India’s diplomatic tightrope in West Asia
The ongoing war in West Asia involving the US, Israel and Iran has created one of the most complex diplomatic tests for India in recent years. As the conflict intensifies, New Delhi finds itself walking a delicate geopolitical tightrope—seeking to safeguard its strategic partnerships with the trio. At the diplomatic level, India’s challenge stems from its close but different relationships with the key players involved in the conflict. First, India’s strategic partnership with the US has expanded significantly in recent years, with defence cooperation, technology, trade and regional security being the key objectives. Second, Israel has become one of India’s most important defence and technology partners. Yet, despite sanctions and political tensions, Tehran remains strategically important to New Delhi. This triangular dynamic makes India’s diplomatic posture extremely delicate. Aligning too closely with the US and Israel risks alienating Iran. On the other hand, openly siding with Iran would strain relations with Washington and Tel Aviv. Ultimately, India’s objective should remain clear: to promote peace and stability in West Asia while protecting its economic, strategic and humanitarian interests.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Menace of drunken driving
Reportedly, in five years the number of drunken driving cases in Goa was a whopping 13,000. This is seven cases per day, officially. The year-wise break-up is: 2021 (268), 2022 (1,387), 2023 (2,050), 2024 (5,346) and 2025 (over 4,274). The quantum jump in registered cases is shocking, while those that were not registered could be more. It does not matter if the grave offence was committed by tourists, locals or both. As per law, the first offence of drunken driving carries imprisonment of up to six months or a fine of Rs 10,000 or both, and for subsequent offences it is two years of jail or a fine of Rs 15,000 or both. It would be worthwhile to research how many offenders were booked, fined and/or jailed. Most may have gone scot-free after mutual or ‘one-time’ settlements, or because of ‘lack of evidence’, ‘shortage of breath analysers’, ‘absence of medical reports’, ‘no witnesses’ and other convenient reasons. If the above laws are applied in letter and spirit (pun unintended), only then will the roads of Goa be safe for other drivers, riders and pedestrians.
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
Law and order concerns
Reports emerging from Dhargal in Pernem about the alleged assault on an advocate by locals during a site inspection of suspected illegal constructions have raised serious concerns about the state of law and order in Goa. If local residents had grievances about the inspection or the proceedings, there are lawful avenues to express dissent or challenge decisions. The incident reportedly occurred in the presence of police personnel and government officials. Those tasked with maintaining law and order allegedly remained passive spectators. In contrast, there have been several instances where police have acted swiftly and forcefully against peaceful protesters exercising their democratic rights. Such inconsistency creates a perception of selective enforcement of the law, which can seriously undermine public trust in institutions. Such inspections are a routine and legitimate part of legal and administrative processes. Lawyers performing these duties are officers of the court, playing a vital role in the administration of justice. Any attack on them is therefore not just an assault on an individual but an attack on the legal system itself. The incident has rightly drawn condemnation from the All India Lawyers’ Union (AILU) Goa Unit, which has highlighted the dangers such acts pose to the legal profession and to the broader justice system. A prompt and impartial investigation should be conducted to identify those responsible for the alleged assault and strict legal action should follow. The safety of lawyers, journalists, activists and other professionals engaged in public duties is essential for the functioning of a democratic society.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Conservation success story
The successful recovery of the greater one-horned rhinoceros at Assam’s Kaziranga National Park is ample testimony to the systematic conservation of wildlife. A rare species of rhinoceros that was close to extinction now shows a steep rise in its population. This success conveys the message of the importance of concerted efforts for a good cause. The stupendous efforts of all involved in this mission have paid off. Through strict anti-poaching measures, habitat protection and rehabilitation, the species, which was on the verge of extinction, has been brought back to a normal state. Now Kaziranga National Park protects 80% of the species in the world. If it had not been for the political will, dedication of officials and efforts of local people, the rhino species would have faced extinction. The relentless efforts of local people are commendable. They have proved to be real conservationists. They act as community guardians and promptly report poaching.
Venu G S, Kollam
