Editor,
There has always been a mixed message of the Khasi matrilineal society being a democratic society, where women are believed to have a high status. The reality is that while women are positioned in traditional roles that give them access to economic and social participation, yet we cannot deny that crucial decision- making in local bodies (i.e., ‘Dorbar Shnong’) and the larger political domain is still limited, if not totally denied to them. While there are traditions which are vibrant and functional even today, we have to face the fact that our societies are changing, especially in the urban areas. Women, for instance, are no longer confined to their roles as home makers and cultivators. Education and working in occupations beyond the home has helped them to observe and form educated opinions and views. They care for the fate of their children and society in an increasingly complex and changing world. They are concerned about issues confronting youths today like drugs, unemployment, security and crime, about government policies and decisions that affect their daily lives and that of others. In short, women have acquired knowledge and skills and are sensitive and insightful about issues facing the society. It is therefore not only relevant, but necessary, that women share responsibility in decision- making and participate in dialogues that affect them and their community.
It is therefore laudable that some localities have included women as committee members and representatives in the local ‘dorbars’ for quite some time now. However, in many localities in the urban as well as the rural areas especially, women are still barred from participating, except on invitation for special issues. This is a loss of valuable input from the other half of the population i.e., women. Referencing to what was published in ‘The Shillong Times’, dated 23rd October, 2021, the Members of Meghalaya Women’s Alliance (MWA) strongly support the move to have consultations and involve women in the local ‘dorbars’ and in the election of the ‘Rangbah Shnong’ (‘local Headman’). Despite misgivings from the public, we have to concede that involving women in the ‘Dorbar Shnong’ will not only break traditional and narrow mindsets but will be productive and wholesome to the society as a whole.
Further, we want to present our views that the ‘Dorbar Shnong’ should take the form of civic bodies which are legally recognized in their own rights, even from the Central Government. We have seen their vital service and functions during these Covid-19 times, where the Government would be handicapped without their assistance. In keeping with modern requirements, while keeping a certain autonomy, rules should be framed through legislation for proper election of the ‘Rangbah Shnong’ and members. There should also be the prescribed percentage reserved for women. There should be budgetary allocation of funds from the Government for various community/locality projects. Rules relating to management of financial matters should be framed to ensure transparency and accountability. Effective administration at the grass roots level is much needed in bringing about community development. We believe the ‘Dorbar Shnong’ are the agencies that will facilitate that aspiration because they are also seen as the repositories of our cultural trust.
Yours etc.,
Dr JV Basaiawmoit (President),
Ms Kaira Rose Nongbet (Secretary)
Meghalaya Women’s Alliance,
Via email
Kudos to MBSA!
Editor,
Congratulations are due to the Meghalaya State Billiards & Snooker Association (MBSA) for having conducted the 14th state championship successfully. Win or lose the tournament displayed exclusive talents and seriousness for the game and it was heartwarming to hear Mr DD Laloo, the President mention that the course of the game will change for the better in Meghalaya but only for serious, interested players.
A shout-out to members of the Green Rollers club namely, Bishan, Shyam, Vicky and Taufique for having upgraded the Club within a very short time and inviting the top players of the State to participate.
Being a player myself, I vouch to say there’s enormous potential in the State and perhaps MBSA should now shape up to gain new planners to streamline a uniform approach to upscale the standard of the games in the State and allow more talents to participate at bigger and better levels.
Yours etc.,
Anky,
Via email
Facebook’s rebranding to save reputation
Editor,
Facebook’s rebranding to Meta reminds one of the famous quote from Shakespeare, “What’s in a name ?”If the company’s rebranding is not likely to bring about any good changes in its functioning, the change of name would be unnecessary. In fact, many other tech companies have done before what Facebook is doing now. However, a mere name change won’t erase the bad image it has earned over the years.
The rebranding comes at a time when the social media giant’s functioning has been dogged by controversies of its own making. While the functioning of other social media platforms has created suspicion, Facebook always lead the others in controversies. Severe criticism was levelled against Facebook when ‘’Facebook Papers’’ reached public domain. It has always shown a blatant disregard for the damaging impact of fake news, hate speech and misinformation that spread through social media on societies outside the USA.Facebook has always shown a favouritism towards its home and headquarters, the USA.
That 80% of the resources that the social media platform used for content moderation and fact checking belonged to the USA is despicable. Although Facebook algorithms encourage violence, conflict and hatred, it kept quiet about it. Another shocking revelation about Facebook is that it grants high-profile and celebrity users permission to spread any kind of misinformation. It has an unfortunate tendency to support good information about ruling dispensations and oppose criticisms against it. Absence of data privacy law and lack of regulation of social media in countries like India, gives Facebook a high level of influence over public communication and opinion.
As Facebook is concerned only with the substantial amount of money it makes, it is not at all bothered about the adverse effects of its wrong policies. Hence, a mere name change won’t fundamentally change its nature. A change in appearance will never solve the underlying problems.
Yours etc.,
Venu GS,
Kollam