L E T T E R S    T O    T H E    E D I T O R

Goa govt must ensure safety of tourists

The sudden rise in cases of rape and molestation of women tourists in Goa has brought a bad name to the country (editorial, “Bad reputation”, Feb 1). Today women feel unsafe in Goa. Several heinous cases of rape and outrage of modesty have been reported in Goa. Now, recently a nine-year old Russian girl has become another victim of rape at the Arambol beach in Goa. It is a matter of regret and deep concern.

No doubt, the Goa State authorities have taken some steps, but the Goa government needs to constitute a separate force for the protection of tourists, especially at beaches. In fact, the authorities should be extra-vigilant. It seems the fear of punishment has no deterrent impact on the perpetrators of this heinous crime. The punishment should be more stringent.

 HARPREET SANDHU, Ludhiana

II

India is known for its diversity in religion, languages, cultures and above all is famous for its hospitality. “Ateethi Devo Bhav” means guests are just like God. Besides, if we see the increasing rate of crime against foreigners, it seems that India is not safe for foreign tourists. But if we study crimes against women, then we will realise that India is not safe even for Indian women. 

 NEHA PAUL, Patiala

III

It is a matter of great shame for our nation that tourists in India are being raped. We need to understand that if tourists are attacked the tourism industry will suffer badly. Such abominable incidents send a wrong signal to the global community. The government needs to take stringent steps to ensure the safety of tourists visiting India.

Prof SHIV SETHI, Ferozepur City

Beauty of nicknames

Harish Dhillon’s middle, “School nicknames”(Jan 28), reminded me of my school days. Sometimes a nickname is given to a person out of animosity, sometimes due to physical traits of a person. But in the end, nicknames become a bond of endearing friendship. One very tall boy in our class came to be known as “dedh”, meaning one and a half times the height of an ordinary human being. Another boy came to be known as “muth”, as it seemed that he was keeping everything a secret.

BHUSHAN CHANDER JINDAL, Jalandhar

Independent judiciary

On the one hand we are trying to make the judiciary accountable and transparent, on the other hand we have a cumbersome procedure for the removal of judges. Even if some kind of misconduct is proven against judges then also it is not an easy task to take action as the procedure for their removal is long drawn. The government should evolve an alternative method to remove judges. At the same time the independence of the judiciary should not be compromised.

RAJNISH GOYAL,Ludhiana

Padma for Saif?

Padma awards are given to those who excel in their respective field and are by no means ordinary awards.

I am happy that AR Rahman, Aamir Khan and Rekha are among the recipients. While Rahman has done India proud, Aamir does not require any introduction. Rekha too is a versatile actress. However, Saif Ali Khan’s selection for the Padma Shri is not at all understood. He has not acted in any meaningful movie.

Dr NARESH RAJ, Patiala

Rahman’s triumph The editorial “Triumph of music: World is Rahman’s oyster”(Feb 2) was a befitting salute to AR Rahman, the “Mozart of Madras”, who has bagged two Grammy awards for Best Compilation Soundtrack for a Motion Picture and Best Motion Picture Song. Indeed, winning awards seems to have become a habit with India’s best-known music composer. After creating history by becoming the first Indian composer to win two Oscar awards last year he has continued with his unending winning spree. Rahman’s electric number “Jai Ho” from Slumdog Millionaire has shaken the music world like never before. After winning two Oscars, the BAFTA and the Golden Globe Award, last year he has added yet another feather to his cap. Piping past big ones like Bruce Springsteen and bagging a double delight he has once more proved that he is the best. It is also creditable that Rahman is now in the company of other greats like sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar, tabla player Zakir Hussain and Mohan Veena player Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt who have already won Grammy awards.  After accepting the Grammy award the music composer showed his humility when he exulted: “This is insane, God is great again”. The editorial rightly concluded that he is close to greatness and has done India proud more than once. What is heartening is that this is only a beginning as the young prodigal music director has many more surprises up his sleeve. We wish he would win many more accolades in future. SUMAN KUKAL,Chandigarh