Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of the forgotten heroes of independence, richly deserves the tributes paid to him (Editorial page, “The unifier of modern India”, October 31). But like Patel, we have many other unsung heroes and heroines of the freedom struggle. It is our bounden duty to remember each one of them as we owe them a great debt of gratitude. It is undeniable that Patel’s personality, achievements and sterling contributions to the nation’s cause are taller than his statue on the banks of the Narmada river. He was indeed an illustrious son of India.
C.G. Kuriakose,
Kothamangalam, Kerala
A true tribute to Sardar Patel would begin by adopting his policies in letter and spirit rather than constructing a huge statue. One wonders whether the statue will make the nation more united when the fact is our present-day leaders are all set to divide the society in the name of caste, religion and language for political gains.
Kshirasagara Balaji Rao,
Hyderabad
The BJP may be enthusiastic to add Sardar Patel to its pantheon of leaders but so would Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, or Rajaji, and V.P. Menon from the south whose contribution towards India’s unity and fostering of democracy are equally significant. V.P. Menon was Sardar Patel’s man-on-the-spot, tirelessly holding negotiations behind the scenes. Finally, going back in history may not be the solution or the answer to problems we face. Going forward with vision and clear decisions is what is needed.
H.N. Ramakrishna,
Bengaluru
