The good doctor

Sir — We all remember black-and-white Indian films in which every time a crucial character fell sick in the family, a familiar, all-comforting doctor was called in to examine the patient and order rest, medication or a change of scenery. In the past, communities reposed enormous faith in the easily accessible and affordable services of family physicians. Andhra Pradesh is now launching a ‘Family Doctor’ programme where doctors will make regular house calls. Perhaps the family physician, a man who almost becomes a part of the household, will, once again, become a permanent fixture in our lives.

Roshni Banerjee,Nadia

Voice freed

Sir — The Supreme Court has set the right precedent by upholding the rights of the Malayalam news channel, MediaOne, which was banned for 48 hours in 2020 allegedly in ‘national interest’ (“Free the press”, April 8). Amidst rising curbs on the freedom of speech, this verdict holds out hope for the independence of the media.

The apex court bench, comprising the Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, and Justice Hima Kohli, made it clear that an independent media is vital for the effective functioning of a democratic republic and that the government cannot use national security issues without proof.

Vijay Singh Adhikari,Nainital, Uttarakhand

Sir — The Union ministry of home affairs had claimed that it was protecting national security by banning MediaOne for 48 hours. The apex court was correct to dismiss these accusations as baseless. The media should be able to criticise the policies of the government without being labelled ‘anti-Establishment’.

A.K. Chakraborty,Guwahati

Sir — While delivering its verdict on the MediaOne case, the Supreme Court has held that “critical views ... on policies of the government cannot be termed, ‘anti-establishment’.” A democratic country allows its citizens to contribute to its welfare in their own way through constructive criticism. The government is accountableto the people and a true democracy can only work through dissent and criticism.

Ranganathan Sivakumar,Chennai

Strategic friendship

Sir — China’s strategy has always been to pressurise India via neighbouring countries like Bhutan (“Heed the signs”, April 6). India is the only South Asian country that can challenge Chinese supremacy in the region. But India must no longer treat Bhutan condescendingly orit will risk increasingthe latter’s closeness toChina. Befriending Bhutan can go a long way in stopping Beijing’s aggression.

Aranya Sanyal,Siliguri

Running low

Sir — Electric vehicles make up a key element of the dream of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Indian companies like the Tata Group have come up with EVs that are light on the pocket and significantly cleaner than petrol or diesel-run cars. But in order to become popular, EVs must be made more convenient for the public. While there are more than 60,000 petrol pumps in India, EV charging points are hardly found along highways or even within cities.

Shruti Sharma,Ujjain

Proud moment

Sir — Shah Rukh Khan has secured the top position in Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people. The 57-year-old actor is currently enjoying the success of his latest film, Pathaan, which became a runaway hit at the box office after it released in January. Khan’s presence at the topof the list is a moment of pride for this country. He must be congratulated for bringing us this great honour.

Bhagwan Thadani,Mumbai