What is the Point, Janaab?

[l.m.fosse at easteur-orient.uio.no]

V. Siddharth writes:

>The irony is someone called our office to say that we should
>accomodate Shri Arun Shourie on our panel! What can such a man
>have to say about democratic renewal?  It is hard to believe the
>democratic credentials of men and women who are so incensed
>about historical wrongs (whether actual or  perceived) that they
>ignore the crimes which are happening in India today.
>

I happen to share most of Siddharth's views, but on this point I disagree.
People like Shri Arun Shourie should definitely be allowed on panels and
*be confronted*. This is what is done in this country with all sorts of
people with obnoxious views. Done properly, it is not only a legitimate
part of the democratic process, it is also sensible way of challenging
destructive opinions.

Best regard,

Lars Martin Fosse


Lars Martin Fosse
Department of East European
and Oriental Studies
P. O. Box 1030, Blindern
N-0315 OSLO Norway

Tel: +47 22 85 68 48
Fax: +47 22 85 41 40

E-mail: l.m.fosse at easteur-orient.uio.no