Sir — This refers to the editorial, “Criminal insensitivity” (February 3). Prejudiced mindsets are responsible for hate crimes against the people of the North-East. The Nido Taniam shocker is not a one-off incident, but is a reflection of a perverted attitude towards our brothers and sisters from the North-East.
This attitude stems from a near total socio-cultural ignorance of that part of the country. In some parts of India, citizens of the North-East are considered ‘foreigners’ because of their looks.
The harassment of women from the region is common in our metros, especially Delhi. The victims suffer in silence. Often, they are bread-winners in their families, or students, and they cannot afford to protest or quit the city.
The poor projection of the North-eastern States in the rest of the county is a cause of concern. The development of the region leaves a lot to be desired. The cultures and traditions of the North- East are hardly mentioned in our textbooks. Therefore, we are often in the dark about the region.
