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Pertinent questions

The former Prime Minister, H.D. Deve Gowda’s concern over the nuclear deal, enunciated in the article “Against unilateralism, for a consensus” (Nov. 17), should be taken seriously by the Centre. His suggestion that a national committee comprising eminent personalities from various disciplines be set up to discuss the contentious issue should be considered. If a solution can be evolved by such a committee, it can be implemented by Parliament at the earliest. His other suggestion of a national referendum to resolve the tangle does not appear viable as India is a large country.

R. Sridharan,

Chennai

The questions raised by Mr. Gowda need to be debated at the broadest level possible before a decision is taken. As pointed out by him, the UPA and the Left parties cannot be the final arbiters on an issue of national importance.

We rushed into the deal bypassing all normal channels of decision-making: it was signed in Washington and ratified by the Union Cabinet, after a majority of MPs recorded their objections. Mr. Gowda is right in asking whether there was a deal behind the deal.

K. Vijayachandran,

Kochi

Mr. Gowda’s article is a reinforcement of Rousseau’s dictum: “The deputies of the people … are not and cannot be its representatives: they are merely its stewards. Every law the people has not ratified in person is null and void.”

T.G. Vittal,

Bellary

The article rightly brings out the anguish and doubts that linger in the minds of millions of Indians on the nuclear deal.

It should be discussed threadbare on the floor of the House and appropriate decision taken keeping in view our national interest, not the interest of a group of people.

Lukose Thomas,

Erode

Mr. Gowda’s forceful plea for a referendum deserves serious consideration. The deal should indeed be approved by the people who are the ultimate arbiters in a democracy.

V. Padmanabhan,

Bangalore

The article should serve as an eye-opener. But a referendum would mean unnecessary expenditure. The issue can instead be taken to the people through elections.

T.V. Narayana,

Nellore

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