Looks like change

Apropos of ‘A new nationalism’ (Nous Indica, Jan 18), our politicians have been playing divisive politics between the two major communities for so long, and so ferociously, that even those who espouse the cause of inclusive nationalism without any ulterior motive are ridiculed as pseudo-nationalists or anti-nationalists. Bigotry and parochialism are running through our polity and vitiating the atmosphere. There seems to be no room for the Gandhian philosophy of inclusiveness. Divide and rule has been the mantra that has been ruling the roost. The youth has taken the lead and hit the streets to champion the cause of inclusive nationalism. Such a movement, if pursued earnestly, and in a non-partisan manner, can transform society in an integrative and cohesive way. 

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

More must be done 

Wish that the optimism of the writer regarding the ongoing anti-CAA protests as uprising of the aware middle class is not misplaced (‘A new nationalism’; Nous Indica, Jan 18). CAA-NRC-NPR combine has the potential to further polarise the electorate. Unless the majority community notably joins protests and resists all policies of the government that hit the common man and serve only the elite, they cannot be termed as inheritors of Gandhian nationalism, notwithstanding the placards of Gandhi and martyrs or singing of the National Anthem during the protests.

HL Sharma, Amritsar

Stinky washrooms 

It is a reality that toilets in public places stink, the reason being a lack of civic sense among the users and non-availability of handwash, naphthalene balls, etc (‘All for cleanliness, DC asks staff to use public toilets’, Jan 17). Even at railway platforms and Metros, many toilets lack jet or a properly functioning water tank. Even those in charge do not bother to get them repaired or cleaned, keeping in view the footfall. The initiative taken by the Sirsa DC in respect of public toilets is commendable. This must be implemented in all public places, in toto. Only then can the swachh yojana become significant.   

  Lk Handa, by mail 

Good initiative 

Apropos of the editorial ‘Be the change’ (Jan 18), despite sanitation being recognised as a fundamental human right globally by the UN, it is being ignored in India. Since the officials have been given the privilege of using private washrooms instead of the dark and dingy public lavatories, it amounts to unreasonable discrimination, and consequently, an infringement on a fundamental right. In this regard, the decision of the DC is appreciable. Hope it would also be executed enthusiastically.

Harsimran Malwa, Ludhiana

Fresh offer to Pak 

Refer to the editorial ‘Prospect of a thaw’ (Jan 18); India has initiated peace efforts with Pakistan many times but has never got a positive response. The deep state in Pakistan has always been contriving to harm India. The problem is Pakistan’s India policy which is controlled by the ISI. All their leaders follow its dictates. The LoC is frequently violated by disrespecting the ceasefire. Drones are sent with narcotics, arms, ammunition and explosives to disrupt peace in India. Pakistan’s continuous interference in Kashmir is also a sore point. PM Imran Khan can utilise his visit to India during the SCO meet to enhance trade, commerce, tourism, sports and cultural ties. In the interest of the people of Pakistan, exporting terror must be shelved. It would also prevent Pakistan from restrictions under the FATF, and help achieve prosperity and peace in the region. 

Subhash Vaid, New Delhi

Need two-child norm 

Refer to the two-child law next on Sangh agenda; this agenda is the need of the century. India’s resource is unable to form an equilibrium with its population. Environmental degradation, low per capita income etc., is being experienced because of overpopulation. However, some may link it as an indirect attack on the Muslim 

community. Therefore, this agenda would need proper consideration of the government. 

Raktanjali Sharma, Shimla

Justice to test

Apropos of ‘Nirbhaya convicts to hang on Feb 1’ (Jan 18); in spite of  fresh black warrants, there is still ample scope for curative and mercy petitions by some other convict and the consequent deference, or even escape of execution. It is moot whether our laws are salve or salt. Appeals to forgive and forget are ridiculous. Since death penalty is awarded in the rarest of rare crimes, it is time the leeways in our system that are exploited, are plugged, so that justice delivery is not hijacked. There ought to be an equitable, just and fair resolution of the conflict of rights of an accused and the victim or protesters/strikers and the public. 

Lalit Bharadwaj, Panchkula

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