17th Jan.

Completed morning program. Venita's train arrived New Delhi railway station on time. Visited Assam House. In chamber from 1 to 4 pm.
Retired to sleep at 10 pm.

News of the day : Gang rape case still continues to be a live issue in the press. In fact, similar incidents get reported in the front page. Still there are people who light candles at Jantar Mantar in memory of the gang rape victim of 16th December 2012. To prevent occurrence of rapes we have to take into account the vagaries of human nature which are basically animalistic. Alcohol and drugs make a man lose self control and indulge in aggressive behavior. Loneliness too occasions indulgence in sex. We have to provide for an environment of social behavior where opposite sexes can interact in groups. Enforcement of existing provisions of law will go a long way in creating fear in the mind of  the individuals against aggressive behaviour  resulting in rapes. Time bound trials have to take place so that the culprits are sentenced and punishment given to them. We have to take a comprehensive view of the situation wherein social, ethical and group behavior are redefined. The rapes among known individuals/relations could also be prevented if action is taken along above lines. 

     Intermittent firing between the forces of Pakistan and India along the Line of Control resulting in killing of soldiers on both sides has soured mutual relations. The head of the Indian soldier should be  found out and given by Pakistan to India to ease tension. 

       The next cricket match between England and India is to take place at Ranchi on 19th January, 2013. If India can repeat Kochi performance,  we may win the third ODI.  Hockey IPL has invoked lot of interest in the country. 

       Fluctuation in the value of Indian rupee visa-a-dollar is resulting in increase in the cost of POL. Even the CNG and Indane Gas are  becoming costlier. The value of the rupee can be stabilized if we can enhance the exports and reduce deficit in the balance of payments. Foreign investments can also help in stabilizing the value of rupee. Although inflation is reported to be a little over 7% but the cost of living is increasing and affecting the quality of life of the middle class.