This refers to the article “Who stands to gain from war hysteria?” (Sept. 21). Obviously, neither India nor China stands to gain by war. At a time when both countries are working towards becoming economic superpowers, a war is the last thing they would want. The interpretations in the media and by interested groups show how every section is trying to reap some benefit by exaggerating the issue. The objective behind creating a war hysteria differs — for some, it is to get more funds for the defence sector, for the media the purpose is to sell hot news, and right-wing nationalists want to project themselves as saviours of the nation. The common man has no choice but to listen to all of them and satisfy himself that the tax paid by him is being spent on his safety.
M. Deivasigamani, Chennai
The electronic and print media have been increasingly indulging in sensationalising news on issues of national interest. We have been enjoying peace in the LAC for the last couple of decades and this has been acknowledged by both New Delhi and Beijing. It is time the media refrained from publishing and airing false and unfounded reports, particularly those which embarrass the government. They must observe some discipline and stop creating panic.
R. Appanna, Srikakulam
Neither India nor China stands to gain from the obnoxious war hysteria whipped up by an overenthusiastic media, self-styled “think-tanks,” and defence experts. One need not ignore the ominous portents prophesied by them but their claims should be taken with a pinch of salt. We should try to figure out why they are unusually concerned over the so-called danger from across the border when the government and the serving officers maintain that it is tranquil. We must trust the Army Chief when he assures the nation that it is safe. No country goes to war for fun.
Col. C.V. Venugopalan (retd.), Palakkad
The article underlines the factors responsible for the recent escalation of war hysteria between India and China. Instead of putting the blame squarely on the fourth estate, we should try to identify the forces that are instrumental in making irresponsible statements and make them realise the dangers of playing with the country’s peace and sovereignty.
B.R. Sajith, Thiruvananthapuram
The recent trend in the media points to distortion of news for commercial gains. They seem to have forgotten their prime duty in a democracy. They do not realise the damage and embarrassment they cause to the nation and society by sensationalising news.
C. Petson Peter, Kochi
It is true that a section of the media has sensationalised the reports of Chinese border incidents. At the same time, it is not fair to call all those who express their concern in the matter xenophobes or American sympathisers. The main problem in the India-China relations is the absence of frequent high-level contacts between the two nations. This void in official communication is filled by non-state actors — the media, “experts” in India, and the blogoshpere in China. An early resolution of the border dispute will help to clear the trust deficit between the two nations.
V.N. Mukundarajan, Thiruvananthapuram
