Editor,
In the opinion piece by Albert Thyrniang, “Shillong RSS linked to Nazism and Fascism” (ST Jan 29, 2016), he writes that the rally by RSS heralds the arrival of Nazism and Fascism in Meghalaya. But I would like to point to facts that suggest that Meghalaya is already a fascist state. Firstly the ethnic cleansing that led to non- tribals being slaughtered, beginning 1979 until the late 1980’s. Secondly, non tribal students are still debarred from appearing in MCS and MPS exams, leaving their future in shambles. Thirdly, the petty businessmen and shopkeepers are the worst sufferers due to high handedness of the District Councils, who in the name of regulating business harass them in every aspect, thus denying them the right to livelihood. I would like to convey to the writer that before pointing his fingers at others, he should check his own surroundings. It was probably just a few years ago that in the rally organised by KSU, people were beaten mercilessly in the streets. As compared to this the procession of RSS with the involvement of large number of local indigenous people was very peaceful.
Yours etc.,
Sunil Khanal
Shillong – 2
SAG our pride and joy
Editor,
I must confess that every time the advertisement of the 12th south Asian Games 2016 flashes on national television, I am filled with immense pride and joy because of the mention of Shillong. It is indeed about time that the rest of the country is made aware of the North East as these states are an integral part of the country. More especially this time the North East in general and Guwahati and Shillong have featured for the right cause and reason. Thereby, I would like to thank the sports Ministry and the Indian Olympic Association for having chosen Shillong to co-host the Games with Guwahati. I also wish the athletes from the 8 countries and the Organising Committee the very best of luck and pray that they have a healthy, happy and memorable stay in Shillong and Guwahati as well.
Yours etc.,
Jenniefer Dkhar,
Via email
Netaji Files declassified
Editor,
Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has done it! His Government has declassified the Netaji files which had been treated as ‘classified’ for decades by successive governments. Immediately after the declassification of the files on January 23, 2016, the Congress spokespersons started to ridicule our Prime Minister and even commented that some letters were “fake.” But the Congress did not utter a word about the air crash theory! If the files have no significance in unearthing facts about Netaji’s disappearance why were they kept classified for 70 years ? Why did successive governments give lame excuses of the possibility of a civil war should the files be released or the possibility of affecting foreign relations etc? Why are our ‘transparent’ media channels not raising such issues and asking the respective authorities to rise above their political allegiances?
Yours etc.,
Anjan Kr Das,
Shillong – 6
