A sad state of affairs as clashes occur in Kashmir

Our readers weigh in on India, Iran, China, designer brands and Pakistan

An Indian soldier guards a checkpoint in Srinagar during a general strike called by Kashmiri rebel groups on February 9, 2019. AP Photo

I write in reference to your article Anti-India protests in Kashmir after troops kill five rebels (February 11): this piece covered the recent firefight between Indian troops and rebels in southern Kulgam in the Kashmir valley, where troops were chasing militants in hiding and where five militants were killed. Ten civilians, who were reportedly supporting them and chanting slogans, were also injured.

In recent weeks, many violent clashes have broken out in the valley either due to attacks by militants or by Pakistani troops crossing the Line of Control. This is a sad state of affairs indeed.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Still chained to the past, Iran cannot embrace the future

I refer to your piece While the rest of the region advances, Iran is trapped in the past (February 10). This is really unfortunate. With an abundance of talent in many fields, Iran is still clinging to its outdated ideology. Religion should be kept away from progress and development, as it is for the soul. When a country clings to the past it will be chained, and unable to move ahead.

Name withheld by request

We cannot abandon the Uighurs’ quest for justice

I refer to your piece Turkey demands China close its internment camps for Muslims (February 11): I'm very grateful to Turkey for stepping forward. The rest of the world must follow Recep Tayyip Erdogan in condemning the barbarism of China. We cannot abandon the Uighurs and their quest for justice and rights.

Name withheld by request

If prime minister Imran can’t do it, then no one Khan

I write in reference to your article Imran Khan: We shouldn't be afraid of creating profit and wealth (February 10): if Imran Khan can't do it, no one can. Best wishes to our legendary captain.

Umar Bhat, Pennsylvania

Education, not boycotts, has the power for change

I refer to your article Director Spike Lee boycotts Gucci and Prada over 'racist' products (February 12): nearly all luxury brands today belong to one or two companies. Boycotts mean nothing unless you work concertedly on changing the mentality of ordinary people. We must educate younger generations away from these discriminatory realities within the fashion industry.

We are all human, regardless of race, religion or nationality. So we must stay away from those who preach racism, discrimination and provocation. If we do not, pain and hatred will be even more prevalent across the world.

Haseeb Ahmedi, Dubai

I’m boycotting these brands too Spike – well, I can’t afford them anyway.

Troy Patrick, Ohio