Letters to the editor

Refer to ‘Razing illegality’; the demolition of the towers has inflicted a mammoth loss on gullible buyers who stand duped of their life-long savings. These structures could not have come up without the brazen complicity of government officials, developers and politicians. If all these players had been incarcerated by fixing accountability through proper investigation, the ends of justice would have been better served. It is feared that these unscrupulous swindlers may get away with it. The razing of the towers may have delivered a jolt to the realty sector, but the demolition should have been avoided by considering an alternative use of these buildings.

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

‘Freebies’ for retd judges

The Central Government has notified to extend certain additional post-retirement facilities to retired CJIs and former SC judges, such as life-time domestic help, chauffer, secretarial assistant, round-the-clock security for five years, besides rent-free type VII accommodation for six months. These so-called ‘facilities’ may be better classed as ‘freebies’ which are unwarranted, disastrous and burdensome on the exchequer. It is disheartening that this has come up at a time when the CJI has asked the EC to consider the banning of freebies by political parties.

RPS CHOPRA, by mail

Cong chief’s election

It is time for prominent leaders of India’s main opposition party to come forward to contest, as the Gandhis may opt to sit out the October election for Congress chief. However, there is a possibility that a proxy candidate may be backed by the Gandhis. The election can’t be transformative if it is not held fairly. The party’s organisation has become comatose in most parts of the country. The Congress has suffered many defections, exits and humiliating defeats and it cannot get any worse under a new chief. But will the new chief be allowed to function without remote-controlling from the background?

PL SINGH, by mail

Gandhis should quit

Apropos of ‘Periodic desertions are bleeding Cong white’, the future of the Congress is bleak as long as the Gandhis are in control. The reasons include their lack of political intelligence and inability to understand the ordinary people who will not accept or admire ‘fifth-generation dynasts’. Their very presence in the Congress makes it easy for Modi and the BJP to deflect attention from the present government’s failures. The Gandhis are an impediment to the revival of the Congress and a blessing to Modi and Shah. The three Gandhis must immediately retire from politics for the good of their party and the country.

RS SEMBHI, Ludhiana

Medical tourism

Refer to ‘India poised to take lead in medical tourism’; we have more than adequate expertise and elective procedures as well as complex surgeries are done meticulously at competitive rates. The entire world can also benefit from ayurveda. The holistic approach and advantages of this indigenous system of medicine should be used to the maximum.

Sunil Chopra, Ludhiana

Hate campaigns

Reference to ‘Bhai Kahan Singh, the Renaissance man’; the writer’s defence about his controversial and seemingly divisive book, Hum Hindu Nahin Hain, does not hold much water. Perhaps, the book was written to counter the fanatic views that were being promoted during his times by radical Hindus, as its spirit went against the basic tenets of Sikhism. When Guru Nanak Dev said he was neither a Hindu nor a Muslim, his point was focused on the equality of all beliefs, and not that he had a separate Sikh identity. In the mid-50s, I spent my childhood in a backward Malwa region of Punjab, Dhuri. There was no government school for boys at the time, but there did exist three schools that were run by separate religious groups — a Khalsa school, an Arya Samaj school and a Sanatan Dharm school. I don’t remember if we ever used the word ‘Hindu’ in our conversations. We either were Sikhs with long hair or ‘monas’, with short hair. Many elderly Hindus wore a turban. No religion preached hatred. All hate campaigns have always been devised and designed by power-hungry political masters who exploit the believers to turn their beliefs into an ugly madness.

BALVINDER, CHANDIGARH

Unprecedented sacrifice

Apropos of ‘The Sacrifice in Narrahee’ (The Sunday Tribune), the sacrifice of 22 Sikh women by their fathers and husbands on the altar of faith and chastity is unprecedented. Kirpan, which symbolises mercy, honour and freedom of spirit, was used to save the honour of womanhood in the face of threat and tyranny. One shudders to imagine the tragic scene. The head bows in reverence to the valour and sacrifice of the women and men of Punjab during the Partition.

Col Rajinder Singh (retd), by mail

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Reference to ‘Constitution Bench’; the new CJI’s decision to revive the Constitution Bench for the better interpretation of the Constitution is a progressive step. However, since the ultimate goal of the judiciary is to provide prompt justice to people, the CJI should stress upon the need to get all vacancies of judges filled in various courts to dispose of the over four crore pending cases across the country. This will give a relief to millions of people who have been waiting for justice for decades.

CS MANN,UNA

Tata’s investment

Refer to ‘Tata Steel unit in Punjab’; gains to the state economy will not be restricted to the initial investment of Rs 2,600 crore, but will also lead to the development of supply chain units, employment, additional revenue generation and enhancing business confidence. Economic development in the state has been skewed and the growth of the industrial and services sectors, as witnessed in other progressive states in the past three decades, has remained elusive in Punjab. The proposed unit can be an important step in reversing the trend. The government should accord all regulatory clearances in an efficient and time-bound manner. But the steel industry is a major source of environment pollution. It is hoped that the government, after shifting the proposed textile park from Mattewara forest land, would have ensured the use of eco-friendly technology by the proposed unit.

KB Singh, Ludhiana

Congress needs reforms

Apropos of ‘Congress to elect its chief’, it is too late an exercise as the party’s graph is falling. As more and more party loyalists are leaving, the party is crumbling like a house of cards. With ad hoc leadership, it cannot lead the masses to face the existential crisis amid desertion by top functionaries. The party needs an infusion of young blood and dedicated cadres to give a new lease of life to the organisation which is lying in a dormant state. The Congress should shun sycophants and go for real-time reforms.

Anil vinayak, Amritsar

Mess of their making

Refer to ‘Congress to elect its chief’ and the plan to launch Bharat Jodo Yatra; the party must introspect first. The Gandhis seem to be staying away from the chaos which they have created by sidelining so many leaders over a long period. Now, it is their duty to take moral responsibility for what has happened and streamline the party’s organisation at the ground level, which can help revive it.

RS Kishtwaria, Palampur

Why re-employment?

The news regarding the re-employment of retired patwaris up to 67 years of age has come as a surprise and irks the common man. At a time when there is rampant unemployment in the state, what made the government consider such a step? There is a no dearth of commerce and agriculture graduates who can be easily and immediately recruited due to digitisation. The government must reconsider its decision.

Mohinder Singh Nanda, Patiala

Medical paradox

The Punjab Government has announced the opening of 16 medical colleges in the state over the next five years, but at the same time, the state does not have a Medical Education Secretary and the post of VC in the medical university is lying vacant. More surprisingly, 19 specialists/super-specialists in government-run medical colleges have either left or are on the verge of resigning. The situation is contradictory. Mere announcement by the government won’t deliver anything; it should work earnestly to achieve the desired targets.

Naresh Johar, Amritsar

‘Attack’ on corruption

The government and media are thumping their chest on the demolition of the Noida twin towers, the construction of which required 51 approvals. The same happens for opening a hotel or setting up a factory. Unless babudom is reined in, this will keep happening. When the government’s vigilance increases, the cost of bribery increases, considering the increased risk. It is a deep-rooted malaise which starts from politicians who spend crores on elections, with the hope that they will recover much more after winning. We already have a crippled economy and can’t afford such a symbolic attack on corruption, which in any case is going to raise its ugly head in some other form.

YASH KHETARPAL, PANCHKULA

Demolition unjustified

The demolition of the twin towers is unjustified. The major reason was the violation of the minimum distance between the two structures. There are a large number of illegal structures throughout the country, but they are not razed. The recent demolition has made sheer wastage of resources worth crores, besides causing ecological damage. If the towers were not safe for residential purpose, they could have been used for storage.

Navneet Seth, Dhuri

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of ‘Situation irretrievable...’, Azad has rightly slammed Rahul Gandhi for promoting a coterie of turncoats and inexperienced sycophants, humiliating committed veterans by sidelining them and allowing PAs/ security guards to take important decisions. The constitution of the party mandates that the senior-most general secretary should officiate (for up to 12 months) in case of the president’s resignation. However, Sonia Gandhi has been the working president since 2019, and no efforts have been made to elect a regular president, allowing Rahul Gandhi to have a free run without any liability. This has tarnished the image of the party in the eyes of the electorate.

Vijaya Sharma, by mail

Congress inertia

Reference to the editorial ‘Azad’s parting shot’; the new development shows that the Congress leadership has not learnt any lessons. His remarks in a letter to Sonia Gandhi that the party has reached a point of ‘no return’ should be considered as a statement of fact. If the same situation continues, it will mean that the one-time majestic party has made up its mind to make Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s work of ‘Congress-mukt’ Bharat easy. Azad’s departure must make the Congress focus on the grassroots for its survival.

Satish Sharma, Kaithal

Azad’s exit

Refer to ‘Azad’s parting shot’; he is the second member of the G-23 group to leave the party. He claims that Rahul Gandhi sidelined experienced leaders, and sycophants started running the affairs of the party. Such a statement coming from a leader who had been associated with the party for nearly five decades show signs of frustration. He may join the BJP in the coming days and expose his vested interest.

RAMESH GUPTA, NARWANA

Why speak up now?

