Editor,
PD Nongrum in his July 26 ST article “Railway, ILP and Influx” has thoughtfully given a picture of what railways could mean for Meghalaya and why perhaps the protectionist measures that are being asked for, namely ILP, are already in force — or waiting to be so — in some form or the other.
Why, I would also like to thank him is because, perhaps for the first time, a Rangbah Shnong has publicly echoed his views positively with regards to this matter. All this while, what we have been fed by pressure groups, in the guise of NGOs, is that traditional institutions are in unison for the vehement opposition of railways in the state. I always viewed this claim with cynicism and believed that good, experienced and learned people of the state can never be opposed to the upliftment of the people — not without some reasoning or deliberation at least.
PD Nongrum for me is one such voice who has given thought to the matter from not just a personal point-of-view but also from a holistic perspective. Our state needs more such people to come forward. They are the truly democratic voices. Our future is to be decided by people whom we have given power to decide for us, and not by people who feel entitled enough to snatch this power via means of goondaism and rowdyism.
When Meghalaya was declared the second poorest state in India by NITI Aayog recently, a lot of people did come out against the successive governments of the state. Without absolving them of their accountability, what are we as people doing to ensure we push for development? Is pressing an EVM button once in five years the only democratic duty that we have? Have we ever voiced our support in favour of something that is supposed to bring development to our state? Social media murmurs and passive support do not help a cause.
Yours etc.,
Patrick Kurbah,
Via email
Preserving India’s Pluralism: Relevance of a Uniform Civil Code
Editor,
I am writing to share my perspective regarding the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India. While I understand the concerns about preserving the diversity of our nation, I believe that a well-implemented UCC can play a vital role in upholding the principles of justice, equality, and unity in our pluralistic society. India is a land of diverse cultures, languages, religions, and traditions. This rich tapestry of diversity is something we cherish and take pride in. It has indeed been the foundation of our strength as a nation for the past 75 years. Our ability to coexist harmoniously despite our differences is a testament to the resilience of our democracy and the spirit of tolerance that thrives among our people.
However, as we celebrate our diversity, we must also recognize that it presents certain challenges, particularly when it comes to matters of personal laws. The existence of multiple and varied personal laws based on religion or community can sometimes lead to disparities and inequalities, especially concerning issues related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and succession. A well-thought-out and carefully drafted Uniform Civil Code can address these disparities while respecting the diverse identities of our citizens.
The UCC aims to provide a common legal framework that upholds the principles of equality, justice, and individual rights for all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations. Contrary to the notion that the UCC seeks to erase cultural and religious identities, it actually seeks to create a common ground where fundamental rights and freedoms are equally protected. It is not an imposition of one set of beliefs upon another, but rather a harmonization of laws to ensure fairness and consistency for everyone. Of course, the implementation of the UCC requires a sensitive and inclusive approach. It is essential to engage in open and constructive dialogues with all stakeholders, taking into account the diverse perspectives and concerns of different communities. The focus should be on creating a code that preserves the essence of our pluralism while upholding the principles of equality and justice.
While some may argue that certain sections of society might be exempted from the UCC, the objective should be to minimize such exemptions and work towards a code that encompasses as many aspects as possible, treating all citizens equally under the law. A well-crafted Uniform Civil Code is not an attack on our diversity but rather a step towards strengthening the foundations of our nation. By ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all, it can foster a more inclusive and cohesive society.
Yours etc.,
Pinky Lodh,
Shillong
Police should act according to law
Editor,
The office of the Superintendent of Police East Khasi Hills had issued a directive in consonance with the Supreme Court of India ruling with regards to restricting tinted window glasses and misuse of siren. But due to reasons best known to the police and the Home Department the order of the apex court has not been followed in letter and spirit, leave aside even penalizing the misuse of red beacons and sirens by so-called “Not So Important People,” for their political patronage. Most importantly the complete disregard even by bureaucrats who whiz around in SUVs with black tinted windows and sirens which is prohibited by the law is abominable. Any misuse invites penalizing the offender and the police should not shrink from their duty to confront even those in power, because they should remember their oath to the Constitution and not invite Contempt of Court.
Yours etc..
Dominic S. Wankhar
Via email
Fallout at Tura
Editor,
On September 12, 2012, the world woke up to an attack on a US compound and a CIA annexe at Benghazi. The scenes at Tura is a reminder of what underestimating the pulse of the commoners could lead to. State intelligence agencies failed to foil the so-called pre-planned attack on the Chief Minister. Probably the treatise of Sun Tzu is outdated in the morale of the force. When was the last time the State Security Commission brainstormed? In the past few weeks, Meghalaya has been in the news for reasons best known to politicians. A state once known as the Mecca of Education has fallen from grace. No wonder the frustration of the unemployed youth and dropouts has accumulated. While private institutions flourish, government-run schools are phantoms in nature. Many have gained patronage for paying top dollar. Meghalaya was never a poor state but a reflection of a bad mindset from the executive class riding at the back of a lethargic bureaucracy. I struck up a conversation with a Keralite priest who suggested that the 60 representatives should develop their constituencies instead of being Shillong centric.
In the book Reinventing Government by David Osborne, the writer states that the entrepreneurial spirit and fair competition are two urgently needed mindsets for government service in this state if we want a 10 billion dollar economy or else doom awaits us.
Yours etc.,
Christopher Gatphoh,
Shillong-10