Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Who is to blame?

This refers to the Election Commission's criticism of the Bihar administration for violation of the model code of conduct in making appointments to important posts after the announcement of the Assembly poll schedule. But it is the Governor who is morally to blame because the State is under President's rule.

As a constitutional head who has no stake in the coming elections, he should ideally have no vested interest in the appointments. But we are in an era when politicians are appointed as Governors. Why make officials accountable for something over which they do not seem to have much control?

R.S.R. Srikanth,
Chennai

There is more to the issue than meets the eye. If the BJP's allegation is true, the administration tried to conceal its violation by showing on record that the appointments had been made before the code came into effect. One wonders whether free and fair elections are possible in such an atmosphere.

Raman Kumar Soni,
New Delhi

It has become customary for all political parties to violate the model code of conduct, especially if they are in power.

Although the Election Commission is quick in reprimanding the wrongdoers, it does not seem to take any firm action. Politicians always seem to get away.

Anil Kumar Satapathy,
Ganjam, Orissa

Politics has become a game of the rich and powerful. Only they can spend on publicity. To ensure a level playing field for those who do not have money and muscle power but want to contest the polls, the Election Commission should ban the use of banners and hoardings.

It will not be a great loss for the people because, in any case, they make only false promises and exaggerate achievements. The electorate is mature enough to evaluate the performance of various parties.

Pavan Kumar & Vamshi Mohan,
Hyderabad

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