L E T T E R S    T O    T H E    E D I T O R

SC verdict on Sanjay justified

The Supreme Court’s decision on Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt’s plea (editorial, “Munnabhai is not Gandhi”, April 1) regarding the suspension of his conviction and not allowing him to contest the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections is an exemplary verdict.

This will enhance the image of judicial functioning. In fact, the Supreme Court is justified in saying no to the film star as it is pertinent to note that Sanjay Dutt had been convicted under the Arms Act and sentenced for six years. According to the law, anyone convicted for two years and above cannot contest polls.

Had the permission been given in such a serious matter then it would have opened the floodgates for other minor and major convicts. Today, India needs professionals and educated citizens in Parliament rather than those who are convicted under stringent sections of the law.

HARPREET SANDHU, Ludhiana

II

The Supreme Court has rightly rejected Sanjay Dutt’s plea. Any other order would have given a wrong signal to the nation and to political parties. The Supreme Court has done well to uphold the law without being influenced by the petitioner’s fame and status.

The judgment is very significant and will help to throw criminals out of the political system. In fact, there is a dire need to check the increasing criminalisation of politics. Law-breakers cannot be allowed to become law-makers.

CAPT S K DATTA, Abohar

III

You have rightly said that “Munnabhai” is not Gandhi. I would like to add that Sanjay Dutt is only a “filmy Gandhi”, not a Gandhi in real life. Such persons must be kept away from Parliament. Moreover, the media should not make heroes out of criminals.

GURWANT SINGH, Malout

Prevent road accidents The editorial “Deaths on the road” (April 2) has given a true picture of traffic conditions and carelessness of the drivers. No doubt rash driving and driving under the influence of alcohol are major causes of road accidents. On the other hand, the plying of trucks, tractors and bullock-carts overloaded with pilgrims is common, especially during Navratra fairs. As a rule, policemen on duty do not check overloaded vehicles. Rather, at times they also take a lift in these overloaded vehicles. But action is taken only against the drivers of ill-fated vehicles. Policemen should also be suspended and tried in the court of law for flouting traffic rules. Administrators should know that human life is precious and must be saved.  S K GOYAL, Shimla

US love for Iran

The comprehensive article in the Editor’s Column “With love from Obama” (March 27) by Mr H K Dua was both timely and informative. Mr Barack Obama’s move points to the thawing of a 30-year long strained relationship with Iran. As expected, the overture has evoked a measured response in Iran.

Mr Ayatollah Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, has termed it as a “meaningless slogan” for he wants Mr Obama to move a few steps forward. Mr Obama has already shown his intention to engage with Iran. He has taken the initiative, a clear departure from Mr George Bush’s foreign policy of demonising Iran.

Mr Obama deserves kudos for his effort for he knows that the West Asian imbroglio cannot be sorted out without Iran. His move will certainly go a long way in establishing peace.

O P COUSHIK, Kurukshetra

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To prove himself as a harbinger of change, Mr Obama means what he says. The Nauroz message should have been accepted by Iran in good faith. The message itself is proof of his sincerity to improve relations with Iran.

However, it will take a long time to convert his vision into reality. Still, well-begun is half done.

Mr Obama is not in a hurry. He has to take steady cautious steps to find a solution to complex situations. The divide is deep and wide. But Mr Obama’s healing touch has begun.

PROF HARI SINGH, Kheri Jat, Jhajjar

Lost heritage

During our visit to Punjab, especially to Kotkapura and Faridkot, we were perturbed by the fact that the Kila and residence of Nawab Kapur Singh has been demolished.

Have we totally forgotten our heritage, culture and its values? I fail to understand the lack of concern in safeguarding this important heritage building.

The public needs to know who was responsible for taking such a destructive step that led to the demolition of this historical place.

MILLKHA SINGH BRAR, Sydney, Australia

More coverage

I have been a regular reader of The Tribune for the past 40-45 years and it
has become a part of my daily life. I like this paper for its objectivity in national
and international matters. The Tribune has remained the leader and has not
lost its originality.

Now, we have more news relating to Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and other neighbouring countries. Back home, we have more coverage of northeastern and other states. However, there is always scope for improvement.

S S GOEL, Panchkula