India, Feb. 9 -- I read the news and blinked twice. Then I rubbed my glasses. Then I read it again. The Prime Minister was advised not to attend Parliament because the Speaker could not guarantee his safety inside the House.

I nearly spilt my morning coffee.

Not because of terrorists. Not because of a missile threat. Not because the building was on fire. But because of elected women Members of Parliament.

Imagine the scene. The world's largest democracy. The sanctum sanctorum of debate. The very place where arguments are supposed to be exchanged, voices raised, questions asked, tempers flaring and logic flying. And we are told safety cannot be guaranteed there.

One is tempted to ask, guaranteed from what exactly? Flying sandals. Sharp...