Had Ghulam Nabi Azad resigned from the party a few months ago, when he was the Leader of the Opposition, he could have presented his point of view more effectively. If the cause of his concern dates back to 2013, what made him keep mum for so long and become active just within a few months prior to his exit from power politics? It seems that Congressmen realise the ‘wrongdoings’ within the party only when everything is lost with respect to their own prospects.

SL Singhal, Noida

A ‘dirty’ word now

In the article ‘What it is to be outnumbered’, the author rightly points out that secularism has turned into almost a smear word during the past eight years. There was a time when children at school functions, and at prayer grounds, used to sing ‘Hindu, Muslim, Sikh Issai/Aapas mein sab bhai-bhai’ in joyful unison, or raise similar slogans with zeal. But now, even teachers are afraid to utter this ‘smear’ slogan, as if it were a new taboo. The author is right in his observation that we opposed Jinnah’s Muslim nationalism, not with a Hindutva slogan, but with inherent secularism. As a seven-year-old refugee child, I remember singing that song in Nehru’s secular India, despite the unspeakable horrors of the Partition. Our elders talked of mayhem and sufferings and retained bitter memories, but there was no question of someone being outnumbered in our innocent mind.

Amritlal Madan, Kaithal

Taking pride in India

Reference to the article ‘Contradictions of colonialism’; we should shun our slavish mindset if we have to grow. Why should we seek certificates from other countries to establish our credibility? When I was SDM, Dalhousie, in 1992, the Swiss authorities declared Khajjiar as the Switzerland of India. I happened to ask the Consul from Switzerland, who had come for the ceremony, whether they would name any place in their country after Khajjiar, he remained silent. Why only we should borrow epithets for our places and persons from other countries? When the then President of India, R Venkataraman, visited Khajjiar, he had referred to it as the Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh. Was it not better? Similarly, the great poet Kalidas is called the Shakespeare of India, and emperor Samudragupta is the Napoleon of India. It points towards our slavish mindset.

KR Bharti, Shimla

Renovate offices

The efforts of the AAP government to recruit staff in different departments is commendable. However, it must renovate the offices and provide modern premises to the employees, especially new furniture, wi-fi services and sanitation facilities. An online survey must be conducted at every division level where employees can put up their requirements, with photos of the current scenario. Funds should then be released accordingly. Along with the provision of e-services, a fresh environment must be provided to increase work efficiency.

Harsimranvir Singh, Patiala

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of ‘Pegasus report’, the case has failed to elicit any relevant information from the government whether the spyware was used to carry out snooping. This reveals that the all-powerful government can stymie the endeavour of the judiciary also to discover the truth about a very critical issue which jeopardises the smooth functioning of democracy. Right to privacy is an inviolable right. Citing national security as reason for not divulging or sharing information is not tenable. Opacity bodes ill for democracy, reinforcing the suspicion that the government is misusing its authority to book political adversaries. It also betrays the arrogance of the government that it does not care two hoots about how ostensibly autocratic this act is viewed by the judiciary or society.

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

Illegal mining

Refer to ‘Illegal mining threatens another historic rly bridge in Kangra’; the danger to another bridge, an ancient temple and an NHAI road exposes criminal negligence and inertia of the local administration. For sure, it is a man-made disaster, which could have been avoided by an alert administration. Even intervention by the NGT, and public outcry could not move the administration to act against the mining mafia. Notwithstanding the tall claims and tokenism, the deep-rooted nexus between the powers that be and unscrupulous contractors’ lobby is obvious. Otherwise what explains the ambiguity, inaction and even tactical acquiescence of the agencies concerned? How long can we keep losing historic property, vital communication lines, funds and the all-important environment to the greed of a few?

GP CAPT JS BOPARAI (RETD), BHADSALI

Bridge collapse

The collapse of the Chakki railway bridge was a man-made disaster. The narrow-gauge line connects major areas and is a lifeline for the people of Himachal Pradesh. The collapse of the bridge is a result of illegal mining going on in the vicinity. Despite warnings by the railway authorities, nobody cared to stop the indiscriminate mining. The mafia is too powerful. Ministers, leaders and bureaucrats develop myopic vision for obvious reasons. Graft money kills their conscience and they resort to self-service. The nearby bridge is going to meet the same fate if prompt remedial steps are not taken and the culprits are not booked.

KARNAIL SINGH, Kharar

Not easy for PSPCL

PSPCL owes its present pitiable condition to politicians (‘Subsidy delayed, PSPCL forced to seek more loans’). Treating PSPCL as a charitable trust to supply free electricity for political gains is ridiculous. Further, the commitment to pay timely subsidy never sees the light of day. Waiving huge pending arrears and the Central Government’s rules to restrict power purchase and sale by power corporations failing in clearing dues have further added to its woes. If politicians intend to carry on with free supply of power, they should at least ensure timely payment of subsidy.

Ravinder Singh, Jalandhar

Inappropriate appointment

The appointment of a serving IGP as chairperson of the HPPSC is not a good decision. Bodies like Information Commission, Vigilance Commission, state PSCs and Lokpal should not be headed by state police or political fraternity. There is no dearth of highly professional and competent people in these domains. Retired professionals are the most suitable for such appointments. The politician-police nexus is in the spotlight across the country, and such appointments point towards the vested interests of the powers that be.

Sqn Ldr KK Sharma (retd), Nangal

Nepal sceptical

Nepal’s minister concerned has said that the Agnipath scheme does not conform to provisions of the tripartite agreement signed by Nepal, India and Britain in 1947. Nepal will take a final decision on the issue after wider consultations with political parties and stakeholders. The ill-conceived scheme will not only affect the composition of the armed forces, but also affect foreign policy and the security of the nation. India should take into account its concerns to protect age-old ties.

Capt Amar Jeet (Retd), Kharar

Fill up potholes

Refer to ‘Pothole accidents’; roads have become death-traps due to potholes and no one feels safe. Many lives are lost and shock absorbers and wheel rims get destroyed. Either roads are not designed according to the correct engineering specifications or substandard material is used during construction. Inadequate inspection and poor maintenance only aggravate the problem. The government must formulate a multi-pronged strategy to address the issue and identify the potholes and fill them up.

Ramesh G Jethwani, Bengaluru

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of the article ‘What it is to be outnumbered’, it is an irony that the man who coined the word pseudo-secularism is now sidelined and rendered irrelevant by the very party he nurtured. The narrative that the majority community was tyrannised by the minorities has been gaining currency and resulted in the BJP becoming the dominant party. The bid to impose the ‘Hindi, Hindu, Hindustan’ template is bound to fail because of the sheer diversity of India. Having a Dalit, tribal or Muslim President is mere tokenism and does not solve anything. It is better to empower these communities.

ANTHONY HENRIQUES, MUMBAI

To be a minority

Refer to ‘What it is to be outnumbered’; according to the Constitution, the government is committed to the rights of Dalits, tribals and minorities to ensure their safety and security. If minorities are left behind in the areas of education or employment opportunities, and financial inclusion, they are given assistance. For the interest of minorities, policy formulation, planning, coordination, evaluation and regulatory framework and development programmes must be promoted.

Sikandar Bansal, Shimla

State of schools

Refer to ‘Staff crunch, 3 teachers for 350...’; the sorry state of our government schools, wrestling with acute staff crunch, especially in rural areas, reveals how these schools are fighting a losing battle due to the apathetic attitude of those at the helm. The rundown condition of our education system has adversely impacted careers of teeming millions of education seekers. The condition of a majority of schools in other parts of the country is no different, which raises serious concerns. The government needs to take an urgent call on state-run schools so that no one is denied the right to education. It is now or never as students have already suffered due to the Covid pandemic.

RAMESH K DHIMAN, Chandigarh

Privatisation not solution

Apropos of ‘Tread carefully on privatisation of banks’, the role played by PSBs in taking banking to uncovered areas and neglected sections of society is praiseworthy. Financial inclusion, which has been implemented mainly by PSBs, has to be taken beyond just opening of Jan Dhan accounts and providing insurance cover and pension through social security schemes by providing affordable credit to the vast excluded section of the economy. The banking system, especially PSBs, recently witnessed stress which has roots in the lack of governance due to the overlapping regulatory role of the GoI with the RBI. Risk assessment abilities should be enhanced by skill building/upskilling of existing bank staff and recruiting specialised staff in the areas of IT, risk management (credit risk, market risk) and economic research. Enhancing efficiency via competition among PSBs and private banks, checks on overlapping regulatory role of government functionaries in PSBs and capacity-building of staff, as per the present needs of the sector, and aspirations of the customers looks to be a better solution rather than going for privatisation.

KB Singh, Ludhiana

Crack in unity

The People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD) had signed a joint resolution in 2019 to oppose the Centre’s decision on the abrogation of Article 370. Consisting of five political outfits, it has been opposing the policies of the Centre, besides hinting that it would contest the Assembly elections together. But the sudden announcement of the National Conference (NC) that the party would contest all seats on its own has given a jolt to Opposition unity, at a time when J&K is approaching elections. The NC, the biggest party of J&K, needs to reconsider working together and the PAGD should fight the elections unitedly for peace, tranquility and overall development of J&K.

