When Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf claims that terrorism no longer emanates from his country, we are not expected to take him seriously — for the shrewd politician that he is, he has the knack of taking the world for a ride! However, when he states that both India and Pakistan should once again get down to playing cricket and that politics should not come into sport, we are compelled to sit up and take notice. After all, when both countries are trying to foster people-to-people contact, why cannot cricket be part of these measures to improve relations? Besides, the fact remains that a game of cricket between India and Pakistan generates utmost anticipation, excitement and fun among people from both sides. We have done well in agreeing to send our junior cricket team to Pakistan; let’s hope that this is the first step in the direction to restore full-fledged cricketing ties with our neighbouring country. — V. Rajesh, On e-mail It’s unparliamentary Apropos of Muzamil Jaleel’s article ‘Bihar MP “shipped” guns from Srinagar to Siwan’ (IE, September 18), it is deplorable that the Indian government is doing absolutely nothing about the rot in the political establishment. — Vasabjit Banerjee, On e-mail Take the middle path This refers to ‘The Taliban in our midst’ by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (IE, September 18). This is one sane voice that has been aired in this mindlessly controversial arena of words flying across the dividing line. Of late, this line has become so stark that there are only two sides you can take — either for or against. No more can a person walk the middle path. Yet here is Sri Sri Ravi Shankar treading the fine path and providing the insight that promises to unite the minds of the people which is intrinsic to every human being on this planet. A stark look at a pretty polarised situation and yet free of any unwanted cultural or emotional baggage. Bravo! — Dinesh Kashikar, On e-mail Nobody gives the choice to a newborn to decide his faith. In the present global scenario, I am sure most would prefer not to be associated with any faith. Basically, all religions teach the same values of love and compassion. But somehow, down the line through the centuries, self-proclaimed bigots have hijacked these good values to pursue their own social goals. The common man, basically, is more concerned with his daily bread and butter and doesn’t have any time for such issues. The print media can surely help to present the correct picture and deny the religious bigots their goal. More such articles please. — Samir, On e-mail Wonderful message from a wonderful person. Look forward to more of Sri Sri’s messages in your newspaper. — Vimal Kankani, On e-mail French fries What is Thomas L. Friedman saying (‘The mad, bad world of France’, IE, September 19)? That America can play the ‘‘bullying’’ game and create any problem and others should simply ignore this fact and go about and support them anyway? He must be joking. Let us blame France for all that is happening in Iraq! One thing about these Americans, they are never at fault. — Saratchandran, On e-mail
