II

Indeed, it is true that nobody in Pakistan gives many points to the Pakistan President, Mr Asif Zardari. In that case what will a mundane handshake between him and Dr Manmohan Singh achieve? Why do we expect that Islamabad needs to assure us that it is taking action against cross border terrorism. We should put our own house in order and be extra-vigilant against possible terror attacks.

MAJ BALDEV SINGH, Ambala Cantt

III

The crux of the problem lies in lack of trust on both sides.To start with, India should present all the evidence it has on the Mumbai blasts not only to Pakistan but also to the entire world. Pakistan on its part should distance itself from the indefensible actions of terrorists operating from its soil.  As for the Kashmir issue, the problem cannot be solved immediately. It will certainly need resolute political will of politicians of both nations.

R KAPOOR, Solan

Swine flu

The editorial “Swine flu pandemic: No room for complacency in tackling it” (June 13) gave a sound warning against the disease that has been declared a pandemic by WHO. In India few people are aware of the symptoms of the swine flu. The editorial did a fine job by making the public aware of the symptoms. Proper precautions must be taken on the part of both the public as well as the government.

SHRIBHAGWAN BAWWA, Kosli, Rewari

BJP’s collapse

One never realised that in defeat the BJP will collapse in the manner it has. No one knows who is running the show. The moral authority that Mr Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Mr L K Advani once wielded is conspicuous by its absence. The manner in which its leaders are hitting out at each other is hardly reassuring.

It does not seem that the BJP will be able to stage a comeback or give a hard time to the ruling party. Without a strong opposition, democracy runs the risk of becoming a sham. The BJP should shake off signs of defeat and rise to the occasion to play its designated role of a strong opposition.

R J KHURANA, Bhopal 

Speaking English

In the global world order, English (middle, “Thodey-Thodey English...” by Sunit Dhawan, June 13) has become a necessity. But that necessity should not make us insensitive towards those who cannot speak English. Let us not question the importance of a language or its usage. Do not blame the language. We should blame ourselves, not for speaking a language but being inconsiderate towards others and making language an excuse for our insensitivity.

BRIJESHWARI CHAUHAN, Shimla

Attacks in Australia

The news about attacks on Indian students living in Australia is highly disturbing. The Indian government should put continuous pressure on the Australian government to prevent such inhuman incidents. Besides, educational infrastructure in India needs to be improved and must be brought at par with international standards. Perhaps, then the craze for foreign universities may decline.

SOURABH BAMBA, Ferozpore

Drive against dowry

Unless the courts (editorial, “Killing for dowry”, June 3) take a tough line on bride burning, the social evil of dowry cannot be curbed. The cruel treatment of brides at the hands of greedy dowry-seekers is one of the reasons why the abominable practice of female foeticide continues. The religious institutions, social organisations and public-spirited persons should launch a vigorous campaign against dowry.