Strengthen diplomatic relations

Refer to ‘Jaishankar’s Pak trip’; after a gap of nearly a decade, an Indian foreign minister is going to visit Pakistan. But S Jaishankar has clarified that he is going to attend a meeting of a multilateral organisation and would not discuss India-Pakistan relations there. However, such occasions offer opportunities — for better or worse. Last year, then Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari came to India for the SCO meeting but soured bilateral relations further with his controversial statements. It remains to be seen whether Jaishankar’s diplomatic wisdom will help in improving relations between the neighbours.

RK Arora, Mohali

Foster love among neighbours

With reference to ‘Jaishankar’s Pak trip’; there is a saying that you make peace with your enemies, not your friends. Therefore, the EAM should utilise this unique opportunity to revive the dialogue after it came to a standstill a decade ago. If bilateral talks are not officially scheduled, informal discussions may be held on the sidelines of the SCO summit. Cooperation and coordination are essential for peace and prosperity in the region. Pakistan must shun support to terrorism and end its hostile stance towards India. Both countries must forge and strengthen close relations to make gains in economic, cultural and other spheres. Let cordiality foster love among neighbours who have common ancestors.

Subhash Vaid, New Delhi

Reversal in political fortunes

Apropos of ‘Advantage Congress’; the party is poised to form the government in Haryana, not only in sync with the prediction made by the exit polls, but also as per the general perception among voters. Anti-incumbency in Haryana may not have gathered so much momentum if the ruling party leadership had not ill-treated protesting farmers and women wrestlers. Divisive tactics may work sometimes, but ultimately it is your work that will script your destiny in politics. Removing Manohar Lal Khattar as CM after nine-and-a-half years and the release of Gurmeet Ram Rahim on parole ahead of the polling day seem to have proved futile. Rahul Gandhi’s growing popularity and the BJP’s high-handedness towards protesters and critics of its policies are causing a reversal in the fortunes of the two parties.

Roshan Lal Goel, Ladwa

One year of Gaza conflict

Apropos of ‘Despair, dread a year after Hamas attack’; in a region riven by centuries-old grievances and a history of extreme violence rooted in religious, territorial and ethnic tensions, it appears pointless to specify who is responsible for the conflict. The quest for regional domination in the name of Islam by the clerical regime in Iran and Israel’s refusal to accommodate aspirations of Palestinians in its uncompromising pursuit of national security have left little room for common sense to prevail. As West Asia stares at a prolonged war, India’s stakes have never been this high. The US, which has the political influence to facilitate a ceasefire, has struggled to persuade the Israeli PM to create room for diplomacy. Due to the upcoming presidential elections, the US has become a helpless spectator.

LJ Singh, by mail

Enforce strict regulations

Refer to ‘The growing threat of fake, substandard medicines’; the widespread sale of low-grade medicines, without proper safety and efficacy standards, results in dangerous consequences for patients. Unlike developed countries, medicines in India are available even without doctors’ prescription. The administration must ensure strict enforcement of rules and laws. Public awareness will act as a catalyst to resolve the problem of fake medicines. A coordinated effort involving various stakeholders is a must for the availability of safe, effective and high-quality medicines to the public.

Anup Kumar Gakkhar, Hardwar

Address turnout disparity

Apropos of ‘Haryana’s hot seats see higher polling, urban areas lag amid string of holidays’; a key reason for this disparity could be the holidays, which led many urban residents to leave town rather than choose to vote. This trend highlights the growing apathy of urban voters. In contrast, the higher polling in politically significant rural constituencies shows the electorate’s deep engagement. The ECI should address the drop in the urban turnout.

Saurav Suman, Patiala

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