Editor
I wholeheartedly support the Government’s action against the KSU’s “infiltration check gate” at Byrnihat. Nobody has the right to take the law into their own hands. In this case, the KSU’s action smacks of political opportunism and total disregard for the law of the land. However, I am surprised that the Government did not take much stronger action against the KSU for such a serious breach of the law. But then the Government has always pandered to these so-called NGOs and prefers to close its eyes and ears to any hint of wrongdoing. Several reports have appeared in the newspapers recently about the “collection drives” of NGOs from business establishments. Did the Government even bother to check these stories and take action? If so, why has it chosen to keep mum about it?
Without doubt, the present political leadership encourages hooligans, extortionists and environmental rapists in Meghalaya. The first two elements can be found in NGOs like the KSU, while the last comprises of the mining magnates who have been raping the land for decades with full Government support! All that the Government talks about is “development” but I don’t think anyone, including Chief Minister Mukul Sangma really understands what that word means! It would be better if the Government began by providing basic necessities like food, water, electricity, law and order and a clean environment rather than fooling people with talks of development. The only people getting “developed” are corrupt politicians, fat cat bureaucrats and mine owners.
Yours etc.,
R. Shullai
Shillong-1
Influx issue
Editor,
The issue of influx is the main topic in newspapers today. All NGOs and every citizen of Meghalaya both tribal and permanent non-tribals talk about it especially after the recent ethnic clashes in Kokrajhar. That incident has created a fear psychosis in the minds of all the people of the North-east. It is true that the influx issue has become a challenge for both the central and state government. Vote bank politics of our government makes it shy away from tackling this issue. Sweeping the problems under the carpet is no solution as the issue of influx continues to haunt us whether our leaders like it or not.
It is due to the weakness of the government that vested interests from other parts of the North-eastern states i.e both tribal and non tribal are trying to enter into every business of in Meghalaya with the support of a few of our tribal and non-tribal friends. These outsiders with vested interests are well aware that Shillong is a safe place for doing any kind of business. It is interestingly to observe how businessmen from outside get their trading licences, residence certificates various NOC’S and other documents which are required to set up business, so easily.
It is a common sight in and around Shillong town that many new constructions and business complexes are coming up in which many new and uncommon people from outside the State are running their businesses smoothly. It seems as if they have been here for years. In a very short time they have become deep rooted but in fact they do not contribute in any way to the community or the place. This influx in business is not only affecting the tribals but also the genuine non-tribal’s who are doing business here since time immemorial.
It is high time that the NGO’S and all like minded people show concern about illegal immigrants but also protest against the influx of vested businesses who are strengthening their foot hold and usurping our business. The Government should come out with some fool-proof and stringent measure to control the influx of businessmen from other states/ country, and our NGO’S should be alert to stop this menace.
Through this esteemed daily I urge upon all to come forward and collaborate and agitate and against this major issue of influx of illegal immigrants. Otherwise the day is not far of when all the business will be controlled by people from outside the State.
Yours etc.,
N.Warjri,
Via email