Spaced out

Many former ministers as well as those who have been MPs over the past several years, but who have had to relinquish their posts after the Lok Sabha elections, are finding it difficult to deal with the setback. Quite apart from dealing with the loss of position, many are finding it difficult to dispose of the bulky furniture and artefacts collected over the years, which were easily accommodated in their palatial bungalows. Because they don't have the luxury of space any more, many have opted for distress sales. One former minister had to sell a table bought for Rs 4 lakh for a paltry Rs 70,000.