Editor,
The recent actions of the Hynniewtrep National Youth Federation (HNYF) in East Khasi Hills are nothing short of outrageous and deeply misguided. The incident that occurred on July 26, 2024 afternoon, where HNYF members attempted to block Assam-registered vehicles from accessing tourist spots at Umtyngngar, is not only alarming but also reflects a disturbing trend of misguided activism that threatens the very fabric of our state’s economy and reputation.
The HNYF’s imposition of a ban on all Assam-registered vehicles in the Umtyngngar area is an ill-conceived and short-sighted move that demonstrates a complete lack of understanding of the complexities of tourism and interstate relations. Their demand for a government policy to restrict non-local vehicles carrying tourists is not only impractical but also goes against the principles of free movement within our country.
As a citizen, I am embarrassed and angered by this primitive display of parochialism. The HNYF’s actions reveal a “life under a rock” mentality that has no place in our modern, interconnected world. Instead of engaging in constructive dialogue with government officials, they have chosen to take matters into their own hands in the most counter-productive way possible. This is truly an absurd move by the pressure group, showcasing an illiterate way of working and a clear indication that they care only for their own misguided agenda, not for the people of Meghalaya.
However, amidst this distressing situation, I would like to commend the swift and efficient action taken by the Meghalaya Police, particularly the Sohra sub-division police. Their prompt response in detaining the HNYF members involved in this illegal activity is praiseworthy. Special appreciation goes to the officer who handled the situation adeptly without the presence of a magistrate, demonstrating professionalism and quick thinking in a potentially volatile scenario.
It is crucial to consider the broader implications of such actions. Meghalaya, being a small state, heavily relies on tourism for its economic growth. If pressure groups like the HNYF continue to obstruct the inflow of tourists, where will our state generate its revenue? The tourism department’s efforts to promote Meghalaya as a desirable destination will be in vain if visitors are met with hostility at our borders.
Moreover, the HNYF seems to have overlooked the fact that vehicles with Assam registration may be carrying tourists from various parts of the country. Their blanket ban is not only discriminatory but also illogical. Imagine the frustration and financial loss these tourists must have experienced due to this unnecessary obstruction. How would we feel if Khasi people traveling to Assam were asked to return at the border? This lack of empathy and foresight is deeply troubling.
The authorities must take stringent action against such absurd and illegal activities. The HNYF needs to seriously reconsider their approach. Their current methods are not only harmful to the state’s economy but also tarnish Meghalaya’s image as a welcoming tourist destination. It’s high time they step out of their parochial mindset and realize the damage they’re causing to our state’s progress and reputation.
As concerned citizens, we must speak out against such regressive actions and support initiatives that promote harmony, progress, and economic growth in our beloved state. The HNYF and similar organizations need to understand that constructive dialogue and cooperation with the government are the only way forward, not illegal and disruptive protests that harm our own people and economy.
Yours etc.,
Paul Melvyn Pathaw,
Via email
Discrepancies in enforcement of car tint regulations
Editor,
I write to draw attention to a recent experience I had with the traffic police at Nongmynsong, which raises serious concerns about the selective enforcement of car tint regulations. On July 27, I the traffic police stopped me and removed the tint from my car windows. Despite my explanation that my car only had a clear film designed for light, heat, and UV reduction, and that it adhered to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) guidelines, my protests were ignored. The film was almost transparent and met all legal requirements under Indian state guidelines.
To my dismay, while my car was being scrutinized and the tint was forcibly removed, I observed numerous other vehicles, including Thars, Scorpios, Fortuners, and Boleros, many of which belonged to government officials, passing by unchallenged. These vehicles had heavily tinted windows, with some appearing to have tints as dark as 5%, far exceeding the permissible limits. When I questioned the officer removing the film from my car about this apparent double standard, my inquiry was met with indifference and went unanswered.
This incident has left me with several troubling questions that I believe deserve public attention:
1. Why are common citizens subjected to stringent enforcement of regulations, while individuals in positions of power or those driving certain types of vehicles are seemingly exempt?
2. What criteria are being used by the traffic police to decide which vehicles are stopped and inspected?
3. Is there a bias in enforcement that favors government officials and higher-end vehicles, allowing them to flout the rules without consequence?
4. What measures are in place to ensure that the enforcement of traffic regulations is fair, transparent, and free from corruption or favouritism?
5. How can citizens trust the law enforcement system when there is such a visible disparity in how the laws are applied?
The notion that common people must bear the brunt of enforcement while others are treated as above the law is deeply disheartening. It erodes public trust in law enforcement and fosters a sense of injustice and frustration among ordinary citizens.
I urge the authorities to address these concerns and ensure that traffic regulations are enforced uniformly, without prejudice or favouritism. The integrity of our legal system depends on the fair and equal application of the law to all individuals, regardless of their status or the type of vehicle they drive.
Thank you for providing a platform to voice these critical issues.
Yours etc.,
Name withheld on request
Via email
Urgent call for enforcement of regulations & public safety in Tura
Editor
I am writing to highlight the escalating issues of unauthorized construction and public safety hazards in Tura that demand immediate attention from the concerned authorities. The reckless proliferation of structures, particularly those encroaching upon water bodies and roadside shanties, not only violates legal provisions but also jeopardizes the well-being of residents and the environment.
The brazen disregard for regulations, such as the Meghalaya High Court ruling prohibiting construction within 50 meters of the high watermark of water bodies, is exemplified by the granting of building permissions by the Town Planning Office. This flagrant violation raises serious questions about the integrity and adherence to the law within the department, necessitating a thorough investigation and accountability measures.
Moreover, the unchecked expansion of small shanties along roadsides poses a dual threat to public safety. Not only do these structures contribute to traffic congestion and pedestrian hazards, but they also serve as points of sale for food items without due regard for food safety standards. The absence of oversight from the Commissionerate of Food Safety, tasked with ensuring the safety and wholesomeness of food for public consumption, is a grave concern that must be urgently addressed.
It is imperative that the Municipal Office and the Commissionerate of Food Safety collaborate to enforce regulations on the operation of food vendors in these shanties to safeguard public health. The Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills must intervene decisively to rectify these lapses and ensure the well-being of residents is not compromised by unregulated food practices.
I therefore urge the authorities to prioritize public safety, environmental conservation, and food hygiene standards in Tura. It is essential that stringent enforcement measures be implemented to curb unauthorized construction and ensure the adherence to food safety protocols in the interest of all residents.
Yours etc.,
Mirak Challang Arengh,Tura,
Via email