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Letters to The Editor — February 1, 2025

1Feb

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Opinion

Letters to The Editor — February 1, 2025

INDIA bloc, political path The INDIA bloc was formed to stop the BJP’s advancement, which it did carry out rather successfully in the general election 2024. But, thereafter, the bloc’s relevance has begun to diminish owing to its internal dynamics (Opinion page – ‘Parley’, January 31). The results of the Maharashtra and Haryana elections showed that the BJP can still recover. What ails the alliance is the absence of a leader with a commanding political position. It is also a fact that there will be no strong Opposition in India until such time as the Indian National Congress regains its lost glory. The party has to revamp itself with new policies and agendas. Ravi Nair, Kollengode, Palakkad, Kerala Homoeopathy, tinctures I write this letter as a research scholar (Ayurve...

30Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 30, 2025

Stampede and safetyThe stampede at the Maha Kumbh shows that governments have not learnt any lessons from the past. We continue to have such tragedies whether at places of worship, festivals or at entertainment events. The safety of pilgrims and participants cannot be treated so lightly. Kshirasagara Balaji Rao, Hyderabad One is not sure about the extent of the scientific methods being used in the management of crowds at the Kumbh Mela. The point is that there are a number of techniques that have been tried and tested on how to try and survive a crowd crush or stampede. One method is to fold one’s arms toward the body, like a boxer, in order to be steady and be safe from being pulled or caught. One also needs to keep moving in the direction of the crowd rather than fight it...

27Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 27, 2025

Indonesia and India tiesIt is of significance that on India’s very first Republic Day celebrations, we had the pleasure of having Sukarno, the first President of Indonesia, as the chief guest. Now, President Subianto was present on our completing 75 years as a Republic. In the 1950s, Nehru and Sukarno, leaders of two nascent republics, bonded well to further the cause of developing Afro-Asian nations liberated from the colonial yolk. Though our bilateral relations did traverse rough patches, our deep historical bonds and shared culture have endured. If Sukarno means ‘good’, Subianto means ‘inner purity’. R. Narayanan, Navi Mumbai The visit raises critical questions about the future of India-Indonesia relations. Can this visit catalyse a substantial increase in bilateral trade? ...

25Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 25, 2025

Rail travelThe Indian Railways have to make concerted efforts to improve passenger safety. But there is another issue: ensuring that passengers do not face situations that cause their discomfiture and endanger the safety of their belongings. Very often, one finds reserved compartments being invaded by ‘passengers’ who do not have reserved tickets. There are also vendors and vagrants who take advantage of the indifference of railway staff. The plight of passengers in unreserved compartments is even worse. The authorities must ensure that every passenger has a happy and safe journey. S. Soundararajan, Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu The Trump approach It is quite clear from U.S. President Donald Trump’s pronouncements and executive decisions that he wants to run the U.S. governmen...

21Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 21, 2025

Poor demand The economist, John Maynard Keynes, wrote that it is the increase in consumption and investment demand that enhances employment, income and output in the economy. That investment by the private sector fell 1.4% in Q3 in India is a case in point. The sole way out is to increase capital expenditure by the Centre and State governments. Keynes’ work, The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money, one feels, is germane at all times. S. Ramakrishnasayee, Chennai ‘Lit for Life’ Some experts seem to have missed the fact that, notwithstanding the accusation that the general election was not on a level playing field, the BJP’s hat-trick performance needs to be recognised. There is no ground to confirm that every BJP voter is a believer of Hindutva (January 20)....

18Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 18, 2025

DisbandedExpectedly, on the eve of Donald Trump assuming the presidentship of the United States, high profile Hindenburg Research has announced its closure (Page 1, January 17). The short seller’s abrupt downing of its shutters is undeniably a blessing in disguise for the Adani conglomerate, which was rocked by its startling revelations. One can make a safe guess that the high-pitched calls by the Opposition parties in India, particularly the Congress (Inside pages, January 17), for a probe of the Group by a Joint Parliamentary Committee will fade away sooner than later. V. Johan Dhanakumar, Chennai Memorial and legacy It is silly that the controversy regarding a suitable memorial for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continues (Inside pages, January 17). It is time to r...

17Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 17, 2025

Ceasefire in Gaza?That there could be a pause in the war in Gaza is the bare minimum the region needs (Page 1, January 16). It is crucial that the parties involved do all they can to ensure a complete end to the war, else there will be a repeat of the mindless destruction and chaos. Gaza is weary of this war. Anany Mishra, Bhilai, Chhattisgarh The pursuit of ‘victory’, at the cost of human lives and dignity, only amplifies the suffering of innocent civilians. While a possible ceasefire offers temporary respite, we must recognise that true and long-term peace can only be achieved through honest dialogue and mutual understanding. Ahmed Raza Manuu, Hyderabad The promising development captures the spirit of hope and renewal to grace the dawn of the new year. It reflects...

14Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 14, 2025

The border and BangladeshIt is baffling why Bangladesh should be concerned if India is erecting fences on the India-Bangladesh border. Perhaps, it was ‘open doors’ till now and with diplomatic relations changing, Dhaka is reacting. Illegal migration may also be a part of vote bank politics. Govardhana Myneedu, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh The Governor, actions The repeated Quixotic antics of certain Governors grossly erodes the respect one accords to the posts they have been enjoying all along. That the government has such personalities as Governors, especially in Opposition-ruled States, and not reacting to their ‘overactions’ only shows deteriorating political morality. It is time to restore the image and the prestige of key constitutional posts. A.G. Rajmohan, Anan...

11Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 11, 2025

Diaspora, global journeysThe journeys of the Indian diaspora, who are scattered across the globe, are a remarkable chapter. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, to document these journeys, achievements, and contributions, is a timely reminder of the unique role Indians play in connecting nations, cultures and economies (Page 1, January 10). From excelling in academics, business and politics on the one hand to preserving and propagating India’s rich cultural heritage on the other, their efforts form an indelible bond between India and the world. By highlighting their stories of triumph and struggle, India can offer the world a deeper understanding of its global footprint. Acknowledging the contributions of the diaspora will strengthen India’s global pa...

9Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 9, 2025

Role of the GovernorThe episode of the Governor of Tamil Nadu, R.N. Ravi, walking out of the Legislative Assembly is unheard of. His excellency is bound under Article 176 to address the House. Article 163 makes it clear that he is bound to act on the aid and the advice of the Council of Ministers and not walk out, which is in violation of his constitutional duty. It is not as if the State Government refused to have the National Anthem being played. All that was said was that the State anthem would come first and that the National Anthem would be sung after his address thereby giving primacy to the State and federal structures. This has been the convention too. The Governor has been making it difficult for the elected representatives to run the State. His excellency walked out o...

4Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 4, 2024

Terror attackThe Editorial, “Force of ideas” (January 3), was interesting. But I wonder whether there is any such thing as a ‘lone wolf’. The terrorist is an integral component of a vast conspiracy. Jacques Fortier, Montreal, Quebec, Canada The world needs to get together to wipe out terror. Sharing vital inputs and a single-minded focus are necessary. The Islamic State needs to be watched closely while the sources of funds would need hawk-like vigil. Balasubramaniam Pavani, Secunderabad ‘BLS’ in curriculum It is apt to consider including BLS (basic life support), which includes cardio pulmonary resuscitation(CPR), a life-saving skill, as a part of the curriculum for students of Class 10. Irrespective of the syllabus, all students in State schools, private a...

2Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 2, 2025

The state of Manipur How far Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s expression of ‘regret’ and urge to ‘make a new beginning’ would solve the long-pending issues in his State are anybody’s guess. In fact, his inability to do anything so far, in a positive sense, demands that there should be nothing less than his resignation from office. A more concerning matter is the Prime Minister. In the beginning, the Congress’s demand that Mr. Modi visit Manipur was treated as a ritualistic anti-Modi slogan. But this has now changed maybe after the old saying, ‘repeat a lie often enough and it becomes the truth’. P.R.V. Raja, Pandalam, Kerala Manmohan Singh There have been many letters in this column paying tributes to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. While Dr. Singh was very...

1Jan

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Letters to The Editor — January 1, 2025

Manmohan Singh A truly fitting tribute to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh would involve both the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress setting aside their differences to honour his legacy. Dr. Singh, a paragon of statesmanship, and known for his calm demeanour and unwavering commitment to the nation, deserves commemoration that reflects his stature. A powerful demonstration of respect would be for each politician who has publicly lauded Dr. Singh to pledge to emulate one of his admirable qualities in their own service to the country. V. Nagarajan, Chennai During my years in college, I had the privilege of participating in the Model United Nations, where I often played the part of Dr. Singh. While researching his life and work, I was deeply inspired by his humilit...

31Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 31, 2024

Manmohan SinghDr. Manmohan Singh, as Prime Minister, is a study in contrast to his successor. Dr. Singh never used vituperative language against political opponents and was civil and graceful in all his interventions in Parliament. He addressed press conferences at regular intervals, where he was willing to face inconvenient questions. Above all, he was a true democrat with an absolute commitment to secularism and inclusiveness. He was indeed a sterling example of what a Prime Minister in a democratic country should be like. Manohar Alembath, Kannur, Kerala Ever alive in the hearts of all Indians, the political class must note that Dr. Manmohan Singh does not need a memorial at all. He has etched his name in the minds and the hearts of the people with his statesmanship, non...

30Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 30, 2024

Manmohan SinghWhile Dr. Manmohan Singh deserves everybody’s applause for his economic reforms — along with the former Prime Minister, P.V. Narasimha Rao — that steered India away from a big crisis, it is to be noted that the great economist’s knowledge and talent were sidelined by the Congress party. The party only used the great man as a tool to rule the country for 10 years. The economic reforms of 1991 have not been properly handled by successive governments which resulted in the country and the common people being dragged into debt traps and a westernisation of social life. But there is a positive side. The former Prime Minister’s voracious book-reading habit has to be utilised to inspire the youth and the children of today who are habituated to online reading. This is not ...

25Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 25, 2024

Extradition requestBangladesh’s appeal to India for Sheikh Hasina’s extradition shows the intricate dance between justice and diplomacy. It presents complex diplomatic and legal challenges. The case is also about trust, cooperation, and upholding the principles that bind nations together. India’s decision will be watched. E.A. Sarayu Berkavin, Bengaluru Comment on Ambedkar Even if he was targeting the Congress party, it was most inappropriate on the part of the Union Home Minister to say that “there is now a ‘fashion’ chanting Ambedkar’s name....”. The Minister appears to be ignorant of the trials and tribulations that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and millions of Dalits have undergone and still experience. One hopes there is awareness of the ‘Annihilation of Caste’ by B.R. Ambedka...

24Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 24, 2024

Centralisation pushA single election diminishes the role and priorities of the States and can only marginalise them. The drive towards ‘one nation, one election’ (ONOE) is to have India as a unitary, unidimensional, single-language nation, which it certainly is not. We are one because we are different. ONOE is essentially to dislodge regional parties as they appear to have stymied the Bharatiya Janata Party’s expansion moves. This push from the government leads to needless structural imbalance and a disruption of the concept of cooperative federalism. ‘One nation, one election’ is another step towards the centralisation of many aspects of administration and schemes. The ‘cost’ angle is unclear, as to date, the savings for simultaneous polls have not been quantified. H.N. Ramakrishna,&#...

23Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 23, 2024

Thriving on opaqueness Ironically, the central government’s amendment of the Conduct of Election Rules, to restrict public access to polling footage, comes at a time when the need of the hour is more, not less, transparency. As a matter of fact, the word ‘information’ in the RTI Act includes not just papers and documents but also any information stored even in a computer and an electronic device. Therefore, the move to restrict access to the same confirms the fact that both the government and the Election Commission of India thrive on opaqueness (Page 1, “Govt. amends rule to restrict access to polling footage”, December 22). In an age when public faith in institutions is on the decline, the move appears to be calculated to circumvent the judiciary’s order on a petitioner’s ple...

21Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 21, 2024

In and outside the HouseThe ‘scuffle’ between Members of Parliament across the aisle over the Home Minister’s remarks on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is distressing. Parliament, meant for constructive debate, is increasingly becoming a battleground for hostility. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy is becoming a tool for partisan conflicts. Such behaviour not only undermines the dignity of our institutions but also sets a bad example for citizens. Our representatives must remember that their duty is to uphold democracy through dialogue, not through physical altercations. Pavithra M., Tiruchi, Tamil Nadu There have been allegations of gross misbehaviour, the use of physical force and endangering the life of some MPs. The happenings in Parliament are a shade worse than the ruckus in the Kerala Assembly,...

20Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 20, 2024

In Parliament Just what is happening to our elected representatives? Are they street fighters or political representatives? The much vaunted debate on the Constitution of India was a waste of time. Instead of a well-thought-out and dignified review of the Constitution, we were treated to long stretches of meaningless arguments. Mutual and personal recrimination dominated Parliament. In the past, battles were fought well and dignity was never bruised. Our politics and their practitioners have plumbed low depths. T.C. Narayan, Bengaluru Leaving on his terms With R. Ashwin’s retirement, Indian cricket has bid farewell to a true legend (‘Sport’ page, December 19). From spinning webs around the world’s best batsmen to his astute cricketing intellect, Ashwin redef...

18Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 18, 2024

Business in the Upper HouseEminent personalities and educationists in public life are among those Members who occupy the seats in the Rajya Sabha. But even the proceedings in this House are dismal. Of late, one is witness to uproarious scenes and frequent violations of constitutional values, so much so that its democratic functioning is flouted with ease and without compunction. It is time that the Members of the Upper House also realise that they are accountable and engage in constructive debate. N. Visveswaran, Chennai Another angle to greenwashing the Indian Railways As a regular train traveller, I would like to raise another very visible, yet blatantly ignored, fallout of the electrification of certain railway lines: the mindless destruction of greenery that was the hallma...

17Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 17, 2024

Debate in ParliamentA media article has highlighted how politicians in particular keep repeating the same thing over and over again. This is very true of Indian politicians. One is unable to understand what useful purpose is served by harping on the Emergency-era all the time, regardless of its relevance to current issues and legislative proposals. Those at the helm of affairs may rest assured that the Emergency is deeply etched in the collective memory of the nation, which will ensure that the people of India will never let anyone dare to attempt it again. M. Jameel Ahmed, Mysuru The picture of victory The replacement of the photo/painting in the Indian Army Chief’s lounge, which commemorated Pakistan’s surrender to India in the 1971 war, with another painting depicting my...

16Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 16, 2024

The two-day debateThe debate in Parliament on the Constitution went exactly as expected. The Opposition criticised the ruling party for its actions, while the ruling party repeated its accusations about the Emergency. It would have been unrealistic to expect this debate to result in any real solutions (Page 1, December 15). Instead of committing to working together to improve the Constitution, both sides across the political aisle seem to have dug in their heels even more. We can celebrate the Constitution’s 75th anniversary all we want, but it will not mean much unless we truly live by its values. As someone who has lived through 70 years of Indian politics, I have come to believe that leaders who are known for dishonesty and corruption have no right to speak about the Constitution’s valu...

14Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 14, 2024

Court’s ‘freeze’ orderThe Supreme Court of India’s freeze on suits on claims over places of worship is a source of relief. Most Indians are descendants of migrants from other parts of the world — an inconvenient truth for some political narratives. This is a point that was also highlighted by the former Supreme Court judge, Justice Markandey Katju, in 2011. India’s history, marked by waves of migrations and invasions, has seen countless instances of places of worship being destroyed, repurposed, or rebuilt. Similarly, invaders have often displaced earlier settlers. Seeking justice for every such historical grievance is impractical and endless. Worse, entertaining such cases risks perpetuating communal strife and minority demonisation, which may serve divisive agendas but is certainly n...

11Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 11, 2024

Stalled HouseWith the repeated stalling of Parliamentary proceedings by both the ruling and Opposition party members over the past few days, it is time for them to be reminded of the historic Supreme Court ruling of 2022: that elected members are expected to show statesmanship and not brinkmanship. It is a matter of shame that the informative and thought-stimulating debates/discussions of yesteryears have given way to the increasing use of lung power to settle scores. Rising instances of despicable behaviour include the repeated trading of barbs, personal attacks and mud-slinging. A country aspiring to lead needs to focus on debating and discussing welfare issues pertaining to the common man. B. Suresh Kumar, Coimbatore China ties India’s External Affairs Minister s...

10Dec

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Letters to The Editor — December 10, 2024

Parliament or battlefield? Even though Parliament is one of the tallest democratic institutions of the country, with a mandate to debate policymaking and national progress and represent the will of the people, it has increasingly become synonymous with disruptions and pandemonium to the dismay of conscientious citizens of the country. While the Opposition has increasingly been using disruptions as a tool to stall the government’s agenda, the government has been stalling proceedings to scuttle discussion on issues raised by the Opposition. It is time parties across the political spectrum ensure that Parliament does not become a battleground for political rivalry. There is a need to prioritise the nation’s interests over short-term political gains. M. Jeyaram, Sholavandan, Tamil ...