Mockery of democracy
With reference to ‘New normal of crime without punishment’; it is a great pity that even after committing heinous crimes, offenders holding important positions are going scot-free. They are moving freely as if no crime has been committed. US President Trump has exonerated protesters who had attacked the Capitol. This is a mockery of the democratic system. Back home, in the Chandigarh mayoral poll, nominated councillor Anil Masih was found guilty of tampering with ballots, but no action has been taken against him so far. If this goes on, no one will fear the law and anti-social elements will continue to hoodwink law enforcement agencies.
Subhash C Taneja, Gurugram
Firm security policy needed
Apropos of ‘Why it is vital to document a national security policy’; every organisation is governed by guidelines and standing operating procedures. Therefore, it is imperative that the government has a firm national security policy encompassing the norms and standards for conduct of defence and connected matters. Those concerned with the defence policy, designing, manufacturing and procurement of equipment, funding, maintenance, staffing and other issues are duty-bound to fulfil their responsibilities. So, the Prime Minister, NSA, CDS and the chiefs of the three defence forces should put their heads together to frame the national security policy.
Subhash Vaid, New Delhi
Keep netas out of sports bodies
Refer to ‘Lifeline for WFI’; it is a relief that the Sports Ministry has revoked the suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India. However, it may not suffice to stem the rot unless election rules are tweaked to bar political leaders from contesting for the top post of the WFI or, for that matter, any other sports federation in India. BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh is still calling the shots through his close aide and successor, Sanjay Singh. If tainted political leaders get elected to a sports body and the selection of players is done on the basis of political considerations rather than on merit, it will have a demoralising effect on aspiring players. Sports bodies must only be headed by internationally acclaimed former sportspersons rather than political leaders.
MD Sharma, Shimla
Give air pollution priority
The fact that 13 of the world’s top 20 polluted cities are in India reflects a sorry state of affairs. The authorities are not taking adequate steps to get rid of pollutants or at least reduce pollution. The economic costs of the after-effects of pollution are too high to be taken lightly. It is extremely difficult to view a clear blue sky in daytime in most of the metros. There is a constant haze in the sky, implying that the air is full of suspended particulates. Strict monitoring of construction activities, vehicular emissions and disposal of industrial waste is needed. No politics should be played over such a serious issue.
Deepak Taak, Panchkula
Warning of an epidemic
Apropos of ‘Smogged out’; high population density, poor waste management and inappropriate use of bioenergy in Indian cities are making the scene grimmer. Encouraging electric vehicles can help reduce pollution. Felling trees for building expressways in the name of development imbalances the ecology. Stubble burning and overuse of fertilisers and pesticides have made matters worse. Polluted air is the first warning of an epidemic. Fresh air keeps the whole ecosystem clean.
Anup Kumar Gakkhar, Haridwar
BJP’s winning spree
The victory in the civic body elections in Haryana is a big boost to the BJP. Now, it is the responsibility of the ruling party to deliver at every level in towns and cities. BJP enthusiasts must not forget that this election has been a cakewalk due to the precarious situation of the Congress, which appears rudderless. Regional forces like the INLD or its offshoot, the JJP, too are spent forces without any strong and vibrant leadership. The absence of political opposition at the ground level has strengthened the BJP’s position in the state.
Jai Prakash Gupta, Ambala
