INTROSPECTION: This refers to the report ‘Lynching horror visits Khanewal’ (Feb 13). We are in a dire need of looking inwardly and of understanding the true spirit of the religion. The clerics should preach that violation of human rights is an unforgiveable sin and one cannot be a true Muslim if one hurts others. Raising slogans will not do us any good if we don’t practise Islam in letter and in spirit, and follow the teachings as ordained by the religion itself.

Syeda Hadia Bakhtawar
Nankana Sahib

COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES: In pre-partition days, the Shishi Bhushan Street, Babu Bazar, used to be an ideal residential locality housing the Ministry of Defence officers, called the Calcutta-Office babus. Now this residential locality is a perfect example of administrative neglect. Erratic electric and gas supplies apart, the whole locality has become a throbbing commercial den that is unfit for residential purposes. The relevant authorities should consider streamlining the commercial activities in the area to restore some of its glory.

Amjed Jaaved
Rawalpindi

FEUDAL FACTOR: The murder of six persons, including a police official, over the ownership of land between two groups close to Nawabshah is reminiscent of the feudal factor that has been haunting our society for years. One of the groups demonstrated for hours along with the bodies of their loved ones, but there were considerable issues with FIR registration. The authorities concerned must initiate a transparent inquiry so that the culprits may be punished accordingly.

Asad Ali
Nawabshah

PUBLIC HEALTH: Despite extensive research by international public health agencies regarding monosodium glutamate (MSG) safety, it is still banned in Pakistan. MSG usage has increased globally due to its numerous health benefits and its inherent presence in natural food ingredients. The food authorities should reconsider the ban.

Mahnoor Feroz
Karachi

Published in Dawn, February 27th, 2022