It may not be an easy victory for the DMK-led alliance in Tamil Nadu (‘Four’s a crowd’, April 26). Actor Vijay’s entry could split the anti-BJP vote, potentially helping the AIADMK-BJP alliance.
There is also a growing sentiment that Tamil Nadu should move beyond the freebies culture and take into account the performance of the MLAs.
Vimla Menon,
On email.
The BJP did appear to have some advantage in Tamil Nadu at one point, but that momentum seems to have shifted thanks to the controversy around the delimitation bill. The way the bill was introduced in Parliament—seen by many as hurried and lacking in transparency—added to the unease in the state.
I also see discomfort over BJP leaders addressing audiences in Hindi while in Tamil Nadu. Using English, which is more accepted in the state, and making an effort to speak a few words in Tamil, could go a long way in connecting with people.
Hindi, even today, is viewed by many as an unfamiliar language in Tamil Nadu, and its use can sometimes trigger strong reactions. The large sentiment is clear—linguistic imposition rarely works, and sensitivity to regional identity matters—not just in Tamil Nadu, but across the southern states.
Mohan T. Balu,
On email.
Vijay may generate buzz, but his electoral impact in Tamil Nadu is likely to be limited. At best, Vijay and his party could secure around 10-12 seats.
Many voters across Tamil Nadu are comfortable with the DMK-led alliance, and want Stalin to return to power. If the electorate feels a government has largely delivered, a comeback is only natural.
Samyuktha Iyer,
On email.
I read your cover story on the elections in Tamil Nadu. While the DMK has managed certain aspects of governance, there are serious concerns that cannot be overlooked. Law and order, for instance, appears to have weakened, and the state’s debt has risen sharply. Infrastructure issues and allegations of corruption have further added to the criticism. The Supreme Court has, on multiple occasions, raised concerns on the actions of state government.
Anil Deshpande,
On email.
Source of persistent disagreement
Your story from West Bengal reflects the hardships faced by so many people due to what many perceive as inadequate planning and lack of sensitivity on the part of the Election Commission (‘Counting them out’, April 26).
Owing to what critics describe as a dubious and opaque process, Special Intensive Revision (SIR) has become a source of persistent disagreement, signalling a concerning new trend in the electoral cycle.
Equally troubling is the fact that those allegedly deprived of voting rights have found little relief, even through judicial intervention—raising deeper questions about electoral fairness.
Devendra K. Mishra,
On email.
There is a clear indication that a significant number of names has been removed from the voters’ list. Importantly, this is not limited to Muslims; many Hindus have also been excluded.
Your story appeared to lean heavily towards the plight of Muslims, potentially overlooking the broader picture. There is also a strong likelihood that undocumented Bangladeshi migrants may face deportation in the near future.
H.S. Gopal,
On email.
Critically important
Dr Mazda Turel highlights the critical role of one of the body’s most vital structures—the cerebellum (‘Scalpen’, April 26). Often referred to as the “little brain”, it plays a key role in coordinating movement and maintaining balance. Anything happening to the area can impact the entire body, making timely medical intervention essential. While small in size, the cerebellum’s importance to overall functioning is immense.
Shweta Chaudhary,
On email.
Impactful column
I thoroughly enjoyed reading K.C. Verma’s column (‘Strategic timeout in dire straits’, April 26). It was well-articulated, thoughtfully crafted and deeply engaging.
The subtle layer of lighthearted satire woven through the piece adds depth, and, for attentive readers, the nuances become even more meaningful in the context of current developments, both within the country and globally.
Over the past decade, we have witnessed significant shifts—the evolution of social media, changes within the press, the growing influence of conglomerates in media and a rapidly transforming political landscape. The column captured these transitions with clarity and insight.
Shantanu Khare,
On email.
Enriched and informed
I would like to thank THE WEEK for getting erudite people as columnists. Those such as Dr Preetha Reddy, Dr Mazda Turel, K.C. Verma, parliamentarians like Shashi Tharoor, Baijayant Panda and Bansuri Swaraj bring fresh ideas and valuable perspectives.
I revisit Verma’s columns for his wit and humour and Dr Turel’s columns for the opportunity to learn medical insights.
Nirod Kumar Das,
On email.