Stop voting criminals to power

Refer to the article ‘Zero-tolerance approach a must to curb crimes against women’; the horrifying rape and killing of a junior doctor at a government medical facility in Kolkata serves as a stark reminder of the grave threat women in the country face every day. While growing calls for swift justice are welcome, are we being realistic? After all, 46 per cent of the newly elected Lok Sabha MPs face criminal cases, according to an analysis by the Association for Democratic Reforms. The massive criminalisation of politics in India is a matter of concern. Things will not change for the better until and unless voters decide to pick only the candidates who have integrity and a clean track record.

Chanchal S Mann, Una

Doctors’ lives matter

Apropos of the editorial ‘Doctors’ strike’; the whole nation was jolted awake by the brutal 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape case. People from all quarters of society came together to call for justice. But sadly, the ongoing protests against the Kolkata rape-murder horror are mostly being led by members of the medical fraternity, as civil society remains in deep slumber. It reflects our lack of concern for those who serve and treat us in times of need. Do doctors’ lives not matter? It is time for the nation to wake up again and introspect.

Rajesh Kumar Sharma, Fazilka

Patients bear the brunt of strike

With reference to ‘Doctors’ strike’; the gruesome rape and murder of a young doctor on the premises of a state-run hospital in Kolkata has understandably caused massive outrage. The government must heed the voices of the medics across the nation who have been striking work in protest for days. It is the need of the hour to ensure a safe working environment for medical professionals. There needs to be a comprehensive law in place to shield healthcare workers from violence. At the same time, it is imperative for the authorities to make sure that underprivileged people don’t bear the brunt of the ongoing doctors’ strike. As the stir cripples hospital services, the powers that be must look out for those who cannot afford treatment at private hospitals. It is incumbent on the Centre and the state governments to address the doctors’ demands and end the stalemate.

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

Step up security at hospitals

The horrific Kolkata incident must be condemned by all in the strongest terms. But the harsh reality is that such cases are reported every day from across the country. We must not be distracted by the growing calls for West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee to step down. Asking someone at the helm of affairs in a state rocked by controversy to resign is not the solution. Why do the people who want Mamata ousted not call upon the CMs of all other states that have witnessed such heinous acts to quit as well? The focus should be on enhancing the security measures for healthcare workers.

SK Khosla, Chandigarh

A fresh chapter in J&K

Apropos of the editorial ‘Polls in J&K’; holding elections alone won’t solve all the challenges facing the region. The first step towards restoring normalcy in J&K would be ensuring an end to militant activities. But there will be no let-up in the unrest until and unless there is a change in the mindset of local residents and their leaders. The focus should not just be on casting votes but also on achieving all-round development, progress and prosperity. Besides, the erstwhile state has massive potential for industrial growth. And a return to normalcy in the region will boost local tourism. Saying ‘no’ to violence and militancy will pave the way for a brighter future for J&K.

PV Madhu Nivriti, Secunderabad

Crack down on drug peddlers

With reference to the editorial ‘Call against drugs’; it is commendable that the Punjab Government has taken a serious view of the drug menace prevalent in the state. The authorities must leave no stone unturned to check drug addiction. Punjabi celebrities — from film stars to sportspersons — can play a vital role in educating the youth about the harms of consuming narcotic substances. Besides, the powers that be must crack down on those involved in drug peddling.

Himanshu Goyal, Kaithal

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