Editor,
While browsing through a regional English language daily of December 15, 2013 my attention was drawn to an article on page 9 under the caption of ‘Love and Lust in India.’ I for one, am not much amused by such acts of sexual perversion that pervaded in the days of the Raj, but what stupefied me the most in this write-up was the vilifying comments against the Khasi Tribe of Meghalaya, specially zeroing in on its women folk as passed by Mr K Pariat, President of the Syngkhong Rympei Thymmai which literally means a new hearth (source of household regimentation). These disturbing statements were made when Mr Pariat was being interviewed in Shillong by one foreign writer, Ms S. Howard.
Further, Mr Pariat, along with another disgruntled person, who perhaps is the associated member of his organization, has expressed the views that Khasi girls have as a matter of fact become disenchanted with their male counterparts thereby making the former opt for other white men, or for that matter any eligible bachelor from the rest of India. Such off key pre-suppositions are nothing short of gross misrepresentation of the core principles of Khasi society given that a wide circle of respectable Khasi families and intelligentsia hold the view that marrying outside one’s community is, in essence, morally, culturally and socially not preferable as it may more often than not, become problematic in the familial ties, one way or other in the long haul and have a telling effect on marital bliss.
Hence, such ill-judged remarks on the Khasi society smacks of a sense of self- frustration and deep rooted prejudicial views against one’s own kindred. Nonetheless, the interviews and assertions made by the duo in question which puts the Khasi Tribe in poor light will be incorporated in the forthcoming book, entitled The Kama Sutra Diaries authored by the said Ms S Howard to be published in India by Westland Tranquebar in March, 2014 next. I hope that the NGOs of Meghalaya will take cognizance of the contentious facts surrounding the book.
Yours etc.,
Jerome Diengdoh
Shillong-2
GAD rules and the CS
Editor,
The Shillong Times seems to get vicarious pleasure out of publishing news about the Chief Secretary. The gentleman has already clarified and given his formal/official/genuine version and we should let matters rest there. It is of no interest at all in Garo Hills and seems to be of special interests to some people elsewhere to vilify the character of the CS because of his service extension and perceived interest in becoming chairman of MPSC. Not that these actions are justified but more important news is out there nationwide/worldwide. I’m sure there are thousands of officers in the state who are doing the same thing. The public is not interested in seeing dirty linen being washed. Let the matter rest. If anybody feels so agitated let them file a PIL. AMEN !
Yours etc.,
Nesfield B Sangma,
Via email
Ostentation or necessity?
Editor,
I agree with Dr. Valencia Myrboh that our Chief Minister is living in opulence. But can a State like ours afford it? Isn’t the Rs 10 crore bungalow a little too expensive for our State? After all Meghalaya still needs a lot of development and progress and the case of the school teachers who have to go for months without salary speaks volumes. The state exchequer could be made use of for more meaningful and need- based projects and activities that will prove beneficial for the state and its people. One wonders if the Rs 10 crore spent on the CM’s official bungalow is really “a necessity” and not “a luxury”. Understandably the responsibilities of a Chief Minister are indeed humongous and crucial and our CM may find a congested room disturbing his “efficiency” but a posh bungalow is a bit too extravagant at this juncture. Well one only hopes that with a change to a new and more spacious and luxurious mansion our honourable CM will be more energized, stimulated, proactive and efficient enough in making Meghalaya one of the most developed states in the country.
Yours etc.,
Jenniefer Dkhar,
Shillong-4