The Kasab question

With reference to the news report Kasab not given fair trial: Amicus curiae to SC (Jan.31), the appeals of the sole and biggest convict in the 26/11 terror attacks, Kasab, must not be heeded. With overwhelming evidence against him, letting him appeal in the Supreme Court is just delaying his punishment. Moreover, by keeping him like a guest of the nation at the expense of more than `1 crore in a year, we are insulting the laws as well as emotions of the people who have lost their near and dear ones in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
Ketaki Ogale
Mumbai

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Craft contract

The Indian government’s decision to buy 126 French-made Rafale combat aircraft is a move that was long overdue. These aircraft will help upgrade India’s air power after the outdated Soviet-era MiG-21s are retired. Moreover, we have lost many of our fighter pilots in MiG crashes, and we no longer can risk more lives. The defence procurement contract will also boost India’s defence industry and science sectors with the mandatory clause in the French contract that 50 per cent of the deal amount be invested in domestic partnerships — the biggest beneficiary being Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which will build 108 more aircraft of the kind, thanks to technology transfers from France.
Angshuman Deb
New Delhi

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Relief for people

It is good to know that the government is considering raising the income-tax exemption limit in Budget 2012-13. Inflation, particularly food inflation, has been a concern for both the government and the common man. The wholesale price food inflation rose to 15.57 per cent for the period ended January 15, because of escalating vegetable prices. Restructuring of income tax slabs and increasing the exemption limit will leave more money in the hands of people. The government’s move will not only ease the finances of middle-class taxpayers, particularly the salaried class, it will also spur demand by encouraging people to spend more.
Jay D. Sanghavi
Mumbai