SK Khosla, Chandigarh

Another one falls

Refer to ‘Bid to stifle media’, many people regarded NDTV as the only channel in India that has actively taken a critical stand on many of the ruling government’s policies and functioned to establish a balanced view in news reporting. The acquisition of NDTV by the billionaire conglomerate, known for its tilt towards the ruling party, is the last nail in the coffin of India’s independent journalism.

Balbir Singh Kakkar, Jalandhar

Harsh punishment

Refer to ‘Missile probe’; the punishment given to the officers seems very harsh. The missile was fired accidentally and due to the lacunae in the available SOPs. Such punishments are given only to soldiers because they cannot open their mouth, agitate or protest under the Armed Forces Act. The authorities should review the order to maintain the morale of soldiers.

Wg Cdr Jasbir S Minhas (retd), Mohali

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Refer to ‘Alarming indoctrination’; there seems to be a competition among leaders of various communities to see who can drive a wedge in communal harmony. Violent slogans are encouraged off-camera, while peace is preached for TV broadcast. The action by law enforcing agencies should be prompt and balanced to thwart the designs of anti-social elements. Spreading hate and violence is in nobody’s interest. Such steps are regressive. Indoctrination of youth by radical elements affects the unity among people belonging to diverse cultures and faiths. Communities must work together to root out any endeavour which pushes them apart.

Subhash Vaid, by mail

Not a brave act

Refer to ‘The sacrifice in Narrahee’ (The Sunday Tribune); killing women fearing their abduction by raiders was not a sacrifice, but a cowardly act. It was unpardonable, more so because it was perpetrated amid the recitation of Gurbani. They, along with their women, should have put up a brave fight. If they had died fighting, it would have been a valiant death. Sikhs are known warriors. We too faced a similar situation. All Hindus and Sikhs of the village got together and fought a pitched battle. Our women joined us. We suffered some casualties, but inflicted many more and kept them at bay till force arrived and evacuated us to a camp at Sargodha.

WG CDR CL SEHGAL (RETD), JALANDHAR

Road inspection teams

Refer to ‘Pothole accidents’; potholes are a major cause of accidents on highways, besides rash driving. Dadarao Bilhore’s mission proves that filling potholes does not require a big budget but a small vehicle with a mix of material. Highways, whether state or national, should have regular inspection teams. The traffic police should also be given a free hand to stop violations.

OP GARG, PATIALA

Non-Gandhi chief

Refer to ‘Rahul reluctant, hunt on for non-Gandhi Cong chief’; sooner the better if a non-Gandhi Congress chief is elected to fill the vacuum and save the party, which otherwise seems to be losing ground across India. An energetic younger leader should be chosen to instil vigour in the party and enable it to regain lost ground. A strong Opposition is a must for a vibrant democracy and to save it from degeneration.

ROOP SINGH NEGI, Solan

Berating Nehru

As the first PM, and with sagacity and pioneering leadership, Nehru provided political stability and built umpteen independent institutions, such as the Election and Planning Commissions, IITs, AIIMS, CSIR, and Bhakra Dam (‘Why Nehru-bashing industry is prospering’). He was the architect of non-alignment as India’s foreign policy, and stood for pluralism and composite ancient culture tempered by modern scientific temper. And because of this, he is the bete noire of the powers that be. For them, he is not a freedom fighter and a democrat, but a dynast who contributed little for national development. Nehru-bashing pays political dividends to the ruling class by polarising society.

Prem Singh Dahiya, Rohtak

PM must break silence

The question in the mind of the janta today is, when will Prime Minister Modi break his silence on the release of the 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case? A minister even called them Brahmins and thus sanskari. Every time, long speeches are not required. In a democratic setup, the ruling party is answerable to public sentiments. During the past eight years as PM, he has never held a press conference.

Bhupinder Kochhar, Panchkula

Vocational training

Reference to ‘Classrooms for jail inmates soon’; since majority of inmates are illiterate, they should be trained in vocational trades like carpentry, cookery, electric repairs, masonry, hair-cutting etc, depending on their aptitude, so that they may become earning hands and responsible citizens. Others who wish to pursue academic courses may be supported accordingly.

PK Keshap, by mail

Pension arrears

True to its promise, the AAP government in Punjab has started giving free electricity of 300 units/month to consumers, but it has forgotten pensioners. A few days before the elections in February, the outgoing ministry approved revised pay and pension, but kept mum on the arrears from January 2016 to December 2021. The present government has not issued any approval. We often hear about a fund crunch. Are we supposed to wait till the next election? The government should first pay the arrears to senior citizens aged 80 or above. They are few in number and their health needs are more. The desire to receive arrears in their lifetime is only natural.

Sudarshan K Raswant, Faridabad

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Refer to the editorial ‘Congress imploding’; the fact remains that those obliged by Sonia Gandhi during her long stint at wielding power, continue to hold sway. With Rahul Gandhi around, no other party chief can exercise his will to navigate the party. It is imperative that he becomes the ‘duly elected’ party president. Only this can make or break the party. Regional satraps are no alternative to the pan-India Congress.

Lalit Bharadwaj, Panchkula

Raid game

Reference to ‘BJP offered me Delhi CM’s post to split AAP, claims Sisodia’; if the government continues to raid at will, anyone’s house, the day is not far when the people will lose faith in the government and the CBI. For how many days, or with how many people will this raid scam work? Will we ever see a raid on ruling party leaders? For how long will this game of dirty politics last?

Annanya Rana, Kalka

Gram Pradhan real hero

Apropos of the heart-rending news report, ‘Gram Pradhan lost his life saving villagers, 7 of his family died too’, we all are proud of Khem Chand who saved the lives of his fellow villagers by constantly alerting them on WhatsApp about the impending danger due to incessant rain. Such acts are performed by reel heroes in movies. It is rare to see daredevils like Khem Chand risking the lives of own family members to save villagers represented by him in the public domain. Political leaders should take a cue from him.

Vijaya Sharma, by mail

Playing with fire

Apropos of ‘Russia nabs IS bomber plotting suicide attack on Indian leader’, we can imagine how a stray and unwarranted controversial remark can create havoc and an environment of insecurity. Though the BJP has suspended Nupur Sharma and Naveen Kumar Jindal, it has not expelled them from the party. The damage cannot be undone. The communal hate which the BJP is fanning is dangerous. It is playing with fire.

Capt Amar Jeet (Retd), Kharar

Conscience missing

The release of convicts in the Bilkis case is shocking and a setback for the long-drawn battle to secure their conviction (‘Pause in justice for Bilkis’). The decision also speaks volumes about our general spirit and conscience regarding crimes against women and children. Something has really gone haywire. To make it worse, they were given a warm welcome. How will the ‘new India’ digest this?

Sunil Chopra, Ludhiana

Appoint men of integrity

The allegations of corruption against the Guru Nanak Dev University Vice-Chancellor and other staff members is a serious matter. The UGC and the government must ensure that the selection of VC is based on integrity, academic skills and previous experience. Corruption does not reflect a good picture of the overall functioning of the university, especially at the highest level. The Governor, who is the Chancellor of the university, must look into it.

Hartaj Singh, Amritsar

Nehru stands tall

Refer to the article ‘Why Nehru-bashing industry is prospering’; the simple answer is, dwarfing the stature of Nehru by projecting the superiority of modern-day budding politicians. Nehru was the architect of modern India, a historian par excellence and an unmatched visionary. Was he a perfect human being? No, just as nobody is perfect. Any individual is valued on the basis of the totality of traits, and on this parameter, Nehru does stand tall.

VK Anand, Chandigarh

Lower berths for seniors

To assist senior citizens, there is a separate queue for them in government institutions, banks and post offices. However, the Railways gives no weightage to a senior citizen while issuing a berth. Keeping the age factor in mind, senior citizens should be given lower berths, as it is very difficult for them to climb middle or upper berths.

KK Mittal, Bathinda

Plagued by inefficiency

With the passage of time, the hallmark of the public sector has been inefficiency and low productivity. The only way out is to recruit personnel on a long probation period of five years and then retaining only the best 50 per cent of those inducted. Such a policy would encourage diligent personnel and put the fear of losing the job in those who are just passing time but enjoying the same salary and perks. The dead wood should be discarded. The lure of government/public sector jobs would also begin to wane.

GS ANAND, Panchkula

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of ‘The raid’, we are yet to see a raid on any BJP leader or supporter by Central agencies, which act more as the arms of the government than autonomous entities. It is astonishing that the CBI has not deemed it necessary or fit to investigate how liquor worth Rs 10,000 crore is sold every year in dry states. The recent raid could well be aimed at stalling AAP’s political advance. In the upcoming elections in Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat, the AAP could well mount a good fight against the BJP. Raids are an old tactic.

RAMESH GUPTA, NARWANA

Neutrality must

The modus operandi of raids by Central agencies is not new, the previous regimes also resorted to them. Shifting of affiliation to the ruling party may provide immunity as long as the party is in power. Even in the US, investigation agencies like the FBI are not always unbiased and neutral. We should keep these agencies free of government influence by enacting a robust mechanism of laws involving the Chief Justice of India, Chief Justices of states, Opposition leaders and prominent dignitaries and intelligentsia of the Central and state governments.

