Editor,
In Meghalaya, we have multi- layered authorities all committed, “ban iada ia ka ri bad ka jaidbynriew” (to save the nation and its people). We have the State Government, the District Councils, the Syiems/ the Dalois/ the Nokmas and the Dorbar Shnongs all interlinked. The State Government has the District Council Affairs department to look after the affairs of the ADCs. The Khasi and Jaintia hills District Councils have the United Khasi & Jaintia Hills Autonomous District (Appointment and Succession of Chief and Headmen) Act 1959, to regulate the functioning of the Syiems/ Dalois and the Rangbah Shnongs.
But in the recent flare-up at Themmetor, Iewmawlong, the confusion in the functioning of these multi layered authorities came out in the open. We read media reports about the different claims of ownership by different authorities; one authority blaming the other; sometimes one authority not knowing what the other is doing and here we see the overlapping of powers in situations that sometimes reflect a state within a state, thereby making the problem more complex and leaving the general public more confused.
There is a saying in Political Science that ‘less of government is the best government. ’ It is therefore time for a political reformation of our political institutions to identify which institutions are still relevant and which are not and which institutions need a clear cut definition of their powers and functions so that decision making can be streamlined and accountability and responsibility can be fixed.
This political reformation or whatever you call it, is urgently required especially when, Meghalaya is ranked at the bottom 29th among 30 states in India in terms of overall performance in governance as per the Public Affairs Index 2018 released by the Public Affairs Centre, Bengalaru, (according to press reports). The multiplicity of authorities in our state could be one of the reasons for this.
Yours etc.,
Michael N Syiem,
Via email
Insensitive staff at DC’s office
Editor,
The past few weeks have been quite eventful and I wish to share this for the public who face the same ordeal. I have been trying to secure my documents from the Deputy Commissioner’s office for a student loan. I was particularly appalled by the discourteous attitude of the office of the Sub-Registrar. Constant delays, no explanations for the said delays, essential staff on leave for a month or so, endless tea breaks and lengthy lunch breaks were my first hand experience. I wished to express my frustration at the manner that the staff conducted themselves and approached the current Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mr PS Dkhar for help. He listened with an open mind and was helpful without any qualms, unlike the staff there. I was touched by the work ethic of the DC and the Officer in charge of the Sub-Registrar’s office when I approached her. After asking around, I realised that many members of the public are facing the same problems with that office. It is my request to them that if they ever feel harassed by that office in particular, to please lodge their complaints with the authorities concerned and to not allow them to go on with such callous attitudes and also not to be afraid to speak out or seek help. Let them be made accountable for their actions.
Yours etc.,
Alicia Phanwar
Maintenance of Umiam-Jorabat 4-lane highway
Editor,
As a regular traveler of this road from Shillong to Williamnagar via Guwahati, I want to share some points of concern regarding the safety of commuters. This four- lane highway has been a blessing since it was opened to the public. NHAI along with the State Government deserve all appreciation for this great achievement for which we have waited a long time. However, this highway leaves much to be desired. The road has deteriorated in the last one year due to heavy traffic and rains. The road must be under contractual agreement and constant repairs should be the top priority and responsibility of the concerned company considering the amount of toll tax collected for so long. There are stretches which are really bad, broken, full of uneven bumps which have to be immediately repaired before any mishaps take place. Levels near the bridges or culverts should be properly aligned to maintain smooth driving. I wonder what the engineers do when there is no regular inspection and audit.
Moreover, the Umsning bypass which was opened recently, although not fully completed has uneven stretches and sinks at some places which results in dangerous bumps even when you are traveling by bus. What are the road safety standards of this Company or NHAI? By comparison, as a lay man I feel that the Shillong – Nongstoin- Tura road is smoother and better in quality. These have to be considered with deep concern and the Company engaged in constructing the Shillong-Jorabat road has to be made answerable. The PWD Roads of the State should take serious note of this and take up the matter with NHAI to maintain the same.
I thank the Hon’ble High Court of Meghalaya for taking action in the last few months to repair the broken Umsning road on record time. It would be highly appreciated and in the interest of the general public if the Hon’ble Court looks into this matter again and directs the concerned Company to properly maintain the road which is so vital for all.
Yours etc.,
Reward Rymbai,
Via email