Kids must reach out for help

Refer to ‘Recognising signs of suicidal distress before it’s too late’; when a child contemplates ending his or her life, it’s a clear indication that society has failed him/her. Where do we go wrong? Do we prioritise academic achievement over emotional nurturing, and competition over collaboration? Instead of acknowledging their strengths, do we focus on their weaknesses? We must teach children that it’s okay to be vulnerable and to seek help when needed. Let them grow at their own pace. The responsibility lies with guardians, teachers and society as a whole. We must create a supportive environment where children feel comfortable to seek help without fear of judgment or reprisal.

Harsh Pawaria, Rohtak

Open up about your problems

We are running a rat race all the time for good grades, awards, salary packages, social media followers — the list is endless. Confucius rightly said: ‘Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated’. We tend to behave like a machine, unaware of the fact that we are getting mentally ill. These days, people are always ready to share their happy moments on social media. They generally do not discuss their problems, giving the false impression that all is well. Therefore, the need of the hour is to develop an attitude of opening up about our problems and difficulties, especially among students. They must understand that failures are stepping stones to success.

Bir Devinder Singh Bedi, Sangrur

Trump’s arm-twisting tactics

US President Donald Trump is compelling countries around the world to refrain from purchasing oil from Russia, while also implementing reciprocal tariffs globally. He is threatening Iran, following which the latter has directed its long-range ballistic missiles at a US base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, which also houses British troops. A US attack there could result in collateral damage to the UK, potentially drawing it into the hostilities with Iran. If these tensions escalate, the conflicts could have a cascading effect, leading to a catastrophic situation. The United Nations and other global stakeholders must intervene to stop it at the nascent stage itself.

RS Narula, Patiala

Problem of plenty

The Punjab Government has announced the opening of a state-run medical college at Nawanshahr. The government probably has not pondered over the resources at its disposal before making this announcement. Government medical colleges have been announced earlier for Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Malerkotla and Sangrur. They were to be built on a 60:40 sharing basis between the Centre and the state. These proposed medical colleges have not seen the light of day so far. The existing government medical colleges at Amritsar and Patiala are plagued by inadequate medical facilities, infrastructure and staff. What is the use of opening new medical colleges when the state is unable to run the existing ones efficiently?

Ajay Bagga, Hoshiarpur

Too much focus on Hindutva

With reference to ‘RSS-BJP bonhomie’; the cordiality between them is good for both sides. However, the BJP and the RSS need to work out their strategy with respect to their overdependence on Hindutva. Certain doubts arose earlier when RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat indirectly cautioned the Prime Minister over the arrogance of power. Decisions on the succession plan of the BJP chief and the PM will show how well the two are collaborating.

Deepak Taak, Panchkula

Facilitate peaceful celebrations

Apropos of ‘Eid and politics’; Bhagwant Mann’s message of peace, progress and unity on Eid must permeate other states as well. At a time when divisive politics rules the roost, the CM’s address holds great significance. India is a country inhabited by communities professing diverse faiths. The authorities need to facilitate peaceful and harmonious celebrations, avoiding harsh restrictions on festivals to uphold their true spirit.

Ravi Sharma, Dhariwal

Letters to the Editor