Letters to The Editor — December 27, 2025

Turmoil in Bangladesh

To defuse the Bangladesh situation, what is required is a goodwill visit by senior Ministers and the External Affairs Minister, followed by the Prime Minister if necessary. Reciprocal visits need to be followed up because the turmoil has been going on for long. Meanwhile, irresponsible statements made by certain politicians and the frenzy being built up by the visual media should be nipped in the bud.

A.V. Narayanan,

Chennai

There is a need for strong action on the part of the international comity of nations to bring stability in Bangladesh.

Fresh elections are awaited to curb tyranny and create a democratic hue across the nation.

Manas Agarwal,

Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh

Tarique Rahman’s return after nearly 18 years in exile has the potential to reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2026 polls. While projecting unity and stability, his absence during years of turmoil raises questions. With unrest, minority concerns and strained India ties persisting, voters must choose carefully, judging leadership by proven actions rather than lineage, so that the nation does not regret it later.

R.S. Narula,

Patiala, Punjab

Ukraine war and peace

Had U.S. President Donald Trump been certain about creating peace between Russia and Ukraine, he would have exercised more caution in devising his plans right from the beginning. The Kremlin’s adamant attitude is also something that is difficult to digest.

As discerning political observers will note, passing the buck appears to be what these powerful nations seem to be more interested in than finding permanent peace.

My fond hopes that Ukraine will have a peaceful future, at least in the New Year, are slowly and steadily diminishing.

Mani Nataraajan,

Chennai

Tourist-friendly measure

During the holiday season, the area surrounding the Brihadeeswarar (Big) Temple becomes severely congested for lack of adequate parking space. Vehicles spill over onto adjoining streets, forcing visitors — this includes foreign tourists, senior citizens and children — to walk long distances under the scorching sun. This situation affects the city’s image. It is unfortunate that the large open ground, formerly used as a paid parking area, was converted into a children’s play zone under the banner of tourism development. However, the installation remains unused, overgrown with weeds and filled with rusted play equipment. The old court complex, lying in disuse, can be turned into a paid parking facility and improve the visitor experience. Pro-active actions will promote Thanjavur as a tourist-friendly heritage city.

S.P. Anthonisamy,

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu