Don’t go gaga over Usha, Kamala
With reference to ‘The complicated diaspora story’ (The Great Game); the author has rightly noted that our admiration for Usha Vance and Kamala Harris is tainted. There is no need to celebrate the success of those of us who settle down in the West. There is no reason for us to go gaga over Kamala’s or Usha’s rise to prominence in American politics. First and foremost, they are American citizens. That’s where their loyalty lies — to their fellow Americans. What can we expect from Usha as the potential future Second Lady of the US? Nothing. Whether it is Kamala or Usha, they are not going to reshape the US foreign policy to benefit New Delhi.
Ramesh Gupta, Narwana
Admiration for Usha misplaced
Apropos of ‘The complicated diaspora story’; the subject is multifaceted. Admiration for Indian-origin citizens settled in the West, like Usha Vance, is often misplaced. Our fascination with them often overlooks their distinct backgrounds and politics. Be it Kamala Harris or former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, we Indians often blindly embrace them as ‘our own’. This reflects our deep-seated insecurity. We must celebrate their achievements. But we should also understand that they are global citizens who are not bound by their Indian identity.
Gurdev Singh, by mail
Engagement with Indian diaspora
Refer to ‘The complicated diaspora story’; the article aptly highlights the paradox inherent in our perception of the success of the Indian diaspora in the West. While we celebrate the achievements of Indian-Americans like Usha Vance and Kamala Harris, at the same time, we harbour a sense of bias towards foreigners. That is a sign of our insecurity about where India stands in the world. The writer has rightly brought home the point that our engagement with the diaspora should progress so that the underlying issues can be addressed.
Amarjeet Mann, Una
Can’t whitewash one’s identity
Indian-Americans are called ‘coconuts’ — Brown on the outside, White on the inside — in the lingo of the Chandigarh street for a reason. As they live half a world apart, they try to adapt to the Western lifestyle. As the years roll on, they stop identifying themselves with their motherland altogether. The fact of the matter is that it is common for Brown people across the globe to try and emulate the White-dominated Western culture. They are even willing to lose their real identity in the rush to ape others. But they must remember that no matter how hard they try, they can never be White on the outside.
GS Anand, Panchkula
Jammu likely to remain on boil
The recent slaying of Indian soldiers in Doda during an exchange of fire with militants is tragic. Unfortunately, the situation is likely to remain tense since no concerted efforts have been made yet to stem the rot of insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir. Thanks to unilateral, political and partisan steps, the flames of insurgency have now engulfed Jammu too. The dangerous consequences of the abrogation of Article 370 are now unfolding in the region. Besides, enhancing the powers of the J&K Lieutenant Governor is not the solution. Unfortunately, PM Narendra Modi does not seem focused on the rising terror attacks in Jammu or the plight of people in strife-torn Manipur.
PK Sharma, by mail
Assam shows the way
The decline of 81 per cent in child marriages in Assam is commendable. The biannual crackdown and targeted measures have shown promising results. These steps are aligned with the state’s goal to eradicate the social evil by 2026. However, the move to repeal the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act, 1935, is a matter of concern. Many members of the minority community follow the personal laws prescribed by the 1937 Shariat Act. While the intent to protect minor girls is welcome, the move risks alienating one community. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma should focus on educational programmes to ensure lasting change. Balancing reforms with respect for religious customs is crucial.
Amanjot Kaur, Mohali
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