The interesting article by Professor Bernard Haykel (“A jihadi battle of brands,” Sept.11), shows that India has to be careful not to fall into the trap laid by al-Qaeda. To ignore it seems to be the answer. At the same time, all peace-loving citizens in this country must be vigilant and also help ensure that vulnerable youth do not fall prey to AQSA’s designs. The growth plank being extended by the Modi government to all sections of society must be taken up by everyone. Ensuring development in all spheres will improve the status of every section, and that will in turn help curb the plans of jihadi outfits.
V.S. Ganeshan,Bangalore
India’s strong secular foundation will be a bitter pill to swallow for any terrorist organisation that aims to radicalise youth. Nevertheless, we cannot afford to be complacent. Our neighbour, Pakistan, has the same Islamic foundation as we have. Trying to help it curb fundamentalist tendencies will work in our favour. India should encourage the forces of democracy to flourish in the neighbourhood.
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