Letters to The Editor — August 18, 2026 - The HinduPublished - August 18, 2026 12:24 am ISTPolitics turns pettyWhat has happened to the quality of political discourse? Too often, our politicians seem to squabble like schoolchildren, with grace, dignity and reasoned debate giving way to tittle-tattle and petty exchanges. There was a time when public representatives commanded a certain respect, and perhaps deserved it too. The ruling party, in particular, would do well to devote more of its time to discussing policy and governance rather than finding ways to taunt the Opposition. There is little to be gained from such exchanges. In an age when information travels instantly, this kind of political conduct is visible far beyond our borders. The (electronic) media too, which is a part of this, needs to look within. Is much of what is being reported really news?Lalitha Subramanian,BengaluruIt is meaningless for the BJP and Congress to continue to spar over Vande Mataram. The Congress has said that the song was rendered with respect and in full at the AICC office and Congress-ruled States, except perhaps in Kerala, and the party’s commitment to the song was beyond doubt. It is better to forget the matter now. As everyone knows, this is not a pressing issue like housing, health care, education and employment. Will our democracy rise to the occasion?P.R.V. Raja,Pandalam, KeralaPublished - August 18, 2026 12:24 am ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }