Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Kashmir Singh issue

The hue and cry over Kashmir Singh’s statement that he was a spy, which he denied later saying he was quoted out of context by the media, is unwarranted. Whatever he did in the past, the fact is he withstood decades of mental agony which is difficult for normal human beings to undergo. It would be better for the media to stop hounding him. He should be left alone. As for the future stand of the Pakistani authorities on the prisoners’ issue, they should not be influenced by the utterances of a man who was under tremendous pressure for 35 years.

Rettavayal S. Krishnaswamy,
Chennai

Mr. Singh’s revelation was shocking. More so because he was pardoned by the Pakistan government and allowed to cross the border that kept him separated from his family for 35 long years. He may have his right to air his views but is it proper to put them into print at a time when the country is set to chart a diplomatic course with a civilian government? Such news will slow down the efforts aimed at reconciliation between the not-so-friendly neighbours.

Radhanath Behera,
Koraput

It was widely reported in the media that Kashmir Singh claimed he was a spy though he maintained the exact opposite all these years, which was perhaps one reason why he was pardoned and sent back to India.

Kashmir Singh may be prone to bravado but how appropriate was it for the media to carry the story? Why did they not spare a thought for the other Indians sentenced for similar charges languishing in Pakistani jails? Or for the lawyer in Pakistan who fought Mr. Singh’s case in courts?

S. Kamat,
Bardez

The article “Closed emotions” (Open Page, March 9) makes interesting reading. It rightly points to the psychological nurturance need in all of us. Any association we develop with fellow human beings is to gratify this need. Unfortunately, the younger generation finds a world around it that places a premium on achievement over anything else. In such a world, the desire to do more than one can do is high and the race is on where position and money are prioritised. Blog sites and social networking sites are nothing but an effort by individuals to achieve the cathartic release of emotional pains.

Thamim Muhamed Ashraf,
New Delhi

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