Rajinikanth is a humble man. He'd get my vote

Readers discuss Indian politics, Skype disruptions, VAT, street cleaning and more

Indian film actor Rajinikanth gestures as he announces his entry in politics during an interaction session with fans in Chennai on December 31, 2017.
Rajinikanth, the wildly popular Indian cinema icon who inspires almost god-like adulation in some parts of the country, announced his entry into politics on December 31. / AFP PHOTO / ARUN SANKAR
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This is with reference to your story Indian movie star Rajinikanth plans to launch own party, joins politics in Tamil Nadu (December 31). His organisation will contest all 234 seats in his state in 2021, where he is adored by the masses.

I suspect Rajinikanth will have bright future in politics due to his integrity, concern for the common man and his desire to serve the people. We need talented professionals like him in politics, who are selfless and care for the common man.

Many years ago I met him at Chennai airport and he was dressed in simple, handwoven clothes. When I asked him whether some of his mannerisms on the screen, like sending a cigarette cartwheeling in the air and it landing on his lips, were camera manipulations, he replied very modestly and said that it was not camera work, but that he just practised very hard. I wish Rajinikanth great success. If I were living in his constituency, I would certainly vote for him, even if I have to stand in the queue for the entire day.

Rajendra Aneja, India

Rajinikanth's plan to enter politics is a good development. His straightforward attitude was his main strength. He may not be well-versed in the ways of office, but he will learn. Will the people accept him, we will have to wait and see?

K Ragavan, India

On the legacy of Sheikh Zayed and the year ahead

Regarding your editorial Year of Zayed is a chance to show our gratitude (January 1), Sheikh Zayed was a great man who founded an extraordinary nation. He lives in our hearts.

Aysah E Meel, Abu Dhabi

Voicing concern over the Skype disruptions

I would like to add my voice to the concern over the issues with Skype (UAE users complain of disruptions to Skype, December 29). I have always been under the impression that expats have been more than welcome here and that their well-being has been paramount. Do I detect a subtle change of attitude? Based on my experience this could be a deal breaker for people living here and they may opt to return home or move on to another country.

Name withheld by request

The era of value added tax raises many questions

In reference to your story, How VAT will affect you (December 31). Based on the first day of the new tax, it appears that hotels have decided to include VAT as yet another added charge rather than include it in their prices. The final price is 25 per cent higher than what is advertised, once the service fee, tourism fee, city fee and now VAT are taken into account.

Name withheld by request

I wonder how the little independent grocery stores will cope where they will have a mixture of standard-rated, zero-rated and exempt products for sale and no computerised tills at the counter.

John Lethbridge, Dubai

Shouldn't we think a little more about waste

In reference to your story Clean sweep clears tonnes of New Year rubbish in Dubai (January 2). Farewell to the fireworks and the celebrations. Now all that is left is waste and rubbish that will go to landfill.

NB, Dubai