Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

The Thai crisis

This refers to the editorial "Rolling back the tanks" (Sept. 21). The practice of military rulers taking over power in many Asian and African countries even in times of mild internal unrest has been common. They often extend their hold over the country, leading to chaos in the long run. In Thailand, where Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was overthrown in a coup, it remains to be seen whether Gen. Sonthi Boonyaratglin will restore democracy as promised. India is an eminent exception in the region where democracy is deeply rooted. The army has always been subservient to the political class, respecting the will of the people in deciding their future.

George Easaw,
Ponda, Goa

* * *

As observed in the editorial, the coup is definitely a warning signal to other countries of South East Asia. The military administration should pave the way for an early election. At the same time, care should be taken to keep the corrupt forces at bay during the election process.

C.P. Velayudhan Nair,
Kochi, Kerala

* * *

Once democracy is destabilised, it is difficult to restore it. It is hoped the General will ensure civilian rule in two weeks as promised.

Abhishek Patni,
Varanasi, U.P.

* * *

Mr. Thaksin (nicknamed toxin by his opponents) was blinded by his `Amazing Thailand' rhetoric just as the NDA was by its `India Shining' hype. A large number of groups and social movements across Thailand opposed Mr. Thaksin's economic policies marked by a slew of Free Trade Agreements and privatisation. Every voice of opposition was ignored or muzzled. The economic dictatorship of Mr. Thaksin, which is characteristic of the globalised governments, should alarm democracies as much as coups. Otherwise, market dictatorship that our democracies seem happy to protect will bring an end to democracies themselves.

P.V. Satheesh,
Medak, A.P.

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