Homage to Saibaba
Professor Saibaba's tragic passing is a painful reminder of his unjust and torturous incarceration for long years. His life's struggle reminds us both of the power of conviction and the unfairness of our criminal justice system, where the process itself is the punishment. The acts of custodial torture suffered by Professor Saibaba before his eventual acquittal remain an indelible scar on the nation's moral conscience. His suffering should serve as a reminder of the need for collective action to secure our democratic rights, anchored in the inviolability of sacrosanct human rights. An uncompromising assertion against the oppressive invocation of prosecutorial processes is an imperative. The homage to the Professor would be to dedicate ourselves to securing purposive judicial reforms and enacting a comprehensive anti-custodial torture legislation in keeping with the promise of the Constitution.
Ashwani Kumar, by email
Timeless battles & politics
Refer to "Gods, demons and political parties"; the timeless battle between good and evil, playing out in myths and politics, reveals uncomfortable truths. From Ram's arrow piercing Ravan to Durga's triumph over Mahishasura, we see deities using deception to secure victory. This mirrors today's political landscape, where parties manipulate to achieve power. The BJP's success in Haryana, for instance, showcases shrewd calculation: working every angle, embracing RSS cadres and exploiting caste dynamics. Yet, the Congress' refusal to face this reality and, instead, blaming the EVMs or infighting, speaks of denial and entitlement. As gods deploy illusions, political parties master strategy. Victory, in both realms, often comes not just from virtue, but from understanding human nature.
Sahibpreet Singh, Mohali
The end of an era
Rafael Nadal's retirement marks the end of an era in tennis, one filled with unmatched passion and resilience. From his tearful farewell alongside Federer at the 2022 Laver Cup to now, Nadal's journey has been defined by intensity and grace. Despite battling injuries and a rare foot condition, he amassed 22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Opens, earning the title of 'King of Clay.' Nadal wasn't just a player; he was a force — relentless on the court, humble off it. His rivalry with Federer and Djokovic elevated the sport, while his humility inspired millions. As he steps off the court, the world of tennis loses one of its greatest warriors, but his legacy endures. Gracias, Rafael, for the memories, the fights and the spirit you brought to every match. You leave behind an indelible mark on the sport.
Sargunpreet Kaur, Mohali
Govt right in snubbing Canada
Apropos of 'Ties with Canada hinge upon action against anti-India activities: Govt', India has rightly told Canada that 'decisive and verifiable action' against extremists involved in 'anti-India activities' is a pre-condition for restoring normal ties with that country. India voiced its concern over anti-India activities on Canadian soil by Khalistani activists. It raised concerns about the nexus between these forces and criminals involved in drug and human trafficking as well as crimes like extortion. Canada must extradite such criminals to India for legal trial.
Vijaya Sharma, by email
Zero hunger a distant dream
As per the Global Hunger Index-2024 report, India is on the 105th spot among 127 countries. This is indicative of a serious level of hunger, with child wasting showing a high rate of 18.7 per cent. Even countries like Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka are better placed. Despite considerable industrial and economic growth and self-reliance in food production, India has been unable to provide enough food to large numbers of people. A majority of the pregnant women are anaemic. The kind of offspring such women deliver can be very well imagined. We boast of becoming the fifth largest economy of the world and a developed nation by 2047. But, as of today, free ration to about 82 crore poor people is being distributed, pointing to them reeling under poverty. A NITI report has also revealed that 74 per cent people can't afford healthy food in India. The country is aiming to achieve zero hunger by 2030. It is a distant dream. The government should pay more attention to this issue.
Raj Kumar Kapoor, ROPAR
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