Editor,
It appears that the UPA led Congress is not at all serious in transparency and accountability, contrary to what it has been stating all this while. The Lokpal bill which is awaiting enactment by Parliament has been twisted and tweaked to suit the needs and political interests of the Congress.
A recent survey by a prominent magazine has found that the majority of Indians want the PM, MPs and also the judiciary to come under the purview of the Lokpal. The Congress claims that it was during its tenure that the RTI became a law, but it has forgotten that it was the constant and persistent efforts by members of various civil society groups that pressured the Congress to bring such an Act into effect.
Readers need to support every effort put in by Anna Hazare even if we are distant. Currently, as we understand the present RTI has its shortcomings. Hence we need a real instrument like the Lokpal Bill that would take a deeper view of corruption as an issue that plagues governance. NGOs and other pressure groups need to debate more on how the Lokayukta should be constituted in Meghalaya and its effectiveness in dealing with graft.
Yours etc
Dominic S.Wankhar
Shillong- 3
Much ado about a non-issue!
Editor,
In the recent times, I find myself reading about the latest political development in Ri-Bhoi district concerning the residents of Raid Marngar and whether or not they are genuine Khasis. The NGOs are making it an issue to fight for and in the bargain they are disturbing the harmony and sowing seeds of communal disharmony. So far there has not been any problem about the Marngar people so what has suddenly made them aliens? What really concern me are the development issues of Ri-Bhoi District. Since its inception, far Ri-Bhoi District does not have even one good college to absorb the growing talent of the district. We do not have decent roads. Just look at Nongpoh Town and the lack of cleanliness. Even though the town is only a walkable stretch but there is garbage strewn all over. The NREGS schemes for Umling Block are in a total mess with corruption galore but no one wants to point it out. How many of indigenous Bhoi people are working in government offices? This is partly due to illiteracy, no proper college to study, partly due to corruption because we are still very poor. Are these not issues for RBYF or other NGOs to bring to the notice of government?
There are so many issues which need to be highlighted but I cannot understand why NGOs find the ST issue something to fight for. Besides if they really doubt the indigeneity of these people they should ask the Government to take DNA samples of these inhabitants and let the results decide their identity. That way we will avoid communal hatred amongst us the people of Ri-Bhoi as well as save us from useless bandhs and strikes that hamper normal life for people of this peaceful land.
Yours etc.,
A concerned citizen,
Via email