Important message

These days, many newspapers have reduced or just dropped the Letters to the Editor column. This feature provides ordinary readers an opportunity to express their views on topics of concern. What can an ordinary citizen with zero position, power or money, do when he sees something wrong or unjust? This dilemma confronts millions of common citizens like me. At least we can write to the editor.

Many newspapers have dropped the feature, due to shortage of space or reduction in the number of pages. Across countries, newspapers have shrunk due to higher viewing of the digital editions. Some newspapers may have done away with the letters section, since readers can comment online below the article. However, since these online comments are not edited or monitored for quality, many of them are not well thought through.

The Letters to the Editor column inspires ordinary citizens to make their voices heard. Mahatma Gandhi had pioneered a journal. He wrote, “In the very first month of Journal Indian Opinion, I realised that the sole aim of journalism should be service.” Later he said, “When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants, and murderers, and for a time they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall, always.”

So, simple letters to the editor can also make a difference. We can never give up. Ever. My compliments to your esteemed Journal for continuing the Letters to the Editor column.

Rajendra Aneja,
Mumbai, India