In chains Sir — The script is unfolding in familiar ways in Afghanistan. Recently, the Taliban government issued a decree ordering Afghan women to wear the all-enveloping burqa in public. The ...

Fair pay Sir — Folk art and craft are intricately linked to the history and culture of a region. However, they rarely get the respect they deserve. First, they are often kept out of the hallow...

Hong Kong has served as a gateway to China since the British handover of the city a quarter of a century ago. On Sunday, Beijing took its latest step towards slamming that door shut. John Lee, a forme...

A dog’s life Sir — It is said that a dog is man’s best friend. But the reverse can be equally true. Consider the proposal of the cops at Lalbazar. It has been reported that the &lsq...

Sweet dreams Sir — Sleeping on the job is usually frowned upon. But the start-up, Wakefit, has come up with an official policy that will allow its employees 30 minutes of nap time in the after...

Strange sight Sir — India may have many rare species of animals but the kangaroo is not one of them. Officials recently found a few kangaroos in the forests of Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. This poi...

One step back Sir — A leaked draft opinion of the Supreme Court of the United States of America suggests that it is poised to strike down Roe vs Wade, a landmark decision that guaranteed a...

On the clock Sir — While most of us procrastinate every now and then, with writers it is a particularly common occupational hazard. Churning out remarkable manuscripts on a strict deadline can ...

Winds of change Sir — Progressive politics and the world of fashion have not always seen eye to eye. In recent years, a welcome change has been discernible. The Met Gala, considered to be the b...

Sir — Boris Becker’s jail sentence has shocked the world of tennis. He has had a shining sporting career. It is sad that his reputation has been ruined. Fakhrul Alam, Calcutta Ill repute...