AMRITSAR: A Sikh pilgrim's progress is usually measured by the journeys he or she takes to visit gurudwaras of historical importance. In Amritsar District, the bus is the appropriate mode of transport for such moral and duty-bound excursions.

The name of Manjit Singh alias ‘Sarabjit’, who is at present in the Pakistan jail, has again become a talk of the town these days. It is well known that an Indian citizen, whom Pakistan government is naming as Sarabjit Singh, where as his relatives are saying that he is their Manjit Singh & not ‘Sarabjit Singh’, has been held responsible by Pakistan government for four bomb blasts at Lahore, Kasoor & Faislabad in 1990.

Assuming that Buta Singh’s career as a politician has come to an end, it is permissible to look back on his rise as a prototype of Indian politicians of our times.

The Jessica Lal murder case provoked a public outcry against miscarriage of justice that impelled authorities to reopen the case. The distortion in the case was so brazen that even worms turned. Middle class empathy with the murdered victim finally aroused public opinion. But it would be facile to conclude that India is on the way to reform of its criminal justice system. This is just the first half step.