AI must not overgrow convenience

Apropos of ‘From Net to AI, a story of non-regulation’, the rapid rise of artificial intelligence mirrors the unregulated expansion of the Internet. Allowing it to run unchecked may soon wipe out individual autonomy and social balance. Innovation must not be allowed to spiral out of control in the name of progress. It is time for global leadership to step in, lay down minimum ethical rules and rein in reckless experimentation. Instead of debating whether regulation will slow down innovation, nations must scale up cooperation to build a shared code of conduct. AI must not grow as an overpowering tool of convenience, but as a conscientious tool. We cannot hand over our future blindly to algorithms.

Ashok Singh Guleria, Hamirpur

True authority does not scream

Refer to ‘The CJI’s restraint and the media’s reckoning’; the restraint shown by the Chief Justice has set a dignified benchmark for how institutions should respond to provocation — not with power, but with calm conviction. In doing so, the judiciary has shown that true authority does not scream; it stands firm in quiet confidence. Freedom of expression is not an unlimited licence — it is a responsibility to inform with integrity. Outrage may fetch attention, but only credibility earns trust. And in a democracy, conviction is the one currency neither the judiciary nor the media can afford to lose.

Gaurav Badhwar, Rohtak

Rot in the police force

The arrest of Punjab DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar by the CBI, along with the seizure of Rs 5 crore and 1.5 kg gold, is a chilling reminder of the rot in the policing system. When guardians of the law morph into traders of conscience, public faith is shaken. The audacity to demand bribes for ‘settling’ FIRs exposes a deep moral collapse. This episode is not a solitary aberration — it is symptomatic of institutional decay bred by impunity and political shielding. Punjab’s fight against graft demands not ritualism in the form of outrage but reform that pierces the armour of rank, lineage and influence. Let this arrest not end at headlines; let it ignite cleansing from within the force. Let us not just whisper, but roar against corruption.

Sahibpreet Singh, Mohali

Corruption-free workforce needed

IAS & IPS officers, who run the administrative machinery of the country, get huge salaries and facilities, besides status that only government servants enjoy. It is shocking to note that many of them are corrupt intellectually and practically. It is a worrisome situation and poses a serious challenge. Efficient, transparent and corruption-free workforce is an essential requirement to take the country forward. Speedy and concrete action must be taken against such public servants. Politicians who pester them to amass wealth through corrupt practices should also be taken to task.

Ravi Bhushan, Kurukshetra

Don’t respond to Trump’s pinpricks

Apropos of ‘Trump claims Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil’; True to his nature, the US President has again dropped a bombshell that has been strongly denied by the Indian government. It seems that he is trying all kinds of tricks to make India capitulate to his unfair demands. Yet, India hasn’t budged. The US must come to terms with the fact that it cannot dictate terms to any country. New Delhi can ill-afford to put a spanner in in its relationship with other countries. It is prudent not to respond to Trump’s pinpricks.

Aanya Singhal, Noida

Security, autonomy important

The issue of India’s oil imports from Russia, highlighted by US President Trump, reflects the complexity of India’s energy and diplomatic balance. While global pressures persist, India must continue prioritising its energy security and strategic autonomy. Any shift in oil procurement should be gradual and pragmatic, not reactionary. Diversifying sources is wise, but decisions must stem from long-term interests rather than external influence. With trade tensions rising and alliances shifting, India must ensure stability in energy supply while reinforcing an independent foreign policy.

Charu Sharma, Hoshiarpur

Letters to the Editor