Dilwar Ali Meerak, TOHANA

Bodes ill for democracy

When only the Opposition is the target of investigation agencies of the country, the so-called decisive fight against corruption, besides being seen as a farce, has far more serious and damaging consequences for democracy. The common man is fast losing trust in the watchdogs of democracy and the credibility of the nation’s premier agencies is waning fast. If people stop depending on the democratic process as the only tool for the change they desire, what could that lead to?

HL Sharma, Amritsar

Investigate charges

Refer to ‘The raid’; the charges against Manish Sisodia are of a serious nature — he caused a huge loss to the exchequer when implementing the excise policy by providing undue benefits to some licencees after receiving kickbacks. Even if it is true that the BJP government is showing undue haste in proceeding against political rivals, its strong actions are welcome in that they strengthen the principle of ‘equality before the law’.

V Jayaraman, Chennai

Congress lethargy

Refer to ‘Self-respect not negotiable’; senior leaders are leaving the Congress, expressing dissent over its functioning, but the party leadership has not taken any remedial measures despite several electoral defeats. The presidential elections in the party being postponed time and again, with no one prepared to take on the onerous task of rebuilding the party at the ground level, shall make its task to remain on the Indian political scene more difficult. The party must re-energise itself after electing a regular president, focus on real issues and rebuild the cadre at the ground level if it has to survive.

Dinesh Kumar Verma, Panchkula

Recipe for mediocracy

Reference to ‘58 law officer’s posts reserved for SCs’; on the one side Punjab’s AAP government is show-casing the Delhi model of schools and excellent education to produce meritorious students, but by reserving jobs for some categories, it is sacrificing merit for votes. It renders merit meaningless if jobs are reserved for those who have just managed to pass the qualifying exam in school or college. With such a political race for reservations to get votes, we will be producing mediocre engineers, doctors, teachers, administrators, law officers and other professionals. If we keep sacrificing merit for political gains, we can never become a country which will attract global investment in any enterprise managed by mediocre professionals No wonder our highly educated students from IITs, IIMs and medical and law institutes look for employment abroad. With all sorts of reservations, they find it difficult to get suitable jobs in their own country.

MS KHOKHAR, by mail

Nationalism in words

Destroying any nation does not require the use of atomic bombs. It only requires lowering the quality of education. The poor quality of students which it will produce will collapse the whole system. Every year crores of rupees are spent on the education sector and several schemes are introduced. But no policy can yield positive results unless teachers — not by chance, but by choice — are inducted into the education framework. All talk about nationalism, yet very few render service to the nation by doing justice to their jobs. Singing the National Anthem and hoisting flags, and then teaching without dedication fails nationalism.

ARTI SHARMA, PATHANKOT

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of ‘Haunting silence on Rushdie’ (Nous Indica), the murderous attack has been widely condemned, but no right to freedom of expression justifies blasphemy by him. Political connotations apart, Rushdie’s words, written and spoken, do reveal his mischievous heart. Modernity can only be infused with education and awakening, but vested interests will always be out to exploit ignorance and religious sentiments. Politics and religion are obsolete; the time has come for science and spirituality.

Lalit Bharadwaj, Panchkula

Inter-faith meeting

Reference to ‘Haunting silence on Rushdie’; communal harmony is at risk when sloganeering over violence and death threats via social media are proliferating. The fear of law enforcement agencies seems to have vanished. The slightest provocation on religious matters is enough for the situation to take an ugly turn. It is time for leaders of each community to think and act on modern lines. An inter-faith meeting on establishing concrete measures for lasting harmony is an urgent requirement. At the same time, we may appreciate that religious institutions and political parties are exercising the right to remain silent to prevent the religious fabric from fraying.

Subhash Vaid, by mail

Silent for a reason

Reference to ‘Haunting silence on Rushdie’; the studied silence of major Indian political parties on the issue perhaps is an inherent fear of any similar attack by fanatics on their own leaders. No wonder they are silent, even if it would cost them a considerable vote loss.

Balvinder, by mail

Pharma-doctor nexus

Apropos of the editorial ‘Manipulated prescription’, corruption in the pharma industry is a serious matter. Healthcare facilities need to be reliable, but it is unfortunate that today even the pharma industry has become profit oriented, making use of unethical means to influence outcomes. What is even more alarming is the nexus between the doctors and pharma companies. It can shatter the faith of people in doctors, and even endanger their health. Strict measures need to be taken to curb such practices.

Sumita Kanwar, Yamunanagar

Unethical practice

Reference to ‘Manipulated prescription’; earlier, too, there have been reports of unethical means and corruption prevailing in the field of medical practice, but this is a matter of grave concern as it has been divulged before the Supreme Court and the particular medicine has been frequently prescribed to Covid-19 patients. The allegations should be investigated thoroughly as it concerns public health. Logical action to cleanse the pharma sector is warranted through a statutory code of ethical marketing and stern action must be taken against healthcare professionals indulging in malpractices to make quick money. It will help restore the credibility of medicines and also promote the use of generic medicines.

NJ Singh Chatrath, Kapurthala

Travesty of law

Reference to the news report ‘Delhi Dy CM booked in excise policy case’; the Central Government is abusing its power by unleashing Central agencies on opposition party members. The incumbent government has made a travesty of the legal system. It only reveals the insecurity of the Central Government and its desperation for power. It can go to any extent to wrongfully corner its adversaries. The government should rise above petty politics and shun actions that endanger democracy.

Aanya Singhal, Noida

What a coincidence

Apropos of ‘Delhi Dy CM booked in excise policy scam’, whatever may be the final result of the investigation into the alleged excise scam, the coincidence cannot be ignored that the raids were conducted soon after an article on Sisodia appeared in the New York Times, in praise of his education policy. One gathers the impression that PM Modi and the ruling BJP cannot gracefully digest the praise heaped on political rivals by international media.

Beant Singh Bedi, MOHALI

Start with PM fund

During the Independence Day address, PM Modi talked about corruption in society. If he really wants to wipe out corruption, he should first tell the nation how much money was collected in the PM Cares Fund, the names of donors and where this money was spent. Similarly, money collected through electoral bonds, and the donors, should also be made public.

Bhupinder Kochhar, Panchkula

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Reference to the editorial ‘Preventing pollution’, the presence of PM2.5 in the air is man-made and a byproduct of development. In addition to causing respiratory ailments, PM2.5 can cause cancer since these particles get coated with vapours of lead, cobalt, etc., emitted from the combustion of coal and other fuels. The only way to protect people is to trap the particles at source to prevent their emission into the atmosphere. Construction sites are also a source of PM2.5 and should be covered. Open places too should be covered with vegetation to prevent the generation of dust. Biogas can be produced from organic waste. People can wear masks in highly dusty areas.

O PRASADA RAO, HYDERABAD

Privatisation no solution

Apropos of ‘Big bang privatisation of banks can be harmful, says RBI report’, PSBs have done a remarkable job in promoting financial inclusion in rural and semi-urban areas and contributing to economic development. These banks have the highest share in the rural and semi-urban areas which reflects their adherence and commitment to universal access to the banking facilities and taking welfare schemes down to the target group. Private ownership does not automatically generate economic gains. The government should adopt a cautious approach as big bang privatisation can do more harm than good. The consolidation of PSBs can be taken up in a phased manner to improve profitability and efficiency.

GS MANN, NAYA NANGAL

Manhandling devotee

Sacrilege incidents in the recent past have probably kept SGPC staffers on tenterhooks. The manhandling of an elderly man seems to be a result of this. The victim reportedly jumped over a railing and argued with the sewadars. But the way they handled the situation was wrong. Keeping in mind his age, they should have dealt with him patiently. While we should adhere to the rules and regulations of the shrine, the staffers must be trained to deal with such situations calmly. We need to maintain the sanctity of the Golden Temple.

Bir Devinder Singh Bedi, Sangrur

Classrooms in jails

Apropos of ‘Classrooms for jail inmates soon’, the move is not going to bear any fruit. It would merely be a waste of money and energy. Instead, it would be prudent to impart training under different technical trades. Since a majority of prisoners are illiterate, it would be easy for them to get engaged in learning a skill of his/her choice. After the successful completion of training, they may be given a certificate so that they could earn a livelihood when they come out of jails.

Raj Kumar Kapoor, Ropar

Can’t pass buck

Refer to the news report ‘Ex-CM can’t wash hands of machinery scam: Minister’, the former CM cannot escape accountability. As per the Constitution, the council of ministers, headed by a CM, is responsible to the Assembly, and thus the CM can be held accountable for any criminal act of omission and commission. A speedy and fair investigation should be carried out to fix responsibility and punish the guilty as per the law and give a clear message to future incumbents also.

JAGDISH CHANDER, JALANDHAR

Sports allocation

It is surprising that for the past six years, there was no budget for sports in Punjab. The government under the leadership of Bhagwant Mann has made an enhanced allocation to sports. This shows that in CWG, the players of Punjab have mostly performed on their own. The state government has taken a good step by introducing sports fair. This will encourage youth in rural areas to take up sports.

