Pire writes: "I have discovered that ashu is the first to criticize anyone who supports party or party-maoist agreement. He was quick to dismiss Senator Leahy, and now he is so quick to dismiss Indian express journo, he is also suggesting (unsuccessfully) for parties to take part in the election under gynae. I doubt this man's judgement. Either he is the only right person, or he is damn wrong, so wrong and arrogant that he will never find out it." Pire, you are entitled to your opinion, of course. But take a step back and look at the big picture. By nature, I am an optimistic skeptic, and NOT a pessimistic cynic. I enjoy debating and thinking through ALL sides of an issue relentlessly and with profound skepticism -- though with dollops of humor -- in private and in public before making up my mind about many public/private issues. This habit has served me quite well personally and professionally over the years; and friends know that they can always get no-nonsense/neutral solid advice from me re: anything. That said, everyone brings something different to Sajha to add to its diversity. I bring (see the para above) to this forum. Some like it; saome don't; and that's the way it is. Meantime, I have no interest to live my life only to please others. :-) oohi ashu