TV is getting worse

Ever since reality shows started airing, there is a display of utter disregard to decency. Most of these shows are experimenting and inventing new and totally disgusting ways to shock their audience. These types of publicity stunts are not only immoral and disturbing, but also dangerous. These unwise, reckless, inhumane and unhealthy choices can and will increase crime rates, and encourage and promote psychotic behaviour. As per some reports, a Dutch reality show not only aired the footage of what appeared to be the removal of human tissue from a couple of presenters, but was also cooked by a chef and was consumed in front of a studio audience. Is this really what freedom of choice is about? I think not! Television channels must carefully exercise discretion and self-censorship and contribute responsibly towards a healthy society. Policy makers must also review the situation. Programmes displaying and glorifying unethical and dangerous practices should be refrained from airing. This matter must be investigated and those involved, and found guilty, should be punished. Strict actions should also be taken against those seen promoting such bizarre criminal behaviour.
From Ms Farheen Farid
Texas, United States

Barbaric acts

The caption that went along with the picture of a woman on the front page was very disturbing for me as a woman (“Fighting for dignity”, Gulf News, December 28). I am a practising Muslim but I haven’t read anywhere in the Islamic texts about such a barbaric act of forced virginity tests of women detainees. I agree that many cultures used to be harsh with women regarding their chastity in the past and probably continue still. But in today’s world, if we can accept television, movies, music and stage shows, why is a woman being harassed when it comes to her honour and dignity? Moreover, women are sacrificed in the name of honour-killing? If a society can’t respect its female members then that society is termed as barbaric.
From Ms Agniyah Shaikh
Sharjah

Metro rush

I completely agree with the community report (“Be patient while on the Metro”, Gulf News, December 28). People who are waiting at the front of the Metro doors are pushed by the rush from behind as the ones standing back try to make their way to the front. It has been a daily nudge for me. Another time that the public does not seem to have enough patience is when people are coming out of the trains. They are in such a rush that they push through those standing first to make their way through. This is usually during the peak hours — early in the morning. This is also the time when most of the university students use the Metro. I would like to ask the public to be patient and stop making their way by cutting others off. 
From Ms Suman Shafi
Dubai

Making stars

I am amazed to see how the media can make stars from nothing (“Veena Malek in Dubai”, Gulf News, December 28). Not many people knew about Pakistani actress and model Veena Malek and now all of a sudden she is everywhere. Let us be mature enough to know who deserves what.
From Mr Syed
Dubai

What mistake?

Mistakes are the secret to success! Also, if you carefully listen to the GNTV interview Veena Malek said: “I regret my mistakes.” So, it sounds to me that she committed a mistake and doesn’t know how to rectify it.
From Ms Boney
Al Ain

Blindly crossing the road

It is good to hear that Sharjah Municipality is taking safety measures when it comes to high-rise buildings. I also think that they should take safety measures on roads as well. In residential areas you could see many of the children crossing the road without even looking. My point is that the authorities should build pedestrian bridges and increase zebra crossings with speed breakers.
From Mr Waqar
Sharjah