Letters to The Editor — December 5, 2024

Endangered species

In this cataclysmic age of climate uncertainty, species are disappearing at an unthinkable rate. However, the conservation efforts of the government should encompass a variety of species. Flagship species such as the tiger and the elephant appear to be gaining huge budgetary resources and attention while others such as the Namdapha flying squirrel, the hangul and the Malabar civet remain passive bystanders. The solution is in having a balanced approach to environmental activism.

C. Sivaraman,

Ranipet, Tamil Nadu

EVM and paper ballots

Many Opposition parties have expressed serious doubts about the use of electronic voting machines (EVM), wanting ballot papers to be used in elections instead. By strengthening the perception of the ‘capture of the ballot through the EVM’, the present dispensation has virtually captured many key constitutional values — of democracy, federalism, secularism and the rights of minorities. We have already seen communal violence and the breakdown of law and order in many a State. It is no answer to say that some of the Opposition parties have won in some States through the EVM. The problem has to be tested from the States where they have lost and Hindutva forces have gained ground. The BJP would do well by giving in to the demand for ballot paper use if it has won by fair means. When there are serious challenges to the Constitution, it is time the ruling party yields to the Opposition and shows statesmanship in such a vital matter.

N.G.R. Prasad,

Chennai

Cyber crimes

Rising cyber frauds are becoming a nightmare for senior citizens. With smartphone transactions and social media use becoming the norm, one has to be constantly alert — more so in the case of senior citizens, who may not be tech-savvy.

Perhaps there needs to be more awareness programmes for senior citizens who should not have to learn things after falling victim to scams.

Gopalaswamy J.,

Chennai

The Internet is also a jungle with much online trash. Added to this is the trend of cybercrimes that target senior citizens who may not be tech-savvy enough to protect themselves. More awareness and quick responses by cyber law enforcement cells are the solutions.

Deepak Taak,

Panchkula, Haryana