Internal discipline needed in Congress
While most states that recently held Assembly elections have already sworn in their chief ministers, Kerala continues to witness uncertainty even a week after the results. The Congress high command is still struggling to finalise its choice among leaders such as KC Venugopal, Ramesh Chennithala, and VD Satheesan. Intense factionalism, poster campaigns, and public displays of support by rival camps have only deepened the confusion. In contrast, the BJP usually selects its chief ministers swiftly after election results, with party workers and leaders accepting the central leadership’s decision with discipline and unity. This organisational discipline has played a major role in the BJP’s growing dominance across many states. The Congress, on the other hand, often appears divided during government formation, with internal disagreements and public dissent weakening the party’s image. If the Congress truly wishes to emerge as a strong national alternative in future, it must first strengthen internal discipline and unity within its ranks.
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
Political opportunism
The Congress party’s sudden decision to abandon its long-standing ally, the DMK, and extend unconditional support to the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) after the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections reflects sheer political opportunism. For decades, the DMK stood firmly with the Congress during difficult times, helping the party remain politically relevant in the state. Even the few seats won by the Congress in this election were largely due to the DMK alliance. Despite this, the Congress leadership wasted no time in distancing itself from the DMK once the TVK emerged stronger. Such a move not only violates political ethics expected between allies but also sends a disappointing message to loyal supporters. Shakespeare’s words, “the most unkindest cut of all,” aptly describe this painful political betrayal driven by the lure of power.
Tharcius S Fernando, Chennai
Epitome of selflessness
To commemorate the birthday of Florence Nightingale, International Nurses Day is observed on May 12 since 1965. Apart from being a multifaceted personality, Nightingale established plenty of nursing schools in the 19th century. Patience, love, forgiveness, dedication and selflessness are the pillars on which a nursing occupation is assiduously built. Parallelly, a nurse has to be strong and relentless in pursuit towards her goal: healthcare with a smile. Without a doubt, “Our nurses are our future and empowered nurses save lives”. Neither a drug nor a tonic may provide care and comfort to an ailing patient as much as the words of a nurse because they cushion the sorrow and sadness. All nurses may not be an epitome of a Florence Nightingale; but they are definitely the next best thing.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
Dealing with hantavirus
The recent concerns surrounding hantavirus outbreaks have understandably caused anxiety, especially after reports of passengers being evacuated from a cruise ship near Spain’s Canary islands for medical observation. While the virus deserves serious attention from health authorities, experts stress that there is no reason for panic among the general public. Hantavirus has been known for decades and is primarily spread through contact with infected rodents, especially rats and mice. Unlike highly contagious respiratory diseases like Covid-19 that spread rapidly from person to person, most strains of hantavirus do not easily transmit between humans. Rats thrive in dirty, overcrowded, and poorly maintained environments where food waste and stagnant conditions allow them to multiply quickly. However, it is important to avoid creating unnecessary fear about all rats automatically carrying hantavirus. Only infected rodents spread the disease. Areas infested with rats should never be cleaned dry with a broom, as this can release contaminated particles into the air. Instead, disinfectants and protective gloves should be used.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
On true leadership
Dr BR Ambedkar dedicated his life to solving the problems of ordinary people. His service was rooted not in fame, but in true patriotism and compassion born from hardship. Even today, society deeply feels the absence of such a leader. Across the country, many poor families still struggle without proper roads, water, electricity, housing, jobs, or sanitation. People face endless delays in obtaining ration cards, gas connections, and legal entitlements. Homes built through hard work are sometimes declared illegal, forcing families to live in fear. Recently, a sixth-standard student from Lakhimpur, Uttar Pradesh, appealed emotionally to the district magistrate to build a road for her village. Only after her video went viral was action taken. Public authorities should act responsibly without waiting for public appeals. Every village today needs proactive leaders inspired by Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Rajesh Banaulikar, Arpora
