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

Build bridges of understanding with China

I agree with the views expressed in the editorial, “When statesmen show the way: India, China can solve their problems” (Oct 27). Undoubtedly, Dr Manmohan Singh and Mr Wen Jiabao have exhibited rare qualities of statesmanship by abstaining from harping on the vexatious issues and agreeing to further relations between the two countries.

Still, India cannot afford to be complacent and lose sight of the developmental projects being executed by China in the Himalayan ranges and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and its raking up of patently untenable claim on Arunachal Pradesh and its refusal to condemn cross-border terrorism which is threatening India’s integrity and sovereignty.

It is true that the volume of bilateral trade between the two countries has gone up considerably during the last few years and this can create congenial atmosphere for the resolution of the issues that have been defying a solution so far. It is equally important that any dialogue on contentious issues between the two nations can be held only from a position of demonstrated strength.

LAJPAT RAI GARG, Panchkula

II

It is in our mutual and long-term interest to maintain peace and cordial relations with China. Overcoming past acrimony, we need to concentrate our efforts on building common bridges of trust and confidence. Being the world’s two most populous countries and growing economies, our trade and commerce can grow only when peace and stability prevails in the subcontinent.

The understanding between Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and his Chinese counterpart Mr Wen Jiabao on the sidelines of the 15th ASEAN summit in Thailand, reaffirming the need to maintain peace and tranquillity on the borders, pending the resolution of the border dispute assumes great importance and is most welcome.

GOVIND SINGH KHIMTA, Shimla

Hooda’s new challenge The Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda (editorial, “Hooda’s challenge”, Oct 27) cannot absolve himself of the blame that his arrogance, overconfidence, favouritism and failure to tackle the immediate problems of a common man have led to his party’s reduced strength in the state assembly in the recently held elections. What has really saved his chair is his abiding loyalty to the first political family of the country. Otherwise, he would have ended in political wilderness. For in politics, nothing succeeds like success.   Now, he must get his act together and run the party and the government efficiently. He cannot afford to fritter away the new opportunity and must redeem himself. He has to make the government responsive to the aspirations and the needs of people. HEMA, Langeri, Hoshiarpur

BJP in shambles

The BJP leadership, both at the national and state level, is in shambles. Since 2009 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP leaders have been at each other’s throat. The blame game shows no sign of abating.

Perhaps, those who saw their dreams come crashing down have not been able to reconcile themselves to the new situation. The turmoil in the BJP appears to be unending and the party has plunged into a deep crisis.

 R J KHURANA,Bhopal

Cell phone use

Cell phones and Internet are technological marvels. But the problem is often these are put to misuse. In some families, each member has a cell phone and even school going children own one.

There have been instances where cell phones were used to cheat in the examinations. Indiscriminate use of cell phones is detrimental to the proper development of youth who fritter away precious time and energy on wasteful pursuits and must be dissuaded to use mobile phones.

Dr H KUMAR KAUL, Baranala

War preparedness

It is rightly said that if you want peace, be prepared for war. No country can enjoy true freedom, unless it has a strong defence force.

It is in the fitness of things that our country remains alert. In the face of impending threat from terrorists, there should be no room for complacency. Besides, the country has to be prepared to face challenges posed by warmongers.

Defence forces have always stood the test of time. The government is fully committed to the modernisation of armed forces. It is imperative that the government should take adequate steps to ensure that defence forces continue to attract the brightest and bravest people.

M L BATURA, Karnal

Students’ safety

Without any doubt, the Australian authorities (article, “Australia to ensure Indian students’ safety” by Jeffrey Smart, Oct 22) are taking effective steps to make Australia more amenable and student-friendly.  

Students should choose their courses and educational institutions with care. They should obtain information through their friends and relatives in Australia, and also from websites. 

Some courses are not worth pursuing and if students intend to apply for immigration to Australia based on their Australian degree, they should undertake courses accordingly. 

 Dr SANJIV GUPTA, Perth (Australia)