MyVoice: Views of our readers 07th October 2026

Prof Palle Rao exemplified humility

The glowing tribute paid to Prof Palle Rama Rao (THI Oct 6) shows what a university head can be. Eminent scientists often turn into distant administrators, but Prof Rao lived in the campus, remained approachable and made a gardener’s job permanent after he was in service as a temporary employee. True leadership is always judged by the lives it lifts, not the rankings it chases. Universities need more such leaders with proven vision and humanity.

Sakshi Raj, IIMC, Dhenkanal

An eye-opener for TN contenders

This is further to the editorial, “TVK and Vijay in a battle of prestige,” (THI Oct 6). The upcoming Tamil Nadu by-elections mark a decisive, high-stakes battle for the state’s restructured political landscape. For the ruling TVK, it is a referendum on governance and Vijay’s ability to convert stardom into administrative credibility beyond the honeymoon period.

A strong showing is essential to prove its historic victory was not merely a transient wave. For the DMK, coming off an unexpected and humiliating defeat, this contest is crucial to test whether its core Dravidian base remains intact and to reclaim its authority as the principal opposition force. For the AIADMK, embroiled in splits and leadership fractures, the bypolls pose an existential test of whether it remains a viable alternative or risks political irrelevance. Together, these verdicts will shape the 2026 assembly arithmetic and future alliances.

N Sadhasiva Reddy, Bengaluru-560056

Advantage TVK

The Vijay show has just begun in Tamil Nadu, and indications are that he will pocket both seats that are up for grabs in the by-elections, including Maduranthakam and Dharapuram. The DMK has already lost them following their childish fault-finding against the Chief Minister.

The sad reality is that the family is yet to come to terms with the dismal defeat, having grossly undermined the prospects of Vijay becoming the next chief minister of the state.

K V Raghuram, Wayanad

Learning lessons for Vijay

With reference to “TVK and Vijay in a battle of prestige” (THI, October 6), the bypolls offer Vijay a political lesson. A strong public following can provide an initial advantage, but electoral politics demands patience. TVK must build community relationships, understand local concerns and maintain a visible presence beyond campaign periods.

It should clarify its position on education, jobs, urban development, agriculture and welfare. At the same time, established parties should respond to the challenge through better governance rather than merely attacking the newcomer. Ultimately, performance will matter more than publicity.

M Barathi, Bengaluru-560076

Hone competitive spirit

This is further to “TVK and Vijay in a battle of prestige” (THI, October 6). The bypoll results may generate speculation, but they should not be treated as a verdict on Tamil Nadu’s electoral future. Bypolls are shaped by local issues, candidates, alliances and turnout, and therefore have limited value as indicators of mood. TVK should shed overconfidence after a good result or discouragement after a loss.

Its priority should be to strengthen grassroots organisation and policies. A competitive environment will be healthy when leaders concentrate on public service, accountability and alternatives instead of reducing contests to a battle of prestige.

Pon Arunkumar, Namakkal-637202

Striking future alliances

Apropos “TVK and Vijay in a battle of prestige” (THI, October 6), the contest matters greatly because it could influence future alliance calculations. A new political force can alter existing equations, but its long-term strength will depend on whether it can expand beyond the leader’s personal popularity. TVK should work patiently on constituency-level organisation and maintain dialogue with voters on everyday issues.

It must also demonstrate internal democracy and transparent candidate selection as it grows. For established parties, the lesson is equally important: complacency can create space for alternatives. Voters will judge all sides by their policies, credibility and capacity to deliver, not merely by campaign rhetoric alone.

K Sakunthala, Vadavedampatti-641671

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The Hans India