Harsh Sharma, Jalandhar

Catching up to do

Refer to ‘Looking back and ahead’ (Spectrum); at Independence, India was bruised, but at 75 years, it stands consolidated and capable of facing challenges. But there are a lot of areas where we are far behind. Education and health remain the core areas of improvement. We need a policy to effectively manage our growing population. Employability and financial literacy must be the focus of education. The idea of MSMEs, if honestly implemented, can be a game-changer. Every official procedure must be transparent and simplified to encourage young business leaders. For this to happen, a just and equitable society is vital.

KAPIL SHARMA, KAITHAL

Midday meal cooks

Midday meal workers get only Rs 3,000 per month. How can they survive with this meagre salary? There are several schools in Punjab where they have to cook meals for 500 students. A majority of women engaged in midday meals are the only breadwinners of their family. This is a case of exploitation. The government should increase their salary to Rs 6,000.

TARANPREET SINGH, MOGA

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Refer to ‘Valley on edge’, the gruesome killing is highly condemnable. The recent spate of attacks on minorities reflects poor governance. The Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Samiti’s call to their community to leave the Valley shows their utter helplessness. The government must keep a strict watch on the border, involve local influential leaders in the peace process and hold Assembly elections at the earliest to ensure the safety of minorities.

CS Mann, Una

Bad precedent

With all due regard to our government, the remission of the jail term of the culprits convicted of rape and murder of as many as 14 persons of Bilkis Bano’s family is wrong. The day is not far when all other convicts charged with rape will plead for the remission of their sentence. The government has set a bad precedent. The case must come up for review.

NPS Sohal, Chandigarh

Review remission

Acquitting dreaded criminals in poll-bound Gujarat for some political gains is highly condemnable and uncalled for (‘Bilkis Bano case’). Their subsequent honouring has further added salt to the grave injury inflicted by the Gujarat government. People will never welcome the release of criminals. The presence of such dreaded rapists/murderers in society is likely to pose a security threat. The Supreme Court must take cognisance of the matter. To discourage remission of sentences in future, the court should direct the Centre to make necessary amendments to the IPC and CrPC.

Ravinder Singh, Jalandhar

Feted like war heroes

The regressive remission of the jail sentence of the 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case is being rightly condemned. However, even more shocking was the warm reception that was accorded to the convicts after their release from jail, as if they were war heroes. It was more hurtful than the perverse remission of their sentence.

Balvinder, Chandigarh

No deterrence

Apropos of ‘New India? Opposition slams ...’, it is an unfortunate decision to free the convicts in the Bilkis Bano case. It might go down in the annals of history of modern India. Why and who honoured the convicts after their release from jail? Where is the logic of deterrence when rapists and murderers can be set free prematurely?

Roop Singh Negi, Solan

Women’s safety

Apropos of ‘Bilkis Bano case’, the crime is horrifying. While celebrating the 75th Independence Day of India, Prime Minister Modi spoke about women’s safety from the Red Fort, but at the same time, criminals getting remission and being welcomed sends a wrong message. What sense does it make when the PM’s own words get negated by his party’s government in that state?

Tashi Baheti, by mail

Judicial gaps

Reference to the article ‘Preventing the slide in criminal justice system’, it is correct that the public is fast losing faith in the judiciary because of delayed justice and the costly litigation process. Unnecessary adjournment of trivial matters also demoralises the public. Apathy of the police department and witnesses who turn hostile cause a dent in the judicial system. Habitual offenders do not have any fear of law due to the poor conviction rate. More judges should be appointed for speedy delivery of justice. There will be chaos in society in the absence of strict implementation of laws. Courts should ensure swift punishment to culprits so it can act as a deterrent for further crimes.

Pariksha, Bathinda

Proclaimed offenders

Reference to the news report ‘45 proclaimed offenders nabbed in a week: IG’, the police have done well, but the question is, why were the offenders not arrested during the past 30 years? Was the police unaware of their activities and presence, or did they lack the will to arrest the offenders?

Nirmal Kumar bhalla, by mail

Scholarship scheme

The initiative by the Punjab School Education Board to provide scholarship to students who have scored above 87.2 per cent should be appreciated. It will motivate the students to work hard and pursue higher education. The scholarship scheme should be continued for a longer period so that more and more youth can avail of the opportunity to attain a bright future.

Parul Gupta, by mail

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of ‘Speak up we must’, freedom of expression cannot be denied to anyone in a democracy. Yet, fanatics and religious zealots round the world act violently and vehemently in the name of religion when certain views seem to contradict their own narrow worldview. We should raise our voice against such fanaticism and make the bigots understand that such violence is unacceptable and impermissible.

Sumita Kanwar, Yamunanagar

Blinded by intolerance

If a writer of Rushdie’s calibre can be brutally attacked during a huge event, anyone can be targeted or avenged (‘Speak up we must’). It seems that the attack stemmed from judgement blinded by intolerance. It was indeed a terrible day for writers, lovers of literature and freedom. The court concerned should act appropriately and swiftly. Rushdie has been incredibly bold all these years even as he faced threats, and has stood his ground.

Sunil Chopra, Ludhiana

Release questionable

Apropos of ‘New India? Oppn slams govt as Bilkis rapists freed’, the Gujarat government has taken a highly questionable decision by releasing the 11 convicts sentenced to life term. The decision appears to be illogical and illegal, as their terms have been remitted without necessary consultations with the Union government. The relief is contrary to the general thinking on treating crime against women and children, especially rape and murder, as so heinous that the jail term should not be considered for remission. With Gujarat set for the Assembly elections, this decision seems to have political significance.

Sanjay Chopra, Mohali

FIFA ban

Refer to ‘FIFA ban on India...’, any kind of influence and interference from third parties should be stopped immediately. Proper management and functioning should be ensured in sports federations so that our players are able to play international matches. More funds are also needed to give an impetus to the game of football in India.

Pawandeep, Chandigarh

Inappropriate demand

Criticism by SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal on the non-appointment of a Sikh as judge during the appointment of new judges in the Punjab and Haryana High Court is unreasonable. Such constitutional appointments are not, and should not be, made keeping religion, caste or sect in consideration. His demand gives the impression that if a Sikh judge is appointed, he will be considerate to cases pertaining to Sikhs. This is tantamount to questioning the very integrity and legal wisdom of judges belonging to other religions.

Chaman Arora, Ferozepur

Equal opportunities

Apropos of ‘What we need to get ahead’, an article on caste, religion, gender or economic problems cannot be complete without mentioning Babasaheb Ambedkar. He was an original economic theorist and a firm believer that fullness of life for every citizen cannot be realised without guaranteeing equality of opportunities. He understood that persistent inequalities posed fundamental challenges to the economic and social well-being of nations and people. The Constitution provides for measures of affirmative actions to facilitate access to opportunities for disadvantaged sections of society, but it is the determination of a government that makes a difference.

Om Parkash Sandhu, Naya Nangal

Form of bribe

Reference to ‘Freebies with a rider’, freebies are nothing but a form of bribery. Bribe is given either before or after a work is done. It is clearly a crime. Political parties of the country are taking the public for a ride by announcing such freebies to the people of a state if they vote for them and bring them to power. This is a harmful practice for the country. The Election Commission should bring freebies under the purview of the model code of conduct.

Purushotam, Hoshiarpur

Desire for real freedom

On August 15, the whole of India celebrated Independence Day with fervour. The Prime Minister’s appeal on hoisting the Tricolour in every home was also welcomed. But what freedom has actually been achieved? A large number of people still do not have homes, but they were holding the flag in their hands. People are still discriminated on the basis of caste and religion. There are labour issues and unemployment, besides other social evils that are plaguing our country. We cannot have real freedom unless these social issues are resolved.

Jasdeep Kaur, Ludhiana

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of ‘A miracle’, the amazing diversity of India, both physical and cultural, with myriad languages, religions, castes and customs, and joined by a thread is nothing less than a miracle. The British were unduly pessimistic about the future of India. In spite of the many problems and obstacles, the nation is doing well on most fronts. But it is disquieting that in some quarters, the contribution of Nehru and Gandhi is being devalued. We are a noisy and chaotic people. Trying to change the basic strands of our DNA is bound to fail. Let us celebrate what we are.

ANTHONY HENRIQUES, MUMBAI

Politicians have failed us

Refer to ‘A miracle’; an idealist is one who helps other people to be prosperous. There is no dearth of such idealists in India, but ‘sponsored’ violence and fanaticism have retarded their mission. The bane of democracy is that the voters don’t decide on issues, but elect those who will decide on those issues. This allows unfettered power to politicians at the cost of the common man and vital institutions. Leaving politics to politicians alone is our undoing.

Lalit Bharadwaj, Panchkula

Much has to be done

Apropos of ‘Building a strong India’, much has been done for the welfare of the people and the State after Independence, but much more needs to be done, especially for the BPL multitudes who are still reeling under abject poverty and illiteracy. The government should draw a contingency plan to mitigate the sufferings of the have-nots, and meticulously execute schemes. All politicians from the PM to sarpanch should take questions and listen to people’s problems and find solutions. Politicians must at least be graduates, and those with dubious credentials should be tried in fast-track courts. The police force needs drastic improvement for better handling of the law and order situation. All government institutions must work independently without any political interference. The Election Commission and judiciary should look ‘nishpaksh’ in the public eye.

