Tarun Udwala
Thu, 21 Dec 2006 10:57:59 -0800
http://www.hindu.com/2006/12/20/stories/2006122003941001.htm Letters to the Editor Victory for media The conviction of the prime accused, Manu Sharma, and two others in the Jessica Lal murder case by the Delhi High Court is a victory for the media. The fourth estate has yet again proved that it plays an important role in communicating the appeal of the silent majority to those who matter. The verdict serves as a warning to all those who feel they can outsmart the law and evade justice. Gourav Lohani, New Delhi The reversal of the trial court verdict acquitting the accused has set a new benchmark in judicial history because this is a case in which the media played the role of a catalyst. The combined effort of the media, public opinion, and judicial responsiveness has borne fruit. The stage has been set for extending this kind of proactive approach to many who are unable to get justice because they do not have the means to fight for it. H.R. Bapu Satyanarayana, Anand, Gujarat The verdict should serve as an eye-opener. Much has been spoken and written on the need to amend the Criminal Procedure Code. There has also been a lot of talk on evolving a witness protection system but nothing has been done towards it. Any change that is proposed is a knee-jerk reaction when something goes wrong. It is necessary to analyse all the problems and find lasting solutions. Aires Rodrigues, Ribandar, Goa Manu Sharma's conviction should be hailed as a momentous triumph for the common people of India who have been trampled on for far too long. There is little doubt that this historic judgment will restore their trust in our justice system. Kunal Saha, Columbus, Ohio While respecting the court verdict, I feel the hype created by the electronic media could well have been avoided. In a court of law a case is decided on merit, not public outcry. Even as our sympathies lie with the victim, we have no right to target an individual. Syed Ali Akber, Hyderabad