The people of Manipur are sandwiched between the thrust of AFSPA on one side and the equally dreadful threats of insurgency on the other “Choosing satyagraha over spectacle,” (Jan.31). It is heartbreaking to mention that even after a decade of rigorous protest, neither Irom Sharmila nor any of her fervent supporters has yet to bring about change as far as the internal security of the state is concerned. Peace will prevail only when there is a genuine attempt to work towards the development and welfare of the people in Northeast India.
Yangthouba Mutum,Imphal
It was interesting to have a thought-provoking article contrasting two visually compelling images — loud military might and quiet, inner strength. Nations, like individuals, can mask their true nature. Pride in the form of the spectacle of weaponry is not necessarily a source of comfort for all. When the focus is on the ability to bring about change through violence, the state can “mirror the violence of the terrorists” against its own people. We all have the ability to resist injustice by not accepting it as a fact of life and not amplifying it by reacting to it.
Velayudhan Menon,Batu Pahat, Malaysia
