Manipulating religion

Refer to ‘Shun toxic mix of religion, politics’; India is witnessing a disturbing trend where political parties are blatantly mixing religion with politics. This venomous blend fuels communal tensions, silences dissent and polarises society along religious lines. Instead of addressing real issues like unemployment, inflation and education, politicians are exploiting religious sentiments to consolidate vote banks. It not only distorts the essence of faith but also undermines the democratic and secular ethos of our Constitution. It is deeply worrying that ritualistic displays are replacing reason. We must raise public awareness about this dangerous manipulation.

Balbir Singh Kakkar, Jalandhar

Focus on good deeds

Refer to the article ‘Shun toxic mix of religion, politics’; the main purpose of religion is to transform individuals’ lives, inculcating moral and ethical values in them. It helps people find the purpose of life and guides them on how to lead a meaningful life. Somehow the true essence of religion is missing in today’s mundane world. Mixing of politics with religion by clever politicians and self-proclaimed babas is wreaking havoc on the much-need harmony and peaceful coexistence. The need of the hour is to focus on cultivating good deeds and thoughts. We must shun religious divisiveness in the larger interest of society.

Ravi Sharma, Dhariwal

Irrelevant objections to Waqf Act

Refer to ‘Fight not over yet’; the Muslim community has upped the ante against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Their objections don’t hold much water for the simple reason that a large chunk of the so-called Waqf property across the country is being claimed by Waqf boards without any substantial documents. In a large number of cases in urban areas, the Waqf Board claims to be the owner but is not able to prove its ownership rights. Under the new rules, in case of disputed property, the board will be given an opportunity of being heard by the designated revenue authority not below the rank of a District Collector.

MD Sharma, Shimla

New chapter of friendship

In a rare gesture, the Sri Lankan President conferred the prestigious Mithra Vibhushana award on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was given a red-carpet welcome and several strategic MoUs were signed. So far, Sri Lanka has swung between India and China. Now, it has realised its folly of tilting towards China and getting stuck in its debt-trap diplomacy. Hopefully, both India and Sri Lanka will nurture a healthy and trustworthy partnership. Issues of common interest like fishermen’s livelihood, business investments and rights of the Tamil community should be resolved. Hopefully, both neighbouring countries will pursue strategic cooperation in the years to come.

Kirti Wadhawan, Kanpur

Reaching out to neighbours

With reference to ‘India-Lanka rapport’; Beijing’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean Region has prompted New Delhi to reach out to its neighbour. In 2022, when Sri Lanka was facing an economic crisis, Delhi extended timely help with an assistance of over $4 billion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sri Lanka and held discussions with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to resolve contentious issues. Both nations have interlinked security interests and are committed to strengthening their ties in defence and other sectors.

Subhash C Taneja, Gurugram

Joining the global league

Indian civil engineering has come of age with the inauguration of the 2.08-km-long Pamban bridge, India’s first vertical-lift sea bridge that connects Rameswaram with the Indian mainland. Its design will ensure that it will have a lifespan of over 100 years. It has joined the ranks of globally recognised bridges like the Golden Gate (US), Tower Bridge (UK) and the Oresund bridge between Denmark and Sweden. The bridge lift can rise up to 17 metres, allowing larger ships to pass through while maintaining smooth train operations. Constructed under difficult sea conditions, it is an engineering marvel.

Ramesh G Jethwani, Bengaluru

Letters to the Editor