Tense situation in Kurnool due to land dispute, allegations of gun show
Engaging in heated gossip about a sarcastic boss or an annoying co-worker is part and parcel of almost every workplace. However, the pent-up frustrations of working with such coworkers can sometimes lead to more violent manifestations. Recently the same thing happened in Bengaluru. Goons were hired by some colleagues of a newly appointed auditor who were obsessed with beating up the auditor even over small things. Fans of Narayana Murthy’s mantra of the 70-hour work week should perhaps be wary that they may not be treated the same way. Although resorting to physical violence against coworkers is unacceptable, managers often fail to realize that their controlling behavior impacts the mental health of their subordinates.
Ranjan Chopra, Noida
too loud
Sir – In another desperate attempt to woo voters during the campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi bragged that “today’s India hits home and kills” (“Modi back on ‘terrorism’ tactics”, 5 April ). He declared that his government had redefined India’s stature by projecting an image of military strength. nothing could be further from the truth. The Bharatiya Janata Party government has mismanaged several delicate issues, including China’s gradual annexation of Indian territory in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. From promoting terms like ‘surgical strikes’ to dodging questions on Chinese intrusions along the Line of Actual Control, Modi and his followers have presented a misleading narrative, which has also been propagated by the media in the name of nationalism. The Prime Minister should take steps to resolve the border dispute with China.
Ayman Anwar Ali, Calcutta
Sir – Will the so-called nationalists of ‘New India’ dare to ask the question as to how much land has been captured by the Chinese armed forces after the clash with India in Galwan Valley? One of the most prominent faces of the current government – the External Affairs Minister – even admitted that India does not have the economic strength to compete with China. India is also not safe on the western border: our military convoys come under frequent attacks in border areas like Pulwama and Pathankot. It seems that the long repeated lies become truth under the Narendra Modi led regime.
Kajal Chatterjee, Calcutta
Sir – As the elections are approaching, Narendra Modi keeps making one absurd statement after another to get votes. Recently, during the campaign he announced that under his leadership, India dares to enter foreign territory to kill alleged terrorists. Such statements are not suitable for the post of Prime Minister. There is no need for Modi and Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh to spoil relations with Pakistan for political gains. BJP has also angered Sri Lanka by raising the Katchatheevu issue. Making such statements at the risk of damaging foreign relations shows how desperate the BJP is to win the upcoming elections.
S. Kamath, Mysuru
Sir – A recent report in The Guardian alleged that Indian intelligence officers have carried out covert assassinations on Pakistani soil since 2020. While the Ministry of External Affairs has denied the allegations, the Defense Minister claimed that his government would not hesitate to hunt down its enemies (“Shut up”, April 9). Notably, the report also pointed to India’s involvement in attacks on Khalistani leaders. The allegations by Canada and the United States regarding covert intelligence operations are also highlighted. BJP leaders should refrain from beating their own drum regarding covert intelligence operations.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Sir – The present government at the Center has the bad habit of proudly announcing military strikes in foreign territory for political gains. Even if Indian intelligence agencies conduct such operations, it would be wise not to boast about them.
Fateh Najmuddin, Lucknow
finally out
Sir – The Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail to Shoma Kanti Sen after almost six years of imprisonment in the Elgar Parishad case is too little, too late (“Bail after 6 years in the Elgar Parishad case”, April 6). It is a matter of regret that the jails of the country are filled with lakhs of undertrial prisoners. If the pre-trial period is so long, one can only imagine how long it will take to get justice. Even after six years, no charges have been filed against Sen. Such a dysfunctional system requires comprehensive reform.
Amit Brahmo, Calcutta
Sir – In a welcome move, the Supreme Court recently granted bail to activist Shoma Sen in the Elgar Parishad case (“Just Fairness”, April 9). Sen has been behind bars since June 2018. The judgment rightly states that unless there are reasonable grounds for imprisonment, deprivation of personal liberty for such a long period is a violation of Article 21 of the Constitution. The investigating agencies have failed to show any credible evidence of Sen’s links with Maoist groups. It is unfortunate that many social workers charged under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act are still facing trial.
