Pakistan politics
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s prospects of completing a full term in office have turned bleak after having lost the trust of the powerful Army. With the Army continuing to call the shots and civilian rulers failing to provide good governance, Pakistan continues to remain a fledgling democracy.
M. Jeyaram,
Sholavandan, Tamil Nadu
Gadkari on Congress
The short report, “Strong Cong. essential for India” (Page 1, March 29), was interesting as well as thought-provoking. The statement, by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari — and from the Bharatiya Janata Party — must act as a real warning. The Congress should earnestly recognise Mr. Gadkari’s observation: of the urgent need to carry out its role with zeal and have a goal to regain its stature. The continuing acceptance of the BJP and the growth of other Opposition parties will only shrink the space available to the Congress. There should be introspection from the top to the grass-roots on why the Congress is facing electoral embarrassment after electoral embarrassment.
Jiji Panicker K.,
Chengannur, Kerala
The counterintuitive comment from Mr. Gadkari has come in sharp contrast to the frequent and frenzied calls for a ‘Congress-Mukt Bharat’ heard from the BJP camp, especially from the Prime Minister. Mr. Gadkari has succinctly encapsulated the need for a strong national Opposition party at a time when the current rulers are increasingly exhibiting authoritarian tendencies and the BJP is making all out efforts to extend its monolithic hold on the polity. Is there more to his words than meets the eye? Is he indirectly expressing concern over the undermining of democratic principles? It would augur well for the country if Mr. Gadkari stands his ground and can persuade his party’s bigwigs to his way of thinking on democracy.
Manohar Alembath,
Kannur, Kerala
Mr. Gadkari’s advice to the Congress is heartening. It is a rare gesture from a ruling party member, and by a serving Minister. There was a time when Atal Bihari Vajpayee had cordial relations with the Congress. Mr. Gadkari as a well-wisher of the Grand Old Party is a whiff of fresh air.
Prabhu Raj R.,
Bengaluru
