LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

HEARTS, NOT VOTES

THIS REFERS TO the article, ‘ After phase one’ ( IE, April 24). Political parties must acknowledge the citizens’ dissatisfaction, reflected in the low voter turnout during the first phase of elections. They should prioritise administration and holistic national development. It’s crucial to remember that even the mighty Roman Empire crumbled to dust. Elections should centre on serving the nation and its people, rather than exploiting religious divides. Citizens are increasingly aware of these tactics, urging political parties to shift their strategies towards winning hearts, not just votes.

Ajay Corriea, Vasai

EVALUATE & ADJUST

THIS REFERS TO the article, ‘ After phase one’ ( IE, April 24). It may be premature to speculate election results or trends based on low voting in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls when compared to previous ones. This phase covered a heterogeneous mix of seats. The severe summer this time is another distinctive factor. Still, since no political party can afford to ignore even marginal variances, it should plan its election strategy dynamically, making adjustments as the poll progresses. The BJP is aiming to get 400 plus seats. It should analyse the low percentage of voting more carefully — is it a function of voter confidence in BJP’S win or a function of no alternatives?

Y G Chouksey, Pune

MAYAWATI’S PLAY

THIS REFERS TO the article, ‘ A calculated step’ ( IE, April 24). Mayawati’s decision not to join the NDA or INDIA is a clever move. If the BSP had formed an alliance with INDIA in UP, its voter base might have shifted to the alliance partners and, in the long term, its core base of Dalit society might have diminished. If Mayawati joined hands with the BJP, she might have got one or two ministerial berths in the next government. Caste equations play an important role in UP where parties like the SP and BSP are constantly trying to outsmart one another in the elections. Had both the parties come together, they could have raised a formidable challenge to the BJP.

Atul Thakre, Nagpur

QUEEN’S GAMBIT

THIS REFERS TO the editorial, ‘ The challenger’ ( IE, April 24). Dommaraju Gukesh has shown that not only does he possess exceptional talent, he also has a mature head on his shoulders. His calmness after losses and equanimity after wins were striking, and the influence of mentor Viswanathan Anand unmistakable. The chess ecosystem in India is flourishing with young players from tier 2 and 3 cities playing well. Asia has changed the chess world order by ensuring, for the first time, that two Asians would be battling it out for a world title. There should be more elite tournaments in India.

S S Paul, Nadia