The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

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

Check the spread of narco trade

This refers to the report on narco-politics (October 24). Shashikant, former DG (Prisons), Punjab, deserves kudos for waging a fight against the prevalence of narco-politics in Punjab. Excessive use of narcotics in Punjab, particularly among the youth, is destroying its social fabric. The political class is shamelessly playing a catalytic role in spreading the malaise. Heavy financial stakes are also involved in the business (Rs 60,000 crore per year). Obviously, officials are also playing a role in the commercial circuit.

What is distressing is that religious organisations are doing nothing to check the menace. Even the SGPC is doing nothing in this regard. It is time for people to join hands with Shashikant in the war against the narco-business. This illegal trade is spreading its tentacles in the neighbouring states as well.

RAM NIWAS MALIK, Gurgaon

Retain Paash Library

“The very existence of libraries affords the best evidence that we may yet have hope for the future of man.” This quote of T. S. Eliot holds good for the world, except, perhaps, Haryana. It has been decided to demolish the well-established Paash Library in Karnal. The editorial (October 28) rightly says that having a library is the right of every citizen. For any awakened person, a library is like a temple where the goddess of knowledge, Saraswati, resides. Instead of wiping out the memory of Paash, let some NGO come forward and save and strengthen the library.

V K ANAND, Patiala

The editorial, 'Save Libraries' (October 28), has rightly pointed out that having libraries is a right of the citizens, which must not be violated. The creation and accumulation of information is the result of man’s quest for knowledge. Libraries are developed by a systematic collection, preservation and dissemination of information, leading to knowledge and education. This knowledge can be made available to future generations if we preserve it in the form of books and documents in our libraries. The establishment of libraries is not a new concept. The oldest library dates back to 2,700 years at Sennacherib’s Palace in Nineveh.

To readers, a library offers a studious atmosphere. As one enters a library, one finds books on various subjects and topics. A well-maintained library is indeed the best friend, philosopher and guide of readers. Students and teachers must unite in the fight against any damage to these invaluable assets. Ray Bradbury has aptly said, “Without libraries, what do we have? We have no past and no future.”

DR S K AGGARWAL, Amritsar

Aadhaar confusion

The Supreme Court’s decision that the linking of the Aadhaar card for various schemes of the Centre and state governments is not mandatory is laudable. The decision is particularly relevant where schemes, such as the supply of LPG cylinders, involve the masses. The status of Aadhaar card needs to be clarified immediately to mitigate the confusion.

How can the Aadhaar card be made mandatory when crores of citizens are yet to get it, including those who have registered themselves but have not received the card. It will create chaos in society if the card is made mandatory at this stage. The government should first ensure that each and every citizen is in possession of the Aadhaar card. The linkage of all government schemes with the Aadhaar card should be shelved for the present.

T N KASHYAP, Palampur

Unfinished flyover

The flyovers at the Zirakpur chowk, which is the gateway of Chandigarh and Himachal Pradesh, are a boon for the commuters. Driving from Chandigarh to Delhi or Delhi to Chandigarh on the National Highway is a smooth ride since one leaves the local traffic rush on the road below. Commuters going towards Delhi from the Panchkula-Kalka road are also connected by the flyover.

However, surprisingly the flyover from Delhi to the Panchkula-Kalka sidehas not yet been built. Those headed to Kalka-Panchkula from the Delhi side have to pass through the 2-km busy stretch on the National Highway near the VIP road. They have to face jams in this residential as well as shopping area to reach Panchkula-Kalka. The traffic congestion on the Patiala road adds to their woes.

Now, the mini-bus stand is near completion. It may attract more rush. Action is needed to complete the flyover from Delhi to Panchkula-Kalka road.

SUNIL MINOCHA, Panchkula

Crackers terrorise animals
Diwali brings joy for us, but misery for animals. Many animals are injured, maimed or even killed every year through the irresponsible and callous use of fireworks and crackers. The bright flames and noise of fireworks present an exquisite sight which is thrilling to us, but they have a gruesome effect on animals.

Every year, the district administration slaps a ban on the sale and use of dangerous fireworks, but strangely, firework displays are increasing every year with impunity. Wildlife, livestock and pet animals may get injured in a bid to rush to safe places. Pets and animals can stray into the path of vehicles or get lost in panic.
It is a pity that the owners of animals do not understand the poisonous effect of fireworks and crackers on animals. They do not take precautionary measures for the safety of their animals. The fireworks should not be let off near animals. All animals, especially pets, should be kept indoors after dusk.
Dogs, cats and rabbits are very sensitive and should be kept in safe rooms. Close the curtains of the rooms and keep television/radio on, in loud voice to camouflage the noise of crackers. Extra-sensitive pets may be given a sedative under the advice of a veterinarian surgeon.
DR SOSHIL RATTAN, Amritsar