Editor,
I was dismayed, to say the least, at the chauvinistic attitude of our elected representatives. Seventy years after getting our own democratic government, the attitude of our representatives is still as colonial as ever. The colonials governed us in order to exploit us economically for their own benefit. They did not encourage free thinking lest it creates problems for them. They made us totally dependent on the government for all our requirements. They discouraged private enterprise in case it creates competition for them. They ensured that the public remained in awe of them by creating barriers between themselves and the public.
Sadly, this same attitude still prevails today. The gap between the government and the governed is still as wide as ever. In enlightened democracies the elected representatives go through life as equals with their electorate. They travel using public transportation. This makes them personally aware of the hardships faced by the common man, and improvements are faster forthcoming. They are easily accessible to the public, making it easier to find practical solutions to problems by consulting with the public who are the main stakeholders. They also take both accolades and criticism in their stride.
I am deeply perturbed to note the insensitivity displayed by our own elected representatives to criticism. To refer any criticism on the conduct of MLAs in the legislative assembly to the Privileges Committee is to arbitrarily dismiss the opinions of those they are supposed to be serving. To believe they are infallible and that they know everything is also extremely egoistic behaviour. In fact, to my mind, the Privileges Committee is an archaic institution that is in conflict with the principles of democracy.
Are our elected representatives ready to meet the people and listen to them only during elections? Are they ready to serve the public only during elections? Should they close their gates, and their eyes and ears, to the public once they are elected? The time has come for our representatives to build bridges instead of walls. Let them mingle with the public more freely in order to get a first hand experience of their woes. Let them encourage, and listen to constructive criticism. Let governance become more people friendly. Let them do away with the “privileges” and live life on equal terms with the people they represent.
The electorate too should be more discerning on whom they choose to represent them. The opportunity is coming next year. Let us choose wisely, and let us elect representatives who are humble enough to remain a part of us after the elections and not be overly concerned about breach of their privilege.
Your’s etc.,
RG Lyngdoh,
Via email
Yet another heinous crime!
Editor,
As a resident of the Pyndengrei I express my deepest condolences to the family members of the girl, who was found dead at Pyndengrei, Umpniang River, Nongstoin. We condemn this barbaric act committed on the girl. This incident is the first of its kind at Pyndengrei, and should not be repeated, especially in a Khasi matrilineal society. We humbly request people of Nongstoiñ to co-operate and assist in getting information regarding this case and report to the cops or any competent authority dealing with the case first hand. It’s true we don’t need women’s empowerment in a Khasi society as per the unique custom of the Khasis, but we genuinely are in urgent need of women’s security for we cannot afford another incident of this kind. This girl has been a victim of murder and perhaps rape too. This has again proven that law and order has gone down in recent times in our State. But let not this savagery and brutality be in vain but instead let it be a clear cut warning and example for girls and women of Nongstoiñ town to value life and the sacredness of a womans’ body; to understand their limits; to be very alert and to let their folks know their whereabouts. The family members not to be discouraged but hope that justice will be done and the person responsible for this heinous crime is booked. May the soul of the victim rest in peace
Yours etc., ,
Mickey M. Marweiñ,
Via email