This refers to Bharat Bhushan's article "Regional parties down but not out" (October 22). Regional parties have an important role to play since they are closer to the needs and aspirations of the citizens from various states. They reflect and understand their needs and effectively present it at the national level. The local language also plays an important role. It is sad to witness the slow decline of the Congress. The "magic" of Sonia and Rahul Gandhi does not seem to have had the impact the Congress anticipated.
For a long time, the Congress had stalwarts and eminent leaders who led the party successfully. It was in the 1970s when the Congress was split by Indira Gandhi to gain absolute control of the party - marginalising the then leaders. The Congress, however, has never managed to recover out from this split and is now dependent on individuals to lead the party. It should come back to its earlier democratic credentials and be the Opposition that India needs if we are to mature and progress as a vibrant democracy.
H N Ramakrishna, Bangalore
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