On denial of burial rights
As per the laws of the Catholic church, all Catholics are duty-bound to attend mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation. However, due to the lengthy church services and ‘run-of-the mill’ sermons in some churches, several parishioners opt to fulfil their obligations in churches outside their parish. This has not gone down well with some parish priests who have even warned parishioners of being denied their right to be buried in the parish cemetery, if they continue to patronise church services of other parishes. The matter is serious and as I as a lay person along with several other practising Catholics, hope to be enlightened whether any such rule exists in the Church’s canon law permitting parish priests to act in such an arbitrary manner by denying burial rights on such flimsy grounds.
AF Nazareth, Alto Porvorim
Toughest job at Siachen
I salute our brave soldiers stationed at the Siachen Glacier, who stand guard over our borders in some of the harshest conditions on Earth. Enduring sub-zero temperatures and navigating treacherous, snow-covered terrain, they display unmatched grit and determination in keeping constant vigil against enemy threats. Despite the ever-present dangers of avalanches and frostbite, their resilience is truly awe-inspiring. Modern warfare in the Himalayas now relies heavily on cutting-edge technology—specialised weapons, advanced communication systems, and state-of-the-art snow gear have become vital in securing these strategic heights. Yet, in spite of this technological edge, mountain warfare will continue to demand immense physical endurance and an unbreakable spirit—qualities our soldiers exemplify in abundance. Their unwavering resolve, spirit of sacrifice, and dedication to the nation deserve the highest honor and deepest gratitude.
Diomedes R Pereira, Corlim
Defuse tensions
In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan ministers have issued warnings about possible Indian military action. Two of them have raised the spectre of a nuclear conflict amid heightened cross-border tensions. Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif reiterated that Pakistan would consider all options, including its nuclear arsenal, if its survival is threatened. In response to the escalating situation, both nations have taken reciprocal measures. India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and expelled Pakistani diplomats, while Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian flights and suspended the Simla Agreement. The international community has expressed deep concern over the rising tensions urging both warring nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation. As these nuclear-armed neighbours trade fire and accusations escalate the tension furthermore, the consequences would be catastrophic, not just for India and Pakistan, but for the entire planet. The rabble-rouser ministers must therefore avoid such irresponsible statements that may bring the two neighbours closer to the much-dreaded nuclear threshold.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Outlaw overworking
The International Workers’ Day is observed on May 1 to commemorate the eight-hour workday movement in Chicago in 1886. The labour movements against exploitation can also be called the movements for human rights. Such movements took many countries to the highway of welfare economics and human development. Now, welfare states embrace a 40-hour work week because more than 40 hours of occupational work per week creates health hazards for workers and hampers innovation, creativity, and productivity. Unfortunately, the daily limit of eight-hour work has gone for a toss in the large unorganised sector in India and even in the government sectors like railways where loco pilots are forced to do extra shifts risking their own lives as well as the lives of the passengers. Car and train accidents have become a routine affair now as app cab drivers, loco pilots, and gig workers have to work for long hours. Not only does it make their lives vulnerable, but also it endangers the lives of others. The central government needs to ensure that no worker has to work more than eight hours daily to where she or he has been employed.
Sujit De, Kolkata
Mudflat conservation
This is with reference to the news report ‘Mudflats vital habitats for faunal species, hold economic value: Study’ (NT, April 30, 2025). It is heartening to note the authorities’ concern for the ecosystem, calling for preservation of mudflats. Mudflats are important as they are feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds. However, the authorities not just in Goa but in the rest of the country as well, must pay equal attention to mangroves, rivers, lakes and other waterbodies. They must also take into account the impact of infrastructure projects on the environment and livelihood of the people in the neighbourhood, in the region. Our forests also need to be protected. It would be good to focus on saving our environment. We need to understand that climate change, global warming is for real and corrective action must be taken or else we are all doomed.
Melville X D’Souza, Mumbai
