BJP storms to power

Refer to ‘Congress in a spot’; all the tales of the Congress coming to power in Haryana have proved false and the BJP has been able to return to power for the third term with an increased tally and a clear majority in the Assembly. The news reports of Kumari Selja staking her claim to the CM’s post, her staying away from the election campaign for a fortnight, and the instance of a leader casting aspersions on her caste identity did the maximum damage to the party. Out of sheer arrogance, the top Congress leadership committed a blunder by turning down the AAP’offer of a pre-poll alliance. They must now realise that their obdurate stance led to their ignominious defeat in the Assembly elections.

Raj Bahadur Yadav, Fatehabad

Ensure strict action

Apropos of ‘Save Buddha Nullah’; the rejuvenation project is not being taken seriously by the government. Toxic effluences are discharged in the nullah from dyeing industries, besides domestic and municipal, and dairy and farm waste and there is no check on the industrial units in its vicinity. To stop pollution of Ludhiana’s Buddha Nullah, strict action against polluters must be enforced. The authorities should ensure that treatment plants are operational and only treated water flows into the nullah. Ban or shift industries that dump toxic materials into the nullah must also be imposed; install common effluent treatment plants for small and medium-scale industries; and seal points used by the MC for dumping raw sewage.

Capt Amar Jeet (retd), Kharar

Buddha Nullah cries for attention

Refer to ‘Save Buddha Nullah’; rejuvenation plans of Buddha Nullah by the state and Central Government has generated hope in the minds of environmentalists trying to save the water body. The Punjab Pollution Control Board has done nothing to stop the entry of polluted water from industries in Ludhiana into the Buddha Nullah. No steps have been taken to install sewage treatment plants here. The polluted nullah has also contaminated the underground water, which is used for drinking and other daily uses. Cases of cancer have been increasing in the state due to the consumption of contaminated water.

Wg Cdr JS Minhas (retd), Mohali

Caste consolidation backfired

Refer to ‘How Jats ruined Congress’ party in Haryana’; the state has delivered a historic but surprising verdict. Everyone — from ground reports to exit polls — predicted a massive majority for the Congress. A quiet subterranean consolidation of non-Jat communities played a key role in reversing the otherwise bright political fortunes of the party. Other castes couldn’t tolerate the growing dominance of the Jats in Congress, rendering them into an inferior and subordinate position. Though originally these groups were against the BJP due to its high-handedness and misgovernance, a turning point came when a Congress supporter passed a derogatory comment against Kumari Selja and Bhupinder Hooda took it lightly. The party must learn a lesson for its shoddy handling of the situation arising from within the party.

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

Maintain a balanced relationship

With reference to ‘India’s economy up despite West Asia conflict, but dangers loom’; the writer correctly highlights the state of the economic strain that India is facing as a consequence of the ongoing conflict. Indian exports from labour-intensive industries are facing more heat due to disruptions in the shipping routes via the Red Sea and Suez Canal. India is currently experiencing difficulties in navigating through conflict-led geopolitical divisions, with Iran drawing closer to China and Russia while Israel remains backed by the US. To safeguard its long-term economic and strategic interests, India has to maintain balanced relationS with both sides. By adopting an active diplomatic engagement with both Israel and Iran, India could position itself as a mediator.

Vaibhav Goyal, Chandigarh

A true gem

Ratan Tata is a gem, precious not only for his material wealth but also his deep human qualities. With his passing, we have lost a pearl whose mere presence radiated dignity, simplicity and innovation. His values, humble demeanour, his care for employees and communities are qualities that should be cherished and promoted. His vision, innovative mindset and dedication to giving back to society through various services are a legacy that must be sustained.

Manju Lamba, Yamunanagar

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: Letters@tribunemail.com