Editor,
In the verdant hills of Meghalaya, where the mist kisses the mountains and rivers sing a song of timeless beauty, lies a state brimming with potential. However, amidst the lush landscapes and vibrant culture, lies a pressing need for development. As Meghalaya heads towards another crucial electoral season, it is imperative to remind our politicians that the destiny of Meghalaya, and indeed the entire nation, rests in their hands.
Political campaigns often revolve around promises of progress, but true development transcends political affiliations. It is not about which party triumphs, but rather ensuring that the state emerges victorious, contributing meaningfully to the nation’s growth. Education and infrastructure stand tall as the pillars upon which the edifice of progress is built.
Education is the cornerstone of societal advancement. It unlocks doors of opportunity, empowers individuals, and fuels economic growth. Every child in Meghalaya deserves access to quality education, irrespective of their background. As political leaders, it’s imperative to invest in educational institutions, promote skill development, and ensure equitable opportunities for all.
Infrastructure forms the backbone of development, facilitating connectivity, commerce, and communication. From robust road networks to reliable power supply, from modern healthcare facilities to efficient public transportation systems, infrastructure investments lay the groundwork for prosperity. Politicians must prioritize infrastructure development to propel Meghalaya towards a brighter future.
As the citizens of Meghalaya cast their votes, they do so with hopeful eyes, entrusting their future in the hands of their elected representatives. It is a solemn responsibility that demands unwavering dedication, integrity, and vision. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” True statesmanship lies in selflessly serving the people, rising above personal interests and political rivalries for the greater good. Similarly, Jawaharlal Nehru famously said, “A country is known by how it treats its weakest members.” These words echo the fundamental ethos of governance – prioritizing the welfare of every citizen, irrespective of their background or status.
As we stand at the crossroads of history, let us heed the call to political responsibility. Let us envision a Meghalaya where prosperity knows no bounds, where every child dreams of a brighter tomorrow, and where the spirit of unity propels us towards collective greatness. The developmental future of Meghalaya, and indeed the nation, lies in our hands. Let us rise to the occasion and build a future we can all be proud of.
Concluding with a line by the Nobel Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore, “Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake,” I am optimistic that the state will awaken to its fullest potential of development.
Yours etc.,
Kalparaj Chakraborty,
Tura, West Garo Hills
No one killed non-tribals in Meghalaya; they just died
Editor,
The arrest of two alleged suspects by Meghalaya Police in connection with recent killing of two innocent persons at Ichamati has raised serious question about the direction the police investigation is heading. It has been reported that after the anti-CAA protestors dispersed some miscreants allegedly attacked the victims leading to their death. (ST dated 27th March, 2024). Is it believable that from a volley of protestors only two persons were involved in the killings whom Police have swiftly identified and arrested? Or those two persons have been arrested as ‘soft targets’ without much credible evidence in order to shield the actual perpetrators and conspirators of the crime? The sordid history of killings of innocent people in Meghalaya and zero conviction of the killers can be aptly termed as “No one Killed Non-Tribals in Meghalaya” taking a cue from one famous Bollywood movie titled “No One Killed Jessica.”
Yours etc.,
N.K. Kehar
Shillong-3
Rupee on the downslide
Editor,
The rupee has rapidly been going down against the dollar for the last ten years. While Rs 59.44 could get one dollar on May 15, 2014, now one has to spend as much as Rs 83.45 to get one dollar. The ruling party at the Centre needs to pay heed to the real issues instead of escaping from them. Moreover, the growth in GDP cannot improve a common man’s lot in a country where inequality is widening day by day. The glaring inequality needs to be bridged by inclusive growth, developing social sectors, adopting labour intensive technology and ensuring social security for the needy.
Yours etc.,
Sujit De,
Kolkata
Why promote only cricket?
Editor,
Cricket’s dominance in India is undeniable both culturally and financially. Its popularity has indeed overshadowed other sports to a large extent. This is largely due to factors such as historical success, extensive media coverage and lucrative sponsorship ( Women’s cricket, an aberration in my personal opinion ). As a result, resources, attention and infrastructure tend to gravitate towards cricket, leaving other sports at a disadvantage.
However, it is essential to recognize efforts being made to promote other sports, by increased funding, grassroot initiatives, and the rise of alternative leagues like the football Indian Super League. While cricket’s prominence may pose challenges for other sports, it also serves as a testament to the power of sports in India where passion and enthusiasm drive participation and support. Balancing cricket’s influence with development of other sports remains a crucial endeavour for India’s sporting landscape to thrive holistically.
Yours etc.,
Anjan Kumar Das.
Shillong – 6
Traffic menace in our city
Editor,
Adding to Louis Pyngrope’s letter on the traffic issue, it reminds us of the 1990’s song `Traffic jam roz ye bigade mere sare kaam,”sung by Devang Patel, and guess what ? It’s the reality and precisely relevant today for our city’s traffic jam scenario. Government after government with their empty and vague promises have brought about a stressful situation for the general public at large. It’s like clogged veins in our hearts, where the public finds it tough for huge expenses or transplant. But it’s an easy affair for VIP’S, since their clogged hearts/ways are easily cleared by escorts and mind you, it’s never an expensive or stressful affair, while they are on their way to the greatest invention ever. In democracy, our repetitive error is that we believed in a system that works. Alas! Nothing works in Meghalaya.
Yours etc.,
Joydeep Sharma
Shillong-2