Editor,
The demand raised by a consortium of pro-ILP activists regarding implementation of ILP in the state has now turned to be a conflict of emotions. Once the pro-ILP supporters stepped into the field with an optimistic view for a certain cause, it can be presumed that they are not going to step out empty handed. In this context, I like to draw the attention of all readers as well the pro-ILP activists on the contents of an article authored by Prof A W Shynret, DU, (ST Sep 17, 2013). In the said article the author has specifically put before the indigenous people of the state some points, which are expectedly difficult to counter. The prevailing situation in the state is not a new one. This time the nomenclature of vandalism/hooliganism has only been changed in the name of ILP. People of the state had been experiencing such situations since the late 70’s and this continues till date. Whatever the cause for which an uproarious situation has erupted in the state, on every occasion it was mainly confined to influx of foreigners (here precisely it can be said as non-indigenous people) and ultimately non-tribal section of the society become victims. Finding no other alternative to sustain themselves in the present situation some sections of non-tribals have left Meghalaya for good. In the process there is a decline in the percentage of permanent non-tribal settlers in the state as per last census. Semi-permanent settlers, like Central Government Officials, flying-traders, etc. are compelled to stay mainly in the urban localities of the state for a certain period of time. They earn a livelihood not with an aim of any future prospects. The other group; skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled labourers entering the state under the behest of locals for construction work or other development work are normally allowed to stay in the state for a minimum duration and there is hardly any scope for them to settle down in the state. Involvement in any anti-social activity by the latter section of people makes the employers responsible. Besides locals, money earned by the said groups is generally spent for meeting their day-to-day requirements thereby boosting Meghalaya’s revenue through direct/indirect taxes. The same has been pointed out by veteran writers like Patricia Mukhim; H H Mohrmen, Toki Blah and others but their efforts are in vain.
The ILP imbroglio has now become a ‘Tug of War’ between Government and Organizational representatives. Had there been a ‘give and take’ policy or otherwise, the turmoil could have been settled by now. In case the present agitation is ego-centric then it will take more time to settle down. In this context, while recapitulating few instances of the past, I can only say that when an agitation touches the peak it would undo all the achievements/advancements made so far and the State will start descending into chaos. This will take many years to rebuild.
In the present scenario when festive seasons are in the offing, a feeling of insecurity is gripping the minds of the non-tribal population of the state, notwithstanding the efforts being made by the law enforcing agencies of the state to bring the situation under control. Here, I like to point out that besides some major festivals of indigenous people of the state, Durga Puja, a festival of mainly Hindu community is also considered to be a major festival in Meghalaya. It has been celebrated for the last 125 years in this land. Durga Puja, a five-day festival, though a lengthy affair is enjoyed by a cross section of people of Meghalaya. I hope, this time our tribal indigenous brethren, though fighting for their own cause will give ample opportunity to the non-tribal population of the state to observe the forthcoming Durga Puja festival in a spirit of gaiety without fear in their minds.
Yours etc.,
PB Das,
Shillong-3