Urgent call for global action

Refer to the article ‘Nasrallah killing worsens West Asia crisis’; the assassination of the Hezbollah leader has intensified violence in West Asia, turning Israel’s retaliation against Hamas into a genocidal conflict. Iran, Hamas and the Houthis are likely to respond, further destabilising the region. Recent missile attacks on US naval ships by the Houthis and Russia’s nuclear threats illustrate a dangerous escalation. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s tactics, including pager explosions and airstrikes targeting Hezbollah, highlight a reckless disregard for restraint. Given their deep ties, the US claiming ignorance about Israel’s plan to kill Nasrallah is untenable. Instead of adopting an ostrich-like attitude, global leaders must take decisive steps to resolve the conflicts in West Asia and eastern Europe before the world is drawn into a catastrophic war.

Chanchal S Mann, Una

Change begins at home

With reference to ‘Systemic change, not a quick fix, can tackle gender violence’; toxic masculinity and gender violence are conjoined twins. While everybody agrees that a change is necessary, not many are sure how to go about it. The preference for a male child has led to a skewed sex ratio and people still believe that females are subservient to males. Unfortunately, the same values are passed on to the next generation. It is said that change begins at home. The first step towards change will be the most difficult, but it has to be taken to curb gender violence.

Anthony Henriques, Mumbai

Face scrutiny for diversion of funds

Apropos of ‘Funds not given to hospitals, HC orders attachment of officials’ pay’; the Punjab and Haryana High Court has rightly called for details of avoidable expenses — such as advertisements, purchase of new vehicles and renovation of houses and offices for ministers and MLAs — incurred by the Punjab Government. The court also ordered the attachment of salaries of senior health officials following their failure to release Rs 350 crore sent by the Centre under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme to hospitals. Officials must face the consequences for diverting funds meant for hospitals, which are splurged on luxuries.

Vijaya Sharma, by mail

A painful reality

Apropos of ‘CJI: My daughters have transformed how I see the world, engage with it’; I am a parent of a 55-year-old mentally challenged son. However, having a differently abled daughter is a much bigger responsibility as she needs care and protection and is vulnerable to exploitation. Calling such children with milder names such as ‘children with special needs’ is meant just to console ourselves. It doesn’t change the painful reality. What will happen to these hapless children after their parents’ death remains uncertain. My advice to parents is to stay positive, look after their own health and care for the children.

WG CDR CL Sehgal (RETD), Jalandhar

India must become self-reliant

With reference to ‘Chinese temerity’; China’s growing assertiveness is a pressing concern for India, evident in the LAC standoff, military presence in Arunachal Pradesh and the trade imbalance. India must focus on becoming self-reliant to reduce dependence on Chinese imports. India faces two main challenges. First, the country needs to strengthen its military to counter China effectively. Second, India must advance its economy to compete with China in trade and reduce dependency on imports.

Monika Ranwa, Jammu

Fill vacancies in pollution boards

Refer to ‘50% posts in state pollution boards vacant, govts blame poll, insufficient funds’; it is obvious that bad air, poor quality of water and tardy waste management undermine the quality of life. The problem is not due to a lack of laws but ignorance of effective monitoring and implementation. Nearly half of the posts in the state pollution control boards are lying vacant. The autonomy of these agencies is compromised as government officials, and not experts, hold most of the top posts. A start can be made by leveraging some of the expertise in Indian universities for environmental regulation.

Lajwant Singh, by mail

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