In a country steeped in overt and covert discrimination, Aamir Khan’s write-up (“Can’t be a superpower as long as untouchability exists,” July 9) is a telling reminder of the social inequities that continue unabated in India. For his efforts, Mr. Khan can only be hailed as a hero for he is doing things that so many others in high positions are chronically guilty of neglecting.
Arun Sadasivam,
Bridgend
The solution to manual scavenging does not lie in laws prohibiting it because India is known for poor implementation of laws, especially those that protect the deprived sections. The beneficiaries of this service should change their mindset and consider manual scavenging a national shame. They should feel guilty about treating fellow humans with indignity, and cooperate with NGOs fighting to eliminate the practice. The dynamic Indian media can help in intensifying the efforts towards eradicating manual scavenging.
Rameeza A. Rasheed,
Chennai
Keywords: untouchability in India, social discrimination, social inclusion, social justice, manual scavenging