The winners of Rs 3,000 are...

The weak state

It refers to "State of the Nation...” (TSI, Sept 19-25). It is a common belief that the BJP would always gain at the expense of Congress and vice-versa, but surprisingly this is not clear through your survey. The BJP is gaining from its present position but it is not emerging a clear winner on its own. And it is something which is bothersome for the democracy of India as it seems that we would again enter into a situation wherein these two main parties would be dependent on the mercy of regional parties. But as mentioned by Arun Nehru in his article, it is too early to call and even a fortnight is a long period in Indian politics. So Congress might pull some sort of rabbit out of its hat to regain that lost ground. But it is certain that after Modi's fast and Advani's yatra, things are taking interesting turn and Congress would do well if they keep their house in order and address serious issues without any delay.

Bal Govind
Noida

Building the best

This refers to 'Tax the wealthy' by Prasoon S Majumdar (TSI, Sept 19-25). I do not agree with his perception that by taxing the rich more we will be able to solve the most of the ills plaguing the nation. Instead we require the taxation system the right way. All the residents should be compulsorily given the Unique Identification Number (UID) and all their transactions must have a link to this UID. By making taxation automatically generated, the actual amount to be taxed will be detected and the government will get its revenues. Also, many MNCs and private companies pay low salaries but higher perks and allowances, which are not taxable, to reduce the tax liability of their employees. The government should ensure a unique tax structure by which all employed are made to pay taxes and are not able to dodge the taxes under the carpet of perks and allowances! The rich and the mighty must be monitored closely for their transactions as most of them receive more of black money than white; in addition the gifts they receive in kind, worth crores of rupees, are unaccounted for.

Jayanthi T Bhat
Bangalore

A weak PM?

It refers to cover story 'State of the nation...” (TSI, Sept 19-25). Although the present government has lost direction, the biggest disaster has been the role of our PM Manmohan Singh. He is remembered as a great Finance Minister who set India free but as the PM he has been in the shadows. His speeches are feeble and meaningless. He has allowed Pranab Mukherjee and P. Chidambaram to remain in the forefront. A Prime Minister is supposed to lead and be convincing. But he has let a golden opportunity let go. Manmohan Singh has had a job of responsibility but he has not lived up to the expectations. He condemned terrorism with weak speeches and he was never convincing. As a PM he was expected to lead a team but he was trapped in the role of being led by others.

Sunil Melwani
Pune