MyVoice: Views of our readers 12th September 2026

Revisiting the politics of untouchability

This refers to “Dalits up in arms over purification of road after dapuu protest at Erravalli” (Sept 10). Purification rituals after political rallies revives the old caste practice of untouchability, now re-engineered as a weapon of party rivalry. Though it appears as a theatrical gesture meant to delegitimize opponents, it, however, drags public life back into the language of discrimination. When parties extend this symbolism into rallies by “cleansing” spaces, they are essentially staging caste-like differentiation in political form’.

Moreover, in Parliament and assemblies, even the seating arrangement has become an analogy for it— ruling party on one side (treasury benches), and opposition on the other — a physical enactment of separation. While such seating is procedural, the mindset it reinforces is adversarial rather than collaborative. Will purification rituals be enacted there as well? This is not just s ritualistic excess; it corrodes democratic culture. Instead of debating ideas, parties are dramatising purity versus pollution, which questions the very notion of equal citizenship.

Dr O Prasada Rao, Hyderabad

Trade deals must be free of immigration issues

With reference to ‘Anti-Indian sentiment in US can derail trade relationship’ (THI, Sept 11). The growing hostility towards Indians in parts of the US deserves attention, but it should not be allowed to define bilateral relations. Immigration rules are a sovereign matter, yet their implementation must remain fair and non-discriminatory. India should raise legitimate concerns through diplomatic channels instead of public confrontation.

American authorities, meanwhile, should distinguish between genuine immigration violations and lawful professionals contributing to the economy. Better coordination between the two governments could prevent misinformation and unnecessary anxiety. Trade negotiations should continue independently of immigration disagreements. A mature relationship can accommodate differences without allowing them to undermine cooperation in technology, education and investment.

Abbharna Barathi, Chennai-23

Economic interdependence can be a stabiliser

This refers to ‘Anti-Indian sentiment in US can derail trade relationship’. The impact on American businesses should not be overlooked. Many US companies depend on Indian professionals for specialised skills in technology, healthcare, engineering and research. Restricting legitimate talent without creating adequate alternatives could raise costs for American firms.

Washington should therefore distinguish between tightening immigration controls and unnecessarily restricting skilled mobility. India can complement this by promoting reciprocal investment and encouraging American companies to expand research and production facilities here. Such arrangements would create employment in both countries. Economic interdependence can be a stabilising force, provided governments manage immigration concerns without undermining the skilled workforce that sustains bilateral commercial ties.

A S Nithish Kumar, Neelambur-641 062

Sustained institutional dialogue is best bet

With reference to ‘Anti-Indian sentiment in US can derail trade relationship’. India should avoid allowing a temporary dispute over immigration to overshadow the larger strategic partnership with the US. Differences are inevitable in any mature relationship, especially on trade, visas and market access. The answer lies in sustained institutional dialogue rather than retaliatory measures.

Both sides should establish regular consultations involving governments, businesses, universities and diaspora representatives. India should simultaneously widen its trade and investment partnerships so that its economic interests are not concentrated in one country. The US, too, stands to gain from a stable Indian partnership in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. Prudence and reciprocity should guide the next phase of relations.

B A Neboba, Perundurai-638052

Time India strengthens domestic employment

This is further to ‘Anti-Indian sentiment in US can derail trade relationship’. The uncertainty surrounding H-1B visas could affect India’s technology sector, which has long relied on access to the American market. Instead of viewing this only as an immigration problem, India should use it as an opportunity to strengthen domestic employment. Greater investment in research, semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence and advanced services can create high-value jobs at home.

Skill-development programmes should be aligned with emerging industries rather than conventional degrees alone. Meanwhile, Indian IT firms operating in the US must comply fully with local regulations. After all, it is diversification, not confrontation, that will give Indian professionals greater resilience if American immigration policies become more restrictive.

S M Jeeva, Chennai-32

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The Hans India