Menace of extortion
Editor,
The news item “Donations sucking shopkeepers dry in city” (ST- October 9, 2023) and article “Culture of Donation in Meghalaya” (ST- October 12, 2023) had exposed the illegal culture of ‘extortion’ in the name of donation by many organizations that is prevailing in Meghalaya. The brunt of such illegal collection borne by non-tribal businessmen, both established as well as marginal ones is undeniable. Although the issue is an open secret, none of the victims dare to lodge any formal complaint before the Police for obvious fear of reprisal such as vandalism of the business establishment or physical assault by the cadres of those organizations.
There is no reason to believe that the administration is unaware of the menace but inaction on their part seems nothing but tacit support to the culture of ‘donation’. It may be construed that Government considers such large scale donation collection as indirect employment to large sections of drop outs who are otherwise unfit for any gainful profession.
Yours etc.,
NK Kehar,
Shillong-3
Plight of junior lawyers in Meghalaya
Editor,
The legal profession is often regarded as a noble one. In our current generation, it’s evident that Meghalaya boasts of a significant number of legal graduates, despite having fewer law colleges compared to Assam. However, the situation for most junior advocates in our state is far from ideal, as they struggle to earn a dignified living. Many junior lawyers are essentially treated as subordinates, lacking the ability to demand a minimum wage in a profession where they possess a deep understanding of the law.
Moreover, the issue extends beyond low wages. Junior lawyers in Meghalaya often find themselves grappling with excessive workload, leading to severe mental stress. They are frequently required to work long hours, attend to a multitude of cases, and meet tight deadlines. This relentless workload can result in burnout, jeopardizing both their well-being and the quality of legal services they can provide.
In this challenging landscape, the time has come for junior advocates to unite and demand their rights. It’s crucial for these aspiring legal professionals to come together, form associations, and advocate for fair wages, reasonable working hours, and access to mental health support. By joining forces, junior lawyers can create a powerful voice that compels the legal community and authorities to take action.
Despite the presence of legislation such as the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, which prescribes minimum compensation for employees, junior lawyers continue to face financial hardship. The added burden of overworking and the associated mental stress further compounds their challenges. It’s only through collective action that they can hope to bring about the necessary changes in the legal profession, ensuring not only a brighter future for themselves but also upholding the principles of justice and fairness that the legal profession represents.
Yours etc.,
Max Lyngdoh,
Via email
Wake up MDA Government
Editor,
As I read through the recent CAG report, a profound sense of disappointment and concern engulfs me. The report sheds light on the inner workings of our government, and it pains me to see how the MDA government seems more intent on appeasing other political parties to maintain their grip on power than on serving the needs of the people.
It is evident from my personal observations that the administration is struggling to manage various departments effectively. It appears that, in a desperate bid to retain coalition partners, ministerial chairs are offered without careful consideration of competence or dedication to public service.
The heartbreaking reality is that we are gradually sinking into a quagmire of debt, while development remains a distant dream confined only to official documents. Ordinary taxpayers like myself bear the brunt of this mismanagement, and it is disheartening to witness the litany of scandals that pervade our newspapers, further eroding our faith in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.
The MDA government must take a long, hard look at its priorities. The citizens of our state deserve more than just empty rhetoric and political maneuvering. We yearn for the fulfilment of basic necessities, such as reliable bus services, efficient traffic management, consistent water supply, effective waste management, well-maintained roads, quality education, and employment opportunities.
It is not enough to merely hold onto power; the true measure of a government’s success lies in its ability to enhance the lives of its citizens. I implore the MDA government to set aside political considerations and work earnestly to address the pressing needs of our people. The time for action is now, and our collective future depends on the decisions made today.
In the spirit of hope and longing for a better tomorrow.
Yours etc.,
R Sarki,
Shillong