L E T T E R S T O T H E E D I T O R
Superfast age
The Internet has revolutionalised human interactions ('With Internet in every pocket, power to people'; Sunday Tribune, Jan 12). The world is rapidly transforming into a global village. This trend also enhances the reach of useful information to people who are otherwise disassociated from the economic process. And what's even more delightful is that this culture is being 'Indianised'. But these advantages should not put a veil on the risks associated with its coverage. Privacy issues that have recently been highlighted with Snowden's exposes need to be clearly streamlined. Updating laws in tune with the cyber world is necessary so that cyber crimes and any misuse of cyber space can be checked.
Palak Goel, email
The Net speed of MTNL is slow unless one opts for higher tariff. The minimum speed of 2 mbps must be provided under all its schemes as the Internet is a necessity now. But only a small percentage of the Indian population uses the Net, with the metros being a possible exception. Even in big urban agglomerations, there is very low penetration because people cannot afford Net rentals. In schools and colleges, especially in small towns and villages, free connectivity is vital. Public sector enterprises such as MTNL and BSNL must provide connections at nominal charges and at the highest download speed.
Mahesh Kapasi, email
Apropos the article 'Cocktail parties and the gender debate' (Sunday Tribune, Jan 12), Kishwar Desai has raised a vital question about unabated rape cases in spite of sustained awareness campaigns. Men will be men, whether elite, common or downtrodden. Social status is of no significance. To encourage victims to lodge complaints, the system has to be made sensitive and victim friendly. Rape will have to be de-stigmatised and the victims will have to be respected. Stringent laws will act as a deterrent only if these are strictly and indiscriminately enforced. It will even be more beneficial if time-tested ancient 'sanatani sanskars' are imparted to the boys at a tender age to cultivate in them respect for women. Sons and daughters must be treated equally in the family.
AK Sharma, Chandigarh
Space feat
Raj Chengappas article 'Welcome to the greatest sound and light show' (Ground Zero, Sunday Tribune, January 12) was an engrossing narrative. I read the details like the height of the spacecraft, the satellite's load-carrying capacity, orbit size, cryogenic engine fuel, etc. with much pride. I along with the rest of my countrymen wish more such success stories in not just space, but in all walks of life. As Indians, let us resolve to contribute our bit in the country's growth wherever we are and whatever we are doing.
LR Sharma, Sundernagar
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