Your editorial, “New rights and old divisions” (Aug. 6) rightly reflects on the great divide that persists between the developed and developing countries with regard to providing basic amenities to people. The successful passage of a non-binding resolution on water is a great victory for the developing countries over the hegemonic western powers. It is sad to note that even in an age of modern technological innovations, we are not in a position to provide water, the basic requirement. Though developed countries and their leaders deliver lofty lectures on social development, when it comes to action they are not at all concerned about the people. It is noteworthy that the U.N. General Assembly has recognised access to clean water and sanitation as a human right though a mere declaration does not resolve the crisis.
Jetling Yellosa,
Nizamabad
On the one side, the U.S. dominates the U.N.'s decision every time. That may be in matters concerning Israeli attack on a ship carrying relief materials for Palestine. On the other side, despite opposition from the U.S., the draft resolution on “access to clean water and sanitation as a human right” is passed. If a U.N. resolution is non-binding, what is the use of wasting time passing such resolutions?
Puneet Gupta,
Coimbatore
