In a way, it was good that the BJP came to power in Delhi. People were fed up with the AAP’s antics, as many of its leaders seemed more focused on gimmicks than governance (‘New dawn in Delhi’, February 23).
Change is always welcome, but it remains to be seen whether Rekha Gupta and her team can deliver.
Also, the AAP leaders have taken the setback as a matter of prestige. So they are likely to scrutinise every move of the new government, ready to pounce on any missteps.
Renuka Prasad,
On email.
Beyond a simple celebration of electoral victory, the Narendra Modi government must strategically leverage the mandate and turn Delhi into a global city. The focus should be on crafting actionable strategies for sustainable urban growth.
Instead of merely highlighting the decline of the AAP government, a pragmatic approach would involve adapting elements of its anti-corruption and social welfare agenda that continue to resonate with voters. Also, tackling Delhi’s persistent pollution crisis must be central to the city’s development strategy.
The BJP must formulate a comprehensive roadmap that capitalises on the evolving political landscape, and its governance agenda while ensuring inclusive growth, infrastructural progress, and effective pollution mitigation measures.
N.R. Jagannath,
Bengaluru.
The AAP’s defeat is not just a result of anti-incumbency, but also Arvind Kejriwal’s arrogance, overconfidence and allegations of corruption. For the BJP, gaining control of Delhi was crucial from a national perspective, especially in the run-up to elections in Bihar, West Bengal, and other key states.
With strict measures to curb corruption, increased inflow of Central funds, and direct supervision from the Prime Minister’s Office, Delhi can undergo a remarkable transformation in the next five years. If these things are executed effectively, it has the potential to become India’s most attractive city.
K.V. Jayaram,
On email.
It was evident from the beginning that the BJP would perform better in Delhi, but nobody expected them to sweep the state. Much of the blame is on Kejriwal and his party leaders, who took the challenge too lightly.
The problem with Kejriwal is that he does the opposite of what he claims, and, over the years, has misled the people with tricks and dramas. That said, Atishi is a capable leader and should take over the reins of the party from here. I wish Atishi the best.
Jayant Kothari,
On email.
Modi is now poised to reshape Delhi’s landscape, a task that was previously hindered by the lack of support from the state government. With greater control, the BJP is likely to accelerate its vision of transforming the capital into a global city while also advancing its ideological agenda. Rituals like the Yamuna aarti could become a regular feature from here on.
The AAP appears to be on a downward spiral. Once a political party that inspired high hopes, it is now struggling to maintain its foothold. Its hold on Punjab, too, seems increasingly fragile. It may be a matter of time before it loses that state as well.
Shivam Tyagi,
On email.
Prevent violence
Violence in Manipur cannot be allowed to persist indefinitely—it must end (‘Armed and dangerous’, February 23). Both the Meiteis and the Kukis share responsibility for the ongoing unrest. The incoming government, whenever it takes charge, must take important steps to prevent violence and land encroachment.
Rajesh Nagpal,
On email.
Manipur cannot be left in limbo, as it sends a very wrong message. The common people of Manipur, be it from any community, must be able to travel without fear. The past is past—there is no point clinging to it. Manipur should witness no violence at all from here on.
Suraj Gupta,
On email.
Even if a Congress government had been in power in Manipur, the situation would likely have remained the same. The unrest was inevitable. What is truly unfortunate is that an ethnic conflict was deliberately reframed as a religious one to serve the interests of a few.
Alakananda Sadanandan,
On email.
Shift mindset
Dress codes should be about respecting the occasion and setting, not about suppressing cultural identity (‘Dress distress’, February 23). Imposing unnecessary restrictions can lead to division and conflict, ultimately hindering a nation’s progress. True progress comes from a shift in mindset—one that embraces diversity, inclusivity and mutual respect.
Praveen Thimmaiah,
On email.
Work is not worship
Narayana Murthy is wrong in advocating a 90-hour workweek. Working 15 hours a day for six days a week will deprive employees of their family and social life (‘Powerdrive’, February 16). Many employees are forced to work irregular and unlimited hours, often without even basic physical exercise. Employees deserve sufficient time for family, social interaction, entertainment, and physical activity. Beyond a certain limit, work cannot be considered worship.
During the wars with Pakistan in 1965 and 1971, the Ammunition Factory in Pune increased working hours from 48 to 72 per week to meet rising demand. While workers earned significantly more through overtime, their family lives suffered. Many returned home late at night and left early in the morning, rarely seeing their children except on holidays. In some cases, children barely recognised their fathers.
A well-balanced work-life schedule is crucial.
K.V. Dharmarajan,
On email.