Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor

A letter to the editor is a formal letter written to a newspaper or magazine to draw public and official attention to an issue - a civic problem, a social concern, a suggestion, or an opinion. It carries about 5 marks with a word limit of 120-150 words.

When it is used: complaining about bad roads, erratic water supply, rising pollution, traffic hazards, the misuse of public spaces, or supporting/opposing a public debate.

Exact format (full block, formal letter)

Sender's address
Date
The Editor
Name of Newspaper
City
Subject: _________________
Salutation:  Sir/Madam,
Body - Para 1: who you are + the issue.
       Para 2: details, causes, effects.
       Para 3: request action / suggest a solution.
Complimentary close:  Yours faithfully,
Signature / Name

Keep the tone formal and impersonal; write on behalf of the public ("the residents of...", "the commuters of..."), not just yourself.

CBSE marking scheme (5 marks)

• Format - 1 mark: both addresses/date, "The Editor" block, subject line, salutation, and close.
• Content - 2 marks: issue stated, developed with detail, solution suggested.
• Expression - 2 marks: accuracy (1) + fluency/coherence (1).

Model example (abridged)

14, Nehru Colony, Jaipur

5 August 2026

The Editor

The Rajasthan Times, Jaipur

Subject: Dangerous Waterlogging on Station Road

Sir,

Through your esteemed columns, I wish to draw the attention of the municipal authorities to the severe waterlogging on Station Road after every spell of rain. Choked drains leave knee-deep water for hours, stalling traffic and endangering school children and two-wheeler riders.

The problem persists because the drains are never de-silted before the monsoon. I request the concerned authorities to clean the drains immediately and lay a proper storm-water line before the situation worsens.

Yours faithfully, …