THIS is with reference to the letter, 'CSS exams' (July 30). Admittedly, lacunae in the CSS examination and paper-checking procedures do exist. Restrictions on age, faulty paper-checking procedure, restrictions on the number of attempts, and fate factor are, indeed, genuine issues. It is no doubt a matter that deserves urgent resolution.

In spite of that, I partially agree with Dr Salyana's proposition that a GRE-like test should be crafted to filter the candidates. But my point of partial disagreement is that the tests ought to be conducted by some national, rather than international agency. Getting the papers checked and conducted by a foreign agency would mean an open onslaught on the notion of self-reliance and independence.

Calling upon an international agency to replace a national agency is contrary to national interests. It would reinforce 'dependencia' and erode the foundational structure of the already wounded nation.

SYED GOHAR ALTAF
Islamabad