Dependent on sin tax

It is proven scientifically that if we continue or discontinue an activity for 21 days, it becomes a habit. During the lockdown, people addicted to smoking and drinking didn’t get supply of these products. Many people could have kicked this habit, if these products were not made available to the public for some more time. But the government kneeled before liquor and tobacco lobbies. The government is dependent on sin tax to a large extent. In future, governments should devise ways to be self-sufficient without sin tax.

Rajesh Goyal, by mail

Home delivery of alcohol

The decision of the Punjab Government to allow door-to-door delivery of alcohol is absolutely galling. This will only alleviate the alcohol addiction mayhem across the state. It will not only increase the economic burden on middle-class families but also shrink the quality of food on their plates. There is also a risk of underage drinking. The strategy to dissuade people from drinking by increasing taxes on alcohol is absurd. The long line of people waiting outside liquor shops across the nation is enough proof that there is no guarantee that door-to-door selling of alcohol will not increase the spread of coronavirus. Alcohol consumption weakens our immune system and may raise the Covid mortality rate.

AKANKSHA, CHANDIGARH

Salute their valour

Gallant Indian troops, who carry out courageous operations, are the backbone of the country. Their devotion towards the nation is extraordinary. Their loyalty, selfless service, valour and tactical thinking are commendable. The spirit and passion to save the nation is imbued in a soldier’s blood. We have lost many great fighters, who were martyred to prevent havoc by terrorists. Salute to our comrades-in-arms, who embrace death for the bright future of the country.

Pooja Saini, Kurukshetra

Darbar move

Apropos of ‘MHA to decide on darbar move’, the J&K High Court has rightly asked about the practicality of spending Rs 200 crore on the bi-annual shifting of the J&K capital. The MHA should keep in mind while filing its reply that expenses incurred would include transportation and accommodation of government employees, especially during the current pandemic. The practice started in 1872 by the then ruler has indeed lost its relevance.

Devender Yadav, Sirsa

New lifestyle

Reference to the editorial ‘Living with the virus’ (May 5); we have to be ready at the psychological and social level to take the virus head on. A new lifestyle has been adopted in the lockdown period, like working from home, studying online and the delivery of essential goods at the doorstep. All this has shown the way life will go on. With proper safety guidelines, we can go a step ahead.

JANAK RAJ SARANGAL, GURDASPUR

The little bronze work

Apropos of ‘Dawn will come, but when?’ (May 7), the little bronze does seem to resonate with the current situation of so many people, whether it is embodying helplessness or contemplating something is anybody’s guess. Its gesture truly is ambiguous and open for interpretation. Its simplicity is indeed what makes it so remarkable and alluring. There seems to be a mysterious aura surrounding it. One cannot help but envy the owner of possessing something of such interest. Modifying an English adage, we can say, ‘A sculpture is worth a thousand words’.

LIPIKA LALLER, AUSTRALIA

Appreciation and honour

We appreciate the Punjab Police for not only honouring the police bravehearts, but also those who helped them, that too during the pandemic. It boosts the morale of a force by prodding its each member to do his/her best. Are there no such warriors in other departments to be recognised and honoured? Other departments, including health, should take a cue and bring out their list of extraordinary workers every month without waiting for the ultimate triumph. This will encourage all those having gone through many weeks of challenges at this juncture.

Gurkirat Bajwa, by mail

Red Cross movement

May 8, the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, is celebrated as the World Red Cross Day. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901 for founding the International Red Cross Movement, based on seven principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, unity, universality and voluntary service. Our sincere tributes go out to all volunteers associated with this largest humanitarian movement of the world. We should further promote the movement along with our commitment to realise the Sustainable Development Goals to evolve a world worth living in.

SUDESH KUMAR SHARMA, KAPURTHALA

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