Jammu and Kashmir is on the cusp of change, but several challenges remain (‘The elected government will get complete support of the LG’, September 1). Even after a new government comes to power, the Centre must continue to closely monitor the situation.
Restoration of statehood can wait; the priority should be to liberate Kashmir from the grip of terrorists and separatist forces. Until that is achieved, the lieutenant governor has to remain in control.
The anti-India factions in Jammu and Kashmir have to be decisively countered. Industrial growth in Jammu and Kashmir will alter the region in so many ways. The surge in tourism is already a visible indicator of change.
Rupika Nagori,
On email.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said polls will be free and fair. The progress made in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in addressing the needs of the underprivileged, the young and the unemployed, provides opportunities for all.
I am hopeful of a fair electoral process and the emergence of capable leadership to guide Jammu and Kashmir forward.
Roshan Pinto,
On email.
J&K has the potential to become the most developed region in the country. It is home to several unexplored, breathtaking places, truly earning its title as the ‘paradise on earth’. There is so much more that an elected government can achieve in Kashmir. With development and job creation, many of the region’s challenges can be resolved.
It is important that prominent industries invest in the area. Industrial parks should be established across the region.
Veena Nandan,
On email.
It will be interesting to see what unfolds if a government at odds with the BJP comes to power in J&K. What if it demands the reinstatement of Article 370? Such a scenario could lead to complete chaos in the region. I sincerely hope this situation does not arise.
Shivam Tyagi,
On email.
Watch out, Kangana
Kangana Ranaut appears to have distanced herself from her past affiliations (‘Point blank’, September 1). While Wikipedia may have updated her designation from ‘actress’ to ‘Member of Lok Sabha’, her 18 years of experience in films cannot be erased. Her new political associates criticised her remarks about “dead bodies hanging and rapes taking place” during the farmers’ protest, thereby suggesting that it is best to avoid such conversations.
Aparna Vats,
On email.
Recognise Modi’s work
Why is Mani Shankar Aiyar always criticising Narendra Modi and his administration (‘Manifesto’, September 1)? Is Aiyar blind to the fact that over the past decade, the country has risen in stature thanks to the good work done by the Central government? I used to be among those who believed there was no alternative to the Congress. But when I look around objectively, I see improvement in all parameters.
India is doing well in controlling inflation. While neighbouring countries are plagued by poverty, violence, bloodshed and corruption, our country is emerging as a global power—something acknowledged by nations worldwide.
Aiyar must agree that the recent Lok Sabha election was free and fair, sans any controversy. Otherwise, how could the opposition parties win so many seats? I am confident that the contributions of Modi and his colleagues to the country and the world will be recognised by future generations.
Jothindra P.L.,
On email.
It is puzzling as to why every ‘Manifesto’ must mention Modi. Aiyar’s anger and resentment against Modi are evident in all his columns. A columnist or writer should approach his or her work without prejudice.
Vinay Thattey,
On email.
Epitome of humility
Dr Ramana Rao has been selflessly providing free medical services and medicines to millions of villagers in Karnataka for nearly 50 years (‘Hearts of kindness’, September 1). Today, where cruelty, deceit, selfishness, and villainy often prevail, finding such a person is truly rare. Undoubtedly, he is a gift from God. Rao has been a doctor to generations and his patients hold him in the highest regard.
An epitome of humility, his benevolent words and warm smile alleviate half the problems of the patients.
Sanjay Chopra,
On email.
My heart was filled with joy and gratitude upon reading about the selfless, dedicated service provided by the godlike Rao. A good doctor is one who makes patients feel comfortable and relaxed, understands their concerns and provides the support they need. Rao is all this and more.
K.N. Chandrashekar,
Bengaluru.
Please do it
May I request you to do a cover story on a major overhaul of the judiciary system (‘The five-year plan’, August 25). With over five crore cases pending in India, it could take more than 500 years to resolve them all. By then, neither the original parties nor their next generations will be around. In a democracy, there is a critical need for the speedy disposal of legal disputes.
Currently, 50-70 cases are listed each day in any given court, but only 10-15 are actually heard. A simple solution would be for courts to list only 20 a day, ensuring that all could be heard within that day. Implementing this change could drastically reduce legal costs and improve the efficiency of the judicial system. Your magazine could play a crucial role in conveying this suggestion to our esteemed Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, for implementation across the country.
Neerav Kapasi,
On email.