Editor,
Many believe that Shillong is a place where God has revealed himself in many ways. Since time immemorial Shillong has enjoyed the grace of the Almighty. Today, we may find these affirmations difficult to understand because we are lost somewhere– in an undefined mission. Missionaries discovered and chose this place for establishing an advanced civilization which understands and spreads love. If truth be told, all religions are all-embracing. We become fundam-entalists and fanatics for our own selfish reasons and become intolerant of one another. It was alright so long as education was not universal and was limited to only few. However, today, education is widespread, yet we are lost! Education may not change our religious views, but if it fails to change ourselves for the better then there is certainly a problem with our education system which needs immediate correction.
Whether one accepts it or not, Shillong has been a cosmopolitan city, thriving with a true Indian concept of ‘Beauty in cultural diversity’. Many cultures have co-existed here. Undeniably, the landscape of Shillong will look barren without this spirit of co-existence. This is not my view; it is accepted by one and all. Like others, this city also hit a rough patch yet cultural tolerance has been its biggest strength and for which it occupies a unique global position. People remember Shillong not only because of its scenic beauty but also the Khasis who make this place more vibrant with their music, liveliness and lifestyle.
These happy and lively people who love to sing and dance share a symbiotic relationship with their environment. They may not fit well in other environments. Hence they are scared of the sudden exodus of illegal migrants from neighbouring countries and states which may disturb this balance. Our concept of global world should not disturb such natural settings in the name of development. Thus, they are not wrong when they are out to protect themselves even as some protests have taken a violent turn. People become violent when there is a leadership crisis or become victims of political moves which are ridden with vested interests. Every step counts towards achieving a goal. We must bear in mind that violence begets violence and ends with no solution.
There are people worldwide who are misinterpreting the current agitation and terming it a communal tension whereas the NGOs are not wrong this time. Are we a failure in communicating that we are not against genuine Indian citizens? The able leadership of the KSU and other organizations would not deny that the indigenous tribes have co-existed with genuine Indians since many generations. Hence, they have drawn a line between the genuine and the non-genuine citizens. Anti-social elements and miscreants have always been a spoilsport in several demands and protests of the past. There is a precedence, hence we should guide ourselves accordingly. Let’s not tarnish the image of Shillong in the name of well being of the state and its people.
Whether their demand for ILP is right or wrong is what their educated heads should decide. It’s not anybody who should come out with opinions every now and then without even understanding the pros and cons. Shillong is not only a cultural center but also a musical city, and I feel the Khasis are musical genius. My association with them since my childhood days has still kept me honest, happy and lively even though I haven’t made it big in music. I never shy away whenever I get an opportunity to write and talk about the Khasi people. I fondly recount the festive months to my friends. Despite being a Christian dominant state, the capital city celebrates each and every festival with grandeur. The best part is when all people irrespective of caste, creed and religion come together to give particular occasions a grand success. Be it Id, Christmas or Durga Puja! We celebrate all with equal pleasure. I believe Durga Puja will be celebrated with equal fervour this time too.
Yours etc.,
Subash Deb
Gurgaon