The anti-defection law has been ineffective in stopping large-scale defections that lead to unseating of governments (‘Four decades of failures’, October 6). Any leader who abandons his political party should resign.
The entire system needs a complete revamp, while ensuring there is no bias. The judiciary, in whatever limited ways it can, should intervene in cases of defection.
Sukumaran Nandakishore,
On email.
Politicians should have the freedom to switch political parties. It is their personal decision, and those voters who believe in them will not feel betrayed. They understand that the politician will continue to work for their benefit, regardless of party affiliation.
Vikas Asthana,
On email.
The articles and interviews in your cover story were insightful. I fully agree with M. Venkaiah Naidu’s observation that the public is losing trust in the system because of frequent party-switching by politicians. While it is true that not every issue can be addressed with legislation, I believe that the collective wisdom of the people will ultimately take us towards a solution.
Avin S.J.,
On email.
As elections approach, we witness politicians shamelessly switching sides, making a mockery of the system. The blatant disregard for anti-defection law would make even our ancestors, who fought with unwavering loyalty in the Mahabharat, squirm in their graves.
Tanmay,
On email.
In your cover story, there is a rather provocatively titled write-up on the anti-defection law by a current Member of Parliament, whose journey to this position has been anything but straightforward. He displaced a veteran parliamentarian, largely because his “bosses” could not afford to let him leave, as they did with a former colleague. That colleague has faded from influence. Meanwhile, this MP remains the only one available at their disposal, while others have been sidelined or are preoccupied with their own problems.
It is ironic that he now points fingers at everyone except his own group for the current disarray. In fact, it is politicians like him, who exploit loopholes, who enabled parliamentarians and their henchmen to undermine the very fabric of our Constitution.
Shekhar Naik,
On email.
The anti-defection law has been rendered toothless by political parties, with members crossing over to other parties with alarming frequency. The law remains vague on the disqualification process, and the courts cannot intervene as it pertains to the workings of the assemblies or Parliament. The manipulation of the anti-defection law is never going to be addressed by Parliament.
Parthasarathy Mandadi,
On email.
Finding compromise
I agree with Hillary Clinton that every marriage has its ups and downs (‘Point blank’, October 6). What truly matters for couples is understanding each other’s flaws and finding compromise wherever possible. Comparisons should also come to an end—your spouse is not the person next door. If that is who you want, then you should reconsider your relationship and leave your partner.
Pratap Bhatia,
On email.
Mind your language
I liked Anuja Chauhan’s column (October 6). The language we choose to use is a personal decision. According to ancient Sanskrit shlokas, goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati reside on our tongues, manifesting through the words we speak. Animals, birds and trees have their own forms of communication. While we may not fully understand their languages, they communicate with each other and often respond to the emotions behind our words. This is why we should be mindful of how we use language, regardless of the species we are addressing.
Minati Pradhan,
On email.
The abusive words in Hindi can be particularly unpleasant, reflecting a deeper issue in how language mirrors thought processes. I feel ashamed to even recall some of these phrases. It is crucial for parents to play an active role in discouraging children from using such harmful language.
P.K. Das,
On email.
Crowning achievement
Governance is best entrusted to elected representatives, and the upcoming assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, to be constituted after a decade-long gap, will play a pivotal role (‘Mainstream challengers’, September 29). The new government will have to address pressing issues such as generating employment for the young people, revitalising tourism, and enhancing the overall quality of life through economic measures.
Sachidananda Satpathy,
On email.
Fight your battles
Your cover story highlighting Manish Sisodia’s recollections of his time in jail was interesting and thought-provoking (‘Out of jail… not out of touch’, September 15). In fact, many politicians have had similar experiences during their time in jail for various reasons. Like, Shanta Kumar, former chief minister of Himachal Pradesh. It would be wise for the AAP’s leadership, including Sisodia, to fight their legal battles in court and seek exoneration. Only then can things turn in their favour. If the versions of these leaders of the AAP are found to be correct, they will receive justice sooner rather than later, as the higher judiciary in our country functions independently and without pressure. I wish Sisodia good luck.
Surinder Sharma,
On email.