani,
Madurai
The Ode verdict is symbolic of the fact that justice may, at times, be delayed but will not be denied in India. The due process of law will take its course. Zakia Jafri can remain hopeful of getting justice.
Prashant Rahul,
Ranchi
According to Jaynarayan Vyas, Gujarat Health Minister, those involved in getting justice for the riot victims are trying to defame Mr .Modi and Gujarat.
I want him to tell us whether continued inaction on the part of the Gujarat government during a virtual genocide, and the comparison of the pogrom to Newton's law of action and reaction by no less a person than the Chief Minister did not tarnish the image of Gujarat. It is heartening to note that there are signs of justice being done to the victims, although the battle is long and exhausting.
Baikadi Suryanarayana Rao,
Bangalore
