Give women a chance

I hail from India, a country that can proudly boast several successful women who have contributed to its lifestyle, business and politics. The almost endless list includes Indira Gandhi, a well-respected prime minister of several years, Booker Prize winner Arundhati Roy, the glorious Mother Teresa, internationally acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair, international beauty expert Shehnaz Hussain, Guinness Record holding singer Lata Mangeshkar and international beauties like former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen and Miss World Aishwarya Rai.

Although India has its fair share of sexist opinions, the basic truth behind these successful women is undisputed. They have had the opportunity to be successful.

On the other hand, in Indonesia, many of its highly capable and efficient women do find themselves in the news, but not always for accolades for their achievements. As long as they stay within defined and approved careers, they are honored along the path of their success.

I regret to say that I do not see the point behind all the fuss about Megawati's capabilities as a prospective leader of this country simply because she is a woman.

Give women a chance.

SACHIN GOPALAN

Jakarta