India-Pakistan Peaceful Coexistence Essential for Prosperity
In a letter responding to 'Let Pakistan crow from the rooftops' (The Great Game), reader Hira Sharma emphasizes that Pakistan's role as a mediator in the US-Iran peace deal should not diminish India's stature. India remains a far larger economy, a stronger military power, and a technologically advanced nation. Sharma describes India and Pakistan as estranged brothers separated by Partition, whose subsequent wars were sagas of shared suffering regardless of victory or defeat. This shared pain must not become a recurring reality. Forces that spread mutual hatred must be countered, as the long-term existence and prosperity of both nations can only be guaranteed through peaceful coexistence.
Narratives Cannot Steer Economy
Rajesh Goyal from Chandigarh adds that public sentiment in both countries has been dominated by a mix of hostility and affinity since Partition. Bollywood and politicians have exploited both sentiments for financial and political gains. Bollywood continues to produce films reflecting prevailing public sentiments, but public affinity remains intact beneath manufactured narratives. Goyal notes that Pakistan's mediation efforts in the West Asia crisis may bring short-term publicity, but a strong economy is built on stronger foundations.
Fake Degrees Plague Legal Profession
Subhash C Taneja from Gurugram addresses the 'Lawyers’ database' issue, calling it a grave concern that 35-40% of advocates registered with the Bar Council possess fake degrees. He supports a thorough verification drive to identify and weed out corrupt individuals. Linking advocates’ records with universities, the UGC, and the Bar Council can help trace fraudulent advocates. All stakeholders must work in close coordination to expose fraudulent elements before the public.
Judicial Reforms Urgently Needed
Anil Bhatia from Hisar echoes concerns about fake degrees, noting that a staggering 40% of lawyers may operate with fake credentials. He argues that judicial activism alone is insufficient; judicial reform is equally necessary, with the onus on the Bar Council of India. Interminable delays and frequent adjournments undermine the value of justice. When democratic institutions weaken, judicial activism remains the last hope, but only when both the Bar and the Bench are upright, competent, and skilled.
Peace Not a Favour from Powerful Nations
MM Goel from Kurukshetra responds to 'Trump’s Versailles — and a chance for peace', urging the global community to revisit assumptions about peace, security, and diplomacy. Sustainable peace cannot emerge from personal ambitions, national ego, or symbolic recognition; it requires respect for the UN and collective responsibility. If the US genuinely seeks peace, its leadership must prioritize global stability over strategic dominance. Peace is not a favour granted by powerful nations but a shared necessity for economic progress, human welfare, and prosperity.
Pedestrian Safety Remains a Concern
Brij B Goyal from Ludhiana highlights that despite the Supreme Court's ruling affirming the right to walk on demarcated footpaths, things are unlikely to change in Indian cities. Municipalities and Improvement Trusts often fail to act against encroachments by shopkeepers and vendors. Violators flout rules with impunity despite public protests, and even traffic police kiosks occupy footpaths. People must assert their right to safe walking spaces through civil society interventions. Municipalities should install hoardings on major roads and in busy markets highlighting legal provisions against encroachment and penalties for violations.
