Time and again India and her territories have been attacked. Tired of being caught in the cross-fire, citizens now demand safety measures. They tell Abhinetri Murali on what they want done
The kind of security system that we have in India has to be strengthened to a large extent, only then can we tackle terrorism. The solutions provided now are superficial, this has to stop. The government has to deal with the issues at hand with a strategy. Only if we have a plan in place, can we put an end to this terror. The roots have to be targeted to eradicate terrorism.
— Geetha Menon, activist
Public awareness especially among children and youth is the need of the hour. The government and police need to tighten security to make the country a safer place for its citizens. How do we expect the nation to progress when it is not free from the clasps of corruption and terrorism. When people don’t feel free to walk on the roads, then how can we expect to achieve what other nations have? Whose fault is this? If we don’t blame the elected government then who else is responsible?
— M S Sheela, Carnatic singer
All parents should monitor their children’s activity on a regular basis to know who are they with and what are they upto. Because most of the people who turn out to be terrorists are introduced at a very young age. They are gullible and can be influenced easily. Hence, it’s very important that all parents make sure their children are going in the right direction.
— Padmaja Suresh, dancer
The first prominent step which should be taken is talking it out with the concerned neighbour. Attacks have been happening only because there is a misunderstanding, which needs to be addressed immediately. The tit for tat strategy is clearly not working out in anyone’s favour. Instead, we need to sit down and think of a concrete solution.
— S G Vasudev, painter
The hardworking common man pays a heavy price for the government’s callousness. We live in constant fear. Why? Most of the times, the government has information about an attack. But the attitude towards the issue is casual. Officials who fill their pockets with black money don’t realise that corruption is the main reason why so many die whenever there is an attack. For their greed, they are taking away innocent lives. The importance of human life will have to mean much more to the government, only then can we curb terrorism.
— Rubi Chakroborthy, stand-up comedian
People should become more open towards different cultures and religions. India is a diverse country, so we need to give up that insecurity and develop a sense of tolerance towards each other. We all should respect diversity and create a mutual understanding so that everyone can exist in harmony.
— Amogha Varsha, wildlife filmmaker
One of the main reasons why terrorists can easily enter our country and harm us is because there is no strict vigilance. Anyone can walk in by paying money. No one even asks them for the necessary documents. If corruption has hit the country to this level, then no one can help us in the future if this isn’t stopped.
— Abhishekh Aggarwal, graphic designer
Instead of having big malls and businesses, we should have smaller shops lining well-lit streets that are open late into the night. Not only will this make the neighbourhood safer with respect to crime, but will also elude terrorists. After all, no terrorist outfit is going to attack your local bakery.
— Prakash Belawadi, theatreperson
Increasing the security system and intelligence is the most important thing that has to be done. Tightening security systems at the borders and improvising the system is a must if we want to see change. Stopping the attacks and not allowing terrorists to enter the country should be on the government’s agenda.
— Gridhar Udupa, Ghatam artiste