• This refers to The Afghan Test by Pratap Bhanu Mehta. Afghan history suggests that lasting peace can be had in the region only through a maximalist strategy,as was the case after the second and third Anglo-Afghan wars. Najibullahs regime held out for almost four years against the mujahideen,its eventual collapse brought about by Rashid Dostums defection and lack of support from a crumbling Soviet Union. The US must not forget Al-Qaeda struck roots in the aftermath of the Soviet withdrawal. A similar withdrawal now by US forces will lead to a much deadlier terrorist apparatus,perhaps with nuclear capability.
Hamid Karzais government,with all its flaws,has to be propped up if a state is to be created. Only a well-equipped and ruthless force ready for the long haul can subdue Afghan anarchists.
Ajay Tyagi
Moment of courage
• Rukhsana Kausar should be congratulated for her courage. It should send a strong message to militant groups operating in Kashmir and elsewhere,who work like thieves and try to molest hapless women.
Militancy has no place in Islam and those working as mujahideen should be resisted and discouraged. Rukhsana and her family have given militants what they deserve. She has shown the path others need to follow. India needs more Rukhsanas. The young woman deserves a reward.
Manzar Imam
New Delhi
Tell the truth
• I fail to understand why,if he was innocent,Ottavio Quattrocchi was harassed all these years. Then,why should those who hounded him unnecessarily be not punished and made to repay the public money wasted? In fact,Mr Q should seek damages. And if Mr Q is guilty,then those who pursued the case should be allowed to go public with their information and let people know the truth.
M.M.P. Kala
Dehra Dun
Over in Iran
• Iran has recently test-fired missiles capable perhaps of hitting Israel and southern and eastern Europe. This,coupled with disclosures about Irans secret nuclear facilities,has hardened Washingtons stand. Adding fuel to the fire is the reported possibility of Israel launching air strikes on Irans nuclear facilities. The UN may be forced to impose more stringent sanctions against Iran. The situation appears to be heading towards a flashpoint,calling for serious conciliatory efforts by neutral Third World countries. The Persian Gulf is strategically important,given the large chunk of oil carrier movement that takes place through here,with Iran being the second largest oil producer in OPEC.
Arun Malankar
Mumbai
