In today’s conditions the pro-reservationists cannot be blamed, because, after all, they are suppressed. Nor can the anti-reservationists be blamed, because something is being snatched away from them. We should blame the policies of successive governments, both at the Centre and the States.

It is time our leaders forgot about reservations and tried to change matters in earnest. First of all, each and every case of discrimination should be dealt with firmly. All criminal charges should be taken seriously. The laws against discrimination should be more effective, definite, clear and without any loopholes.

The latest committee if five Chief Ministers against atrocities is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen how it is executed. The Prime Minister said on the issue, “We have tended to play politics in this field rather than addressing the problem over the years.” He is right. It now remains to be seen whether he also plays politics like his predecessors.

(This appeared as a Letter to the Editor in the Indian Express)