Congress committed to democracy

With reference to ‘More misses than hits for Congress’; while I concur with the writer’s broader view that the Congress has a mountain to climb to re-establish itself as a credible national alternative, I respectfully disagree with his criticism of the party leadership’s stance on the recent nomination of delegation members. The Congress has been raising pertinent national issues and maintaining a consistent stand on matters of governance and public welfare. The party’s challenges are manifold, but its commitment to democratic processes should not be discounted so easily. Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge have shown consistency in promoting internal democracy and diverse representation. We cannot overlook the fact that the party leadership is often compelled to navigate complex internal and external pressures.

Naresh Kumar Nijhawan, Karnal

Long process of rebuilding Congress

Refer to ‘More misses than hits for Congress’; the party is at a crossroads, facing external challenges from a dominant BJP and internal challenges of leadership and cohesion. To regain its footing, the party must go beyond reactive politics. By prioritising unity, innovation and proactive engagement with voters, the Congress can begin the long process of rebuilding itself as a credible national force. Only then can it hope to mount a serious challenge in Indian politics.

Gaurav Badhwar, Rohtak

Prerogative of defence forces

Apropos of ‘Aircraft losses’; the plain speaking of CDS Gen Anil Chauhan on the losses suffered by the IAF in Op Sindoor is commendable, though the government has remained evasive. Transparency is paramount in democracy, but this ought not entail answerability to every Tom, Dick and Harry on tactical military operations where some losses are an inevitable part of the game. A nuanced communication strategy on what and when to disclose must remain the exclusive prerogative of the mandarins in the MEA and the defence forces. The proposed special session of Parliament must not undermine our cherished unanimity in military and foreign policy strategies.

Lalit Bharadwaj, Panchkula

Military decisions complex

With reference to ‘Aircraft losses’; military operations are highly complex, involving known and unknown factors. Getting to know every detail of warfare is wishful thinking. During the Op Sindoor press briefings, Air Marshal AK Bharti has appropriately said, “Losses are a part of combat”. The time to take stock of military decisions is well after the dust settles on the battlefield. Whether Operation Sindoor is the biggest and the most successful anti-terror operation in the nation’s history, as claimed by PM Modi, will be known in due course.

Lt Col GS Bedi (Retd), Mohali

Need to remain vigilant

Apropos of ‘Covid surge’; keeping in mind the tragic experience of the past, there is an imperative need for the public to remain vigilant. Though the authorities have rightly advised people not to panic, there is a need to be careful and circumspect. Taking precautionary measures like washing hands frequently, especially after outdoor trips, avoiding crowds, maintaining distance while standing in a queue and scrupulously following the Covid protocol could go a long way in keeping the deadly virus at bay. We must keep tabs on developments related with the Covid surge so as to keep the public well-informed. The government must be battle-ready with necessary healthcare facilities to meet any eventuality.

Ravi Sharma, Dhariwal

Unrecognised patriotism

Refer to ‘Residents of border villages put up brave face amid hostilities with Pak’; it is easy to talk about war and victory without actually walking the talk. Residents of border villages showed patriotism and immense courage despite the fear of losing their loved ones and livelihoods, and braved the conflict on the assurances of the BSF and the Army. This kind of bravery and nationalism often goes unrecognised but often lays the ground for future generations to brave difficult times. People living in cities, far away from conflict zones, cannot even fathom the pain and suffering people living in border areas have to undergo. They do not have the choice of moving away from their ‘karambhoomi’ every time there is shelling or firing.

Divya Singla, Patiala