Alarming rise of crime in our city
Editor,
I am writing to express my concerns regarding the alarming increase of crime rates in our city. It is with a heavy heart that I witness the growing sense of fear and uncertainty that has gripped our community.
Over the past few months, the city has experienced various forms of crimes, including theft, and violent incidents. Our once-safe neighbourhoods are becoming dangerous, leaving residents anxious and afraid for their safety. People are afraid to walk alone, more so during the night. Shillong having multiple routes to reach one area makes it easier and faster for people to get somewhere. However, these shortcuts can sometimes be deserted and it can be very dangerous for people, especially children who have to take that route. Shopkeepers run the risk of getting looted and attacked if they open their shops past 10 pm. People do not feel a sense of security and safety even in their own homes. The danger of encountering a thief in our homes has increased immensely. Several cases have popped up where people who stay home alone have been targeted and attacked. Being mindful of our surroundings is a must now with people having the confidence to steal from one’s pockets and bags, even in broad daylight.
The rise of unemployment in the city has led to an increase in theft. Substance abuse is also rapidly increasing. The rise in cases of drugs being found in the city is alarming. This may be one of the reasons as to why the crime rate is so high. While thefts are rising exponentially these days, cases of missing people and killings have also increased.
This rise in crime has begun to tarnish the city’s reputation and hinder its potential for growth and prosperity. It is the duty of each citizen to remain alert and report these crimes in order to ensure safety. It is crucial that our government, law enforcement, community organizations, and concerned citizens work together to fight this rising surge of crime. As a resident who has the privilege to call this city home, I believe it is crucial that we address this issue head-on and work together to find effective solutions. Let us all come together and take action so as to ensure that our city remains a place where families can thrive and residents can live without fear.
Yours etc.,
Saphiynri Aziel Mukhim
Via email
Monoculture the enemy of biodiversity
Editor,
The article written by Mohd Imtiyaj Khan on issues concerning Palm oil cultivation (ST Sept 30, 2023) deserves much appreciation. The writer had presented facts about the demand and supply of palm oil in the market and more specifically in the Indian context. However, the most important content of the article was his analysis pertaining to environmental concerns, socio-economic issues and scientific matters. According to the writer, one of the reasons for conflict in our neighbouring state can be attributed to the drastic push by the government for palm oil cultivation by clearing the forests and using temporarily uncultivated jhum lands. This would partially or wholly affect the tribal communities who depend on natural forests for their sustenance and livelihood. Additionally, it would cause changes in weather conditions which may hamper their agricultural and allied activities in terms of production and income. Therefore, we must carry out sufficient research studies and environmental impact assessments before rushing to increase any cash crop and commercial crop plantations in the North Eastern parts of the country.
Yours etc.,
E.R.Sangma,
Shillong- 1
Inner cleansing more important
Editor,
Mahatma Gandhi must not be reduced only to outer Swachhata (cleansing). We need Gandhi more for our inner Swachhata in order to clean from within all ugly stubborn stains of untouchability and religious hatred that have been lurking in the dark corners of our minds. Let us recall a highly relevant Urdu couplet by Imran Pratapgarhi in the present hour of crisis, He says, “Who told you that I am swept up in the storm, I stand by Gandhi in the time of Godse” (“Ye kisne kahaa aapse aandhi ke saath hun, main Godse ke daur me Gandhi ke saath hun”). We need to clean casteists and racist apartheid from within to realise why it is necessary to stand by Gandhi in the time of Godse.
Yours etc.,
Sujit De,
Kolkata
India a caste ridden country
Editor,
The editorial, “Game of Castes” (ST October 4, 2023) made interesting reading. Bihar State caste census has pressed the reset button of politics. Now political parties will be forced to rework their strategy. Next there will be greater share in allotments of party tickets. The pressure is mounting on the BJP as it depends for votes on the upper castes. According to the data of Lokniti-CSDS National Election Studies in 1996, 35 % of the upper castes voted for BJP, 38% in 1998, 40% in 1999, 35% in 2004 and 29% in 2009. In 2014, 47% of the upper caste voted BJP and 61% voted in 2019. The percentage of upper castes voting Congress was 25, 22, 21, 23, 26,13 and 12 % respectively for the periods referred to above. The share of the BJP from OBC for the period was 19, 26, 23, 23, 22, 34 and 44 % while that of the Congress was 25,21,25,24,24,15 and 15 % respectively. The share of regional parties amongst the OBC was 49,44,41,43,42,43 and 27 % percent for the period stated above. These numbers indicate that the caste system which Ambedkar told Gandhi should be abolished but which Gandhi was reluctant to do indicate that this is division of labour amongst the Hindus. Therefore for whosoever comes up with any strategy to win the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections the caste system matters even in fetching votes in a country like India which is caste ridden. The editorial rightly pinpointed “The North East or East as a whole, lay neglected for many decades. The South overcame such neglect after Narasimha Rao became Prime Minister. Even today the BJP is focusing its infrastructure development push largely in the Hindi belt. Equitable distribution of opportunities remains a dream.” This is inevitable given the number of Members of Parliament that the region sends to the Lok Sabha. So, isn’t it time that we have a Prime Minister from Eastern India in 2024. The probable candidates are Naveen Patnaik, Nitish Kumar and Mamata Banerjee.
Yours etc.,
V K Lyngdoh,
Via email
Iewduh’s battle against plastic pollution: A dream deferred
Editor,
In August 2019, a dream was born in the heart of Iewduh (Bara Bazar). The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) declared Iewduh a “no-plastic zone,” sparking hope for a greener, more sustainable future. The vision was clear: embrace eco-friendly alternatives like sla (leaves for wrapping eatables), organic, and paper bags. It was a noble cause that drew the support of key community figures, including the Syiem of Hima Mylliem.
Additionally, the proposal to introduce cold storage facilities for perishable items signalled a commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of market-goers by ensuring fresh and safe products.
Fast forward to October 05, 2023, and we find ourselves in a different reality. Iewduh, once a symbol of eco-conscious progress, now grapples with a resurgence of plastic usage. Plastic waste is back with a vengeance, posing not only environmental threats but also jeopardizing the health and cleanliness of the market.
The authorities’ commitment to a plastic-free Iewduh seems to have waned. The potential for substantial revenue generation through anti-plastic measures remains untapped, while plastic use remains unchecked.
Today, I urge the KHADC, the state government, and all stakeholders to rekindle the flame of Iewduh’s plastic-free dream. Rigorous inspections and stringent penalties are essential to curbing plastic use within the market. Collaboration is key to success.
Iewduh stands as a cultural and historical gem—the “rice place of the people.” We cannot let plastic pollution tarnish its legacy. The time has come for authorities to awaken, fulfil their promises, and restore Iewduh’s dream of a clean, sustainable market for all.
I implore upon the relevant authorities to act swiftly, reinvigorate the spirit of the 2019 declaration, and enforce a plastic-free Iewduh. Together, let’s make Iewduh a shining example of responsible, sustainable living.
Yours etc.,
R Sarki
Shillong