The Hindu : Consider this

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Jan 15, 2004

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Consider this

Sir, — Just as a student is declared passed only if he or she scores 40 per cent marks, a candidate should be declared elected only if he or she polls at least 40 per cent of the total votes in the constituency. If no one meets this target, the constituency should be attached to the President's/Governor's pool depending on whether it is a Lok Sabha/Assembly election. The public should also be given the option of rejecting the available candidates. If this happens, the constituency should be attached to the President's/Governor's pool. Also, a provision should be made saying that an elected government should rule for five full years. If not, only President's or Governor's rule should be enforced.

S. Venkateswaran,
Thiruvananthapuram

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Sir, — Elections are an integral part of democracy. The Election Commission should make people cast their votes. Otherwise the day of polls will be just another holiday.

K. Asha,
Chennai

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Sir, — Why should politicians alone be criticised for all wrongdoings in the country? Half of the electorate does not exercise the franchise because it does not want to stand in a queue. And many of those who do vote, do so on considerations of caste, creed and religion or for those candidates who will further their personal interests. Then why should the politicians not be what they are?

Sanjiv Kushwaha,
Lucknow

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