The purpose of this debate on Islam (Discussion: Spotlight On Islam) is beyond me, especially when Sikhs themselves know little about their own religion and are still continuing the practices that were condemned by the Gurus.

I don't agree with Bikramjit Singh when he says that female infanticide is a Punjab problem. Well, then the attack on Sikhs should be considered a U.S. problem. This line of reasoning sure is a recipe for disaster considering the insignificant Sikh population in the world. Problems faced by Sikhs anywhere in this world should be the concern of all of us. Punjab is the homeland of Sikhs around the world just as Israel is to the Jews.

Prakashdeep raised very valid points about the ill treatment of Sikh women. This is a problem not restricted to Punjab but can be seen in the U.K. and the U.S.A. too, more so in low-income families. And the reason for this has been that women have still not been accorded the place given to then by our faith. The solution lies in spreading awareness about the status of women in Sikhism and more so about the need to practice the way of life shown by Gurmat.

But maybe this is asking for the moon, considering the kind of world we live in. Anyhow, let's give it a try. For the sake of those countless people who gave up their lives just to keep the flag flying.

Sarabjit Singh
New Delhi, India