Cochin airport.

Cochin airport.

Contrary to popular opinion once that Cochin airport would be a white elephant is now reaping the rewards of its investment. The airport with further modification in line with international standard now being undertaken is a welcome move. It’s an ambitious step put forward by the authorities. To Keralites particularly it would be a dream come true to become the pride and joy of the people. More tourists apart, the airport should be a money-spinner in the long run. After having read the report in The Hindu “Arriving, swanky international terminal (Jan: 31) I was so delighted that the airport is going to be showpiece soon. It’s a right move with a vision of futurity.

As a matter of fact the credit goes to the late Chief Minister of the State Mr. Karunakaran who is the brain child behind it. His far-sightedness to see things today what happens tomorrow is bearing fruits of success. As a fitting tribute to his vision it is not inappropriate to rename the airport after him. You have to give credit where credit is due when something comes to common benefit. Such leaders like Karunakaran is an ornament to the country.

Predators.

Besides being the capital, Delhi is also a city of capital crimes. It has gained notoriety to be a happy hunting ground to criminals. A Manipur teenager who was sexually assaulted by her landlord’s son just recently doesn’t reflect well on the rule of law nor punishment. As I read the report in The Hindu (Feb: 9), my heart missed beat for a few seconds. These so-called predators unless punished to fit the crime may be a constant threat to womenfolk. There may be rare situations when you need to be cruel to be kind. In the current climate of brutal crimes, only stringent laws and severe punishment can put an end to the menace that you face today. In any country a dignified life is the right of all and the government should ensure the safety and property through expedient measures. In fact I am still numbed with shock of the ordeal the innocent girl went through in the hands of a brutal criminal. 

Improper Step.

Improper Step.

The Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s threat to free the seven convicts involved in the Rajiv Gandhi’s assasination amounts to obstructing the course of justice. It’s also an open challenge against our judiciary. I am afraid the Chief Minister has misplaced her sympathy towards the convicts who have shown the characteristics displayed by Brutus to Caesar. Criminals are to be punished according to the merits of each case, no two ways about it. The punishment given by the court is therefore rigorous and commonsensical. Judiciary and the rule of law are the backbone of a civilized nation. The improper step taken by the Chief Minister may serve the would be criminals as an impetus.