Editor,
One cannot escape the weight and implications of the ongoing issue between the NEHU Vice Chancellor and the MCTA; and it is immoral for one to stay silent as a tired spectator, especially when being in such a case is no way affordable. Simple and honest, objective and eclectic preliminary observations would reveal that on one hand we have the State machinery pushing on with its prescriptions for change and on the other hand we have the Association of one of the most primary of stakeholders resisting the push! Sometimes, the obvious needs to be stated! Careful observation will also ascertain that no side is opposed to change, but it will do very much good to remember that cautious minds prefer good change rather than careless change; careful preparedness to bull dozer maneuvers. However, what is most strikingly obvious is that the main murrain, the dreaded bone of contention, is the path by which the powers that be chose to take in bringing about the change; and by any measure of natural justice, their actions are condemnable!
How does one arrive at this conclusion? Firstly, one simply falls back on the time- tested approach of the “Father of the Nation”: the Moralistic Approach. Gandhians are known for their many moralistic formulae, but, “The means justify the ends,” is one that would apply best to our predicament. Considering what has already transpired, and boldly assuming that society’s moral compass is still adequately functioning, one feels there is no need to expound! Secondly, inefficiency and attempts to cover the same, stick out as prominent sore spots! If the powers that be are really committed to bringing about the change they so adamantly push for, why were they snoring for the most part of 2022 and the first months of this year? The truth is that they waited till the very last moment, after admissions had been completed, fees paid and after colleges had started classes in accordance with the 2015 Semester System to notify such a drastic change. Some brave souls have openly declared that the VC is serving masters in Delhi, and that the whip had cracked, figuratively, of course. But without joining or silencing this chorus, all one can say is that IF the accusation is true, then the VC is not doing a very good job of being a lackey, as so boldly suggested, and is simply trying to clean house at the very last moment, stuffing everything and everyone into the proverbial box just so that another box can be checked off! Thirdly, with all the haste heavily floating around, and many social media influencers, netizens and even the state government being all so excited to rally behind the VC, with some even demonising the MCTA, one would simply state that the devil’s in the details.
If people had not gone through the entire thing critically and judiciously, one would suggest that they stand aside for the time being and have enough courage to admit ignorance, rather than blurting out reckless statements based not on careful study and general considerations but based on flashy and ear tickling catch phrases! Whether we like it or not, India’s welfare state model is still a requirement- a necessity that cannot be done away with, especially for those less fortunate and less privileged, and these constitute a major portion of society, hence, we cannot afford to simply rush into the unknown, especially without heeding and consulting those primarily involved, who will have to bear the heavy responsibility to carry things forward, and to do so well!!
Yours etc.,
Abdiel Susngi,
Via email
No VIP is above the law
Editor,
The high-handedness of those in power is not a new thing. It is usually the law makers who are also law breakers. One such scenario took place on a busy Monday morning when a government vehicle simply ignored the No Right Turn/No Entry signage at Rhino Point junction and held all the vehicles behind it at ransom refusing to go through Anjalee Petrol Pump. In spite of the honking from all other vehicles, the driver refused to abide by the law. An army personnel intervened but to no avail. While all eyes were on the lone policeman hoping he would forbid the driver from breaking the rule but the policeman ironically, tried to clear the road making way for the government vehicle to pass. If an ordinary citizen did that, he/she would be snarled at and even booked by the traffic police for breaking the rule. In fact that’s how it should be for all citizens. No one is above the law. Rules and laws are formulated for citizens both ordinary and those in government to adhere to. If law makers and law upholders themselves become law breakers, then whither democracy?
Yours etc.,
Jenniefer Dkhar,
Via email
Parking fee collection should be automated
Editor,
I write to address a pressing concern regarding the alarming practices observed at various parking lots in Shillong. It has come to my attention that an illegal and unjust method of revenue collection has become prevalent, particularly at popular locations like Police Bazar, Bara Bazar, Laitumkhrah, and other tourist spots. The issue at hand pertains to the arbitrary charges levied by parking attendants without providing proper documents/receipts.
It is disheartening to note that a significant number of parking collectors seem to be under the influence of alcohol for extended periods, leading to erratic and disproportionate charges. The severity of their inebriation appears to influence the amount they demand from patrons. In some instances, an exorbitant fee of Rs 40 is being charged for a mere 15-minute stay. Furthermore, these collectors frequently distribute parking slips without recording any information or, worse still, decline to issue them altogether. Should a visitor dare to request a slip, they are met with hostility and menacing glares.
Contrastingly, during a recent visit to the Global Expo at Polo, I was pleasantly surprised by the professionalism exhibited at the S.R.G.T. parking facility. This establishment introduced an automated system that dispensed entry and exit slips, complete with accurate timestamps. This automated process ensures transparency, accountability, and a fair approach to collecting parking fees. The convenience it offers is highly commendable, and it sets a positive precedent for parking operations in the city.
To rectify the current situation, it is imperative that the authorities take immediate action. The bidding process for parking contracts should include a clause mandating the implementation of automated systems, safeguarding the interests of citizens and visitors alike. Such a system would alleviate the present challenges, prevent undue exploitation, and instil a sense of trust in the parking process.
Equally important is the stipulation that individuals under the influence of alcohol should not be permitted to manage parking facilities. Their presence not only jeopardizes the reputation of these establishments but also poses risks to the safety and comfort of the public.
In conclusion, the need for a comprehensive transformation in parking practices in Shillong cannot be overstated. The adoption of automated systems, coupled with ethical guidelines for parking attendants, would drastically improve the experience for all. Let us collectively strive for a fair and efficient parking environment that upholds the integrity of our city’s services.
Yours etc.,
R K Sarki,
Shillong
