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

NPT should not discriminate

The editorial “A world without N-arms” (Oct 1) rightly states that universal disarmament can’t be discriminatory. If we want to have a world free of nuclear arms then the five original nuclear powers should agree to destroy their nuclear arsenals.

On its part, India has always been an advocate of universal disarmament, peace, progress and development. It is of the firm view that nuclear energy should be used only for peaceful purposes. Moreover, India has voluntarily and unilaterally declared moratorium on nuclear tests. The world is witness to the fact that India has never indulged in nuclear proliferation.

India’s stand on not signing the NPT is based on principles. It wants total destruction of nuclear arms.

The IAEA’s role is laudable and needs to be supported. India’s offer to contribute towards nuclear research and development should be accepted. Countries around the world should promote interdependence and make the world free from wars and conflicts.

SUDESH KUMAR SHARMA, Kapurthala

R K KAPOOR, Chandigarh

Aids vaccine

Indeed, it is heartening to learn that a watershed moment has come in the medical science for the first time in the last 26 years when the AIDS virus became known. An experimental AIDS vaccine combination has delivered successful even if limited results.

Conducted on more than 1,6000 volunteers in Thailand the vaccine cut the risk of HIV infection by 31 per cent. Now, we can hope for a preventive vaccine that alone can help defeat AIDS.

SUBHASH C TANEJA, Rohtak

Heart diseases

The editorial “Killer heart disease” (Sept 30) was timely and informative. It is startling to note that by 2015 half the patients suffering from coronary heart diseases and strokes in the world will be from India. Heart disease is spreading like an epidemic.

With rise in economic status we have become slaves to rich food and comfortable living. That is why the incidence of heart ailment is more prevalent among the upper and middle strata of society.

Physical exercise and stress-free life can help keep heart ailments at bay.

KARNAIL SINGH, Kharar

Punish Pakistan

Pakistan lacks seriousness (editorial, “Terrorism with ISI-mark”, Oct 2) in fighting terrorism. It is time for the US to stop financial aid to Pakistan. Besides, the US should take firm steps to restrain Pakistan that has been misleading the world regarding its intentions in dismantling the terror camps operating from its soil.

HARPREET SANDHU, Ludhiana

Rural courts

The launching of 5,000 rural courts or Gram Nyayalayas (editorial, “Justice on the doorstep: Rural courts will also cut delays”, Oct 3) throughout the country from October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti, by the Manmohan Singh government will ensure speedy dispensation of justice at the grassroots. The Centre has now enforced the Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008, which was enacted by Parliament in December last.

The rural courts will provide relief to the people and help reduce the judicial backlog. Setting up of rural courts is a step in the right direction.

M L GARG, Chandigarh

Mahatma’s message

Mohan Dharia’s article “Mahatma’s message is still relevant” (Oct 2) was apt. Sadly, the new generation does not endorse Bapu’s philosophy of truth and non-violence. Today’s generation has little respect for our great leaders who fought for the freedom of the nation.

VIJAY MEHTA, Palampur

II

Mr Dharia is right in saying that the philosophy of peace and non-violence is the need of the hour. The ultimate solution to any conflict lies in dialogue.  The philosophy of Gandhi can definitely make the world a better and safer place.

HARISH K MONGA, Ferozepore

III

Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of peace and non-violence can solve many problems of the present world. Universal fraternity, peace and harmony can be achieved if we endorse Bapu’s ideology. His message to live in sync with nature too is significant and can help us cope with environmental problems.

ASHISH KUMAR, Ludhiana

Hand hygiene

Hand washing interrupts (news report, “Hand hygiene your right in hospital” by Aditi Tandon, Sept 21) the transmission of infection and helps reduce hospital infections. To protect patients, hand hygiene can play a major role. It is good that patients registering with a leading private healthcare provider in the capital these days can demand hand hygiene.

Dr AMARJIT S RATHI, Rohtak

Undue media coverage

Why is Ajmal Kasab being given so much importance by the media? Why is it that every word and action of his finds valuable space in the newspapers?

He is a terrorist, guilty of killing scores of innocent people and should be ignored by the press. Let the courts do their work quietly.

R J KHURANA, Bhopal

Keep vigil The price of liberty is eternal vigilance (editorial, “Sino-Indian relations”, Sept 21) and we should keep a strict vigil on our borders. The PM’s observation that the Indian media is blowing things out of proportion on the China front notwithstanding, we should not forget the past experience of 1962. Indeed, while the political dialogue should be kept going, the borders, the sea and the air route need to be guarded zealously. Defence forces should be prepared to meet any emergency at any time. G R KALRA, Chandigarh