SUDERSHAN WALIA, AMRITSAR

Partition horror

Refer to ‘PM Modi pays tribute to victims of Partition’, I was 11 years old at the time of the Partition, but remember the agony we went through. The Partition wasn’t the brainchild of the British Empire alone, our leaders too wanted the division of India for their selfish gains. Both Nehru and Jinnah wanted to occupy the PM’s chair. Gandhi initially opposed the idea of Partition, but eventually went along with them. Did they have no vision to foresee the horrors that would unfold? We hold are past leaders in high esteem, but one wonders if they deserve it.

WG CDR CL SEHGAL (RETD), JALANDHAR

Makes us patriotic?

All Indians celebrated the Independence Day by hoisting the Tricolour, updating statuses on social media or by participating in parades and other such patriotic events. But is this enough to imbibe the feeling of patriotism? Merely uploading a DP with the Tricolour won’t stop our youth from migrating abroad. It is not just brain drain, but the country’s essential youth resource is diminishing. Most people want to leave the country for a better future or life. How are we going to stop it?

Mangla Sahni, Kapurthala

All talk, no action

PM Modi did not spare opponents even while addressing the nation from the Red Fort. If we talk about parivaarvad, there are many leaders in the BJP, too, whose family members are in politics or at important posts. Modi talked about the ‘loot’ by previous governments. His party has been in power at the Centre and most states for the last nine years, why no single Congress leader has been held responsible for any wrongdoing? Who stops the Prime Minister from taking action? Simply raising such issues here and there serve no purpose. Similarly, the corruption issue should have been resolved by the BJP, now that it has been in power for long.

Bhupinder Kochhar, Panchkula

More western than Indian

It is good that the present dispensation is thinking of including valour of soldiers in school curriculum. There should be an exclusive chapter on the heroes of our freedom struggle who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The present-day English-oriented education system is bereft of our ancient culture and is making the new generation more westernised than Indian. The curriculum should be revisited and some stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, including the Gita, should be made a part of it. This will go a long way in inculcating in students moral and spiritual values rather than getting them mired in materialistic pursuits.

Maheshwer Sharma, by mail

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

The attack on Salman Rushdie is shocking, to say the least. In his Booker Prize-winning book Midnight’s Children, he was prophetic about the deepening divide between Hindus and Muslims in the country. In portraying the perpetual fight between the two protagonists, Shiva and Saleem, who weren’t even sure of their ancestry, he held a mirror to our society. But the novel alone cannot bridge the growing fissures between the communities, as he said in one of his talks, “A poem cannot stop a bullet.... A novel can’t defuse a bomb.... But we are not helpless...we can sing the truth and name the liars.” We, the midnight’s children, have a special responsibility in this regard in learning lessons from history and not repeating the blunders.

Lt Col GS Bedi (retd), Mohali

Tolerance needed

The brutal attack on Salman Rushdie, an iconic literary figure, has sent shockwaves across the world. Those who answer words with violence are responsible for legitimising such attacks. Religious frenzy and bigotry reign supreme in the world, trashing freedom of expression and freedom of religion. Religion should stimulate our sentiments of fraternity, compassion and tenderness. French philosopher Voltaire made a very pertinent observation that those who make you believe absurdities can induce you to commit atrocities. Religious tolerance is the need of the hour.

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

Blocking highways

Apropos of ‘Phagwara NH blocked over sugarcane dues’, it is an irony that the Jalandhar-Phagwara national highway is being blocked by a section of farmers over non-payment of sugarcane dues by a mill. The Supreme Court had in 2020 directed the Central and state governments to get all rail lines and roads cleared for resumption of normal traffic and earmark some parks for such protests. Also, farmers should protest outside the premises of the sugar mill or offices of the local administration for redress of their grievances. Not abiding by the SC order is tantamount to contempt of court.

Vijaya Sharma, by mail

Army’s predicament

Apropos of ‘Protecting territorial integrity top priority’, the position of the Indian Army was poor when it had faced a war with China, but it learnt a great lesson. The 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan instilled confidence in our armed forces. But now, the Indian military is being buffeted by ‘politically driven’ innovations like the Agnipath scheme, a weak R&D base and modest defence infrastructure, leading to a poor image on the defence front. That must be improved on a large scale.

Subhash C Taneja, Gurugram

Rahul’s comments

Apropos of ‘Don’t lower dignity of post: Rahul hits out at PM’, by adopting a diversionary approach as usual by dint of such below-the-belt reactions, is Rahul Gandhi not damaging his own as well as his party’s image? Instead, he should have responded gracefully, putting forth his viewpoint on the burning issues affecting the masses. There is nothing unfair in criticising the actions of the government, but the criticism should be constructive.

PK Sharma, Barnala

National flag

The controversy generated by the alleged forcible sale of national flags was avoidable. The government can’t and should not compel people to purchase the national flag and hoist/display it atop public buildings, markets, educational institutions etc to showcase and express their national pride and patriotism. The ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign has primarily been launched by the Union Government to celebrate 75 years of lndia’s freedom. Why should there be any pressure for buying the national flag and that too at a price? The Central and state governments which otherwise vie with one another to offer freebies should have provided the flag free of cost and that too without any pre-condition or compulsion.

NK Gosain, Bathinda

Partition tales

The Tribune has been carrying harrowing and hair-raising tales by eyewitnesses and sufferers of the catastrophe that the Partition in 1947 turned out to be. These remind us that the ‘tryst with destiny’ was at the cost of human beings falling prey to communally-frenzied mobs causing unparalleled and unprecedented death and destruction in the history of mankind. While celebrating the 75th anniversary of Independence, we must not forget to learn lessons from this nightmarish chapter of our history and should do necessary introspection.

Hira Sharma, by mail

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Reference to ‘Army camp attacked in Rajouri, 4 soldiers killed’, it marks the return of fidayeen attacks in J&K. Though both terrorists were neutralised, four soldiers were also martyred in the encounter. Undoubtedly, J&K’s security set-up has been successful in preventing big attacks but terrorists switching to new tactics and the targeted killings of ordinary Kashmiris have created an atmosphere of fear obstructing the path of normalcy. So, small extremist groups need to be engaged so that targeted killings can be prevented, enabling security forces return to their primary job of handling cross-border terrorism. That’s why the democratic process needs to be fully restored in J&K. The EC’s decision to hold back the publication of final electoral rolls for J&K assembly polls not only keeps democratic politics in the UT unsecured, it also has security ramifications.

Sanjay Chopra, Mohali

Proper strategy needed

The Army camp where a fidayeen attack took place in Rajouri has thick vegetation all along. It is similar to the Uri camp attack that occurred a few years ago. It’s not understood why excuses of defeat are not eliminated in the first instance. Peace times should be utilised best by conducting inspections and making preparations instead of enjoying camps. All feedbacks and shortcomings should be recorded, monitored and responsibility fixed to avoid such losses.

Ashok Kumar Goel, Panchkula

Check on freebies

Apropos of ‘Curbing freebies’, the decision of the Supreme Court on getting rid of the freebies culture should have come much earlier. If left to voters, no one is likely to say no to anything free, and politicians have found promising freebies to be an easy way to reach out to their voters. This free for all in the name of freebies is taking a heavy toll on our financial health. With the government now urging the apex court to give guidelines till a law is framed for this, one hopes that some way will be found for this populist measure.

PL Singh, by email

Flag-hoisting decision

The announcement by our PM to host the Tricolour for three continuous days including nights at rooftops, businesses and other establishments under the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign to mark the 75th Independence Day celebrations is not very desirable. People are surely coming out in support of this decision, but most are not aware of the practices involved in the process. The government should find other ways also to mark the celebrations. It can direct the local administration to motivate the general public to assemble at a common place for the flag-hoisting ceremony. This will strengthen the social and communal bond among the citizens.

Navneet Seth, Dhuri

Nitish’s action

The way the BJP was trying to overthrow governments formed by the Opposition parties by horse-trading and marginalising regional parties, Nitish Kumar only took a pre-emptive action. Nitish will fit the bill as a PM contender to challenge Modi who seems very confident after winning the UP elections. But the 2024 Lok Sabha election will not be a cakewalk for the BJP if the Opposition unites.

Capt Amar Jeet (retd), Kharar

Venkaiah Naidu’s legacy

When Venkaiah Naidu was made to contest for the post of Vice President of the country, it was alleged that it was only to pack him off from the BJP to avoid his claims to some top position in the government. During his tenure as the VP and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, we have found him to be an excellent administrator, a man endowed with the rare gift to make his presence always pleasurable and peaceful and a tactful trouble-shooter. One hopes that Venkaiah Naidu, an outspoken person, will record his experiences, gains, losses and disappointments in life, both social and political, in his memoirs said to be in the offing.

Tharcius S Fernando, Chennai

VC’s resignation

Apropos of ‘Dr Raj Bahadur’s resignation accepted’, quitting but only after allowing irreversible damage to his psyche and the system is no bargain. As the septuagenarian VC was never obliged to lie on a dirty mattress in hospital complying with a wrongful ‘order’, he should have resisted it forthwith uprightly putting in his papers. It is high time that bureaucrats and senior professionals in the government stand up to thwart wrongful orders of political bosses. But for this, they ought to shed complicity and be upright in their conduct.

