Kids vulnerable to exploitation

Apropos of ‘Fighting child porn’; the Supreme Court’s observations about children’s vulnerability to sexual exploitation will hopefully go a long way in protecting them from sexual offences under the POCSO Act. The judgment highlights the perils of ‘child sexual exploitation and abuse material’, but much depends on the implementation of the Act. As the SC has rightly pointed out, awareness about consent and its limits needs to be raised through sex education in schools, colleges and at home, apart from counselling and therapy. Another important aspect is the sensitisation of police personnel and the need for them to handle victims with compassion. The SC judgment seems to have its heart in the right place, but it is imperative to ensure that its stringency is not misused to penalise rather than to protect.

Prakash Kaur Hanspaul, by mail

What he preached, he practised

Refer to the article ‘War-torn world needs Gandhian balm’; it becomes abundantly clear that in today’s materialistic world tormented by hyper-consumerism, war, militarism and terrorism, we have been deprived of the Gandhian spirit. We can certainly rediscover Gandhi’s philosophy to create a just and humane world in these turbulent times. Whatever he preached, he practised by urging others to discover the source of inner strength, courage and simplicity. He has become more relevant in this dystopian world by his efficacious remedy of loving kindness, ahimsa, peace and forgiveness, from the all-pervading emphasis on economic prosperity to the cultivation of ‘soul force'. Gandhi’s philosophy has been criticised as irrelevant in today’s modern world of rationalism, reason and materialism. He was not perfect; yet he seems as an irresistible soothing balm for the world’s wounds.

Gurpreet Singh, Mohali

Height of political patronage

With reference to ‘Unapologetic Gujarat’; politicians can dispense with the sense of right and wrong without any compunction when their political interests are buttressed by siding with criminals. In the Bilkis Bano rape and murder case, 11 convicts had been sentenced to life imprisonment, but the Gujarat Government secured their premature release by suppressing material facts. When they walked out of prison, they were accorded a hero’s welcome. On a petition filed against the remission, the SC overturned the government’s decision and the convicts were ordered to go back to prison. The government was so keen to protect these perpetrators of heinous crimes that a review petition was filed, which was also dismissed by a Supreme Court Bench. The BJP dispensation in Gujarat now stands unmasked. This discriminatory attitude in favour of felons can rip apart India’s democratic fabric.

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

A step in the right direction

Apropos of ‘Censor woes’; the ongoing debate over creative freedom often overlooks the core issue — the right to express without undue interference. The controversy surrounding the film Emergency exemplifies this struggle. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) faces immense pressure from various stakeholders, each with its own agenda. However, the essence of art lies in its ability to provoke thought and spark dialogue. Films — especially those on sensitive subjects — are meant to challenge perceptions and encourage discourse. The CBFC’s role should be restricted to ensuring that content is viewed and judged fairly. It must not succumb to external pressure. The recent stance by the Bombay High Court, affirming that creative freedom cannot be stifled due to potential law and order concerns, is a step in the right direction. Trust the audience’s intelligence and let it decide.

Sargunpreet Kaur, Mohali

A dauntless writer

With reference to ‘Keki Daruwalla, celebrated poet, passes away at 87’; it is extremely sad to hear that this fine poet, writer and commentator is no more. He was a recipient of the Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi awards. His novel For Pepper and Christ is a work of rich imagination. His works are imbued with creative brilliance and prowess. He was gallant, dauntless and known for always calling a spade a spade. He will be missed.

C Ghanshyam, by mail

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