Editor,
As Meghalayans living in Delhi most of us have been keeping a close track of developments in Meghalaya, especially the ongoing ridiculous agitation over an outdated colonial law known as the ILP. The HNLC bandh of the 23rd of Dec came as a rude shock to one and all as our hearts went out to near and dear ones in Meghalaya whose festive mood was spoiled by such opportunists. The response of the general public of Shillong therefore came as a breath of fresh air. It lifted the sadness that lay heavy in our souls. No! No! Let me try and rephrase that statement. Everyone had by now become totally fed up with the whole thing. The road blockades, the office picketing, the bandhs and the latest HNLC attempt to disrupt this year’s Christmas cheer, is the last straw on the camel’s back. The people of Shillong have woken up to the danger. The time has come to ask ourselves a question that all wants to know. Who is this Sainkupar Nongtraw? Is he in Meghalaya or in Bangladesh? Is there really such a guy or is he just a creation of the local press?
According to central intelligence agencies the strength of the HNLC has gone down to 10 or 11 only. Except for three in the high command who have flourishing business, all the others are living a hand to mouth existence. Four are in West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya while the rest are in Bangladesh. The ILP agitation and the attempt of some pro ILP leaders to seek support of the ‘Saw Dak’ (four letters) has come as life saver for the banned outfit. HNLC is now riding piggy back on ILP bandwagon. Sainkupar Nongtraw is now making hay while the sun shines. Indian spooks have identified the fellow as a Khasi Islamist from Syllhet in Bangladesh whose real name is Ishmail Ali Jung. Educated no doubt, but doubtful if his allegiance is to the cause of tribal Meghalaya. He is not managed by the chiefs of the HNLC but by new masters- ISI controlled fundamentalists. Makes a lot of sense, especially his uncalled for remark of supremacy of jaitbynriew over religion. It was an unnecessary and needless comparison. It was meant to divide not unite the jaitbynriew. No genuine Khasi would have made it but of course there are diehards who will pooh-pooh these glaring facts.
Yours etc.,
Banri Lyngwa ,
Wilson John Marak ,
New Delhi -55
Bandhs
Editor,
The citizens of Shillong are continually under stress and strain when a bandh call is given. Why should we be punished for the whims and fancies of a group of people who wish to impose on others their injured and hurt feelings, causing detrimental and destructive effects all around? It is always painful and is a losing concern for all and does not bring any satisfaction even for the bandh callers. Now tally up the loss. The school and college students have lost a good, profitable education. Many school days have been wasted. The daily wage earner has lost the money which he can provide food for his family. The farmer – the profit for the sale of his produce which is his sole income! Even so the public transport. Most importantly the sick who cannot reach the health centres! The list goes on and on.
Then again the destruction of private concerns, burning houses and private cars (the owner’s hard earned money ) and worst of all the burning of government offices which cannot retrieve documents etc. Has this brought any benefit? Is this justified? No! Only loss loss loss. Insane destructive actions such as the burning of haystacks which are winter food for the animals! What will they eat the whole winter? What would you eat if your stock of food was burnt?
If I may suggest, I would say that the leaders should obtain permission to hold public meetings, ( you had a good meeting at Madan Student, do more of that ) to be recorded, and the issue be taken up with the authorities concerned to thrash it out. Have you the intent and courage to do this? The public should be given a chance to point out their opinions as this would bring out the desired effect. It should be recorded and the body should meet the concerned authority and have a healthy discussion to bring out a solution.
In the long run no one has benefitted from bandhs except for a few with vested interests. It’s a waste of time and energy. In fact we should spend our time and energy in doing good deeds, helping the poor and sick people. You can run a bus to pick up and drop poor students or provide a lunch packet for them, which will be a great relief for the parents. Then your association will be praised and thanked by all. You will be blessed and loved.
I ask the bandh callers to have a new and profitable approach to change things and to make life more meaningful and happy. The government has called you for talks now. Please do go with an open mind and voice our concerns also. We also are concerned with illegal immigration, but let us not be rigid in our stand. Perhaps you could take out all the good and acceptable parts of the ILP and the Tenancy bill and come up with a third option which would be useful for our state and people. I would appeal to the ” via e mail ” bandh callers to also send in their positive suggestions “via e mail ” if they do not have the courage to come forward.
I wish and pray that our state and its people truly have a blessed NEW YEAR!
Yours etc.,
Queenie Rynjah,
Shillong-4
Mind Rock Fest
Editor,
Shillongites are lucky that such events are held quite regularly . It is time now for the Garo Chief Minister to bring such luminaries to Garo Hills also. And not elsewhere but to Tura itself. At least during the rule of NCP some actresses albeit aged ones such as Asha Parekh had visited Garo Hills. We must all remember that an idle mind is devils workshop.
Yours etc.,
Nesfield B Sangma,
Via email