GUJRAL'S SHINING EXAMPLE

GUJRAL'S SHINING EXAMPLE

The Prime Minister Mr. I. K. Gujral's remark that he has never consulted any palmist or astrologer so far (The Hindu, Jan. 4) must have brought some cheer to the people, often informed of the superstitious beliefs and practices of our Ministers and politicians by the press, television and radio. If the rulers and political leaders of our country are wise, we can find solutions to many of the ills of our society.

The press would do well to publish more and more reports of this sort to create a scientific temper among the people, particularly the poor masses, who are often exploited by quacks and other tricksters because of their deep-rooted superstitious beliefs which are detrimental to their well-being.

The Prime Minister's frank and bold expression should inspire other Ministers and political leaders to follow his shining example and be rational in their behaviour and approaches to various national problems so that they are easily solved and our people become rational and modern. The adage is yatha raja tatha praja - as the king so are the subjects

V.M. Khaleelur Rahman in The Hindu dated January 6, 1998)