Restoring statehood a must
Refer to ‘Why Modi has thrown the dice in J&K’ (The Great Game); the article effectively highlights the paradox of improved conditions amid uncertainty in Jammu and Kashmir, where Assembly polls are in progress. While the 61 per cent voter turnout in the first phase of the polls offers hope, the Centre’s tight grip over the region raises concerns about the future of the residents. The scepticism around the BJP’s willingness to grant ‘full statehood’ to J&K reflects a troubling pattern of centralisation under the Lieutenant Governor. Appointing a regular Governor, as seen in other states, could restore some balance. Besides, the Centre must empower local representatives to manage their affairs independently. Only restoring full statehood and complete autonomy can ensure progress, stability and growth in J&K.
Chanchal S Mann, Una
Beware of the Delhi model
Apropos of ‘Why Modi has thrown the dice in J&K’ (The Great Game); PM Narendra Modi’s recent moves in J&K have sparked both optimism and scepticism. The calm in Srinagar, with children playing in parks and tourists returning, is a welcome change. However, concerns linger about the Delhi model of truncated power and the Lt Governor’s control over key departments. The ongoing Assembly elections will deliver a verdict on the past five years after the abrogation of Article 370. Democracy has been compromised; bureaucrats are replacing politicians. It is in Modi’s interest as well as in India’s interest to restore full statehood to J&K.
Amanjot Kaur, Mohali
Atishi’s sycophancy
Picking Atishi to replace AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal as the Delhi CM was a step in the right direction. It is a matter of immense pride for the country that a woman is now at the helm of affairs in the Capital. Not only is Atishi Delhi’s third woman CM, but she has also scripted history by becoming the youngest person to hold the post. However, it was painful to watch her touch Kejriwal’s feet to seek his blessings after taking the oath of office. The gesture was symbolic of the VIP culture that the party is supposed to stand against. It also reflected the use of sycophancy to gain power.
Jagdish Chander, Jalandhar
Khalistani elements on US soil
Apropos of the front-page news report ‘Ties closer, more dynamic than ever: Biden, Modi hold talks’; the US President insisted after his audience with the Indian premier that the India-US relationship remained stronger, closer and more dynamic than ever. But such tall proclamations will ring hollow if he fails to rein in Khalistani extremists on American soil who are inimical to India’s interests. Such separatist elements must not be allowed to carry out their nefarious activities targeting India while sitting half a world away. India never questioned Washington’s decision to take out Osama bin Laden, who was hiding in Pakistan. But the US wasted no time in accusing an Indian official of plotting to assassinate Khalistani activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on its soil, prompting a probe into the matter.
Upendra Sharma, by mail
Save innocent lives in Gaza
Refer to the news report ‘Israeli attack on Gaza school claims 22 lives; 30 wounded’; Israel’s onslaught on Gaza was triggered almost a year ago by a terrorist attack by the Hamas. But over the past one year, Tel Aviv’s excesses in the region have reached alarming proportions. Houses and buildings have been reduced to rubble. Essential services have been disrupted. There is no let-up in the deaths and devastation. The recent attack on a school building is condemnable. It only adds to the human suffering. It is time for Israel to stop this massacre of innocent civilians in Gaza and work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
O Prasada Rao, Hyderabad
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