Need for consensus
One thing the Opposition parties should understand is that it is not necessary to talk against everything that the incumbent government does. Some of the initiatives being taken by the government are good like rationalisation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure and the conduct of Operation Sindoor. By bringing down GST on most items of general use, the common citizen is being benefitted. This will give relief to the people. In the same manner, Operation Sindoor was a fitting reply to Pakistan as retaliation against the dastardly Pahalgam terrorist attack. We have never struck back at the terrorists or Pakistan over the years except for a ‘claimed’ surgical strike a few years ago, which raised more questions than the results it obtained. With Operation Sindoor, there was definite evidence in the form of photographs put out, by the government agencies responsible for the planning and execution of the attacks, on the damages inflicted on terrorist camps in PoK and on airfield runaways and other military infrastructure within Pakistan. These matters are of benefit to the nation and serve a nationalist cause and hence there is no need to question, mock and deride them. In the same manner, if the Opposition parties are committed to the welfare of people, then they should not criticise the GST initiative. The Opposition should not take up petty issues like those of revenues of states getting affected on account of the reduced GST. States should realise that in the erstwhile sales tax regime prior to GST, they were getting much less revenue share. There is a need for the Opposition parties to build a consensus with the government on issues that affect the nation as a whole and are beneficial to it and the people.
S Kamat, Mysuru
Medical emergencies
Medical emergencies on flights are increasing by the day. Deaths on flights, on arrival or while being treated at en route emergency landing airports are becoming common. Chest pain, panic attacks, cardiac arrest and strokes are commonly reported on board. Some passengers may be suffering from chronic ailments, while others may just have that ‘plane phobia’ or ‘aviophobia’. The air pressure in the cabin may trigger off symptoms of an existing disease or introduce panic especially among first-time fliers. Paucity of inspired oxygen available may lead to a host of symptoms. Important life-saving emergency medicines and tools should be augmented. It is also advisable that the patients consult their doctors before flying to make sure they receive tips to endure an air travel. Many a time, what the distressed warrant are calm advice and soothing words. Others may have trivial issues including ‘fear’ and ‘anxiety’. We are still far away from screening the immediate health status of the passenger before flying.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
Leader of integrity
C P Radhakrishnan’s election as Vice-President marks a significant step toward strengthening India’s constitutional values. Known for his honesty, dedication and decades of public service, he brings experience and humility to the role. His Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) background reflects a lifetime commitment to nation-building and empowering the marginalised. The overwhelming support he received, including cross-votes, signals trust across party lines. As Vice-President, Radhakrishnan is well positioned to uphold the parliamentary dignity and foster meaningful, respectful political dialogue in a polarised era.
Vijaykumar H K, Raichur
Power of the young
Now it is the turn of Nepal. Previously, it was Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, our media continues to play the tune of India as a true democracy. The reality is that young people have had enough of state corruption and the lack of delivery for the people. Prime ministers, presidents, ministers and members of parliament are resigning, all because of the power of the young people. In contrast, we are essentially sheep who will never protest, whether it concerns the decline of publicly funded education, the corrupt nexus between corporate entities and political parties or the diminishing standards of the judiciary and public institutions. We face unchecked media propaganda, entitled political families, billions written off by banks for corporate interests, farmers labelled as Khalistanis, terror attacks at the border, unemployment, issues of women’s safety, and even potholes on our daily drives.
Rekha Sarin Trehan, Benaulim
Saving birds
Bird populations in India are on the decline due to exposed electrical wires, mobile towers and poor management of such electricity or telecommunication infrastructure. High-voltage lines and tower collisions pose lethal threats to birds. Unlike countries like Germany where underground wiring is undertaken, India lacks safeguards. We must act – cover cables, regulate towers and manage urban planning better. To save birds from declining, we must focus on habitat conservation and reduce threats like window collision and pesticide use. We must create bird-friendly environment.
Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai
