Opinion | Letters
Letters: July 6, 2010
Letters to the editor
- Gulf News
- Published: 00:00 July 6, 2010
Check your facts
I was surprised to read the utterly defamatory report about Sri Lanka (“A glimpse of the Tiger’s lair”, Gulf News, July 1). It attempts to give a completely negative image of a peaceful Sri Lanka. But, I’m surprised about the writer openly admitting his boldness in trying to approach Prabhakaran’s house in spite of the orders given by the Sri Lankan soldiers [thereby] undermining their orders. I cannot imagine him reacting the same way to the orders of a police officer in Dubai. Dangerous! Media has a huge impact on crime in the way they exaggerate situations. As a channel that has gained much reputation in the country, it is wise to take more responsibility and do a thorough review prior to publishing such defamatory and unrealistic figures. There are many bloodthirsty creatures in the world and war is easy. Let’s try and contribute to bringing peace in the world!
From Ms Daffodil S.
UAE
There is more to Sri Lanka...
The article seems biased, as it sounds as if the government of Sri Lanka has done everything wrong and everyone against it is right! The simple fact is that we can’t be divided on ethnic grounds. Citizens of Sri Lanka have every right to live in any place of their choice. The government or the country gains nothing by keeping its own people bound and fenced, and it knows such an act is contrary to its intentions and humanitarian tasks. Diplomatically and internationally, it produces a backlash and stands against its good name and vision to find a long-lasting solution to Tamil grievances, while at the same time it costs so much to feed and care for them. There are valid reasons, which have been explained to the world, to keep them secure until their original places of domicile are cleared and secured for their safe return. Over 300,000 people who were bundled onto a tiny strip of land by LTTE as cannon fodder and buffer against the army were rescued by the Sri Lankan Armed Forces and 90 per cent of those are now settled and beginning a life without violence. They, along with those who were lucky to have been spared that unfortunate encounter, now have the opportunity and freedom to interact with fair and democratic politicians who are provided with space to create a vibrant society. This is what the government has achieved. Those who speak negatively about their efforts must visit the country to know of the progress. While there was death and destruction all over the country before the LTTE was defeated, there is none now. Is this what the critics are against? The country is now on a positive territory in terms of peace, economy, progress and development. All citizens, including LTTE combatants, are beneficiaries. So support the change and enjoy the benefits. What has been achieved must be secured, developed and enhanced for greater benefit of the country and its future, so those who oppose and work to reverse the gains must be defeated. That is a much bigger fight than what has been already achieved.
From Ms Gamini Lindagedera
Abu Dhabi
Freedom fighters
Please don’t spread wrong information. I’d like to ask the writer of the reports on Sri Lanka, do you know the history of Sri Lanka? Do you know the troubles faced by the Tamils in Sri Lanka since 1948 — after independence? Do you know about the human rights violation and Tamil genocide? Do you know of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and their goal? If you don’t know the answers to the above questions, then don’t write the stories — from the Sinhalese point of view. The majority of people in Sri Lanka are Sinhalese and minorities are Tamils. There are different religions, different languages and no equal rights in terms of education, employment and municipality development in Tamil areas. This started the violence. The Sinhalese will always give false information. The LTTE is the security force for the Tamil people in Sri Lanka. You should try to understand that they are not terrorists. They are only fighting in Sri Lanka for the Tamil people’s freedom. They should be titled freedom fighters as they are not fighting outside the country.
From Mr Jayashankar G.
Abu Dhabi
A tragic loss
The tragic news of the passing away of well known cricket umpire Fareed Malek is not only shocking but also sad (“Umpire Malek’s death plunges cricket fraternity into sorrow”, Gulf News, July 1). There is no doubt that he was by far the most respected and one of the best cricket umpires in the UAE. I have known him and his family since 1978 when I arrived in Dubai. Having officiated in many local matches speaks for his immense talent and credentials. He was a great person with an excellent sense of humour. I had the honour of meeting with him in person at the famous and historic Sharjah Cricket Stadium during his umpiring stints and found him to be an outstanding character who knew how to operate professionally amid highly charged and emotional cricketers, especially from Pakistan and India. Every cricket lover will fondly remember him for his love of the game. May the Almighty bless him and grant his family, friends and the entire cricket fraternity in the UAE the courage and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
From Mr Sarfaraz Shaikh
Dubai
No connection
This is with reference to the recent press conference in Dubai by Goa’s PWD Minister Mr. Churchill Alemao (“Law will take its course in Pacheco case, says Goa minister Alemao”, Gulf News, June 27). I do not agree with his reported comments about me. His comment that I am working at the behest of former minister Luizinho Faleiro is not correct, as I am not linked to any politician or any political party. On his comment [about] me “telling him to his face”, I would like him to know that various concerns on Goa were provided to his government leader, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, in a UAE-based Goan Signature Campaign and [this] was also well publicised in the Goan print media in December, 2008.
From Mr Arwin Mesquita
Abu Dhabi
Unnecessary pamphlets
These days it is a common practice to see many pamphlets on your doorstep when you return from your holiday. It is common for people to advertise through pamphlets. It could also be unsafe sometimes. We try to be safe in our homes and teach our children to never open the door. But from a security point of view you do not know who is wandering in your neighbourhood and what their intentions are. Also it gives a messy look when you see these pamphlets outside every door or if people even leave a bulk in front of elevators just for people to notice. I appeal to the authorities to take notice of this nuisance, especially in Sharjah.
From Ms Sophy Aqeel
Sharjah
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