Opinion Letters to the editor: The path of peace

The path of peace
This refers to Nuti Namita’s article ‘A past of its own making’ (IE, February 17). Namita’s piece may mislead Indian readers about Japan’s peace-oriented global approach since the end of WWII. First of all, Japan has repeatedly stated that during a certain period in the past, it caused tremendous damage and suffering to the people of many countries, particularly to those in Asian countries. The government of Japan, squarely facing these historical facts, has expressed feelings of deep remorse and heartfelt apology, and has also expressed feelings of sincere mourning for all WWII victims, both at home and abroad. The entire position outlined by previous administrations is continued by the Abe cabinet.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe clearly said in his statement “Pledge for Everlasting Peace”, published after his visit to Yasukuni Shrine last December, that “Japan shall never again wage war”, based on “the severe remorse for the past”. Since the end of WWII, Japan has consistently and diligently contributed to peace, prosperity and stability in Asia and the rest of the world. We have pride and confidence in our peace-building efforts over the past 68 years and commit ourselves to moving toward the future. The path that postwar Japan has been taking as a peaceful nation will never change. Japan and India, bound by the fundamental values of democracy, human rights and rule of law, will continue their joint endeavour for global peace, stability and prosperity.
— Japan Information Centre
Embassy of Japan, Delhi

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Fleeing a sinking ship
This refers to ‘Upset with Congress, Ram Vilas Paswan’s party warms up to BJP; son “meets” Rajnath’ (IE, February 24). It will be a blunder for the BJP to try to forge an alliance with the rank opportunist, Ram Vilas Paswan. The BJP should groom its own Dalit leaders in Bihar rather than laterally recruit those attempting to flee a
sinking boat.
— Prasanta Pramanik
Kolkata

Tricks of the trade
This refers to ‘Kejriwal says communalism bigger threat than graft’ (IE, February 25). One is familiar with Arvind Kejriwal’s tendency to play to the gallery to serve his political ends. But one also knows his fixation with anti-corruption issues. His statement on communalism came as a surprise, but one can understand why he made it. He was addressing a Muslim gathering at the India Islamic Cultural Centre. Kejriwal had to adjust his political rhetoric accordingly. Recently, he did the same thing at a CII meeting where he came out in support of capitalism. He is fast learning the tricks of the political trade.
— M. Ratan
Delhi