Education for all, not for sale
With reference to ‘Education for sale: Middle class contradictions’; the government must ensure equal access to education by addressing disparities in infrastructure, resources and opportunities. At the same time, citizens must demand accountability, advocate for a strong public education system and push for fair budgetary allocations. Without a collective commitment, the unchecked commercialisation of education will only deepen existing inequalities, harming the interests of the middle class. Quality education must be understood as more than just academic achievement. True education must empower individuals to become informed citizens who contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society and the country.
K Kumar, Panchkula
BJP must rein in erring leaders
With reference to ‘Brazen impudence’; the BJP projects itself as a party with a difference. However, some of its leaders seem bent upon damaging its image nurtured assiduously over the years. The recent attacks on the judiciary have dealt a big blow to its image as a disciplined party. The judiciary’s disregard by any elected representative is unacceptable. Stringent action needs to be taken by the BJP against the MPs for their outrageous utterances, which amounting to contempt of court.
Ravi Sharma, Dhariwal
MPs’ freedom of speech
With reference to ‘Brazen impudence’; an unnecessary hue and cry has been raised in the media regarding the BJP MPs’ remarks. Airing one’s views cannot be considered contempt of court. Our Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, albeit with reasonable restrictions. Above all, when political parties themselves are employing a dual policy — one to catch votes and the other to be champions of secularism — how can MPs be blamed for speaking their mind? After all, they represent the people. Maintaining checks and balances is the core of every system to survive.
Krishan Bhatia, Hansi
Pope who criticised the West
Refer to ‘A people’s pontiff’; the death of Pope Francis marks a sad moment not only for the Catholic world but for entire humanity. He led a papacy defined by reform and an unwavering commitment to justice, besides prioritising humanitarian concerns. He will be remembered for his powerful stance against the genocide in Gaza. He condemned the atrocities in clear terms, and was unflinching in his criticism of not only Israel but also the Western leaders complicit in the bloodbath. He reminded the world that love, mercy and courage are the truest expressions of faith. Unfortunately, he could not visit India despite having warmly accepted PM Modi’s invitation.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Land reform can generate jobs
Refer to ‘India must generate 80L jobs per year for 10-12 yrs to become Viksit Bharat, says CEA’; the Chief Economic Advisor has stated nothing but the truth. There is a lot which the government will have to do to. Land reform should be the top priority, even when capital and labour are cheap. Investment becomes viable if policies are transparent and red tape is eliminated. MSMEs, which are the backbone of the supply chain, must get faster access to capital and technology. The dynamics keep changing fast and each constituent of the supply chain ecosystem should be well versed with the latest technological tools. Universities must work closely with India Inc to provide employable graduates.
Bal Govind, Noida
Rahul’s compromised stand
Apropos of the news report ‘Election Commission compromised, claims Rahul; BJP dubs him traitor’; Rahul Gandhi has developed a habit of targeting one constitutional entity or the other during his foreign tours. All platforms where he can seek remedial measures are open to him in the country itself. They can allay his real or imaginary fears. The actual problem is not the compromised credibility of the Election Commission but the loss of his own credibility among the people.
DV Sharma, Mukerian