Apropos of ‘US-Iran deal marks a strategic reset’; the announcement of the pact offers respite to a world fatigued by uncertainty. Over the past three months, the confrontation has threatened regional stability, disrupted energy supplies and sent shockwaves through global markets. The decision to prioritise diplomacy over military escalation is both prudent and timely. Historically, it is evident that wars may achieve short-term objectives, but lasting peace can only emerge through dialogue and mutual accommodation. The nuclear issue, regional influence and security concerns remain unresolved. Preferring negotiation to confrontation presents an opportunity to create durable trust.
Vandana, Chandigarh
Wake-up call for India
Apropos of ‘Peace pact’; the war in West Asia highlights India’s vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions. Despite pursuing a balanced and independent foreign policy, India has borne significant costs in the form of soaring energy prices, disruptions in oil supplies, pressure on foreign exchange reserves and risks to vital maritime trade routes. In contrast, India coped relatively well while safeguarding national interests after the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war. This underscores the reality of the emerging multipolar world order where no nation alone can unilaterally shape global outcomes. For India, energy diversification, stronger maritime capabilities and strategic foresight are essential for safeguarding its interests.
K Kumar, Panchkula
Consumer awareness is a must
With reference to ‘Label truth’; in the era of AI-driven marketing, consumers need to be alert to see through deceptive practices. Regulatory interventions by authorities such as the FSSAI are essential, but the consumer cannot depend only on periodic action against violations. It requires a continuous culture of transparency and accountability. AI can amplify both facts and falsehoods; consumers need greater awareness to distinguish genuine claims from misleading ones. A responsible marketplace emerges when all stakeholders work in tandem.
MM Goel, Kurukshetra
Tinkering with heritage
Refer to ‘No nudes please, we are Indian’; the distortion of an image of an archaeological artefact is at odds with our fundamental duty to value and preserve our rich heritage. The “attiring” of the Mohenjo-daro ‘Dancing Girl’ might trigger an impulse to tinker with other historical objects, leading to a loss of aesthetic and intellectual wealth. Understanding and reinterpreting the primordial is a dynamic process. We need to value traditions, underscored by ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’. Depriving our children of the nation’s legacy amounts to robbing them of their right to gain knowledge. Such distortions are against our cultural ethos.
Rakesh Mohan Sharma, Pathankot
Rahul needs to change tack
Refer to ‘Rahul Gandhi’s resistance needs a plan’; the Congress leader’s Bharat Jodo Yatra did yield results, leading to a rise in the party’s tally from 52 to 99 MPs in the 2024 parliamentary elections. There is a need for a change in strategy as his recent criticism of the NEET paper leak appears to be an old political tactic that may not help in building a strong Opposition. His declaration that the INDIA bloc has already won the 2029 elections can prove to be counter-productive. A definitive plan is a must to win over the middle class. Moreover, many of Rahul’s past statements have been perceived to be anti-industry and anti-big business, which may not help the Congress attract resources or support in a legitimate and sustainable manner.
Col SS Chauhan (Retd), Zirakpur
Curbs on consenting adults
The Punjab and Haryana High Court’s dismissal of a plea for protection of a live-in couple is a matter of dismay. By elevating family honour above individual autonomy, the order appears to restrict the freedom of choice for consenting adults. Such reasoning inadvertently echoes the traditional outlook of khaps and extra-constitutional social bodies that have historically opposed similar relationships. Judicial endorsement of such notions risks conferring legitimacy upon them.
Ramphal Kataria, Kurukshetra