I'd like to draw an analogy between what?s happening with POTO in India and what's happening with the Provide Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act (PATRIOT) in the US.   This analogy was conveniently overlooked by my colleague from Indiana.
 
In October this year, the U.S. Congress passed the PATRIOT Act, which gave law enforcement officials more tools to detect, apprehend and prosecute terrorists.  In the aftermath of September 11th, Congress was required to act quickly to pass measures to address the immediate and long-term security, recovery and financial needs of the country.
 
There was controversy, and there still remains criticism, of the PATRIOT bill from both the right and left.  Members protested that it would grant the government too much power and endanger civil liberties.  However, the administration called for immediate action and while moving the bill through Congress, several provisions were either dropped or modified and a bill did pass.
 
From what I understand, the Indian Parliament is planning on going through a similar process of modifying some provisions in the ordinance.  It is likely that the bill will pass and be enacted into law, thereby affording Indian officials the authority to deal with the growing terrorist threats facing India that the normal criminal justice system couldn't address sufficiently.
 
Unusual circumstances in the US called for these types of measures, and the same holds true for India.  A true parallel can be drawn here for the two largest, most vibrant democracies in the world.  Unfortunately, both of these countries are now combating terrorism. 
  
 Rep. Burton is incorrect in accusing India of being repressive by enacting this law.  His strategy to bash India is clear in its pattern, and it is no surprise that these types of statements come at a time when we are providing aid to India.  There is no justification for ending the limited aid that we provide to India and there is no rhyme or reason to putting back in place the sanctions against India that should have been lifted long ago.  Rep. Burton's efforts to implement such things will always fail.  India shall persevere in its own war on terrorism and we should be supportive of their efforts and grateful for their cooperation to fight terrorism worldwide.