A shopkeeper holds masks of Indian Congress Party President Rahul Gandhi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a roadside shop in Chennai. Arun Sankar / AFP
A shopkeeper holds masks of Indian Congress Party President Rahul Gandhi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a roadside shop in Chennai. Arun Sankar / AFP

Economic issues should come first in Indian election



I refer to your article Indian general election to begin voting on April 11 (March 11).Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leaving no stone unturned to win a second term in office. Hence his latest campaign this week, ahead of the general election on April 11: "Main bhi chowkidar" or "I am also a watchman". This is an appeal to tens of millions of poorly-paid watchmen, by comparing his job of protecting the country to theirs.

Mr Modi should realise that protecting the nation is the primary responsibility of any leader and does not set him apart. He should address the critical issue of low farmer incomes, decaying urban infrastructure and unemployment, rather than indulging in jingoism. Indians have suffered in the unwarranted demonetisation and due to a lack of adequate jobs. These core economic issues need to be tackled. About 50 per cent of India’s population is now below the age of 30. These youngsters cannot be swayed by slogans. They demand delivery of concrete results on the ground.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

Golan announcement violates UN resolutions

I write in reference to your article Mike Pompeo denies US stance on Golan violates UN resolutions (March 24). Arrogance knows no borders, and the so-called "realities on the ground" are ridiculous. Israel is on course to make the US an unpopular nation among Muslim states and the other countries who see the truth. This is a sheer violation of UN resolutions.

Name withheld by request

A holistic approach can ease depression and anxiety

I write in reference to your article We may never find a cure for depression (March 24). Across the world today, anxiety and depression are major issues to be addressed. Diagnosing these problems early on can feed a holistic approach that helps patients throughout their lives. This is about keeping the mind calm so that good cheer can naturally follow.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Education removes the dangerous veil of ignorance

I refer to your article Education is the antidote to violence, poverty and corruption, says Nobel prize winner (March 24). Absolutely right, as education removes the veil of ignorance that has kept too many people in the darkness. Education

is like the sun of knowledge that removes darkness to usher in brightness all over the world.

Name withheld by request

THE SIXTH SENSE

Starring: Bruce Willis, Toni Collette, Hayley Joel Osment

Director: M. Night Shyamalan

Rating: 5/5