WOOING FUNDAMENTALISTS

If you think a fundamentalist is always hated, you're wrong. In these times, he can even be feted by the mightiest of powers.

This year, seven Kolkata Muslim clerics have found place in International Visitors' programme hosted by - guess who - the American Embassy, according to The Statesman, a premier Kolkata English daily. They will be taken on a tour to different American cities along with an assorted group of academicians, polticos, and mediamen.

Does it herald any change in the policy of Mr. Bush who once wanted to "smoke them out"? Does the big power, apparently cowering under threats from the terrorists, want to win over the Muslim fanatics now?

MRINAL BOSE