Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

On May Day

One hundred and twenty one years after the historic day in 1886, when workers marched the streets of Chicago demanding an 8-hour workday, exploitation of labour continues unabated worldwide. That the net income of a few individuals is equivalent to the GDP of several sub-Saharan countries, and more than a billion people live on less than a dollar a day is ample proof of thriving capitalism.

Syed Sultan Mohiddin,
Kadapa

* * *

The photograph accompanied by the caption `Just another day', which aptly appeared on May Day, speaks volumes about what the people below the poverty line undergo in free India even after 60 years of freedom. The sight of the ripe old man pulling the cart for a living is indeed moving.

H.K. Lakshman Rao,
Chennai

* * *

The picture makes a deep impact on the mind. All Indians, particularly employers, should appreciate that labour is divine. They should respect it and reward it adequately. Is it not time to abolish hand-pulled carts? A hard worker will surely find an alternative means of livelihood.

Wg. Cdr. Dr. Vijay Bhupesh,
Chennai

* * *

The importance given to this senior citizen of Chennai by The Hindu should, hopefully, get the attention of those in power. Like the mid-day meal scheme for poor school children, the Tamil Nadu Government should start a scheme to provide a meal a day for the poor senior citizens. I am sure there are many philanthropists who will come forward to donate for the cause.

T.S. Vaidyaraman,
Chennai

* * *

The photograph speaks volumes about the condition of the downtrodden at a time when the country is boasting of a 9 per cent growth in GDP. All politicians should be given a copy of the photo and asked to listen to their inner voice on who needs reservation.

M.S. Rajasekaran,
Chennai

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On May Day

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