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A torch bearer lights a cauldron during the opening ceremony of the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, on September 23. Photo: EPA-EFE
OpinionLetters

Letters | Why the sparse Asian Games coverage in the Western media?

  • Readers discuss media treatment of the Asian Games, and the source of tension between India and Canada
Asian Games 2023
Letters
Letters
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There has certainly been no shortage of comprehensive coverage of the Asian Games in Hangzhou recently, including of the spectacular opening ceremony. With 12,000 competing athletes, this event is nearly 15 per cent bigger than the Paris Olympics, which will host roughly 10,500 competitors.

However, a search of some major media organisations in the UK, US and Australia yields zero coverage of the opening ceremony, and very limited coverage of the sporting events. This is very strange, considering the torrent of negative news about anything to do with China that is routinely pumped out by these organisations.

Perhaps one reason they have steered away from coverage of this major event is that it would be difficult to ignore the fact that there is a very significant delegation from Taiwan, who received a massive welcome cheer when they entered the stadium during the opening ceremony. This would not fit the Western media’s narrative on the Beijing-Taiwan state of affairs.

Bob Rogers, Sai Kung

Hypocrisy at heart of India-Canada row

I write with reference to “Sikh community fears backlash in Canada row” (September 26).

Among Sikhs in India, there is very little support for the cause of Khalistan, or a separate Sikh homeland. They proudly associate with India and, if they are foreign citizens, with the country of their citizenship. While Sikhs barely number 2 per cent of India’s population, they make up a much higher proportion of India’s armed forces and are fiercely patriotic and loyal citizens.

The average Indian clearly differentiates between a Sikh and a Khalistani, and it is condescending to suggest they are unable to tell the difference.

The Indian government has labelled Hardeep Singh Nijjar a terrorist and said he is linked to attacks on Indian soil resulting in the deaths of innocents. How come the United States could take down Osama bin Laden in Pakistan, while a man designated as a terrorist by the Indian government who lived in Canada is defended in the West as an activist? Do grievances from Asia or Africa not have the same value?

Deepak Mirchandani, Jardine’s Lookout

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