1. India: Domestic Situation
The president of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized some recent statements by the leaders of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) as intolerant and extreme. VHP, however, reiterated that it is ''an ardent supporter of the BJP'' while, at the same time, adding that India needs a "leader like Ariel Sharon, George W Bush or Shivaji to combat terrorism."
"BJP chief sends VHP a stinker"
"Bitten by BJP, VHP not shy; takes another dig"
Five alleged militants were reportedly killed in an encounter with the police in Bangalore.
"5 terrorists shot dead in Bangalore"
P. Chidambaram's essay notes increasing communalism and violence in India and wonders "if each one of us gangs up with those who share the same hates and prejudices, and together unleash violence upon others, can the nation survive?" T J S George (Indian Express) writes that "the folly of the Modis and the VHPs and the hawks of this world is that they think they can defeat terror through terror."
"At stake, India as a civilised society"
"Indians vs Indians, third eye watching"
Premvir Das' essay reviews developments in India's higher defense management.
"R-word needs to apply to defence too"