Sir — This refers to the editorial, “‘Dabangg’ in the dock” (May 8). The sentence of five years of rigorous imprisonment given to actor Salman Khan by a Sessions Court had dealt a severe blow not only to the convict but also to his thousands of fans. He got relief less than 48 hours later, when the High Court set aside the sentence. But the ensuing debate would make one believe that the actor is the victim and not those who were maimed and the one that lost his life.
One admits that the actor is generous, benevolent, magnanimous and philanthropic — as his NGO, Being Human, has adopted around 600 homeless children. But this does not give him a licence to flout the law. Even a harsh punishment will not help the victims. It would be better if Salman Khan is fined a hefty sum which can go to the distraught families of the affected.