LETTERS: Shame and valour - II

It was heartening to see the images of Hemant Karkare putting on his helmet and bulletproof jacket before beginning his final assault on the terrorists. Karkare and his colleagues have shown exemplary leadership. Their actions and efforts are commendable. Some may wonder whether they misjudged the level of preparedness of the terrorists. Some may even say that such an action should have been carried out by a more specialised and trained force. However, let us understand that such an error is possible in any kind of situation. The important thing is to accept the responsibility to improve the situation and lead from the front. Undoubtedly, the decorated officers have been exceptional on this count.

While, every one will laud their martyrdom of these cops, it would be great if corporate India could take some lessons from this. The so-called efficient corporate leadership has seldom shown responsible behaviour in troubled times.

Amidst the unanticipated slowdown, miscalculations about the business prospects and need for cost cutting, well-regarded CEOs of global firms are busy begging their governments for a bailout without even talking of the kind of cuts they will take in their compensation packages. Their Indian counterparts are busy holding business meetings at plush five star hotels and creating the environment for the next round of systematic layoffs and pay-cuts — not for themselves, but for employees lower in the hierarchy. A few months down the line, these corporate honchos shall be delivering lessons of leadership in affluent five star hotels whereas some senior officers of the ATS or some other security agency will be laying down their lives. Life is unfair, in various senses.

Amol Ubale, via email