ONOE is not practical

Apropos of ‘One poll logjam’; the BJP’s renewed push for ‘one nation, one election’ (ONOE) is understandable: it continues to be the predominant political party in the country despite significant gains made by the Congress in this year’s Lok Sabha elections. The saffron party stands to benefit the most if voters exercise their franchise once in five years rather than every two years or so. Clubbing national and state polls will be an injustice to the interests of the state. The idea has low practicality as the terms of state Assemblies would need to be reduced or extended. It will be impossible to bring all political parties on board.

SS Paul, Nadia (WB)

Take voters’ opinion

Reference to ‘One poll logjam’; given the current animosity between the Union Government and the Opposition, the ONOE idea is bound to trigger a confrontation that will serve no useful purpose. The Centre must explain why it is in a hurry to bring about this electoral reform. Which state government would be willing to take the risk of having its term end midway if the ONOE is introduced? The sad part is that nobody is asking the voters their opinion on the issue.

ANTHONY HENRIQUES, MUMBAI

Zakir Hussain’s legacy

The death of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain is a huge loss to both Indian and global music. At 73, he has left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations. Trained by his father, Ustad Alla Rakha, Zakir’s musical journey began at a young age. He popularised Indian classical music globally, blending it with fusion genres and collaborating with legends like Pt Ravi Shankar. His emotional performances, which touched hearts worldwide, were recognised with prestigious awards such as Padma Vibhushan. His quote, “The beat of the tabla is my breath”, epitomised his lifelong dedication to music, making him an iconic figure.

RK Jain, Barwani (MP)

Diversify energy mix in HP

Refer to ‘Running dry’; Himachal Pradesh heavily relies on hydropower, which is now vulnerable to changing weather patterns and water availability. Enhancing energy efficiency through technological advancements and demand management can reduce consumption pressures. Strengthening the grid infrastructure, adopting micro-hydel projects for localised energy generation and encouraging community-based renewable initiatives are crucial. Policy reforms, public-private partnerships and investments in energy storage solutions can ensure long-term sustainability. By focusing on resilient and diversified energy strategies, Himachal Pradesh can secure its energy future while maintaining environmental balance.

Sikandar Bansal, Shimla

Rebuild grassroots strength

Refer to ‘INDIA bloc totters as Congress faces isolation’; the bloc, formed to counter the BJP, faces turbulence as the Congress is struggling to secure strong alliances. Several regional parties in the bloc, such as the TMC, AAP, RJD and the Samajwadi Party, are dominant in their respective states, where the Congress is often on a weak footing. This weakness creates a dilemma: while these parties benefit from the Congress’ national presence, they view it as a competitor in their regions. The Congress’ inability to excel in direct battles against the BJP, especially in Hindi heartland states, raises questions about its leadership within the bloc. Without clear coordination and strategic seat-sharing, INDIA risks becoming fragmented. For the bloc to succeed, the Congress must rebuild its grassroots strength while adopting a pragmatic approach to alliance-building, focusing on taking allies along rather than competing with them.

Gaurav Badhwar, Rohtak

Enforce stringent rape laws

Twelve years have passed since a young physiotherapist was murdered after being raped inside a bus. Rape victims must learn to face and survive the consequent ordeal with confidence and avail judicial aid. Stringent initiatives and laws should be enforced for the safety of women, such as round-the-clock police patrolling in isolated places, besides ensuring a faster trial and strict punishment to the perpetrators.

ARVIND SHARMA, by mail

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