China’s expansionist policy

With reference to the article, ‘Why lessons of 1962 war should still hold good’; when the lessons of the Mahabharata are still relevant, there is a lot to learn from the 1962 India-China war as well because of Beijing’s expansionist ambitions. The writer rightly observes that the Chinese leadership realises that a contact battle may not be decisively winnable; however, no one can predict the outcome of a war. China will keep India on tenterhooks. It has tried to occupy Indian territory many times, resulting in bloody clashes. The recent agreement on disengagement of troops in eastern Ladakh is not clear and transparent. Beijing fears that India may stop imports from China or reduce them drastically.

Capt Amar Jeet (Retd), Kharar

Recognising Taliban’s influence

Refer to the editorial ‘Taliban outreach’; it displays India’s balanced approach toward the Afghan regime. By appointing an acting consul in Mumbai, the Taliban have sought closer diplomatic links with India. While New Delhi has not recognised the Taliban, it is wisely engaging with Afghanistan through humanitarian aid and Chabahar port access for Afghan businesses. This shift stems from Afghanistan’s deteriorating ties with Pakistan following recent border clashes and China’s proactive approach to the Taliban to advance its Belt and Road Initiative. However, India must engage cautiously with the regime that is yet to be recognised by the international community, while securing stability in the region.

CHANCHAL S MANN, UNA

Family members bear the brunt

With reference to the news report ‘Bulldozer justice unlawful, can’t raze even criminal’s property illegally: SC’; it is crucial to find out a middle path rather than adopt the approach of instant demolition as the loss would not only affect the criminal but also the innocent family members. Alternative shelters and some compensation should be provided to the affected families. A fair hearing should be given to the accused and the administrative body. Demolition without a clear and transparent reason should invite punishment.

CHANDRANI DAS, JAMMU

Find alternatives to antibiotics

Apropos of the article ‘Superbugs and the looming public health crisis’; much has been said and written about the impact of irrational use of antibiotics on our immunity. Simply saying that the use of antibiotics should be reduced is not enough. There is a need to educate the public about the alternatives. Besides, the entire medical fraternity, including doctors, paramedics and pharmacists, need to be educated and convinced about how and when to administer and prescribe antibiotics. It should be backed by a strong legislation and effective monitoring and control.

Ravinder Mittal, Ludhiana

Coaching centres under scrutiny

Refer to the news report, ‘Centre out with norms to regulate misleading ads by coaching centres’; the government must be applauded for the action it has taken to regulate the publication of misleading ads by coaching institutes. Besides the government, the onus lies on the consumers to not get distracted by the false assurances the service providers make to get a hefty remuneration. Parents must fully verify the credentials of teaching hubs.

VASUDHA PANDE, PAONTA SAHIB

Curb freebie culture

In recent years, the phenomenon of freebies announced by political parties has reached an unprecedented level. Free ration, free electricity, waiver of bank loans, unemployed youth being given monthly stipend, old-age pension, free health insurance, free travel for women in buses and what not. The Supreme Court must intervene and make it mandatory for all parties to deposit 10 per cent cost of all freebies announced by them in a bank account reserved for this purpose; in case the ruling party fails to fulfil its electoral promises, this amount should be confiscated.

Arun Hastir, Gurdaspur

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