RTI appraisal

RTI appraisal

The PMO communiqué saying the cabinet decision is to give statutory backing to access ‘file notings’ is not palatable as the RTI Act already includes the right to inspect records (Crippled RTI still good: Govt, July 27). Unless the government has something to hide, why would it make a specific mention for disclosure of ‘file notings’ of all plans that relate to development when these are already covered under the Act? Section 8 of the Act already covers areas of exemption from disclosure of information.

LK Batra, Noida

Bring to book

This has reference to the report Plot thickens: More mole sightings (July 27). A criminal case for concealing information relating to national interest should be initiated against Jaswant Singh if he does not disclose the name of the mole.

Subhash Agrawal, Delhi

Condemnable decision

The bill on conversion passed by the Madhya Pradesh assembly is a scathing attack on the fundamental right of the individual as well as an undesirable interference with religious freedom (Conversion tougher in MP, July 26). In the past, a similar approach by J Jayalalithaa evoked sharp criticism in Tamil Nadu which forced her to rescind the decision.

TT Sakaria, Delhi

In poor state

Apropos of the editorial 'The road less travelled' (July 27), it is hard to believe that some greedy people with no concern for fellow human beings have destroyed the land and lives of millions of poor for whom Gandhiji started his satyagraha 90 years back. It is a tribute to the spirit of the ordinary people of the state that persons like Dasrath Manjhi plod on nevertheless and make their own paths where none exists.

Usha Sahana, Delhi

No civic sense

The Prince episode was shocking. Many Princes lose their lives every year in India due to sheer apathy of the civic agencies. There is a need to inculcate sensitivity towards others among all individuals in our society.

Bir Singh, Delhi

(Readers may e-mail letters to the editor at:letters@hindustantimes.com)