Editor,
Apropos the news item about Ardent Basaiawmoit , MLA Nongkrem, banging his table in response to an answer from Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister, Urban Affairs, it’s the talk or snigger of the town. But we can’t really blame him considering the constituency he represents. As a Khasi lady Kong Ampareen should have been more respectful, deferential and more or less grovelling while answering a question from a Rangbah (man), a Rangkynsai (the chosen one) and a Nongthaw-ain (legislator) especially in the Legislative Assembly ( Dorbar), where, as per custom, women aren’t even supposed to be seen! How can an elected representative of Nongkrem, (which literally means cave-man), tolerate cheek from a mere slip of a woman?
?One has to give Ardent Basaiawmoit his due as a man. Usually men when they get angry, resort to threats and acts of intimidation to get their points across. In yielding to cavemen like instincts, who has time for intellectual and rational reasoning? A fist will effectively settle an argument as effectively as the brain. It’s quite effective especially against women whom we all know are physically inferior in strength and by this logic must also be intellectually inferior. But in this enlightened day and age it’s dangerous to hit a woman. It’s political Hara- Kiri. Hitting a table or desk will intimidate just as well thoigh. After all boys will be boys, playfully incorrigible. Ardent is so refreshingly archaic. Why can’t the Assembly marshalls provide him with a club as well. It would certainly make Assembly proceedings so much more interesting and lively.
Yours etc.,
Cordellia Iawphniaw,
Via email
Jafa’s legacy not upheld
Editor,
Apropos the news item “Garo Hills in darkness again” (ST 20th March 2013) it was reported that when V S Jafa took charge as the Chairman of the then MeSEB, he issued a standing order directing the entire technical staff of MeSEB to undertake a massive overhauling of the transmission lines between Nangalbibra and Nongstoin. The end result of this proactive move resulted in a ten year hassle- free power supply for Garo Hills. One must give credit to Mt Jafa for the bold initiative and proactive move . But let us not forget that he had his share of brickbats when he intended to make positive changes within the first few months after he took over ; changes which would definitely benefit the public but which however clashed with the politicians’ agenda . An order was promptly issued for his removal but a strong agitation by the MeSEB workers who appreciated Jafa’s intentions ultimately made the government bite the dust. It promptly revoked the order. The present scenario appears to be different because, as reported , lately no effort has been made to bring about changes despite frequent power breakdown all these years. In spite of this, the present Chairman of the now MeECL snugly remains in his Chair for perhaps more time than necessary and being comfortable with the many negative results which not only damage the image of the Corporation but most importantly adversely affects the public at large. But then it is not difficult to comprehend as to why politicians are comfortable with certain bureaucrats beyond a reasonable extent .In the latest India Today Conclave , Narendra Modi remarked that bureaucrats should understand that they also work for the public and not only for the government. Aptly said indeed! I wish our bureaucrats , particularly those who are sons of the soils take note of this. After all, people will long remember them for the goods they deliver rather than the dull and submissive tenure they have accomplished
Yours etc.,
R Sawkmie,
Via email
Stop smoking in public!
Editor,
It is a matter of need which has necessitated me to write to you with regards to the audience’s participation in the various football matches held in the Jawaharlal Nehru Complex. I am a regular member of the audience and find it extremely enjoyable to watch live matches, especially now that floodlights have been installed. However, with this being said, I find it disheartening that certain unlawful acts happen amidst the roar and elation of every game – the ILLEGAL SMOKING in public places. I have nothing against people who smoke, but I am very much against smoking in public places. Human chimney towers fogging up our view and our lungs, is just not acceptable. I would like therefore to urge upon the Organisers to take necessary steps to check such illegal smoking inside the stadium. May I also make a suggestion to have a public announcement against smoking before the start of every game, and during half-time, so as to make the public aware of the provisions of the law?
Yours etc,
W Kharkrang,
Shillong – 22