DEAL WITH AIR POLLUTION WITH SERIOUSNESS

The adverse effect of air pollution is becoming evident day by day. Therefore, it is shocking that a statutory body like MPCB refuses to take the matter seriously (MPCB yet to submit its plan for cleaner air, stares at legal action, February 6). Perhaps the threat of legal action will expedite the matter. Political parties also need to consider promising cleaner air to the citizens in their manifestos in the next round of elections. ANTHONY HENRIQUES

ROPING IN PRASHANT KISHOR SMART MOVE

Sena roping in poll strategist JD (U) vice-president Prashant Kishor is a smart move (Prashant Kishor to play poll guru for Sena? February 6). In all probability, Kishor may act as a mediator between BJP and Sena. Senior BJP leaders are convinced that going solo would neither benefit BJP nor

Sena in the forthcoming elections. Instead, going alone will be a blessing in disguise for the opposition parties. Time is running out for both the parties to arrive at an amicable settlement on sharing the seats. DEEPAK CHIKRAMANE

LAWS ON RAPE SHOULD GET STRICTER

Rape has become a terrible problem in India today because our laws are not strict enough which often leaves the culprits unpunished (70-year-old held for raping 11-year-old girl multiple times, February 6). Some rapists escape with light punishment or no reprimand at all as they have political support. The exist- ing laws on rape are weak, which is why we have not been able to curb the numerous cases of sexual assaults on women that are happening daily.

JUBEL D’CRUZ