Lalit Bharadwaj, Panchkula

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of ‘Nitish’s gambit’, even before rising to the current political eminence, the BJP had this itch to grow alone, at the expense of its ‘disposable’ allies. After courting the JD(U) and anointing Nitish as the CM in a coalition government for years, the BJP managed to outnumber its ally in the Assembly. Nitish was apparently uncomfortable with the thrust of the Parivar, and was administratively put on the backfoot. Hence, he had no choice but to part ways with the BJP.

RAMESH GUPTA, NARWANA

New partners

The JD(U)-RJD alliance has infused a whiff of fresh air in the moribund Opposition unity, while denting the invincibility of the BJP. There was nothing common between the BJP and the JD(U). Whereas the JD(U) subscribes to socialist and secular ideology, Hindutva ideology is the BJP’s leitmotif. The only thing now to be seen is how the new alliance discharges its responsibility to set and maintain the highest standards of governance. People of not only Bihar, but also the rest of India will be watching closely. Hopefully, the new allies will play well and score a goal in 2024.

Lt Col GS Bedi (Retd), Mohali

Unnatural alliance

The BJP-JD(U) coalition was shaky from the start due to deep policy and ideological differences. The JD(U) was reduced to 43 seats and the BJP gained 74 seats in the 2020 elections — an embarrassment to the former. And yet, Nitish was named Chief Minister. This was Modi’s masterstroke as Nitish could have jumped the fence. It was not a friendly gesture, but an unavoidable option. But the BJP was putting roadblocks in Nitish’s administrative functioning.

BM SINGH, AMRITSAR

Smacks of complicity

Refer to ‘Illegal mining’, there is no denying the nexus between influential politicians, the police, powerful government functionaries and the mafia. Illegal operations of this scale in Haryana lend credence to the suspicion that political patronage and complicity of bureaucracy facilitates the continuation and proliferation of such money-spinning activities. If the government maintains that there are only stray cases of illegal mining, it betrays that the government has no political will to eradicate this menace. Mere rhetorical defence will not cut ice with the masses who feel that laxity of the government is responsible for the illegal mining operations.

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

Demographic decline

Apropos of the article ‘Demographic benefit waning’, the advice to get rich before you get old is applicable to nations too. This government has been unsuccessful in making the nation richer, in spite of its initiatives like ‘Make in India’. Even the PLI scheme announced with much fanfare does not seem to be going anywhere. The grand promise of 2 crore jobs has largely been forgotten. Unless there is a drastic increase in employment opportunities, the demographic dividend can soon become an albatross round the nation’s neck.

ANTHONY HENRIQUES, MUMBAI

On a positive note

We habitually criticise our country, but ignore the positive side. India of 1947 and now are worlds apart. Successive governments have been vigorously contributing towards development and poverty alleviation. It began with the setting up of steel plants, light and heavy machinery factories and massive energy generators, like the Bhakra Dam, and the substantial expansion of the canal and rail network. Today, India is among the top industrialised nations. We have attained success in the field of space and nuclear technologies. From import substitution to indigenisation to ‘Make in India’, the nation is on the right path. India may well become the auto-hub of Asia in the near future. Public-private partnership has bloomed in the last decade and we have world-class highways. We have excelled in the field of immunisation, the latest being the massive Covid-19 vaccination programme. We have stood up well to the challenges posed by our adversaries. Indian democracy is vibrant and functioning. Peaceful transfer of power is a feather in India’s cap.

GS ANAND, PANCHKULA

Smart school, really?

Reference to ‘Smart school sans boundary wall, amenities’, it is unfortunate that parents and students were compelled to lock classrooms of a government smart primary school in protest against the lack of a wall and other infrastructure in the school. Unwalled schools have unsafe teaching environment. Also, students cannot focus on studies due to the frequent movement of stray animals and unwanted people. The government should take steps to address this issue at the earliest in the interest of the students.

CS MANN, UNA

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

The political somersault by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar depicts how big an opportunist he is (‘Nitish dumps BJP; to be sworn in as CM again with Tejashwi as deputy’). His ditching the BJP and allying with the RJD does not augur well for the BJP, with the parliamentary elections due in 2024. The possibility of the JD(U) and its allies facing the wrath of some Central agency cannot be ruled out. People are aware of such political gimmicks of politicians whose vested interests are supreme to people’s welfare and development works. There is no friend or foe for politicians while forming a government.

Ravinder Singh, Jalandhar

Politics of convenience

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, known as ‘Sushasan babu’ for delivering a robust corruption-free administration to the state, has also succumbed to the politics of convenience by aligning with arch-rival RJD to remain in power. His image of an upright politician has taken a hit. Democracy has been reduced to a number game, going by the recent political developments in Maharashtra and elsewhere. The public mandate has been negated by vested political interests. Democracy will cease to exist if this obnoxious trend is not reversed. Lawmakers and votaries of democracy must ponder over it and arrest this trend.

Anil vinayak, Amritsar

No friends, no foes

The JD(U) supremo taking oath as Bihar Chief Minister after bidding adieu to ally BJP did not come as a surprise, but him losing no time in joining hands with opposition parties proves that there are no permanent friends or foes in politics. In fact, the breaking of the BJP-JD(U) alliance has come as a blessing for RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav as he was administered the oath of Deputy CM. Nitish Kumar now enjoys the dubious distinction of having changed his political allies as per convenience. He will be hard put to justify his flip-flop.

Kumar Gupt, by mail

Threat from China

Reference to ‘Chinese belligerence’; if a Chinese spy ship docks at Hambantota, our space mission launch location and strategic weapon-testing area will be under close surveillance of the hostile nation. China may even interfere with these activities by deploying its cyber and electronic warfare mechanisms. Though China professes consultation, cooperation and coordination, the ground reality is different. The international community should come together to contain Chinese expansionist policy, arrogance and belligerent behaviour.

Subhash Vaid, New Delhi

Improve healthcare

The article ‘Public healthcare, medical research lagging’ should act as an eye-opener. India ranks 154th in terms of quality and accessibility of healthcare. The health facilities are not only poor, but also unevenly distributed in the country. In rural and hilly areas, you won’t even find a GP to get first aid, leave alone a PHC or a hospital. Critical healthcare facilities are almost missing in all government hospitals. Though medical research is done only in a few prestigious medical colleges and hospitals, still we do not refrain from making tall and false claims. Even the Covid-19 pandemic has failed to awaken us from slumber and make us aware of our deficiencies. We are yet to enhance our health budget in proportion to our needs.

Sunil Chopra, Ludhiana

Apple growers’ dilemma

Apropos of the news report ‘Poor link roads irk apple growers’, why did the state government not take into account infrastructural arrangements for the transportation of apples ahead of the apple season? Why has the Bashla-Untapu road seen no work for four years, even after being sanctioned under NABARD? The bad condition of link roads that are full of slush is adding to the high transportation costs of the apple growers, who have already faced high input costs this year. As per a report, apple constitutes 79 per cent of the total production in Himachal. People depend on its cultivation for their livelihood. The government must take immediate cognisance of this issue.

Ritish Pandit, by mail

Read books

Reference to the middle ‘Why books must stay relevant’, one is never lonely if one has a book in one’s hand. My father was a voracious reader. Never did I see him without a book, not even during a sojourn. The habit of reading books doesn’t come overnight. It must be encouraged and cultivated from early childhood. Unfortunately, it is on the decline.

C Ghanshyam, Visakhapatnam

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Refer to ‘Crimes against children’, these crimes cut across the boundaries of geography, race, class, religion and culture. The issue needs attention and special steps must be taken to deal with it. It’s not only girls who are vulnerable to criminals; boys also are abducted for cheap labour. It is a grave matter for the government, families and society. The children’s safety is vital as they are the future of the nation.

Gaurav Badhwar, Rohtak

Need more courts, judges

Apropos of ‘Ease of justice wanted for undertrials’, it is disheartening that over four crore cases are pending in various courts and about 3.5 lakh undertrials are languishing in jails. In order to reduce the huge pendency, the government should double the number of courts and triple the number of judges. Modernisation and computerisation, establishment of fast-track courts and lok adalats should be the top priority. Arrests must be restricted as far as possible for petty offences and political victims. Police officers must be made accountable for unwanted arrests.

ROOP SINGH NEGI, Solan

Will overcome upheavals

Bemoaning ‘a steady withering away of the fundamentals of democratic spirit’ (‘Freedom from decadence’), the article cynically suggests the proverbial solution of throwing the baby out with the bath water. There seems to be no escape from the kind of electoral politics which is the root cause of the ailments of the country. The land of Tagore, Bose and Vivekananda, who were nurtured in the spirit of compassion and plurality, can withstand all sorts of upheavals and remain in sound health.

DV Sharma, Mukerian

Democracy derailed

Apropos of the state of affairs in Bihar, a state which has the lowest per capita income has the highest political activities without caring for the problems of the common man. Can these activities stop the exodus of workers to other parts of the country? Can new industries be set up? Can employment opportunities be enhanced? A common citizen is not interested in which party is in power. All that he wants is the progress of a state and job opportunities. A majority of people have to migrate in search of livelihood. Will the leaders of Bihar remain busy in petty politics without caring for development? We should not forget leaders like Karpoori Thakur and Rajendra Prasad who had set an example for the people.

