Democracy must prevail over violence
Political violence in West Bengal is an unfortunate and persistent feature of its political culture. However, the killing of a close aide of a senior opposition leader of the BJP marks a particularly disturbing escalation. It reinforces fears that post-election reprisals and targeted attacks are becoming an entrenched reality rather than isolated incidents. Elections are meant to settle political differences through ballots rather than through intimidation or force. The battle lines have hardened in the wake of the BJP’s resounding victory, which ended the TMC’s 15-year rule. Blaming the Election Commission of India for her party’s defeat, Mamata Banerjee has not only rejected the poll verdict but has also refused to step down as CM. Her defiance has emboldened some of her supporters to vent their anger on the victors. The BJP, in turn, is struggling to rein in its workers, who are using violent means to settle scores with the TMC. Bengalis deserve a political culture where elections mark the end of rivalry, not the beginning of reprisals. Breaking the cycle of post-poll violence will require political will, administrative firmness, and a renewed commitment from all parties to respect the spirit of democracy.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Protect forests and wildlife
The gaur, also known as the Indian bison, is the majestic state animal of Goa. This wild animal has long been an important part of Goa’s forest ecosystem. However, in recent years, the gaur appears to have lost the safety of its natural habitat. Increasing sightings of bison on roads and in residential areas of Ponda have become a growing cause of concern for local residents. The recent death of a Home Guard in a bison attack at Bethoda has once again highlighted the seriousness of the issue. It also points to a deeper environmental problem — the gradual destruction and fragmentation of forests that once served as safe habitats for these animals. Rapid development activities such as deforestation, road widening, hill cutting and construction have disturbed the natural balance of forests. Highways and roads have divided forest areas into smaller patches, making it difficult for animals to move freely in search of food and water. Retaining walls and land-filling activities have blocked access to natural springs and water bodies that wild animals depended on for survival. The gaur is not intentionally invading human settlements. These animals are being forced to enter villages in search of water, shelter and food. The government must act urgently to restore and protect the natural habitats of gaurs and other wild animals. Afforestation programmes should be strengthened and wildlife corridors should be created to connect fragmented forest areas. Water bodies and natural springs within forest regions should also be revived and protected.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Drop prepaid electricity smart meter system
As far as the replacement of working meters is concerned, citizens feel it is wasteful to replace perfectly functioning digital meters with new and controversial smart meters. There should also be no prepaid system that troubles common people if forceful implementation is carried out under the pretext of law. Despite the opposition, the government has said there will be no further discussions on the matter, insisting that the project is necessary to reduce power losses and that implementation will proceed as per Central Government decisions. The government maintains that smart meters are a “universal practice” and that they will be installed outside consumer premises to check tampering. Protesters have argued that, according to the Electricity Act, 2003, and Central Electricity Authority regulations, smart meters are not legally mandatory for existing connections and that consumers have the right to refuse them. This has fuelled legal challenges and demands for action against forced installations. The coming elections will play a key role in deciding the future of electricity smart meter installations.
Rajesh Banaulikar, Arpora
Misuse of religious images
It is difficult to judge whether it is a marketing strategy or an emotional appeal by manufacturers who print pictures of gods, goddesses and religious symbols on packets of incense sticks, candles, fireworks, food products and other items. Such pictures are also printed on invitation cards for weddings and religious events. During festivals, images of gods, goddesses and saints are widely used in advertisements. Unfortunately, these papers are often used to wrap things and are later thrown into the garbage. A law should prohibit the printing of religious pictures and symbols in such cases. Once a product is used or an event is over, people feel uncomfortable discarding these materials. One never knows where they may end up or how they may be treated. This can prick a person’s conscience and may make him or her feel guilty. More importantly, one never knows whose religious sentiments may be hurt on seeing such discarded materials, which could lead to court cases and disharmony among people.
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
