This refers to the report, “‘Force-feeding’ rocks Parliament” (July 24), on Shiv Sena MPs forcing a catering supervisor to break his Ramzan fast. The issue is a humanitarian one and should not be given a communal colour. The fact is that our elected representatives cease to consider themselves as being a part of us once elections are over. We are to blame for this sorry state of affairs. Most of our elected representatives have criminal backgrounds. How can criminals be expected to watch over us? We have developed undue tolerance towards numerous instances of their misbehaviour.
Madhusudan,New Delhi
Before things get out of hand, we need to look at this incident in an objective manner. Let us also not be quick to give a communal colour to this incident. The employee was not in any religious attire. However, politicians have to be reminded that they have to observe a sense of decorum. Only the electorate can rein them in.
K. Rajendran,Chennai
Fasting is voluntary abnegation of food for spiritual and moral purposes. No one has the right to disturb a citizen undertaking a fast, inasmuch as one’s fast does not disturb public order. The response of parliamentarians vis-à-vis this incident is most horrifying and beyond the canons of civility. Instead of condemning the incident and proceeding against the culprit, condoning the uncivilised action and its perpetrator in Parliament will only cause grievous scars on peace-loving multi-faith citizens.
C. John Rose,Arumanai, Tamil Nadu
The incident at the New Maharashtra Sadan is a blot on the secular feelings of the nation and can inflame feelings. Such acts by an elected representative threaten to not only disturb communal harmony but also create mistrust and misunderstanding between two faiths. The act of thrusting food in the employee’s mouth is an act of bullying, violence and coercion. When can we expect our political representatives to be more sensible and sensitive in both act and speech?
Joyashree Sarma,New Delhi
Would one do this to a family member if one is not served the variety of food one wants? Forcing foodstuff into a supervisor’s mouth is without doubt the height of arrogance and a human rights violation.
R.S. Krishnaswamy,Chennai
Resorting to violence and high-handed ways to thrust their commands/whims and fancies over others, with little regard for their sentiments, has been the hallmark of obscurantists and bigots of all hues. The incident only reinforces this fact. More than this, it highlights the blatant misuse of authority and arrogance of power by the so-called guardians of democracy. We badly need to evolve a model code of conduct for elected representatives of the people.
B. Suresh Kumar,Coimbatore
