Apropos of ‘J&K polls a priority, PM Modi pitches for quick delimitation’, a significant step towards the restoration of the political system in the UT has got underway. It was the first formal meeting that the political leaders from the Valley had with Modi after the abrogation of Article 370. That they were now meeting with the Centre’s top leadership accounts for the importance of the meeting’s symbolism. A Constitution Bench of the SC is seized of the legal issues pertaining to the Article, as political leaders from Kashmir indicated that they will abide by the outcome, which is most welcome. The current exercise for J&K has run into a problem as the associate members from Kashmir have not participated in the delimitation committee meetings. The presence of all political stakeholders is essential to cover all aspects and ensure the credibility of the process. Hopefully, this meeting with Modi will persuade some political parties to shed their reluctance and join the process. The long-term goal is restoration of statehood.

EL SINGH, by mail

Go easy with unlocking

There has been an uptick in cases in Maharashtra which gives a cue to other state governments to not go overboard and hastily unlock things. People are weary and anxious owing to the spate of lockdowns, however, one cannot lower one’s guard and return back to normalcy. There has been ambiguity about when the third wave will hit India, but it will certainly hit earlier than estimated if the unlock process is undertaken nonchalantly. We must keep in mind the perils of an anticipated third wave.

Aanya Singhal, Noida

Encroaching on liberty

The article ‘A threat to the nation, really?’ is a strong reiteration of individual liberty guaranteed by the Constitution itself. The curbs on individual liberty on the pretext of sedition and threat to national security are a matter of serious concern for the citizens of the largest democracy. If one does not raise voice against such repressive measures, there will come a time when no one will stand by each other. Where is the nation headed? When everything that has a hint of our colonial past is looked down upon, why do we carry the yoke of archaic laws like the sedition Act and other aspects of the IPC, etc, which have lost their relevance.

Pankaj chahal, Gurugram

Need to correct course

Refer to ‘A threat to the nation, really?’ the misuse of the UAPA against student activists after classifying them as terrorists is unfortunate. The police should have a clear definition of a terrorist and act in a fair manner. Provoking protests should not be a ground for treating anyone as a terrorist. The avoidable pain and suffering which the activists and their families have undergone must be beyond measure. Legal luminaries and the government should review the whole process and initiate course correction so that provisions of law are properly applied to stand the test of scrutiny in the courts.

SUBHASH VAID, NEW DELHI

Voters hold key

Apropos of the article ‘A threat to the nation, really?’ not only truth, but also even justice and the rule of law itself is under trial today. Only 2% cases reach conviction. It reveals how politicians and bureaucrats misuse power and authority. In a theocratic or autocratic style of governance, as it presently seems to exist, only the people/voters are responsible for it. They are also the remedy. People must stand up for justice before everything turns into ‘jungle raj’ patronised by politicians. The system is flawed and needs refurbishing, especially at the trial stage.

BM SINGH, AMRITSAR

Toy industry

It is a good initiative that the PM has advocated the promotion of local toys. India is a big market for toys and manufacturing is very low. We import maximum toys from other countries, especially from China. When we are making weapons and other crucial things in our own country, the manufacture of toys should not be a problem. If this industry grows fast, it will save money as well as generate employment.

Narender Sharma, Joginder Nagar

Corrupt politicians

Reference to ‘Chautala can’t fight LS, Assembly polls in 2024’, and that he will become eligible to contest election after six years of completion of his 10-year imprisonment, it is beyond understanding how law framers thought that after lapse of time a corrupt politician will become honest. Habits die hard. Moreover, a person convicted of criminal charges is not eligible for a government job. This is against all canons of justice and fair play.

Sarjit Singh Gill, Ludhiana

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