Disturbing move

This refers to the Editorial ‘Sweeping powers’ (April 6). The proposed change in the digital media ethics rules, which attempts to put individual social media news-related content providers on par with traditional news institutions, essentially undermines people’s freedom of expression.

At a time when the mainstream and corporatised digital news media are losing credibility due to their perceived pro-establishment bias, the new generation of digital media freelancers, many of whom have large subscription bases, has significantly changed the game. The new restrictions will subject all such content makers, particularly those who are critical of the government, to executive scrutiny.

Under the pretence of promoting ethics in journalistic reporting, the government seeks to muzzle free speech.

Kamal Laddha

Bengaluru

With reference to ‘Sweeping powers’, there is no doubt that the objective of these changes is to ensure a safer and accountable digital ecosystem. But implementing these changes raises serious questions. Government bodies seem to be gaining more authority and control to regulate online content and over digital platforms. Further, the requirement of intermediaries to take down content within a stipulated time frame may lead to over censorship. This will directly impact journalists and content creators who use digital platforms to express their views freely. Regulation of digital platforms is essential to curb misinformation and harmful content but it is equally important to protect constitutional rights.

Bal Govind

Noida

Sane counsel

The article ‘Sensex at 40: What really drives long-term wealth?’, (April 06), presents a precise take on factors affecting equity returns. The authors’ sane counsel should be the guiding principle for all who invest in equities. Making the memory of exceptional short-term gains the standard for returns can lead to disappointment and loss by untimely winding down of investment.

With the help of statistics the article establishes that investors earn what corporate India delivers as profits: short- term aberrations of fear and euphoria may colour it a bit for a while. Hope this helps readers and investors anchor their investment decisions better.

Jose Abraham

Vaikom (Kerala)

Fruit exports on thin ice

The disruption of mango, pomegranate, grapes, bananas, papaya and guava exports from Karnatakaexposes a systemic fragility in our agricultural strategy.

Relying on volatile markets like West Asia has left growers vulnerable to geopolitical tremorsOther exotic fruits like avocado, dragon and jack fruit also face similar bottlenecks.

Diversifying to the UK and Canada is a start but without government backed insurance against regional conflicts and subsidized cold-chain logistics, farmers remain at the mercy of middlemen. We need robust direct-to-market channels and domestic processing hubs.

Vijaykumar HK

Raichur

Published on April 6, 2026