Case-by-case assessment
Refer to ‘SC’s balancing act’; the landmark ruling underscores that while some privately held resources could potentially fall under the category of “material resources of the community” , each case requires a careful assessment on merit. Only resources that are significant to community welfare or are scarce may be considered under this provision. Private property remains constitutionally protected unless it meets stringent criteria of public interest. The judgment was not unexpected, although its discussion outside the court has taken a tangential political life of its own. The decision highlights that the SC’s role is not to frame or amend economic policy, but to facilitate the intent of its framers.
Lajwant Singh, By Mail
Tilt towards privatisation
With reference to ‘SC’s balancing act’; the latest verdict is a tilt towards privatisation in sync with the reforms underway in India since 1991. The evolving situation calls for simultaneous reforms, reorientation and a better balancing approach to various sectors and institutions, which stand shaken, as evident from the social, political, religious, economic and environmental turmoil. Resource-building, preservation and conservation need to be priorities, particularly in states reeling under debt. The judiciary needs to adopt a preventive approach to strike a balance between politics of expediency and the spirit of constitutional principles for the harmonious development of India, including its market economy.
Jagvinder Singh Brar, Patiala
Proceed with cautious optimism
Apropos of ‘Back in the saddle’; Donald Trump is often characterised as unpredictable, but his message during poll campaigning has been consistently clear. Though his style may be impulsive and undiplomatic, it resonates strongly with his supporters. International relations are not built on personal chemistry, but on mutual trust. In geopolitics, there are no lifelong friends or foes, only shifting interests. Given Trump’s hardline stance on issues like trade tariffs and immigration, there is a need for cautious optimism about future engagements.
K Kumar, panchkula
No woman President in US yet
With reference to ‘Trump 2.0 won’t be more of the same’; it is certain that one thing that will remain the same is that a woman won’t be occupying the White House. For all those who project America as an advanced, forward-thinking land of dreams, the fact is that it has not fulfilled the dream of any American woman to become the President. India had a woman PM just 19 years after Independence. With abortion rights taken away and Hillary Clinton as well as Kamala Harris defeated, have the American women really progressed since 1776? India has given women the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act and 33 per cent reservation in Parliament and Assemblies. We can give ourselves a pat on the back rather than always singing praises of the West.
Gurnoor Grewal, Chandigarh
Congress must build robust setup
Refer to ‘Congress must reinvent to stay relevant’; the article highlights the party’s struggle against the BJP’s dominance. While Rahul Gandhi’s leadership has seen a revival, the party must focus on a comprehensive strategy. The Congress needs to intensify its membership drive and build a robust organisation. Limited gains in recent elections are due to the BJP’s declining popularity. However, the Congress faces internal contradictions, and its challenge lies in creating a credible alternative to Hindutva. A reorganisation, grounded in ideological clarity and commitment to the masses, will make the Congress a formidable contender.
Harbinder S Dhillon, by mail
Chinese agenda
Apropos of ‘China’s economic woes prompt shift in India border policy’; China has been one of India’s top trading partners, exporting industrial products, telecommunication hardware and raw material for the pharmaceutical industry. After 2020, Chinese businesses struggled in India due to tightening of investment norms, a ban on popular Chinese apps and pressure created by multilateral forums, including BRICS. Easing tensions is convenient for China to expand its global influence while alleviating its economic hardship and sustaining the hope of resumption of diplomatic ties.
Vaibhav Goyal, Chandigarh
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