Trump now a symbol of courage

There is no place for violence in a democratic country. Former US President Donald Trump demonstrated sheer courage by raising his fist in the air shortly after a bullet grazed his right ear in an assassination attempt on him during a rally in Pennsylvania last week. World leaders have rightly condemned the attack. With just four months left for the US presidential elections, it remains to be seen if the attempt on Trump’s life will prompt both parties to tone down the political rhetoric. Either way, the episode is bound to impact the outcome of the election. Notably, several polls have been projecting a victory for Trump since Biden’s disastrous performance during the first debate, spurring Democrats to seek a replacement for Biden at the top of the ticket.

Yash Pal Ralhan, Jalandhar

A raised fist of defiance

The assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump signifies a dark chapter in the history of democracy. Leaders worldwide, including PM Narendra Modi, have rightly condemned the heinous act. President Joe Biden’s denunciation of violence underscores the need for unity and a departure from hatred. This incident highlights the urgent necessity for political discourse to be grounded in respect and civility. Violence has no place in democracy; it threatens the very fabric of society. The image of Trump defiantly raising his fist may become emblematic of his resilience. The incident also calls for deep reflection. Both parties must abandon the rhetoric of hate and violence. The real challenge now is to foster a political environment in which differences are settled through dialogue, not the barrel of a gun.

Gurpreet Kaur, Mohali

Bloodied but not defeated

Refer to the editorial ‘Attack on Trump’; it seems like toxic political rhetoric triggered the attempt on the former President’s life. But it is Trump’s reaction to the gunfire that almost killed him that will define his campaign. It will be hard to forget the moment he raised a defiant fist as he was ushered off stage by Secret Service officials, with blood streaking across his face. How the incident shapes the rest of the election campaign and impacts the results will be closely watched. Besides, it will also add to the debate surrounding gun control and test the Republicans’ pro-gun stance.

Satwant Kaur Panesar, by mail

J&K remains on edge

Apropos of ‘J&K L-G’s powers’; the Union Home Ministry’s decision to enhance the powers of the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (L-G) has ignited a fierce debate. While the Centre contends that the move is aimed at streamlining the administration, critics view it as an encroachment on the rights of an elected government. The L-G’s newfound authority over police matters, public order and all-India services officers raises crucial questions. Is this a prudent step towards efficient governance or a subtle erosion of democratic principles? The absence of an elected dispensation since 2018 adds urgency to these deliberations. Yet, the timing is everything. As the Supreme Court’s deadline for holding Assembly elections in J&K looms, doubts persist about the restoration of statehood.

Gurdev Singh, by mail

Let local cops take on militants

The killing of at least four Army personnel in an exchange of fire in Doda district is extremely tragic and disturbing. As many as 48 soldiers have been killed in action in J&K in the last 32 months. Every single death is a loss for the country. Each life is precious. It is time for the Army to let the local police conduct search operations in the area. It is worth recalling that it was the police that reined in militancy in Punjab, not the Army. Soldiers should only be deployed in border areas.

Arun Hastir, Gurdaspur

End culture of freebies

Refer to the editorial ‘HP cuts power subsidy’; it is a welcome step on the part of the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led state government. The Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board is already reeling under financial losses. It shows that doling out freebies to voters comes at a heavy cost. The free electricity scheme launched in 2022 by then CM Jai Ram Thakur is the reason why the state electricity board finds itself in dire financial straits. The need of the hour is to tweak the election laws to restrict political parties from offering freebies to the electorate.

MD Sharma, Shimla

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