Morality and Worldview
Editor,
One of the readers of the article, ‘KHADC & Women’s Rights,’ Ambrose Kharkongor, has addressed it vide his letter ‘Escape route for Khasi men,’ (ST Sep 6, 2023). I believe that not all who read the above article will understand it as Ambrose did. But it behoves me to address his rejoinder lest the argument is muddied.
The article was not intended to find an escape route for men who abandoned their wives, as misunderstood by the reader. My argument was that the position of the young husband may contribute to situations where he lacks the moral resolve to take the responsibility as is warranted. However, I did write that this was not a generalisation of all cases. I also stated that this was not an absolution of their moral lapse. In fact, I wrote that the moral sense transcends culture. My point in writing the article and my argument was simply that the issue is a moral one, and should not be conflated with other issues like trading licenses and mixed marriages. This would be a categorical error.
I also did not say that the KHADC is expected to come up with strictures to regulate moral behaviour. In fact, I stated that while moral lapses can be addressed by legislature (such as laws relating to alimony), yet morality itself cannot be divorced from the worldview that one holds. The argument is that once we talk of morality, we must address it by looking at the worldview, and not just the legislature (in this case the KHADC). We must always look at the worldview of the individual and how it informs his ethics. In this regard, every individual has blind spots as his moral sense can be dulled or sharpened by the worldview he espouses. People can be morally exemplary or deplorable, both because of and in spite of their worldview. But the relationship between worldview and morality deserves public debate, as it is a subject that requires deep-diving.
Yours etc.,
Kitdor H. Blah,
Shillong
Salary delay brings tears on Teachers’ Day
Editor,
Yet another Teachers’ Day passes with appreciation being heaped on the teaching community. But ask the teachers what their feelings are. Their hearts are heavy with a unique blend of emotions – pride, dedication, but also the anguish of not receiving their monthly salaries on time. While they continue to mould the future, their own lives remain in financial turmoil.
Teacher’s Day is a day of immense significance, a day when the nation collectively recognizes the tireless efforts of educators in shaping young minds. However, this year, the celebrations are laced with bittersweet feelings as teachers across this state are burdened by the persistent issue of delayed salary payments.
In a poignant contrast to most government employees who receive their salaries like clockwork, the teachers who stand at the forefront of education are left in a state of financial uncertainty. It’s a situation that leaves teachers feeling undervalued and, in some cases, helpless.
A teacher who did not want to be named shared her heart-wrenching struggle, saying, “On Teacher’s Day, we are meant to feel appreciated and cherished, but the reality is quite different. The anticipation of our next pay check hangs like a dark cloud over our heads. We have bills to pay, have families to support, and dreams to fulfil, and the constant uncertainty takes a toll on our emotional well-being.”
The delay in salary disbursement has cast a shadow of doubt on the government’s commitment to education and the very educators who play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future. Teachers are the unsung heroes of our society, and their unwavering dedication should be met with consistent financial support. It is imperative that the government addresses this issue urgently and with compassion. Teachers’ salary is also duly earmarked in the annual budget of the State. Teachers deserve to know why their salaries are frequently delayed when other government employees receive theirs promptly. Clarity is not just a matter of fiscal responsibility; it’s an act of recognition for the sacrifices teachers make.
In our quest for answers, we reached out to Education Department’s for an official statement regarding the delay in teacher salary payments. However, as I write this letter we teachers remain empty-handed, with no response received. We urge the government to remember that silence only deepens the wounds and adds to the heartache of our teachers. Their anguish deserves to be acknowledged.
As the nation celebrates Teacher’s Day, let us not just honour educators with flowery words but with the actions they deserve. Timely salaries are not just numbers on a pay check; they are a lifeline that supports teachers in their noble mission of moulding the next generation.
Following this Teacher’s Day, let us pledge to change the narrative. Teachers should not be left with tears in their eyes and a knot in their hearts. They deserve appreciation, respect, and the assurance that their dedication is matched by the system that they serve.
Yours etc…
Krishna Chettri
Shillong-2
Non-issuance of OBC certificates
Editor,
I am writing to express my profound concern regarding the ongoing discontinuation of OBC (Other Backward Class) certificates in the state of Meghalaya, which has persisted for several years. During my recent visit to the Deputy Commissioner’s office, I was dismayed to discover that OBC certificates continue to remain unissued. This situation has had severe repercussions on the authentic residents of Meghalaya who were born and raised in our state.
The non-availability of OBC certificates has created a substantial barrier for eligible Meghalayan residents to apply for OBC reserved positions in central competitions. This glaring disparity in opportunities is inherently unjust, depriving those who legitimately merit the benefits of affirmative action policies. It is imperative that the authorities at the DC’s office and the concerned Minister take immediate action to redress this situation and ensure equitable treatment for all genuine citizens.
I earnestly beseech the central government to intervene and support the youth of Meghalaya who have repeatedly been unjustly denied OBC certificates over an extended period. It is of paramount importance that our government places the well-being and opportunities of its citizens at the forefront, guaranteeing that no one is left behind due to administrative lapses.
I implore the relevant authorities to collaborate in formulating a comprehensive plan that reinstates the issuance of OBC certificates in Meghalaya, thereby providing equal opportunities to all eligible individuals. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard fairness and justice within our society.
Yours etc.,
Name withheld on request
Via email