I write in reference to your article Customers urged to demand VAT receipt and curb tax-dodging (March 19): I wholeheartedly agree. Lots of small groceries take advantage of VAT to cheat people. For instance, if the tax pushes up the price of an item by 25 fils, they will make sure to round it up to one dirham.
Nabirye Patience, Abu Dhabi
Don’t be too quick to point the finger at Russia
I write in reference to your article Russia retaliates by expelling 23 British diplomats (March 18): As they should. There are valid concerns about the claims being made by UK Prime Minister Theresa May and her Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson.
There is no clear Russian motive for this attack, but there are numerous reasons for the UK to blame it on Russia: to disrupt the Russia World Cup, bolster public support for war, improve Ms May’s ratings, ramp up UK defence spending, further discredit opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn and try to impact Russian elections.
Name withheld by request
Theresa May and her cronies are now judge and jury, with no evidence or motive.
Wadad de Marco, Sydney
Dinesh Karthik has a place in the hearts of all Indians
I write in reference to your article Dinesh Karthik emulates MS Dhoni by propelling India to last-ball win over Bangladesh and win Nidahas Trophy (March 19). By hitting a six with the last ball of the last over of the tournament, Karthik bounced himself into the heart of every Indian across the world.
Rajendra Aneja, Dubai
Obesity is a global scourge that needs to be addressed
Please refer to your article New study challenges 'healthy but obese' theory (March 16). The European Heart Journal study and the mixed reactions in the profession about what it means to be healthy are fascinating. The fact remains that obese people are more likely to face cardiovascular disease. Obesity is a global challenge; we should all take care of ourselves to avoid it.
K Ragavan, Benagluru
ISIL do not represent Islam but use it for their cruel ends
I refer to your article ISIL sleeper cells mounting attacks in northern Iraq (March 15). ISIL are awful, cruel individuals. They are not real Muslims, but seek power, oil, territories and domination. Though they use Islam for their political ends, these cruel people do not practice the religion.
Asyah E Meel, Abu Dhabi
Sharjah-Istanbul plane crash victims had much to live for
I refer to your article Emotions run high at funerals of Sharjah-Istanbul plane crash victims in Turkey (March 15): what a terrible tragedy. These girls had so much to look forward to and so much to live for. The poor parents could not say goodbye. May their souls rest in peace.
Kanchana Latha, Malaysia
