Fairness threatened
FIFA’s decision to defer the automatic suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun after his red card against Bosnia has raised serious concerns about the integrity of football. Reports that US President Donald Trump contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino before the ruling make the decision even more disturbing. Automatic suspensions for red cards are fundamental to ensuring fairness and consistency in the game. Any exception, especially one perceived to follow political intervention, weakens confidence in football’s governing institutions. UEFA has rightly described the move as unprecedented and unjustifiable, while the Belgian Football Association has warned that such actions undermine the tournament’s credibility. Football is respected because its rules are expected to apply equally to every player and every nation. FIFA must safeguard its independence from political influence and uphold the principle that no individual or country is above the laws of the game. Only then can public trust in the sport be preserved.
Assis Everette Telles, Margao
Impartiality in probe
The alleged financial irregularities relating to the Ram temple in Ayodhya raise concerns that extend beyond one institution. Whenever public trusts handling large donations face allegations of mismanagement, transparency and accountability become essential to maintaining public confidence. If a government-appointed body is involved, any investigation must be independent, impartial and seen to be free from political influence. The standards of financial scrutiny applied to other charitable organisations should apply equally to all religious trusts, irrespective of faith or political considerations. Proper audits, transparent accounting, donor records and effective oversight are necessary to prevent misuse of public contributions and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Equally important is safeguarding the rule of law. No religious slogan or political narrative should be used to intimidate critics or discourage legitimate questions.
John Eric Gomes, Porvorim
Sacred accountability
The alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and reports of similar financial irregularities at the Shri Badrinath temple are deeply disturbing for devotees of all faiths. If these allegations are true, they represent a serious breach of the trust reposed by millions of worshippers. A thorough, impartial and transparent investigation is essential, irrespective of the status or political affiliations of those involved, so that the guilty are brought to justice. These cases should also prompt devotees to reflect on the purpose of charitable giving. Faith is best expressed not merely through lavish offerings but through compassion and service to humanity. Supporting orphanages, old-age homes, hospitals and organisations caring for the poor, differently abled and destitute reflects the true spirit of religion. While places of worship deserve adequate maintenance, a greater share of donations should be directed towards uplifting the needy, thereby honouring both faith and humanity.
Tharcius S Fernando, Chennai
People inconvenienced
Despite the availability of ample government-owned space in Margao, several public offices continue to function from inconvenient locations, causing unnecessary hardship to citizens. Buildings such as the old multi-storeyed mamlatdar office and the Mathany Saldanha complex remain underutilised, while the Water Supply Department sub-office still operates from its old premises on the way to Monte Dongor, and the sewerage office is located in Fatorda. These offices are frequently visited for essential services, yet public transport to these locations is inadequate, forcing people to depend on private vehicles, hire autorickshaws, or walk long distances in difficult weather. Citizens also face the inconvenience of repeated visits, with no assurance that their work will be completed in one trip. Surprisingly, handwritten receipts are still issued in this digital era. The government should relocate these offices to available premises in the city to improve accessibility, efficiency and public convenience.
Bhalchandra VS Priolkar, Margao
Forgive and forget
Forgiveness has the virtue of victory, therefore no prizes for guessing its utility. Researches have proved that the act of forgiving somebody adds to the happiness and longevity of the giver. Forgiveness, of course, has its detractors as many see the gesture as an act of the will though the heart is somewhere else. But there is some good in the worst, and evil in the best, so sifting the grain from the chaff is essential. The world is filled with hate and jealousy, scuffles and clashes. The best panacea for all, under the circumstances, would be to forgive and forget. A smile on the lips, and a gush on the face, with song to boot, may melt the most stubborn of wrongdoers’ hearts. Nobody is a saint in today’s world; but anybody can be sympathetic and gentle. A day spent in excusing the impossible may indeed be a day well spent.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
