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Deadly descent

“The Bomb and the descent of man” by Raj Chengappa (Ground Zero, Nov 18) is a reminder of the cataclysmic event in Hiroshima that flattened cities and benumbed mankind. Weaponry the world over has been getting deadlier with the advancement of civilisation. But there is a flip side. The diabolical weaponry has created a semblance of “equilibrium”. Though non-nuclear states are striving to become nuclear, the two superpowers, possessing 90 per cent nuclear weapons, are moving towards curtailment. The ultimate defence lies in the evolution of consciousness towards the Vedic concept of Vadudhaiva kutumbkam — from global village to global family.

Ram Varma, email

II

Many of us still wonder if Hiroshima-Nagasaki tragedy happened at all. The younger generation isn't aware of the magnitude of the destruction. The mere thought of such an apocalypse makes one shudder. The modern killing machines should be made to gather dust so that these can become exhibits in museums. There has been much change in the thought process of heads of state since.

Dr Sanjay Aggarwal, Solan

III

It’s no secret that India could have blasted a nuclear bomb in 1960. It was only due to the China-US-Jewish alliance of the 70s that India was forced to demonstrate its nuclear weapons capability. India must not stop arming itself, both in the conventional and nuclear areas, but we should work for peace.

Dr Vimla Raje, UK

Credibility at stake

The Congress is chalking out a strategy to keep its alliance partners together (“The credibility cliff” by KV Prasad, Nov 18), but it is not going to be easy. The BJP has lost some steam following the involvement of its chief in a scam, but the Trinamool and the Left are likely to add to the woes of the UPA. The lunch and dinner diplomacy by the Prime Minister may not yield the desired results. The criticism of CAG by the Congress has also not gone down well with the Opposition parties.

Ravinder Singh, Jalandhar

Watch your mouth

It is unfortunate that derogatory remarks are made in public by elected representatives of people against women (“Unfair Speech” by Aruti Nayar, Spectrum, Nov 18). These ‘responsible’ persons make irresponsible remarks to target women. Being a politician or a public figure means one must choose his words carefully. It tarnishes the image of a party and the leader concerned. The present political scenario of personal attacks proves that there is no respect for anyone, especially women.

Mahesh Kumar, email