M A I L B A G

War memorials need proper maintenance

THE nation observed Armed Forces Flag Day on December 7 in honour of our serving defence forces personnel. Let us also remember those brave soldiers who made supreme sacrifices in defence of their motherland and perpetuate the memory of their gallant action so that the younger generation will imbibe their patriotic spirit.

War memorials, except those being managed and maintained by the Army, are in a state of neglect. These monuments need proper upkeep as they remind us of the indomitable courage shown by our valiant soldiers.

The state governments should ensure that the war memorials are maintained in a graceful and dignified manner. In Haryana, for instance, there are 40-45 memorials, including the State War Memorial at Rohtak. Of these, 15-20 are in rural areas and the remaining in urban areas. They are in a bad shape and call for proper upkeep.

The district administration and the Sainik Board have no funds earmarked for the maintenance of these memorials. What is true of Haryana must be true of other states. There is no point in raising a memorial and neglecting it later.

S. S. KAUSHAL, Chandigarh

Threat to temple

I read Kuldeep Chauhan’s report “290 years old temple faces threat” (Nov 25). The jhuggis not only present a shabby look in the temple town of Mandi but the dwellers themselves are a great threat to the ecosystem on the banks of the Beas and the Suketi. Practically, all jhuggi dwellers, for their fuel wood needs, depend upon the vegetation in the vicinity, what to talk of stones, bajri and sand.

Unfortunately, no one has pointed out the problem of soil erosion because of this. In spite of the administration’s claim about the initiatives up to the village level, these jhuggi dwellers defecate everywhere on the banks of the river thus spoiling the serenity of the temple vicinity.

KAMAL KISHORE, Paddal, Mandi (HP)

Roots of corruption I read the editorial, “Bribe under duress” (Nov 28). Corruption is the root cause of not allowing sincere and dedicated people to work honestly in their offices. The people want to get their work done without wasting time. The poor people are left with no option than to pay bribes. They are the worst sufferers and hence will continue greasing the palms of the officers till the administration takes firm action against them. Close-circuit television cameras can be installed in all government offices, but these will help only to an extent. There is a way out. Why not bring the accused before the public? He can, then, be reprimanded on the spot. SUBER SINGH PARIHAR, Khas Narwana (Yol Cantonment)

Reckless driving

Reckless driving is a great danger to everyone, especially school children and old people who cannot cross the road quickly, cyclists and rickshaw-pullers. We cannot cross a street without the fear of being run over. Accidents are on the rise due to callous drivers who knock down people and escape. Even if the offenders are caught, prosecuted and convicted, the punishment given to them is light and it doesn’t act as a deterrent.

True, there are traffic regulations regarding the speed limit. But the authorities are not enforcing them. Prompt steps are needed to check reckless drivers of cars, trucks and buses.

SHEENAM KHURANA, Ludhiana

Rare courage

I read the report, “Consumer forum member nabs purse snatcher” (Nov 26). Showing rare courage and presence of mind and endangering his own life, the member of the consumer redressal forum deserves recognition by the government. Generally, people remain mute spectators when they see such crime being committed in front of them.

The following Urdu couplet describes the general attitude of the onlookers:

Sahil ke tamashayi
Har doobney wale par
Afsoos to karte hein
Imdaad nahin karte.

SHYAM SUNDER AIRI, Kapurthala