D.K. Shivakumar is to the Congress what Amit Shah is to the BJP. Today, the Congress needs more shrewd and influential leaders like Shivakumar across the country, who, no matter what, will give the party good results (‘It was a do-or-die battle for me’, June 11).

Shivakumar has definitely raised his political capital after the Congress’s stunning victory in Karnataka. As the deputy chief minister, I am sure he will restore Karnataka’s glory and attract investments to the state.

I seriously hope that Shivakumar will not have any disagreements with Siddaramaiah, and they will work well as a team. The BJP rule in Karnataka was an utter failure. its leaders ran a polarised campaign, and the voters gave them a befitting response.

Ajayan Prasad,

On email.

We are concerned

It has been a matter of concern that the majority has grown habituated to attacking the minorities in a manner that evokes deep disappointment and shame to every Indian (‘Valley vs the hills’, June 11).

India, in the last decade, has witnessed an increased socio-political polarisation on the grounds of religion and caste. It has left us disheartened and concerned about the future of the country.

Now, the conflict in Manipur between the largely Hindu Meitei population and their largely Christian tribal neighbours has caught the world’s eye. It has given the entire country a black eye. In addition, the Army reportedly brutally assaulted the Kukis, referring to them as militants, leading to the death of almost 40 people.

It is a shame to see the extent to which some people will go to make India lose face.

Shihan P.P. Kanhileri,

On email.