maoist attack
It is disheartening that our security personnel are easy pickings for the Maoists (page 1, April 27). Even after steps such as emphasis on community development, infrastructure (roads, housing) development and confidence building exercises, why is it that extremist groups have been able to infiltrate vulnerable communities? Confidence building measures are necessary.
Anurag Ghosh,
Hyderabad
Wednesday’s incident in Dantewada, where a team of Chhattisgarh District Reserve Guard lost 10 men in an attack by Maoists, is shocking and disheartening. It is unimaginable that the country’s security forces have not learned lessons from past experiences. The assumption is that there were lapses.
P Mangalchandran,
West Ponnam, Kannur, Kerala
The attack exposed the ability of the Maoists to carry out ambushes despite their dwindling influence among the local population. It is also true that some parts of the country are still vulnerable to Maoist attacks. Better methods are needed to neutralize the use of improvised explosive devices.
M Jayaram,
Sholavandan, Tamil Nadu
election, claimant
The 1990s saw a young ‘sect’ of leaders, impatient for technology and progress, abandoning dominant socio-political ethos and value systems at the altar of the hedonistic economic pursuit. Now at the turn of the 60 year cycle, the governance of nations globally is perhaps again being handed over to ‘experienced’ seventy year olds. After the 1970s, major conflicts around the world were fought under the leadership of youth leaders. In the latest, Ukraine, nations have rediscovered that economics is not an end in itself but a means to continually reset the socio-political balance in a rapidly modernizing world. It is also a rediscovery of the need for a visionary leadership to firmly underpin the basic principles of universal governance. One is waiting to see what it will be like in the United States in 2024.
R Narayanan,
Navi Mumbai
The potential contest between Donald Trump and Joe Biden for the world’s most powerful post is a matter of concern. Is there no new and charismatic leader? The disinterest shown by the youth in politics and governance is a cause for concern. There is a need to involve the youth in politics in a better way.
S Sundareshwar Pandian,
Chennai
Mamukkoya
The humble and spirited Mamukkoya was one of the most naturally talented and popular actors of Malayalam cinema. Devoid of glamor and glitz, he effortlessly brought entertainment and laughter to many households. Down to earth and rustic, he was a man of strong faith and belief. It is not easy to fill the void left by him.
CG Kuriakose,
Kothamangalam, Kerala