Refer to Nous Indica (‘Reimagining secularism’, Aug 15); a debate on secularism has started after the participation of PM Modi in the bhumi pujan for Ram mandir. Whether it was secular or non-secular by a PM of a democratic country to take part in a religious function must be debated, but it seems a new name or word is needed for those challenging majoritarian politics. Perhaps ‘plural’ is more suited than ‘secular’. Ironically, India’s secular values started decaying after the word secular was added to the Preamble in 1976. In the Modi era, secularism has almost been nearly discarded. Lines between state power and Hindu religious functions are almost blurred. Instead of secularism, what we need is to start building genuine tolerance in society. Religion, an important part of life, should be treated as a personal matter. Respect for all and appeasement of none is the mantra.
Lal Singh, Amritsar
Distorted narrative
‘Reimagining secularism’ (Nous Indica, Aug 15) is a scathing attack on the modern concept of secularism. Nehru and Modi represent opposite views of secularism. Secularism remains unhurt when the US President takes oath on the Bible. The shadow of ecclesiastical practices is visible in the British political life. Conversely, our secularism was suppressed under our colonial masters but it is embedded in our cultural practices. Indian secularism approves its commitment to Ram Rajya based on the foundation of social justice and universal brotherhood. India can’t be imagined without its cultural and spiritual heritage, besides our proud icons like Lord Krishna and Lord Rama, or Buddha and Guru Nanak. Anti-national forces are distorting ‘secularism’. We have failed to understand the critical view of our cultural and historical realities.
Kapil Sharma, Kaithal
Independent audit must
In reference to ‘Pbi University in financial mess’ (Aug 13); it calls for drastic measures to wrest the constant slide of one of the oldest universities of Punjab. Years 2011-12 saw unrestrained recruitment in the teaching and non-teaching cadre, with charges of nepotism and sidestepping of UGC norms flying thick and fast. This unwanted and under-qualified staffing resulted in ballooning of the salary bills and denting the credibility of the university. The constituent colleges and neighbourhood campuses funded and regulated by the university with the objective of acting as ‘feeders’ are a huge drain on the limited resources. An independent audit of all past selections, thorough investigation of corruption cases and punishment of erring officials occupying responsible.
Jashandeep Sandhu, Patiala
Peddling myths
Apropos of ‘Hypnotising nationalism’ (Aug 13), the dispensation is busy peddling myths to create its own version of pigeon-holed nationalism. Our great past heroes would be turning in their graves over this pitiable spectacle. Blind conformity seems to have become a norm, and even an ounce of dissent borders on treason. The so-called nationalists hardly realise that the plight of the poor Hindus is as despicable as those of other minorities. It is high time for the media to shed its genuflection and servile attitude to serve its true cause before it is too late.
Kunwarbir Singh, by mail
‘Alive’ certificate
Every July, a pensioner has to submit a life certificate on a prescribed form duly attested by a gazetted officer to document his being alive and entitled to pension. Covid-19 lockdown has barred even physically fit individuals from compliance, not to speak of those medically unfit. Accordingly, there is a requirement for the pension-paying authority to devise an online arrangement for the certification. A message should go to the pensioner well in time that the certificate is due. Thereafter, the authority may WhatsApp the pensioner to show his or her face with the PPO No. and Aadhaar card or passport pinned on the chest pocket — in public interest to avoid any pension payment delays.
KL Noatay, UK
Collapse of system
In Punjab, it seems there is complete failure of governance. The recent hooch tragedy is just an addition to incidents in the state. Corruption and crime are on the rise. The so-called secular and welfare government is, meanwhile, busy diverting the attention of the common man. Then there is the sand mafia, transport mafia, cable mafia, land mafia and drug mafia. Home and Excise come directly under the CM and he can’t shun responsibility. Merely setting up commissions for inquiry is not enough. Corrective measures are needed.
Puneet Garg, Patiala
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