Opinion Perceived insult?
Frisking a former president of India was not merely an insult to him,but to the country as well....
•Frisking a former president of India was not merely an insult to him,but to the country as well (Kalam frisked at Delhi airport…,IE,July 22). But is there any need to publicise the issue? The political elite may be annoyed,but Dr Kalam himself has not turned it into a controversy. This points to his simple nature and,above all,his decency as a human being. But what happens to a former head of state is in the public domain,fortunately or unfortunately. Continental Airlines must now answer if they would have frisked a former US president. They must,at least,apologise.
M.C. Joshi
•Indias political leadership is clearly upset about former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam being frisked at the Delhi airport by an American airline. Not long ago,George Fernandes and Somnath Chatterjee made headlines over something similar. However,so many their compatriots go through airport security daily and view it as necessary for their own protection and that of others. Do we lose our dignity when we are frisked? It should be noted that Dr Kalams reaction is distinctly different from those outraged at the insult to him.
J.S. Bandukwala
Vadodara
Open and honest
n US Secretary of State Hillary Clintons India visit certainly positive vibes over a range of issues. Its satisfying to know that she made encouraging statements on security and terrorism. But,the Indian government must persist in urging the US to exert pressure on Pakistan. Despite Clintons successful visit,theres a danger in viewing things through rose-tinted glasses. We do differ with the US on a number of issues,and our interests must remain paramount. What India must do at the moment is engage in more open and honest dialogue with the US.
Bala Kiran
Giving in?
•The Indo-Pak joint declaration at Sharm-el-Sheikh seemed to indicate that India has clearly succumbed to US pressure. Pakistan has been demanding assurances that India will not misbehave before Pakistan commits more troops to its western front to take on the Taliban. The joint declaration thus promises a lull without recognising that Pakistans seriousness and ability against the Taliban is questionable.
J.M. Manchanda
New Delhi
Mandela Day
•In a tribute to Nelson Mandela on his 91st birthday,his admirers set aside 67 minutes towards community service. This involved reading to the blind,distributing blankets to the homeless,refurbishing homes for AIDS orphans,etc. Our politicians and celebrities have an entirely different approach and following it seems. Rather than reaching out,they are showered with oversized bouquets. There are important lessons to learn from Mandela and the South Africans yet.
Y.G. Chouksey
Pune
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