China is expanding its role and investments in Africa principally to tap natural resources. China has done a wonderful job of laying railroads and building other infrastructure in several African nations. However, China is unlikely to attach any precondition on human rights, democracy, etcetera, for investment and political support simply because its own record is tainted. China is governed purely by its economic interests.
?Rajendra K Aneja, Dubai
Contempt cases
Lately, one finds chief ministers of states (and some Union ministers, too) defending criminal acts. We heard a CM saying ?paid in the same coin?, alluding to violence in Nandigram; now comes another state CM proclaiming ?he deserves it? in reference to a victim of an extra-judicial killing. Ironically, such statements are made even while these cases undergo their judicial processes. This is contempt of court. When persons who hold constitutional positions display only contempt for the people who elect them, contempt of court is a natural corollary.
?VS Venkatavaradan, Salem
Audit isn?t enough
An audit (?Child labour audit mooted?, Dec 4) is not a strong enough deterrent. Those who employ child labour should be given exemplary punishment. Besides rehabilitation, compulsory elementary education and meal schemes should also help.
?Jacob Sahayam, Thiruvananthapuram