Political labelling

The Prime Minister often creates new terms and expressions to disparage opponents and dissenters. After previous labels such as ‘urban Naxals’, ‘tukde-tukde gang’ and ‘andolanjeevis’ became outdated, he has used the national platform to introduce a new one: ‘dimagi (intellectual) naxals’. This seems aimed at the student leaders behind the Gen Z protests, which have somewhat damaged his strongman image. If his warning about a ‘malicious plan to harm the country’ was genuine, he should have clearly outlined the traits of such individuals. This vague label is another excuse for his government to target inconvenient voices and regain lost ground (Page 1, August 16).

Kamal Laddha,

Bengaluru

True patriotism

The controversy over the rendition of the full version of Vande Mataram at the headquarters of the Congress party (August 16) has emerged amid the government’s emphasis on its complete rendition. Patriotism should extend beyond symbolic expressions of attachment to the nation to include a tangible commitment to the safety, dignity and well-being of its people. Mindless violence against individuals suspected of transporting beef, or attacks on Christians at peaceful prayer meetings, are equally incompatible with the values of patriotism and constitutional democracy. The democratic ideal is not the dominance of the majority over minorities, but a constitutional framework in which every citizen can participate with equal dignity and security.

Matthew Adukanil,

Chennai