Letters: Unlike Modi

A K Bhattacharya's column "Decoding the Modi government" (New Delhi Diary, May 28) is a thoughtful reflection on the selection bias and structural inconsistencies of Narendra Modi's Cabinet. Age seems to have been used as a convenient tool to rule out detractors like L K Advani. While talent has been given importance (like picking up JNU scholar and versatile spokesperson, Nirmala Seetharaman), the final choice has been made on what the writer has termed loyalty, which in Modi's case means willing obedience.

Overemphasis on loyalty has also led to illogical assignment of portfolios in some cases. Since Modi's election promise was "development of all", four more ministries have become crucial -human resource development (HRD), heath, law and labour. Assigning HRD to Smriti Irani is inexplicable. The portfolio needs a deep understanding of the complex education system and its link with character-building, jobs and economic growth. The labour department needs a minister capable of negotiating with employers and trade union leaders to carry out reforms. As for law and health, they seem to be in good hands.

Y G Chouksey, Pune

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