Powerful sign of change

With reference to ‘Sadda beta has pushed the envelope’ (The Great Game); Zohran Mamdani’s historic win as New York City’s first Muslim mayor is a powerful symbol of change. It shows that a progressive vision can prevail over cynical politics. The power of democracy was also witnessed when Panjab University students forced the Centre to withdraw its move to restructure the PU Senate and Syndicate. The enthusiastic participation of the masses in the Bihar elections is also heartening. The common thread here is the active interest of stakeholders in matters that concern them. The ruling elite should take note: promoting one religion, person or policy won’t work anymore.

Capt Amar Jeet (retd), Kharar

Dreams of ordinary citizens

Refer to ‘Sadda Beta has pushed the envelope’; Zohran Mamdani struck a vibrant chord with New Yorkers. His slogan ‘A city we can afford’ echoes the dreams of citizens yearning for equality and inclusion. Interestingly, the shift of some Trump voters toward democratic socialism reflects the changing contours of American politics. In contrast, his opponent Andrew Cuomo’s lofty but distant ideas alienated him from the masses. Zohran’s rise, full of Dhoom Machale energy, delighted many hearts.

Vijay Kumar Katial, Panchkula

Rethinking green progress

Refer to ‘Beyond electric vehicles: The energy reality we ignore’; the article reminds us that technological advancement is not synonymous with sustainability. Electric vehicles may appear eco-friendly, but the energy and materials used in their manufacture and operation belie their green image. Moreover, our obsession with automation and AI is endangering human employment and ecological balance. True progress lies not in replacing human effort but in harmonising it with nature’s limits. We must curb reckless mechanisation, encourage local production and restore human labour for ensuring equity and long-term prosperity.

Chanchal S Mann, Una

Potable water still elusive

In many parts of our country, especially in rural areas and slums, people are still consuming contaminated water. In a city like Amritsar, tap water is not potable, water containing suspended sand particles is being supplied. Access to clean drinking water is not a luxury, but a basic and foremost necessity. The government should take immediate corrective steps to improve water purification system, repair damaged tubewells and pipelines, install new tubewells wherever necessary and ensure regular water testing. Public awareness about water conservation and hygiene should be promoted. Unnecessary wastage of water should be monitored and appropriate action be initiated against the culprits.

Surinder Kumar Khanna, Amritsar

PU autonomy must be preserved

Apropos of ‘Finally, Centre rolls back PU overhaul after uproar in Punjab’; the Union government’s decision to revoke its notification on restructuring the Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University has come as a major relief to students, teachers and academia. For decades, PU’s governance model — through elected representatives and registered graduates — has symbolised participatory decision-making in higher education. PU’s autonomy and identity are worth preserving — they are integral to Punjab’s intellectual and cultural heritage. The Punjab government too must act responsibly and not politicise the issue further.

Sanjay Chopra, Mohali

Changes needed with time

The Union government’s decision to withdraw its move to overhaul Panjab University’s governance should not be seen as a victory of those who opposed it. The proposal was not entirely unjustified. Century-old governing rules and regulations of any institute of higher learning need a relook to keep pace with the changing times, needs and demands.

Balvinder, Chandigarh