Inspiration for all

Dr Anupma Gupta has set an example before society that nothing more than worst can stop a person from achieving her goals, as she is brave enough to live happily and satisfied in her present condition (‘For her, mishap a blip in larger scheme of things’; Jan 1). She has performed her duty as a doctor and as a human being very well. Society must learn from this incident that while some people were busy making videos, she put her life at stake to save someone’s life.

Abhilasha Gupta, Mohali

Rare act of sacrifice

Refer to ‘For her, mishap a blip in larger scheme of things’ (Jan 1); the compassion shown by Dr Anupma Gupta is the rarest of rare act of social responsibility. Despite losing her legs for a public cause, she has maintained an indomitable spirit and shown deep faith in the ways of God. This courageous act would go a long way in inspiring society to help mankind. Society and the State must acknowledge and reward her for this laudable act of self-sacrifice and kindness for fellow beings.

Hardish sandhu, Amritsar

No more hydel projects

Refer to the editorial ‘Himalayan danger’ (Jan 1); in Kinnaur district, hydel projects are proving to be a bane to local people and environment. Sometime ago, the Indian Council of Forest Research and Education (ICFRE) had said in its report that hydropower projects on the basin of the Sutlej had damaged environment. A committee had also warned the government not to venture into any power project above the height of 7,000 feet above sea level, but who cares? The government should not go in for more such projects, so that Kinnaur and other places could be saved from disasters.

ROOP SINGH NEGI, Solan

Himachal can do better

It was heartening to read that Himachal has been ranked second in development goal index (Jan 1). It is at the top in peace, justice and strong institutions category. Here, presuming that justice is delivered by the civil courts. This isn’t the case in revenue courts. A glance at the case list of any of these courts would show cases of demarcation, partition and mutation pending in appeal for as long as 20 years. There have been instances of the court of Divisional Commissioner not being held for years because of the officer being ‘busy with administrative work’. An indication of good governance includes the system’s ability to identify bottlenecks within and to suggest reforms. To avoid delay in the delivery of justice in these courts, a separate judicial service for revenue courts should be set up.

Rajender Sharma, by mail

On short fuse

Apropos ‘Happy New Year’ (Jan 1), indeed, we have still to master the art of being agreeable even as we disagree and have to take notice of demonstrations before they become protests. The bane of the present times is that aggression has engulfed us. Sometimes, the situation takes such an ugly turn that people are killed over minor issues. The need is to inculcate the virtues of tolerance and sympathy. Educational institutions can play a vital role in this direction.

Nitin Chani, Ludhiana

Migration unplugged

The article ‘Exodus without an end’ (Dec 31) was thought provoking and depicted the true scenario of Punjab. Hope sustains life. The hope of getting a big car, dollars, the tag of an NRI and lack of jobs owing to the calibre of the person are aggravating the trend among youth to migrate abroad. Push and pull factors are at work. Migration occurs when there is dissatisfaction because of variegated reasons, which is happening in Punjab.

Harleen Pandher, by mail

No relief for pensioners

Pensioners of Punjab are crying for pay commission recommendations and DA arrears, but the government will use up its five years blaming the Akalis for ‘khali khazana’. Unfortunately, the luxury of ministers, the Chief Minister and Congress MLAs seems to be a priority. Buying Innovas for 17 MLAs is an attempt to please them. On the other hand, pensioners who are above 70, and most are suffering from chronic diseases, are still awaiting their dues. I think the government will give that money to the families after their death, so that they may vote for them.

SUKHWANT BHULLAR, Chandigarh

Out in the cold

With no let-up in the biting cold wave conditions, the poor people continue to die. Most deaths go unreported. The rulers and ruled have no qualms about it. Our conscience is dead. Dead men tell no tales. In a way, those who have died unwept are fortunate than those dressed in tatters and leading an unprotected life, with no roof over their head.

DV JOSHI, Zirakpur

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: Letters@tribunemail.com