Propagating Hindutva agenda

With reference to ‘What the PM didn’t say about Cholas’; the BJP is always ready to impose its own narratives on historical facts to propagate its Hindutva agenda. The writer has effectively exposed the saffron party’s efforts to portray the Cholas as an embodiment of Hindu power. The romanticising of history to suit its ideology has been the hallmark of the BJP. Thanks to social media and section of the national media, many people readily get brainwashed into believing it to be a true depiction of facts. The Chola analogy reeks of political adventurism a year ahead of the Assembly polls in Tamil Nadu, with the BJP eager to make a mark in the South.

Anthony Henriques, Mumbai

US President’s irrational stance

Refer to ‘Trump vows steep tariffs on India in 24 hrs’; it is an irrational and arbitrary move by the US President. Trump’s pressure tactics are uncalled for. Every sovereign nation is free to do business with any country, prioritising its national interests. The US contention that India is ‘fuelling’ the Ukraine war is baseless; it is Western countries that are fanning the flames. However, India should be a little flexible during trade negotiations with the US. It should not be stubborn in safeguarding sectors like agriculture and dairy farming, but generally keep the interests of consumers and the common man in mind.

Vinay Kumar Malhotra, Ambala

Donald Trump, the big bully

The belligerent language used by President Trump against India, issuing threats and arm-twisting the government with the imposition of indiscriminately high tariffs, is highly reprehensible and deplorable. He is projecting himself as a big bully and America should be ashamed of his wild and erratic rants. He cares two hoots about diplomacy and decency in protocol. Sometimes, he uses the nuclear barb without any qualms, and at other times, he unabashedly warns of trade disruptions. His volatile and unpredictable behaviour is unbecoming of the leader of a great nation like America.

Vikram Chadha, Amritsar

Counter the nuclear threat

Apropos of ‘Hiroshima to Hard Rain: A warning we still ignore’; the world is at a nuclear crossroads. The prospect of a nuclear war poses an existential threat to humanity, apart from challenges like climate change, economic inequalities, impact of new technologies, growing geopolitical tensions, trade war and ongoing regional conflicts. The threat to use nuclear weapons is morally reprehensible; so, there is a need for fundamental changes in political thinking and international relations. Steps should be taken to build mutual trust and reduce tensions that could escalate into nuclear flashpoints. An awakened citizenry, civil society and governments should make concerted and collective efforts towards nuclear non-proliferation.

DS Kang, Hoshiarpur

VIP convict enjoying leniency

Refer to ‘Parole yet again’; despite being convicted of rape and murder, Ram Rahim continues to enjoy leniency. With nearly three months on parole this year, including a 40-day release ahead of his birthday, he is a VIP convict enjoying hospitality at the government’s cost. Moreover, his outings often align with elections, raising suspicion of political favouritism. Though the prison rules incentivise good behaviour, it appears they are negotiable for him. The Haryana government must take a cue from the Kerala High Court, which rightly denied repeated parole to a lifer.

Chanchal S Mann, Una

Malik spoke his mind

Satyapal Malik, former Governor of J&K, Goa, Bihar, Odisha and Meghalaya, did not mince words while criticising the Modi government on issues concerning national security, such as the Pulwama terror attack. As J&K Governor, he raised his voice against corruption in the state administration. However, the CBI targeted him over alleged corruption in connection with a hydel project. While most political leaders prefer to swim with the tide for the sake of their own interests, he was one of the few who had the courage to shun the path of sycophancy.

Prem Singh Dahiya, Rohtak