Need to rein in Israel’s excesses

The editorial ‘Israel vs Hezbollah’ rightly condemns Israel’s unprovoked attack on the militant group. US presidential candidate Kamala Harris’ pledge of continued military aid to Israel is fuelling tensions in West Asia. Israel’s onslaught on the Hezbollah, based on unverified claims, jeopardises regional security and stability. The UN’s tepid response, limited to mere warnings, emboldens Tel Aviv’s recklessness. Besides, the lack of action on the part of the international community is unacceptable. A stronger, unified demand for accountability is necessary to rein in Israel’s excesses and prevent a full-scale crisis in the region.

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Chanchal S Mann, Una

Not in the name of God

Refer to the editorial ‘Faith or folly?’; the incident underscores the dangers of superstition. When will people understand that true faith is about love and compassion? Faith should never be defined by violence. Those struggling with mental health problems should seek help from medical professionals or psychologists. Further, it is crucial that pastors and spiritual leaders quit engaging in harmful practices in the name of God. Life is precious. It must not be sacrificed at the altar of misguided faith.

Sahleen Kaur, Ludhiana

Kangana’s vitriolic remarks

Apropos of the front-page news report ‘Not authorised: BJP ticks off Kangana on farm stir remark’; the loud-mouthed parliamentarian’s vitriolic remarks on growers are aimed at maligning the image of the entire farming community. This is an attempt to undercut the tillers’ movement and the cause that they are protesting for. Naturally, if the stir loses its momentum and public support, the Centre will get the upper hand. And their demands may remain unmet. The silence of top BJP leaders on the farmers’ concerns and the ridiculous remarks made by the Mandi MP is alarming.

Prem Singh Dahiya, Rohtak

She must choose her words wisely

Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut’s remarks likening the farmers’ stir to the uprising in Bangladesh are highly irresponsible and unwarranted. Notably, this is not the first time that she has made such outrageous comments. She has a knack for making statements that spark controversy. But the fact that even the BJP has distanced itself from her recent comments is telling. She must realise her responsibility as a lawmaker and choose her words wisely. Though there were some instances of violence during the farmers’ stir, their movement remained largely peaceful. In any case, Kangana has no business commenting on matters concerning the farmers of Punjab.

Shaurya Lall, Zirakpur

Violation of religious freedom

Some farm leaders from Punjab who were heading to participate in the mahapanchayats organised in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry claimed on Monday that they were denied permission to board the plane because they had been carrying kirpans. This was a clear violation of their religious freedom and constitutional rights. The kirpan is not just a religious symbol but also an integral part of the Sikh identity. The decision to stop the farm leaders from boarding the flight over the symbol reflects a misunderstanding of religious practices and reflects the officials’ lack of respect for Sikhism. Such actions undermine India’s secular values and the right to practise one’s faith. Those responsible for the fiasco must tender an unconditional apology to the Sikh community.

Bikram Singh, Patiala

New districts, same story

The Central Government’s decision to create five new districts in Ladakh, pushing the total number to seven, has sparked significant concern in the region. While the move may improve administrative efficiency, it fails to address the core issue: the local residents’ demand for special status to protect Ladakh’s unique cultural and environmental identity. Further, the creation of new districts does not allay fears of potential exploitation and loss of autonomy. The government must grant special status to Ladakh on priority to ensure sustainable development in the region.

Samridhi Kapoor, by mail

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