M A I L B A G

Shelling across LoC cause for concern

Apropos of H.K. Dua’s article “The value of restraint: Peace process would need tender care” (Jan 22), the timing and motives behind the recent mortar shelling across the Line of Control (LoC) are cause for concern as the peace process is under way between both countries. Against this backdrop, the value of restraint becomes very important.

The Government of India has rightly preferred to play it down in the larger interest of peace. Pakistan must shun the use of militancy as an instrument of state policy. The solution of complicated problems like Kashmir calls for an extremely sincere and honest step-by-step approach.

With the passage of time, the people’s emotions and sentiments would be such that they may force their respective leaders to shed hatred and make a new beginning to end the sufferings of people on both sides. Vested interests may try to put hurdles in this peace process, but the power of peace shall hopefully overcome all this.

GURDERSHAN SINGH, Chandigarh

II

In just one week, General Musharraf made two statements: one, that he would not accept “India-made” decision on Kashmir; and two, he asked for UK’s help in resolving the Kashmir dispute. Statements like these will push back any hope of any breakthrough in improving the relations between the two countries.

These statements also clearly indicate that it is not on his agenda to improve relations with India in the near future. As regards the bus to Muzaffarbad, obliging Pakistan with the demand to drop the requirement of travel documents like passport and a visa will not be in India’s interest. According to international protocol, this is a very common requirement for anyone travelling to another country. Why should there be any fuss over it? Pakistan’s rigidity makes it abundantly clear that this bus service is going to be abused to push terrorists into India disguised as travellers or businessmen. Obviously, it would be a much safer route than sneaking through the border. Enough is enough. If Pakistan does not stop its proxy war in Kashmir completely and does not change its hostile attitude towards India, there is no point in talking and immediately pull out of the so-called confidence building measures. I would rather strongly suggest India to cut off all diplomatic relations with Pakistan as the US did to Cuba over 40 years ago.

SUBHASH C. CHAUDHRY, Indianapolis (USA)

III

Mr Dua’s call for restraint should be carefully and continuously followed by the decision makers of both countries. Bombs and bullets have never built the border of brotherhood as has been proved by all wars that we fought since 1947.

I strongly support the need for restraint but not retreat. The mortar shelling in the LoC could not have taken place without the explicit clearance of the Pakistan Army and its Commanders.

It can even be a signal to the hard pressed and demoralised cadre of ISI- backed militants that Pakistan has not stopped its evil design of disturbing the peace process in the Valley.

MULTAN SINGH PARIHAR, Jalari (Hamirpur)

Save lives from tsunami A.D. Ahluwalia’s article “Geoethical tsunami fiasco” (Science and Technology Page, Jan 21) reflects on the irresponsible behaviour of our scientists and administrators. Had they showed some responsibility, the lives of lakhs of people would have been saved. Nature has numerous ways to send out warning signals. Tsunamis need a great reaction time, but we were able to know about it only after the disaster. The real culprits are our scientists and administrators. We should keep in mind how capable the tsunami early warning system is in other countries. When tsunami hit Chile in 1960, only a few hundred people lost their lives. The rest were saved. Thus, we need to act upon fast and set up a tsunami early warning system soon. RUPINDER PAL KAUR, Faridkot

Sania dazzles

Kudos to Sania Mirza for performing extremely well in the Australian Open. She did India proud through her sterling showing. Actually, she was overawed by the prospect of playing against the former world number one Serena Williams.

The enormity of the task at hand weighed heavily on her mind. That is why she appeared nervous in the first set in which she was swept away 1-6. However, in the second set, she came into her elements and put up a gutsy and spirited display. She matched Serena stroke for stroke giving her tough fight in which the American was stretched to her limits.

Though she went down fighting 4-6, her outstanding performance has heralded the arrival of Indian women on the horizon of Grand Slam Tennis Tournament. Her dashing game, mild demeanor and stunning looks have left an indelible mark on the Australian Open. Well done, Sania! Keep it up.

TARSEM S. BUMRAH, Batala

II

Congratulations to Sania Mirza for reaching the third round of women’s singles of the Australian Open. It was sheer hard luck that in the third round held on January 21, she was pitted against the highly experienced and formidable Serena. She did put up a valiant fight.

Her attempt was commendable keeping in view the person she was contending against. Being a teenager, she has many years of play. She should continue her effort with grit and determination. I am sure, she will reach the upper rungs of the tennis ladder.

She should improve upon her first serves. In her first and second round matches, her first serves were accurate to the extent of 40 per cent. However, she faltered in the last match which proved costly. In any case, well done, Sania!

D.K. AGGARWAL, Hoshiarpur

III

Sania Mirza presented a stunning performance in the second set of third match with Serena Williams. The Indian Champion got good reward for her hard work. The Hyderabadi lass is surely a rising star of India who will one day top the hierarchy of the world’s best tennis players.

HITESH LAKHANPAL, Hamirpur