Other side of gym session
A 28-year-old man from Vasco collapsed and died shortly after returning home from a gym session. In recent months, reports have surfaced about an alarming number of young people suffering fatal heart attacks during or shortly after their gym sessions. These individuals, appear to be healthy and fit, leaving many to wonder what could possibly be triggering such tragic events. It is pertinent to note that intense physical activity, particularly in those who engage in high-intensity workouts or heavy lifting, can put a strain on the cardiovascular system. While this strain might not typically result in a fatal heart attack, certain underlying conditions, like an undiagnosed heart condition can significantly increase the risk. The combination of mental stress and intense physical exertion can significantly raise blood pressure and strain the heart, potentially leading to an acute cardiac event. One area that has drawn attention is the possible link between the Covid-19 vaccine and heart-related issues, particularly myocarditis and pericarditis.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Voice of Indian music
Our nation has lost one of its most iconic voices, Asha Bhosle, whose remarkable career spanned over eight decades. She passed away at the age of 92. Her journey was not without struggle in the early years, but veteran music composer OP Nayyar gave her valuable opportunities that helped shape her rise. Many of her early songs, often picturised on cabaret dancers, became immensely popular. A turning point in her career came after her marriage to music composer RD Burman at the age of 47. She recorded hundreds of songs with him, cementing her legacy. Asha Bhosle also sang in numerous Indian languages, with her Tamil songs achieving great success. Though she is no longer with us, her timeless melodies will continue to live on in the hearts of music lovers. May her soul rest in peace.
N Mahadevan, Chennai
Keep talking
The recent unsuccessful peace talks held between the US and Iran in Islamabad is not good news. It leaves the two-week ceasefire agreed upon between them in limbo, and the world wary of the situation slipping into war again. The central sticking point remains Iran’s nuclear programme and Washington’s insistence on firm guarantees that Tehran will not develop nuclear weapons and ensure reopening of Strait of Hormuz. Iran, for its part, demands sanctions relief and recognition of its security concerns. With neither side budging the talks were perhaps destined to stall. What is worrying in the present situation is the escalation of the crisis. Whether it is through naval blockades, military strikes or economic pressure. It risks deepening the crisis and destabilising an already volatile region. The consequences would not be limited to the Middle East; disruptions to global energy supplies and trade routes could reverberate across the world. Diplomacy often advances in small, uncertain steps. For the US and Iran, persistence at the negotiating table is the only viable path to preventing further conflict. Peace talks may falter, but abandoning them altogether would be disastrous.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Access to justice
At a recent regional conference, Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant observed that the greatest challenge facing our justice system is not the lack of laws, but limited access to justice. This statement resonates deeply. Today, it is not the absence of legislation, but rather the excess—and often the misuse or misinterpretation—of laws that works against the interests of the common citizen. Democracy entrusts elected representatives with authority, but when that power is used to accumulate wealth, dismantle checks and balances, and promote majoritarian dominance, the very foundation of justice is undermined. In such a scenario, the principle of “might is right” begins to prevail, and justice in the everyday lives of citizens becomes increasingly distant—far away from the common person it is meant to serve.
John Eric Gomes, Porvorim
Questionable accusation
The Supreme Court recently stayed criminal proceedings against Father Vineet Vincent Pereira, a Catholic priest accused by the Uttar Pradesh Police of claiming that Christianity is the only true religion. The top court issued notice to the state and halted further action while reviewing his challenge to the Allahabad High Court’s refusal to quash the case. The FIR alleged that his statements during prayer meetings hurt religious sentiments, though no evidence of forced conversion was found. This case highlights concerns about the harassment of minority religious figures through questionable charges. Leaders across religions often express the superiority of their beliefs, yet selective action raises questions about fairness and secularism.
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
