Modi's India may indeed be a mirage

Readers discuss debt, economic reform and more

Millions are not reaping the fruit of Modi's reforms. Tsering Topgyal / AP

This refers to the editorial, Is Modi's 'shining' India merely a mirage? (September 17). While the liberalisation of India's economy has helped several millions to better their lives, it has taken time to see this change, especially in rural areas. Nevertheless, the fear remains that a vast corporate culture is being created in a country where millions still struggle for mere survival. Even though the idea is a good one in theory, switching to a cashless society is unfeasible.

Among many other reasons, fragile political equations are to blame for the instability created while shifting from old to new transactions. The present government wants to make a change, but religious sentiment has won an unwarranted upper hand in the equation.

The reality is that the middle class in India will continue suffering and most will not reap the fruit of reform. India's poorest are in desperate need of a change big enough for them to finally see their homeland in an entirely different light.

Ramachandran Nair, Oman

A little compassion towards new mum is a must

I refer to your article, Helping Hands: New mum racks up Dh340,000 in hospital fees for premature baby (September 16). This is a disgrace. Who would turn away a woman in that situation? Hiding behind insurance policies, making money from people's misfortunes, and then punishing them for those very misfortunes and threatening them with prison or deportation, is beyond contempt. The fees should be waived with immediate effect and the mother should be given a room next to her baby. I hope a national health plan for people in such situations will come into effect one day.

Angela HG, United Kingdom

Pregnancy and childbirth are hard experiences. I can’t imagine being turned down by a hospital as I panicked about losing my baby, never mind three. I wouldn’t be able to hold it together. This is heartbreaking, but I’m glad the baby is doing well. It’s a shame that an article has to be written to get donations. I hope they raise the money they need.

Claire Crew, UK

Don't those in debt deserve help instead of apprehension?

I refer to Salam Al Amir's article, Emirates NBD chief sparks fresh debate over bounced cheques (September 14). It was a very interesting piece about an issue I feel strongly about. After losing my job of six years without warning, I have been receiving intimidating calls and messages from companies for money that I have been unable to pay back. Don't we, as humans, need assistance and compassion at times like this? I think back to the days, not so long ago, when banks would scour offices in search of customers. But now, people like me are classed as criminals. Not only do I face court charges, but I can't cancel my visa. This means I can't receive my end-of-service payment, which I could have used, ironically, to pay my debt. I also can't get a visa for a new job. I have been a resident here for 11 years and have never in my life had any trouble. But I am now faced with issues such as the ones highlighted in this article simply because I was terminated without notice.

Name withheld by request

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