A complete ban
The report on shisha cafes flouting the age limit is just one part of the whole picture (‘Many shisha cafes in Abu Dhabi flouting age limit for smokers’, Gulf News, January 10). The problem is not only shisha or the age limits in cafes but smoking in general. This habit is quite common in universities, schools and offices. Smoking cigarettes is the bigger picture and it is so widespread that special areas are even provided for smokers in the vicinity of these institutions. I believe smoking should be banned not only for teenagers but for people of all ages because they are not only harming themselves, which might not concern anyone but them, but they are committing a crime by creating second-hand smoke and affecting others. If excessive smoke coming from trucks and cars is considered illegal since it causes air pollution, so should smoking, and a strict campaign should be launched to wipe out smoking from the country completely. It is not only retailers of shisha and cigarettes that should be penalised but also parents who smoke, as they are indirectly encouraging their children to smoke.
From Ms Wafa Sadiq
Dubai
Twelve-year-old smoker
My brother and his friends once saw a family in a cafe who let their 12-year-old son smoke a full shisha on his own. When they told the waiters about this both the family and managers of the cafe didn’t listen — it is unbelievable.
From Ms Liz
Abu Dhabi
What’s the harm?
Shisha is widespread. Youngsters should be educated regarding the harmful effects of smoking shisha. The problem is that there is a lack of information and a lack of other activities that can match the price of shisha. A shisha will cost Dh20 to order and two or three people can share it, whereas food and other sorts of entertainment, such as movies, are priced much higher. I am a smoker but I know the harms of smoking and my limitations. Most smokers don’t even know the risks of shisha — a campaign should be started to educate the public.
From A Reader
Dubai
Justice denied
What we need to see in Libya is justice done concerning economic immigrants who are still in prison with allegations that they supported the old regime. The international community has an obligation to help when necessary, because there is a great danger that these people might remain in prison for a long time to come. Therefore action is urgently needed before it is too late. As the saying goes: ‘Justice delayed is justice denied.’
From Mr Hashil Saif Hashil
Copenhagen, Denmark
The right to vote
This is great news as non-resident Indians (NRIs) also get the legal right to vote (‘Indian expats celebrate winning the right to vote’, Gulf News, January 10). However, it will be better if it becomes an online system because on the day of election we might not be present.
From Mr Hari Elayath
Umm Al Quwain
Choose wisely
This is good news. But I think it is another game plan by the Congress. It is not a surprise that it is coming some time before the elections. I hope all NRIs use their wisdom when voting. Also, the process to register is not specified yet.
From Mr Harry
Dubai
Foolish act
I admire the man’s bravery and his love towards animals (‘Labourer recounts decision to change his life for leopard’, Gulf News, January 10). However, I also think it was a foolish act standing between the wild animal and the authorities. What if the animal tore him to death? What would happen to his family? They would lose a husband, a father and a son, which I think is more painful. The authorities could always use a tranquiliser on the wild cat.
From Ms Mary
Dubai
A good mentor
I think he is a very brave man and a true nature lover. I think all men should learn from him. Wildlife and the government should praise him for his brave deeds.
From Mr Bobby
Dubai
A true inspiration
May Dave Hodgson’s soul rest in peace (‘Family and friends pay tribute to cancer victim’, Gulf News, January 10). His courage while battling cancer and the thought provoking tweets are shining examples of inspiration to anyone who is depressed because of stress. His positive attitude will give many people a real relief and happiness, even if they are suffering from a serious illness.
From Mr Othman Mohammad Ebrahim
Dubai
