Indian paramilitary troopers in Srinagar on December 11. AFP
Indian paramilitary troopers in Srinagar on December 11. AFP


Indian court's milestone verdict for Kashmir



December 15, 2023

With reference to Bibhudutta Pradhan's report Article 370 verdict: India's Supreme Court upholds revocation of Kashmir's special status (December 11): Five years ago, in August 2019, the special status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir was abrogated by the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party. This was a significant milestone in Indian political history. Now that it has been upheld by the Supreme Court, it's good that polls are to be held there before next September. After the recent victory of the BJP in three of the four state elections, the party will have an even better standing in next year's Lok Sabha elections.

Despite the unhappiness the Court's verdict has caused the political opposition parties, some analysts believe that overall India‘s 'One Nation, One Election' policy will shine through in the coming months. Most people are also hoping that this finally brings development and unity to Kashmir. And that perhaps, above all, Kashmir will regain its place as one of the best destinations for tourists and trade, as witnessed decades ago.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru, India

Israel isn't looking at a ceasefire

With regard to the report Benjamin Netanyahu vows to fight on in Gaza: 'Nothing will stop us' (December 13): It definitely looks like Israel will continue the war. The US is supplying it with what it needs to carry out the killing of Palestinians – weapons, money, moral support and diplomatic cover, including constantly voting against a ceasefire at both the Security Council and General Assembly. At the moment, it still seems like Israel can get away with a lot.

Zayd Ismail Ayob, Johannesburg, South Africa

United at the bottom of the Champions League

With reference to Andy Mitten's take on Manchester United crashing out of Europe (December 13): This is very sad. I believe in Erik ten Hag. But he really needs to take action fast to liquidate and sell Harry Maguire as soon as possible. Our recent losses will make our players lose value, Maguire will become too cheap and Man United will not be able to cover its losses for buying such a player for £80 million.

Chen Y, Singapore

RIP to a talented actor

With regard to Farah Andrews's report Andre Braugher, Emmy-winning Brooklyn Nine-Nine actor, dies aged 61 (December 13): What a fine actor Andre Braugher was. He shone through in roles beyond playing a cop. He will be missed.

Demos Kyprianou, Abu Dhabi

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Electoral College Victory

Trump has so far secured 295 Electoral College votes, according to the Associated Press, exceeding the 270 needed to win. Only Nevada and Arizona remain to be called, and both swing states are leaning Republican. Trump swept all five remaining swing states, North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, sealing his path to victory and giving him a strong mandate. 

 

Popular Vote Tally

The count is ongoing, but Trump currently leads with nearly 51 per cent of the popular vote to Harris’s 47.6 per cent. Trump has over 72.2 million votes, while Harris trails with approximately 67.4 million.

Disclaimer

Director: Alfonso Cuaron 

Stars: Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline, Lesley Manville 

Rating: 4/5

The biog

Favourite food: Fish and seafood

Favourite hobby: Socialising with friends

Favourite quote: You only get out what you put in!

Favourite country to visit: Italy

Favourite film: Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.

Family: We all have one!

How to protect yourself when air quality drops

Install an air filter in your home.

Close your windows and turn on the AC.

Shower or bath after being outside.

Wear a face mask.

Stay indoors when conditions are particularly poor.

If driving, turn your engine off when stationary.

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From Zero

Artist: Linkin Park

Label: Warner Records

Number of tracks: 11

Rating: 4/5

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Six things you need to know about UAE Women’s Special Olympics football team

Several girls started playing football at age four

They describe sport as their passion

The girls don’t dwell on their condition

They just say they may need to work a little harder than others

When not in training, they play football with their brothers and sisters

The girls want to inspire others to join the UAE Special Olympics teams

Updated: December 15, 2023, 3:00 AM