Editor,
I am thankful to Dr. G. Rynjah for providing the facts and figures with regards to communicable and non-communicable diseases related to our state analytically. More than the facts provided I am thankful to Dr. Rynjah for coming forward to correct the misrepresented statistics. This shows that as an expert in the field he really knows his stuff well and is responsive enough to correct the wrongs. However, this is not to say that Mr Toki Blah’s article was faulty because his intention was to draw attention on the deplorable health services in the state and the rise of diseases attracted by couch potato living styles. Also we also cannot expect the Editor to verify all facts because the press is not a store house of facts nor can the editorial team avail all facts in a short period of time. Moreover, authors are to be held responsible for such errors. It is also important to note that concerned people in any field should be alert about such columns/letters in different newspapers and be quick to respond in case of any factual errors or misinterpretation etc.
Yours etc.,
Airpeace W. Rani
Shillong -4
Editor replies:
A fact is considered something proven to be true and an opinion is a personal belief. Those writing an essay, review or an opinion article are trying to persuade readers to accept their views based on their professional or personal experiences. If there are others who have access to facts and figures that can counter an opinion piece they are welcome to bring it to the fore. It is not the brief of an editors to edit an opinion piece by an established columnist. This is why columnists are given that pride of place so that they don’t peddle assumptions as facts.
Wolves in sheep’s clothing
Editor,
The news report, “Extension to GHADC: A futile exercise” (ST 8th February ‘2014) has disappointed the ANVC leaders. They were waiting anxiously for the settlement and approval of the peace pact involving the tripartite group i.e., Central government, State government and the ANVC leaders. The news report states that the amendment of the constitutional structure of Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) to upgrade the existing number of seats from 29 to 40 as demanded by the ANVC would be delayed due to the up-coming Lok Sabha election. Personally I don’t think the strengthening or increase of seats is necessary, nor would it make any difference as far as bringing good governance in the GHADC is concerned. Till date, there is no developmental activity or execution of schemes by any Member of District Council (MDC). What are the duties and responsibilities of the MDC? If the MDC cannot serve the interests of the people then what is the use of sending a representative to the Council? There’s rampant corruption taking place in the GHADC! More seats would mean more corruption and swindling of public money! Furthermore, many MDC’s and officers in the GHADC conduct job interviews without any advertisements in the public domain. Isn’t this nepotism?
What’s the use of up-grading the existing seat from 29 to 40 if the present MDCs cannot safeguard and protect the land of the indigenous people of Garo hills? What sudden wind of change can they bring in the region if seats are increased to 40? What about the consent of the people of Garo Hills? Do they really want this increase of seats in the GHADC? Isn’t this an ego-centric demand? This matter should have been discussed publicly first. After all it’s for the welfare of the people of Garo Hills. What will be the future of the GHADC if a person with criminal background and murderers are allowed to contest in the coming GHADC election? The real reason for extending the tenure of the GHADC for six months is to buy time for their ulterior and hideous motives. It is a strategy by the Congress to win by unfair means. It’s a dangerous trend adopted by the state government. If Khasi and Jaintia Hill could have their elections on February 24 why are the people of Garo Hills being made scapegoats? Is it because we are simpletons? Time for people to think before voting.
Yours etc.,
Shoshon A.gitok Sangma,
Via emai