With reference to the article “Sliding towards participation” by Deepak Lal (December 17), one gets the impression that these days the intelligentsia quickly gets into an argument along general theories and principles, disregarding the specific issue at hand. Lal has argued in favour of the general principle that laws must be made by elected representatives. This principle is fine, but the specific circumstances of the Lok Pal Bill seem to justify making an exception to this noble democratic principle. For one, the concept of Lok Pal aimed at reducing corruption by public servants is a direct threat to vested interests that include the elected representatives. So, expecting the latter to come up with a strong Lok Pal Bill is like expecting someone to cut the branch of a tree on which one is sitting. For another, for over 40 years, Indians have seen their elected representatives being unable or unwilling to pass a Lok Pal Bill. Given this reality, the only option for the public is to mount pressure on elected representatives, although it may appear to be an “undemocratic” way.
Kishor Kulkarni, Mumbai