Due process for the voter

The debate over SIR should focus more on the eligible voter whose name has been deleted. With more than 13 crore names reportedly absent from the draft rolls, the fundamental democratic question is can an eligible citizen lose the right to vote because he cannot establish a decades-old electoral linkage, including where his parents voted? Electoral rolls must exclude ineligible persons, but protecting every eligible voter from wrongful exclusion is equally essential. The constitutional test is not merely whether the ECI has the power to revise the rolls, but whether every voter receives adequate notice, a fair opportunity to respond and a simple, timely mechanism to restore a wrongly deleted name.

A. Mariafrancis,

Chennai

Nana Patekar

The passing of veteran actor Nana Patekar marks the end of a remarkable chapter in cinema. At a time when celebrity culture often rewards glamour, he demonstrated that an actor could command respect through talent, simplicity and conviction.

Vidyasagar Reddy Kethiri,

New Delhi

Nana Patekar is one of Indian cinema’s legendary acting icons, renowned for infusing remarkable naturalism and authenticity into every character he portrayed. Beginning his acting career as a theatre artist in the vibrant theatrical traditions of Maharashtra, he made a formidable transition to Bollywood and soon carved a distinctive niche for himself. His extraordinary ability to portray intense, complex and emotionally demanding characters with remarkable conviction and effortless ease earned him both national recognition and prestigious National Film and Filmfare Awards, while firmly cementing his position among the country’s finest actors.

Beyond the silver screen, Nana Patekar has also distinguished himself through his deep commitment to social causes. Driven by a genuine passion for serving society, he founded an NGO and spearheaded several initiatives dedicated to water conservation and watershed management. His journey, therefore, represents a rare confluence of artistic brilliance and social consciousness.

No doubt, Nana Patekar will always be remembered not merely as an extraordinary actor, but as an artist whose talent, authenticity and commitment to society left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and public life.

M. Jeyaram,

Sholavandan, Tamil Nadu