The possibility of China acquiring foreign military bases deserves serious attention (Chinese Takeaway,IE,February 3). As noted by the writer,the defence establishment needs to take cognisance of this great new challenge to our security. It would be naïve of us to underestimate Chinese designs of keeping Indias superpower ambitions restricted to South Asia. A pragmatic and realistic take on this is imperative.
Robert Lhungdim
Keeping out
This refers to Towards a Grand Summit (IE,February 1). India seems to be getting its Afghan policy all wrong by trying to ride piggyback on the US presence,getting cosy with Karzai a known Pakistan baiter and ignoring Pakistani concerns. President Obama has clearly indicated that he is looking for a timely and face-saving exit from the Afghan quagmire. This cannot be achieved without Pakistans help,given the leverage it has with the Pashtuns and the Taliban. The only way to achieve peace and democracy in Afghanistan is to have some kind of a pact between the Taliban and the Karzai government. The US has no option but to go for it as any government without Pashtun participation cannot claim legitimacy. India must accept the fact that Pakistan is the key to peace in Afghanistan and accordingly limit its ambitions there.
Niharika Rai
New Delhi
Get up,stand up
The editorial Fauji vs Sena (IE,February 4) is frank and exposes the tactics of the thugs of the two parties in question. Most of our celebrities are compliant,conformist and not used to the bridle path. So our film stars can praise and bond with their fellow artists only at the corporate-sponsored song and dance programmes but are afraid to come out in support when they are under attack from the unscrupulous and chauvinistic characters like Bal Thackeray and Raj Thackeray. Our filmy heroes run with their tail between their legs even when the papier mache tigers merely groan. The Thackerays exploit our glitteratis real or perceived fears for their personal and business interests. It is gratifying that Shah Rukh Khan,Aamir Khan,et al have gathered the courage to stand up to the demagogues. May their tribe increase.
Hema Langeri
Hoshiarpur
For example
Its disconcerting that a Madhya Pradesh IG of police,Rajendra Kumar,has been transferred for referring to the diligence of Ajmal Kasab (An example,stupid,IE,February 4). Its obvious that what the officer meant to do was instil in his colleagues those qualities (not the religious fanaticism) of Kasab which could help. Perhaps this case parallels that of the British armys Bishop to the Forces who praised the Talibans dedication and spirit of self-sacrifice,and urged his men to learn from them in this respect.
Om Prakash Sharma
Jaipur
