Bidding adieu to Vijaypat Singhania
The nation mourns the passing of Dr Vijaypat Singhania, a distinguished industrialist, aviator, and philanthropist. Born into the illustrious Singhania family, he led the Raymond Group for over two decades, transforming it into a household name with the iconic branding of ‘The Complete Man.’ True to this image, Singhania excelled across diverse fields, including business, aviation, adventure sports, and public service. A recipient of the Padma Bhushan, he was also honoured with an honorary PhD from the London Institute of Technology and Research and the title of Honorary Air Commodore by the Indian Air Force. His remarkable achievements earned him the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award for Lifetime Achievement. He also served as Sheriff of Mumbai and set a world record in high-altitude hot air ballooning. A visionary leader and generous philanthropist, Dr Singhania leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.
M Pradyu, Kannur
Unwise move
In recent days, the proposed construction of a two-storey structure in the heart of Margao’s municipal garden has sparked an outcry from the public. The situation even prompted a political leader to go on a hunger strike to voice dissent against the project. Gardens are not just aesthetic additions to our cities but are vital to our survival. They act as the lungs of urban environments, providing much-needed fresh air in an age when air quality is rapidly deteriorating due to industrial pollution and increasing vehicular emissions. Trees also provide a natural habitat for various species of birds and insects. The Margao garden has been a place where families, children, and individuals come to relax, breathe in fresh air, and enjoy the beauty of nature. The prospect of replacing parts of this green space with concrete structures is a deeply troubling thought. Rather than putting up a concrete structure, the authorities should consider environmental conservation. More trees need to be planted in gardens and not replace them with concrete buildings. Authorities should scrap the proposed project and preserve our green spaces for the benefit of all.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Prevent malpractice
I wish to express serious concern over the blatant violation of the central government’s directives restricting the sale of petrol in cans during the ongoing fuel shortage. At a time when citizens are already facing uncertainty and anxiety, such irresponsible actions only aggravate the crisis. A Panaji-based was openly selling petrol in large cans to select customers, despite clear instructions to ensure fair distribution. This deliberate disregard for rules promotes hoarding, fuels panic buying, and deprives genuine consumers of their rightful access to fuel. It also reflects a troubling lack of enforcement and accountability among local authorities. If such violations continue unchecked, they will worsen the shortage and erode public trust in governance. I urge the state government to take strict action against the erring dealer, enforce regular inspections, and ensure compliance. The public deserves fairness, transparency, and accountability in times of scarcity.
Evaristo Fernandes, Merces
Low ethical considerations
The reported resignation of HDFC chairman Atanu Chakraborty citing decisions not aligned with his personal values and ethics is both striking and commendable. Such integrity is rare and worthy of appreciation. However, it also highlights a broader concern about the gap between principles and practice in institutions today. Despite RBI directives mandating doorstep banking for senior citizens, a particular bank denies this service unless a high minimum balance is maintained, excluding those unable to meet such conditions. There are also concerns about proposed limits on UPI transactions, which may inconvenience customers. This disconnect extends beyond banking into governance and society. Laws are often poorly implemented, and ethical considerations are overlooked in decision-making.
John Eric Gomes, Porvorim
Inequality in governance
The Janaagraha budget analysis highlights a glaring injustice in the unequal distribution of public funds across newly formed corporations. Despite similar total budgets ranging between Rs 3,400 crore and Rs 4,700 crore, there exists a shocking 2.5-fold disparity in per capita spending. This effectively means that a citizen’s quality of life is determined by their place of residence, with some receiving significantly greater investment than others. Such imbalance goes beyond administrative inefficiency and reflects systemic inequality in governance. If the Greater Bengaluru Authority fails to ensure fair allocation of resources, these new boundaries risk becoming symbols of neglect rather than progress. A city cannot thrive when access to basic services and dignity depends on one’s pin code. Immediate corrective measures are essential to ensure equitable development and restore public trust.
Vijaykumar HK, Raichur
