Editor,
The recent incident in Mahadev Khola had jolted us from our slumber…once again. No doubt, Mahadev Khola is a much revered site and as a youngster, I had my share of adventures here, especially during Shivratri, several years ago. As someone who stays in Lawsohtun and uses this route to the highway when required, it’s true that over the years, many structures have come up in the vicinity of the temple, perhaps illegally. While maintaining the sanctity of the temple, no illegal settlements should be allowed in its vicinity. Its borders should be clearly demarcated and the management of the temple must operate within the rules of the District Council and the State Government and dismantle all illegal structures. No one should be allowed to encroach on Government land. The Forest Department is expected to be farsighted and not caught napping. The Dorbar Shnong, Lawsohtun, on its part, should be equally vigilant to avoid any unwanted incidents in the near future that can disrupt peace and tranquility of the Shnong and adjoining areas. I believe we all agree that none of us want to see another Them Metor-like situation in any part of our city. Let’s remember-A stitch in time saves nine.
Yours etc.
Prof. Lakhon Kma
Shillong-4
Manipur today, Meghalaya Tomorrow
Editor,
Looking back at how society has become what it is today there is the compulsion to question whether it is what it was intended to be or has it gone astray. It is not enough to prove that it has gone astray; what’s more important is that we must tempt the people to develop an interest in reasoning the matter out and exposing the culprits behind the menace. It is upto the discerning citizens to learn to disseminate what it is they are observing and thereby convey their observations to others so that society follows the path of progress and deflects itself from that of a breakdown – the kind of breakdown we are witnessing in Shillong these days. Drugs and petty thefts have proliferated in Shillong. It doesn’t matter whether we appear foolish or wise, we need to prove and expose the evil hands that may be behind this breakdown.
Whoever they may be there is the hand of politics in the entire affair. Of that there can be no doubt. There are those that have found their way into the Khasi society who are lacking in love and development and who find pleasure in causing pain and division instead. Their pastime, cruel and lamentable as it may be, is to target their weak and their poor neighbours with the greatest possible closeness, and then unperceived to place a pin – a needle in their hands, so that there is no way out but to prick themselves with it. Such men act like great moralists but actually are like mosquitoes bent only on disturbing our peace and tranquility. They have successfully disrupted Manipur. We must not allow them to destroy Meghalaya; we must not be deceived.
Yours etc.,
Gregory Shullai,
Via email
St Edmund’s College in a quandary
Editor,
I am writing to express my deep concern about the prevailing state of affairs at St. Edmund’s College, Shillong. It is with a heavy heart that I address the issues that have been plaguing our educational institution and adversely affecting the quality of education and student experience.
It has been over a month since the commencement of classes, and yet the students have not been provided with a proper class routine. This lack of clarity creates unnecessary confusion and hampers the students’ ability to plan and manage their studies effectively. The last-minute issuance of timetables only exacerbates the problem, leaving students and instructors struggling to adapt to sudden changes.
Moreover, the ongoing clash of classrooms has become a regular occurrence, causing disruptions in the learning process. Rooms that are too small for the number of students or double-allocated rooms create an environment that is neither conducive to learning nor respectful of the students’ time.
The atmosphere within the college is further strained by the behaviour of the office staff, who display a lack of professionalism and rudeness towards the students. A healthy and supportive administrative environment is crucial for fostering a positive educational experience, and the current demeanour of the office staff does not align with this objective.
The principal’s absence and seemingly abrasive attitude contribute to the negative perception of the college’s management. Students and faculty alike need a leader who is approachable, available, and responsive to their concerns. The principal needs to reflect these qualities and create a climate of inclusiveness and amity within the college fraternity.
An equally pressing concern is the state of the college’s facilities, particularly the toilets. The inadequate size and unhygienic conditions not only compromise students’ health but also encourage undesirable activities such as smoking and the use of tobacco and alcohol. It is essential that the college takes immediate steps to address these hygiene-related issues and create an environment that promotes student well-being.
In conclusion, I urge the college’s administration to take a proactive approach in addressing these pressing issues. A well-managed educational institution should provide students with an environment that fosters learning, professionalism, and respect. I hope that by shedding light on these concerns, we can collectively work towards making St. Edmund’s College, a place where students can thrive academically and personally.
Yours etc.,
A student of St. Edmund’s College
Name withheld on request,
Via email