Census 2027 will have far-reaching consequences. It is certain to reshape India’s electoral and political landscape in many ways (‘The count that counts’, February 15). The caste census, in particular, may even trigger unrest in certain pockets.
If parliamentary representation is recalibrated strictly on the basis of population, political power will inevitably shift northwards. Many in south India, as well as in West Bengal, Maharashtra, Odisha and the northeast, fear they may be reduced to secondary players in the national discourse.
I am from Karnataka. I love India no less than my brothers and sisters in north India. Then, why should I feel disadvantaged, or penalised, by constitutional processes that are meant to ensure fairness and unity? Representation must strengthen the idea of India—not weaken the trust that binds its diverse people together.
Pankaja Basappa,
On email.
The caste census should never have been introduced. It appears to be driven by the vested interests of certain political parties than by any genuine national necessity.
Many see Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a strong leader who has worked tirelessly for the country’s development and global standing. Strong leadership can be an asset in uncertain times.
However, the absence of a robust and credible opposition is a matter of concern. Democracy thrives on balance, debate and accountability. When power becomes excessively concentrated in one or two persons, it risks weakening the institutional safeguards that protect democratic values. My fear is that this concentration of authority may deepen further after 2027, altering the character of our democracy.
Yashpal Mathur,
On email.
Better data can enable smarter welfare targeting. Delimitation can ensure fairer representation. Women’s reservation can deepen leadership benches across political parties rather than merely reshuffle faces.
Parliament must act with foresight. It should pre-commit to transparent and credible delimitation formula, publish caste data with full socio-economic context to prevent misinterpretation, phase the rotation of women’s seats to preserve accountability, and build cross-party consensus.
K. Chidanand Kumar,
On email.
Faith and political power
The hurried swearing-in of Sunetra Pawar as deputy chief of Maharashtra, followed almost immediately by a visit to Siddhivinayak Temple, has raised questions in many minds (‘All strings attached’, February 15). It is the sequence and symbolism of these events that invite scrutiny.
Yes, offering prayers is a matter of personal faith; no objection to that. However, when faith and political power converge in ways that appear carefully choreographed, they inevitably send a message—and it is a message that deserves public reflection.
Subhash K. Desai,
On email.
Why pollute moon and Mars?
We have polluted the Himalayas. We have polluted Everest. Now, it seems, we are preparing to do the same to the moon and the Mars (‘A home on the moon’, February 15). Humanity has grown greedy—no longer satisfied with what this beautiful earth has so generously given us. We have plundered our own planet, exhausted its patience and now look outwards.
If we could not protect the world that gave us life, what moral right do we have to conquer others?
Nirmal Doss,
On email.
Wisdom and wit, effortlessly
K.C. Verma possesses a rare quality that is increasingly hard to find: that of a responsible writer who brings together experience, wisdom, wit and plain common sense with effortless ease.
Verma ji, your friend Mr Gopu strikes me as a character you may have invented, to say aloud what you cannot, given the position you held and the patriot you undoubtedly are. I may be entirely wrong, but let that remain a mystery.
Let me wish Verma ji, his missus, and all his loved ones—including Mr Gopu—the very best of health and prosperity. And may Verma ji always find enough reason to enjoy a pint before lunch.
Manu Krishnan R.,
On email.
Equality = equal sensitivity
The growing turnout at temple gatherings across Kerala is a development that should give Hindus in the state a sense of pride (‘In good faith’, February 15).
The Kerala government appears indifferent to Hindu concerns. The handling of issues related to the Sabarimala Temple has only deepened this perception.
Equality in a secular society must mean equal sensitivity and respect for all faiths. When that balance is disturbed, resentment grows.
Viswanathan Menon,
On email.
It is disappointing that barring a few BJP leaders and Shashi Tharoor, no big leader from the ruling LDF or the UDF chose to talk about the Kerala Kumbh held on the banks of the river Nila in Malappuram district.
It was heartening to see THE WEEK take note of the gathering and give it due coverage.
Devika Chandran,
On email.