Oddfather

I was disappointed on reading the article Deconstructing the mafia (April 19), a piece reprinted from the Guardian.

I was disappointed on reading the article Deconstructing the mafia (April 19), a piece reprinted from the Guardian. I consider it insulting — and incorrect — the mention that “the Italian government is infamous for its links with this mafia”. As a matter of fact, the Italian government has always made an outstanding effort in the fight against mafia, achieving much success.

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The article is also contradictory as it describes the numerous ‘eminent bosses’ who have been captured by the Italian authorities — particularly the latest police operation that made the capture of Bernardo Provenzano possible.

Giorgio Starace
Charge d’Affaires
Embassy of Italy, Delhi

People power

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s move of sending Karan Singh to Kathmandu to engage King Gyanendra in constructive talks is welcome. It gives a big push to the popular movement to end dictatorial rule. It also provides a last route for the king to keep the monarchy alive. King Gyanendra should read the writing on the wall and act speedily.

K.S. Chhetry
Delhi

II

King Gyanendra should see reason and restore the democratic set-up in his country. India needs stability in Nepal. Otherwise, Maoists will attempt to destabilise India too.

K.K. Gupta
Jharkhand

Economist goes political

This refers to the editorial Calling private unlimited (April 20). Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has become a politician. But being an economist, he must understand that reservation is not good for economic development of the country and it is only a political gimmick. It’s surprising to see a change in his stand. A sad day for a true economist.

M. Kumar
via e-mail

Too early to conclude

The editorial Deterring pressure (April 19) was one-sided and gave credit to the government for resisting American pressure on the issue of a nuclear test ban. But this part of the agreement has yet to be negotiated. It is premature to conclude that India has resisted pressure.

Shankar Kolepsi
Delhi

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