Editor,
I am writing to appreciate the article, “Irrational Passions; the Politics of othering & unwarranted killings” by Patricia Mukhim (ST Mar 29, 2024), as well as the letters protesting the horrifying Ichamati killings of two “non-tribal” persons. To think that in the twenty-first century we still have such crude and violent othering of local minorities is sobering. But all acts of violence always boomerang back to the violator. I have witnessed the subtle ways in which America’s violence in Iraq boomeranged back through a downward spiral that continues to this day. Unless protested and confronted vigorously, such violence will come back to haunt and hurt the Khasi community more than any other. Love of the particular, when it is at the cost of the universal, is nothing but narcissism. Love of the tribe should prepare the tribe member for the greater love of the universal, whether India or the world. Besides, the term “non-tribal” is impolite and anonymising — as if the rest of us can be lumped together under one label, with no individuality whatsoever.
The above article reminded me of Dr Martin Luther King Jr.’s application of the words of the great Jewish philosopher Martin Buber. In his “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” King says that racial segregation substitutes the “I-it” relationship for the “I-thou” — by objectifying the other.
I mourn this needless loss of two lives.
Yours etc.,
Deepa Majumdar
Via email
Unjust Treatment of Local Artists: A Call for Reforms
Editor,
The Jaintia Hills Winter Festival organised by Creo-native Media Event Management company supported by Meghalaya Tourism on December 28-29, 2023 held promise as a showcase of local talent set against the stunning backdrop of Meghalaya’s natural splendour. However, what happened behind the scenes has left a bad taste in the mouths of many local artists. Despite putting their hearts and souls into their performances, many musicians go unpaid, whereas an international act was promptly compensated. Such discrimination strikes at the heart of our artistic community and requires quick action.
Shillong, known as the Rock Capital, has a thriving music culture that has produced innumerable musicians through the years. However, the dilemma of these artists seeking proper recompense highlights a wider systemic issue. It is intolerable that local artists, who make significant contributions to our cultural scene, are placed in financial limbo while others receive preferential treatment.
This is about more than just delayed payments; it is also about respect, acknowledgement, and our artists’ livelihoods. Many people rely on music as a source of income, passion, and survival. Denying them due recompense is to erode the fundamental foundation of our cultural identity.
I urge the event organizers, Meghalaya Tourism, and our Chief Minister to address this injustice promptly. Local artists deserve nothing less than fair recompense for their efforts and passion. Further, we ask the Government to establish laws that ensure artists receive timely remuneration at all festivals and events. It is critical that we foster an environment in which our artists may thrive, certain that their contributions are acknowledged and respected.
In conclusion, let us stand in solidarity with our local artists and demand the reforms required to protect their rights. Only then can we really commemorate Shillong’s past as the Rock Capital while also ensuring a bright future for our cultural community.
Yours etc.,
A concerned performer,
Name withheld on request
Via email
Empathy, compassion, love intrinsic to education
Editor,
I am writing to share some important insights inspired by the character Ram Shankar Nikumbh in the wonderful movie Taare Zameen Par. These insights offer valuable lessons for our education system and society.
In this heartwarming film, Nikumbh, portrayed by Aamir Khan, exemplifies kindness, patience, and understanding. His caring approach towards Ishaan, a child with dyslexia who struggles in school, underscores the need to recognize and support the unique talents and needs of each student.
Nikumbh’s ability to look beyond grades and see the individuality and potential of his students reminds us that education is about more than just test scores. It compels us to create an inclusive environment where every child feels valued, understood, and encouraged to explore their strengths and interests.
His dedication to Ishaan’s well-being highlights the importance of patience and perseverance in education. Nikumbh’s belief that every child can succeed with the right support emphasizes the transformative power of guidance and encouragement.
Furthermore, Nikumbh’s collaboration with Ishaan’s parents underlines the crucial role of parental involvement in a child’s education. When educators and parents work together, they foster a nurturing environment that supports a child’s growth and development.
In a society that often prioritizes academic achievements, Nikumbh’s example prompts us to reconsider our approach to education. It inspires us to prioritize empathy, holistic development, and individual growth over standardized measures of success.
Let us draw inspiration from the compassionate character of Nikumbh in Taare Zameen Par to transform our educational landscape. By embracing empathy, patience, and collaboration, we can create an inclusive environment where every child’s unique talents are recognized and nurtured.
Yours etc,
Pankaj Kumar,
Shillong
Need for strict environmental norms in hilly areas
Editor,
Ladakh’s climate activist, Sonam Wangchuk asked the Centre to safeguard the fragile ecosystem of Himalayan mountains in Ladakh. Fragile ecosystems in both Ladakh and Uttarakhand demand careful environmental impact assessment before undertaking excavation for building a tunnel or a high-rise. The Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi had collapsed trapping 41 workers for 17 days in November last year. The project has again restarted. Recently, an operator, Govind Kumar, was killed when a machine on which he was sitting fell into a 25-feet-deep trench near the mouth of the Silkyara tunnel. Was there proper evaluation of safety and environmental issues before resuming the project?
Yours etc.,
Sujit De,
Kolkata