Ready for change

This refers to ‘Gujarat is still a BJP citadel’ by Poornima Joshi (October 31). The caste matrix has supported BJP but the incumbency factor, demonetisation, and GST with a change in leadership and the vibrant Gujarat summit investment numbers that paint a different picture show there are cracks in the BJP fortress. The two major parties have not focussed on issues such as Patidar reservation, education, jobs, poverty alleviation, trade and healthcare. The Congress and the BJP should first unveil their manifestoes for Gujarat before going at each other. Gujarat is clearly ready for change, but issues concerning the State must be kept in mind.

Moin Syed

Gulbarga, Karnataka

It is true that BJP has established a strong base but due to the incumbency factor and resentment among the Patidars, it appears to be a golden opportunity for the Congress to make a comeback. But the party must ensure there is no factionalism within its ranks. Another issue that might split the Congress votes is the Sankarsinh Vaghela factor.

This is a testing time for Rahul Gandhi as success in Gujarat may smooth the way for his elevation. The Hindutva agenda will not impress voters unless there is real development. The growing affluence of a certain section does not signify progress.

Jayant Mukherjee

Kolkata

No right

This refers to your editorial, ‘Wrong call’ (October 31). Telecom companies have no right to ask subscribers to upload their Aadhaar. What is the guarantee that private data will not misused by the telecom players? Moreover, if the purpose is identity proof, the telecom companies can satisfy themselves through other valid documents such as passport, driving licence, voter ID and so on. The Government must withdraw the order mandating ‘e-KYC verification of all subscribers’ till the Constitution Bench pronounces its verdict on Aadhaar.

Philip Sabu

Thrissur, Kerala

Killing fields

That several farmers have lost their lives following prolonged exposure to toxic pesticides used indiscriminately in the cotton growing belt of Maharashtra is a grim pointer to the failure to usher in a functional regulatory mechanism to regulate the use of pesticides. Indian agricultural products are being subjected to several import restrictions internationally for failure to comply with safety regulations. This reflects the need to set up an independent authority to advice farmers on the scientific use and disposal of pesticides. A pragmatic farm policy which encourages the production and use of organic methods is called for.

M Jeyaram

Sholavandan, Tamil Nadu

Banking bolts

It is shocking that senior citizens are not spared charges and taxes ( penalties) on bank transactions. The interest rate on bank FDs has also been reduced. They have to pay higher premiums for medical insurance policies. When will these be scrapped?

Hansraj Bhat

Mumbai

Goon force

Even women leaders are not safe in Delhi. The attack on CPI leader Annie Raja during the agitation following the demolition drive by DDA in a West Delhi colony led to injuries to the head and limbs. The Delhi High Court in 2014 had stated that DDA cannot forcibly evict people from their homes. No development is sustainable by rendering people homeless. And no leader can.remain mere onlooker during a demolition drive. The attack on Annie Raja is condemnable.

KA Solaman

Alappuzha, Kerala

Male domination

This refers to ‘Checking my male privilege’ by Charles M Blow (October 31). It is ironical that sexual harassment is on the rise at a time when people are said to be more civilised. Sexual violence is happening across the world. In a male-dominated society, men can be said to be privileged only if women can have have access to a privileged life.

S Lakshminarayanan

Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu

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