Wait for elections to assess Narendra Modi’s popularity

Our readers have their say on the BJP, Yazidis in Syria and New Year's resolutions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a BJP rally in Dharamsala. Sanjay Baid / EPA

I write in reference to your article Former BJP leader warns India against second term for Modi (December 31). Amrit Dhillon's article on former Indian finance minister Yashwant Sinha was an interesting read.

I have no party affiliation, but I have been watching Indian politics for nearly six decades. I did admire Mr Sinha when he held the external affairs portfolio. He has every right to comment on the prime minister.

As a common man  watching Indian politics for decades, I’m aware that there will always be setbacks for sitting leaders and Narendra Modi is no diffferent. Overall, he has made some achievements including the recent big bridge in Assam. He is a true leader who has made a big impact on India’s standing in the world.

Politics is a game of blame and opportunism. Mr Modi’s philosophy is long-term growth for the country. His enthusiasm and energy is laudable. Whatever the criticism and comments by his own former party men, we have to wait for next year’s elections to assess Mr Modi’s popularity. Politicians should remember they are powerful for five years, but the people are powerful forever. Ultimately, they have to decide whether they want  Mr Modi or not.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Turkey should leave the Yazidis well alone

I refer to Sofia Barbarani's article Syria's Yazidis will suffer the consequences of US withdrawal (December 29). The Yazidis have not harmed anyone, and live peacefully by themselves, so Turkey should just leave them alone. Why trouble them for nothing? People have the right to practice any faith they wish, and Islam permits it. The ­Turkish army should therefore not touch them, but protect them as Muslims must. The ­international community should ensure it.

Name withheld by request  

High school fees make it hard to save in the UAE

I write in reference to your article 9 New Year's resolutions to keep your UAE lifestyle up and costs down (December 30). It is hard to save, given the high cost of school fees, especially since companies are no longer subsidising it. Other than that the cost of living is reasonable. We are cooking more at home these days.

Randall Mohammed, Dubai

The first one for me is not going out on New Year’s Eve this year, which will save me at least Dh2,000.

Tanya Milbourne, Dubai