A sickening mass murder has struck New Zealand, one of the world’s most idyllic countries, and New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has been remarkably forthright in emphatically declaring that the victims, many of whom may be migrants or refugees, “are us” (‘World’ page, “Gunman charged as Ardern pledges to reform gun laws”, March 17). The overriding theme of her statements isthat her country represents “diversity, compassion and refuge”. Christchurch and Pulwama together represent senseless bloodshed. Terrorism of every stripe, in every nation, must be collectively rejected using the same language of unequivocal condemnation. One hopes that leaders in the subcontinent remember this.
Meghana A.,
Shell Cove, NSW, Australia
It is admirable that Prime Minister Ardern has offered her condolences in person irrespective of religion. Her quick move to impart a healing touch has not gone unnoticed. One hopes that she will ensure justice for the victims’ families.
Najmul Huda,
Mumbai
The swift and decisive response of the New Zealand government and its law enforcement agencies, and the mature and empathetic response of the people offer hope that the lunatic fringe purveying hatred and violence can be isolated. Instead of pointing fingers at tolerant societies, global communities and institutions should strengthen the hands of the majority in a collaborative endeavour. The brittle and leaky edifice of the social media needs to be demolished and a new framework has to be put in place to rein in the propagation of extreme and virulent ideologies.
V.N. Mukundarajan,
Thiruvananthapuram
The mass shooting cannot be simply termed as a mindless act of terrorism or hatred which has its roots in growing hatred. That the alleged shooter livestreamed his dastardly act online is a clear reflection of the extent to which the dark side to the Internet has permeated the physical world. Social media often allow users to upload videos and pictures with ease, creating an undesirable impact on the ground. The onus on social media giants to curb violent content and stop its spread and sharing on its platform.
M. Jeyaram,
Sholavandan, Tamil Nadu
The tragedy in New Zealand comes just after Pulwama, which is another ghastly incident of violence. Extremism appears to be spreading exponentially across the globe even in places where its presence was thought to be the least. We cannot go along like this. Global leaders must speak in one voice.
Sayooj P.,
Varikkoli, Kallachi, Kerala