Yash Pal Ralhan, Jalandhar

For a sound mind

Refer to ‘Why books will stay relevant’, there is no substitute for books, not even e-books. There are very few bookshops that sell books other than school and college textbooks, especially in tier-2 cities and towns. Digital devices like smartphones and e-book readers have eliminated the need to carry hard copies. District libraries wear a deserted look. People don’t have the patience to read. They just want instant information on Google. The digital format strains the eye. Reading books enriches our mind in the same way as exercise does to our body.

Vikramjit Singh, Amritsar

Sports in rural areas

India’s players have brought laurels to the country by their superlative performance in the Commonwealth Games. There is a need to improve sports infrastructure in rural areas because that is where most of our medal winners and other sportspersons come from, in spite of non-existent facilities. Athletes Hima Das and Avinash Sable and the majority of our boxers and wrestlers belong to villages.

Lt Col Harbinder Singh (Retd), Patiala

Choose millets

Apropos of ‘Millets offer opportunities’, millets have more nutritional value than wheat and rice. Millets as a staple diet are not popular in urban India due to the lack of awareness and their unavailability. Moreover, mechanisation of the processing of these millets couldn’t keep pace with that of rice and other cereals and so these never got their due place in the kitchens. We should popularise these grains and learn a lesson from western fast food chains which have become totems of economic prosperity. When the Indian economy opened in the early 1990s, branded muesli and oats became popular breakfast foods as MNCs marketed nutritionists’ views, food columns favoured these breakfast foods in popular newspapers and magazines and a thre was a blitzkrieg of sleek advertisements. Just declaring a year after millets will not serve the purpose to popularise these grains. Efforts must be made on the ground to popularise them.

Rajesh Goyal, by mail

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Since China considers India as a challenge in its pursuit of dominance, it is reasserting its control of disputed territories to undermine India’s capabilities (‘Countering China’). Intrusions by the PLA and military infrastructural buildup have led to violent standoffs. Diplomatic and military-level talks have failed to resolve the row. Faced with an economic slowdown, the Chinese leadership wants to boost Xi’s image for re-election and pursue its trade interests with India. New Delhi should adopt a more resolute foreign policy approach. Besides our diplomatic engagements with the US, the EU and other nations concerned over China’s expansionist designs, we should focus on military preparedness, impose sanctions against Chinese goods and promote indigenous production.

DS Kang, Hoshiarpur

Repeat offender

This refers to the editorial ‘Countering China’. China is a repeat offender of poking in India’s eyes by way of transgressions at the borders, overtly supporting Pakistan’s nefarious designs and missing no opportunity to deride India at international forums, including the UN. Any act of finding a middle path is akin to casting pearls before swine. Proscribing Chinese apps is disproportionate to its misadventures and plucking low-hanging fruits. India should up its game and forge an alliance with Indian-Pacific countries, similar to Quad, to check the rogue neighbour.

Deepak Singhal, Noida

Right to abort

Reference to ‘Abortion aberration’, a woman is still a woman whether society terms her as unmarried, married, divorced, widowed or separated. Every woman should have the right when it comes to her body, and her life. Unwed women should be given the right to abortion. Denying this right may lead to mental health deterioration and even increased suicidal attempts. If it is just about the effects of MTP, the procedure must be explained in detail and the complications and outcomes, but the choice should be in the hands of women.

Muskan Garg, by mail

Nitish’s absence

Apropos of ‘Nitish’s absence at NITI meet puts ties with BJP under lens’, Nitish Kumar was also conspicuous by his absence at a dinner hosted by PM Modi for the outgoing President. Skipping an important NITI Aayog meeting does not behove a sitting chief minister. Instead of indulging in a cold war with the BJP, he should boldly state his intentions about continuing with the alliance. Modi had offered him the post of CM, even though more MLAs of the BJP had won in the Assembly elections compared to that of JD (U).

Vijaya Sharma, by mail

Vitiating peace

Apropos of ‘Call to hoist kesari flag a ploy to vitiate peace, says Warring’, it is true that the peaceful atmosphere in the state is being vitiated by Sangrur MP Simranjit Singh Mann, whose tantrums and statements are beyond comprehension. He has given a call to hoist kesari flags instead of the Tricolour atop houses despite expressing his faith in the Indian Constitution.

Upendra Sharma, by mail

Crossing the line

Reference to ‘Call to hoist kesari flag...’; it seems that Simranjit Singh Mann has decided to remain in the limelight by making controversial statements. Earlier, he stirred a hornets’ nest by calling Bhagat Singh a terrorist. If, as a parliamentarian, he can take oath on the Constitution of India, why should he have a problem with the national flag? As an elected representative of the people, he should refrain from making such irresponsible statements which can disturb the hard-earned peace and harmony in Punjab.

Balbir Singh Kakkar, Jalandhar

Dying waiting for justice

Refer to ‘HC: Denying bail to aged not justified’; the court justifies bail to criminals in old age, but at the same time, court cases of the elderly mostly remain undecided till death. My father and father-in-law died with pending court cases due to old age. Now, I am over 70 and expecting the same in a pending case. It is a routine matter because the court justifies delay than justice in time. In the past 10 years, the backlog of pending cases has increased from three to four crore.

Ashok Kumar Goel, Panchkula

Kudos to hockey team

Our women’s hockey team is returning after winning the bronze medal in the much-coveted CWG. It has broken the jinx after 16 years by defeating none other than New Zealand. Though the credit goes to each member of the team, much goes to skipper Savita Punia who made three splendid saves in the shootout. The government should suitably honour and award the members of the team and the coach.

NPS Sohal, Chandigarh

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]

Apropos of ‘Democracy and Hindutva’ (Nous Indica), divisive politics is a crime against democracy and may not last long since the poor and deprived will, sooner or later, realise that they are being cheated. The issue at this stage is not how the Congress or any other party will play their cards, but how and when the people will awaken to seek redress of their real and pressing issues. Punjab has not just given a thumping win to the AAP but has set an example by voting, irrespective of religion or caste, for quality and affordable education and healthcare, and with the hope that their basic needs will be taken care of.

HL Sharma, Amritsar

Resilience of democracy

Reference to ‘Democracy and Hindutva’; there is resilience in Indian democracy despite every ordeal it has undergone since Independence. Given the vast size and diverse social composition of our country, no single party can monopolise power for long. It is true that in the South, the people are devout Hindus, yet the voting pattern is different from the North. Meanwhile, only mass leaders with a grassroots connect can rejuvenate the Congress party.

RAJ BAHADUR YADAV, Fatehabad

National perspective

Reference to ‘Democracy and Hindutva’; if only the political leadership at the national and regional levels was astute enough to understand the dynamics of the situation, we would be able to see the emergence of a balance in political thought and an earnest assessment of the citizens’ aspirations that sum up the collective mood of the nation. It would channelise the energy and vision of our glorious country.

Mohanpal Singh, Chandigarh

Their right to vote

Reference to ‘Let J&K vote’; the abrogation of Article 370 was indeed a historic moment. The objective was to give a normal life to the people of the state so that they would integrate better with the rest of the country. But no elections have been held, depriving the Kashmiris their right to vote. Free and fair elections should be conducted in Jammu and Kashmir, and democracy in the real sense should be restored at the earliest possible.

Aparna Rajmohan, Amritsar

Erratic growth

Refer to the article ‘Why our economic growth has been patchy’; it is not fair to mainly blame the education system for it. Socialist policies, including reliance on PSUs, were required in the 1950s and 1960s, but should have given way to reforms and a bigger role for the private sector. In the post-Independence era, the private sector was not forthcoming with large investments due to non-availability of sufficient capital and restrictive business practices of those times. After visiting the premises of Citizen Watches, Japan, when Nehru asked leading private business houses to set up a watch manufacturing facility in the country, the proposal didn’t find any taker, and HMT — the machine-tool maker — was ‘ordered’ to take up the project, which it did successfully. Watches proved to be the company’s cash cow for several years. It is worthwhile that on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Independence, a debate is on to pinpoint the reasons for the patchy growth.

CN Dhar, by mail

All for free

The suggestion of the Supreme Court to constitute a body of experts to dissect the whole anatomy of freebies is appreciable. Every political party believes in populism and the pursuit of political power is a common objective. It is not the ideology of a party which wins them elections but the doles and sops they distribute free of cost. Unfortunately, the cost is borne by the honest taxpayers. To draw a line between subsidies and freebies would be a tough task. Are subsidised food, free health services, free telephone services and several pensions being enjoyed by the elected members across all parties also not freebies?

Harmohinder Nagra, by mail

Freebies with a rider

It seems difficult to control the freebie menace as all political parties woo voters by promising them free things. Remedial steps should be taken to check this. If no solution is found, freebies should be allowed, with the condition that the party coming to power must implement them in toto. There should be no excuse for delays due to financial or other reasons. Non-compliance should entail swift punishment. The political parties will then think twice before making false promises to voters.

TK Gupta, Bathinda

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]