Letters: November 26, 2009

Memories linger
It has been a year since the Mumbai terror attack (“Readers recall pain and love for their city”, Gulf News, November 25). At least 175 people lost their lives and several others suffered injuries, but for the families who lost their loved ones, the pain remains fresh. Hemant Karkare, the chief of Maharashtra Anti-Terrorist Squad, was among the 11 police officials who were killed while fighting terrorists in Mumbai. Even though the memories of those who died may fade with time, it remains unforgettable for the families of those officials who sacrificed their lives for their nation. We salute these officers who fought for the country and managed to save hundreds of lives on that fateful day. The people of Mumbai have become stronger in the past year and continue to move on with life. Many people have not forgotten that day and the nightmares that we had after seeing gruesome photographs in the news. I still remember that day  I was alone at home and kept crying, on seeing the live pictures from the terror attack. I kept praying for my country and within two days, India emerged as a powerful nation and handled the situation calmly. We fought till the end to save innocent lives. I would like to say with my head held high that I am a proud Indian.
From Ms Hannah Joji
Dubai

Continuing issues
As Abu Dhabi’s parking problems get worse, a new approach is in line now people park their cars in front of other vehicles and leave their mobile numbers on the windshield. It’s then the duty of that unlucky person to call and request for the car to be moved. Sometimes, people don’t even answer the call. Why don’t they understand that time is of equal value to everyone? The authorities should take stringent measures against such offenders. Issuing fines would not improve things. Instead, they could urge drivers to park at designated places only. We cannot blame anybody for this as parking issues do exist. But, that doesn’t mean people have an excuse to violate the rules.
From Mr Mohammad Ameen
Abu Dhabi

Crumbling hope
The generation that saw the formation of Pakistan under the dynamic leadership of Mohammad Ali Jinnah, is seeing the very same country collapse under President Asif Ali Zardari. We don’t need people like Zardari, who are involved in all sorts of corruption scandals and are completely unaware of the hardships the people go through, to lead our nation. I think this is the worst thing that has happened to Pakistan in the past 62 years. I strongly feel that we need to give a chance to the retired cricketer and politician Imran Khan. He has all that we need from a leader: Honesty, dedication, commitment, far-sightedness and the will to achieve his goals. I agree that heading the government is not similar to playing cricket, but Imran Khan would definitely have people around him who show signs of strength through their performance.
From Mr Khaula Shahbaz Rao
Dubai

Work isn’t a vacation
It has become a trend for many people to wear t-shirts, jeans, short-sleeved or sleeveless shirts to work on Thursdays. They go to work thinking they’re on holiday. Yes, it is close to the weekend, but why do they opt for such attire? They should be aware that they are going to work and not to a supermarket. Everyone should dress neatly when going to work, especially as many clients may come in for meetings during office hours. What would they think of the company if they see such colourful dressing styles?
From Mr Thottikamath Balaram
Dubai

Wake up
There are one billion hungry and uneducated children in the world this means at least two billion irresponsible adults have had children, despite the fact they can’t take care of them properly (“Billion children need help”, Gulf News, November 21). I feel very sorry for the children, but helping them means encouraging more careless adults. World leaders, wake up and educate your people properly!
From Mr Peter Adolphs
Germany

Not required
I’ve read several reports on the recent conflicts between Egypt and Algeria over soccer matches. There was no need for what happened between fans. I’m an Algerian university student and I would just like to say that all the incidents made me really sad. I saw some pictures that showed disturbances in Algeria. There was no need for it.
From Ms Requia Harous
UAE