By Napoleon S Mawphniang
As a member of our State, I observe a profoundly distressing reality that haunts my thoughts during the night. Our children and future generations are educated in deteriorating schools where roofs leak and walls disintegrate. Individuals in need of medical attention find themselves in overcrowded hospitals, enduring prolonged waits for essential healthcare services. Nevertheless, it appears that our government is more preoccupied with hosting extravagant celebrations. They make grand proclamations about million-dollar concerts featuring Akon, Ed Sheeran, and other international luminaries, all the while our educators grapple with inadequate classrooms and our medical professionals labor without essential equipment.
This evokes memories of tales my grandfather shared regarding imprudent monarchs who sought to distract their famished populace with extravagant celebrations, in the vain hope that they might overlook their gnawing hunger. Much like the ancient Roman emperors who constructed grand coliseums amidst the decay of Rome’s foundations, our government erects platforms for rock stars while the very fabric of our social infrastructure deteriorates.
It is disheartening to observe the gradual degradation of our society’s essence, as this spectacle of entertainment continues to exert its detrimental influence. The younger generation, who ought to be advocating for improved educational institutions and enhanced employment prospects in a corruption-free environment, instead find themselves waiting in line for extended periods to purchase concert tickets. This transcends mere misallocation of priorities; it reflects a deliberate strategy aimed at maintaining a state of distraction and compliance among the populace..
The Contemporary Circus:
The education system in Meghalaya finds itself at the lower echelons of national assessments, as only 29.1% of grade 5 students demonstrate the ability to read fundamental texts. Nonetheless, the government takes great pride in proclaiming performances by Akon, Maizie Williams of Boney M, Lucas, R3HAB, Alan Walker, and assures the inclusion of Ed Sheeran in the forthcoming year. This reflects the approach of providing superficial entertainment to divert the attention of the masses from underlying political corruption and societal deterioration, reminiscent of the tactics used by Roman emperors.
The government’s approach is not simply erroneous; it represents a deliberate strategy aimed at preserving authority through diversion rather than genuine progress. Much like the rulers of antiquity, our contemporary leaders appear to operate under the assumption that a populace engaged in entertainment is less inclined to scrutinize their authority or seek accountability.
The Cost of Diversion:
As educational outcomes persist in their decline, the government diverts substantial financial resources towards events such as the Cherry Blossom Festival. This reflects the opulence of France’s Louis XVI, who orchestrated extravagant celebrations at Versailles amidst the disintegration of the nation’s infrastructure. The unfortunate demise of Bah Rymbui at ICAR Umroi during the 2024 Cherry Blossom Festival serves as a poignant illustration of misaligned priorities and governmental oversight.
As a resident of Ri Bhoi District, I have observed the festivals organized by the government of Meghalaya occurring periodically throughout the years,I have observed directly how these festivals, seemingly intended for the general populace, predominantly function as venues for government officials, their families, and esteemed guests. The general populace finds itself relegated to the role of passive observers, anticipated to squander their resources on admission fees and exorbitantly priced conveniences.
The Maza Gold Tea Phenomenon
The government’s methodology regarding development initiatives is aptly summarized by what I refer to as the “Maza Gold Tea Syndrome.” Similar to how purchasers of Maza Gold Tea are granted a complimentary stainless steel spoon, the residents of Meghalaya frequently find themselves with mere token advantages, while the genuine essence of development initiatives is diverted by politicians and their associates. This scenario evokes the insights of Machiavelli regarding the Medici’s adeptness at manipulating the populace of Florence through artifice and subterfuge. The populace remains grasping the symbolic utensil, oblivious to the fact that they have been deprived of the very essence of the beverage.
The Statistical Veil
The government proudly announces a reduction in unemployment rates from 8.8% to 1.9%, however, the actual circumstances present a contrasting narrative. This distortion of data evokes the actions of Soviet officials who showcased exaggerated statistics to conceal economic deterioration—a strategy that ultimately culminated in systemic failure.
In George Orwell’s “1984,” the Ministry of Plenty perpetually alters economic statistics to present an illusion of growth, despite the populace enduring significant shortages. The actions of our government appear to echo themes from a dystopian narrative, offering an optimistic portrayal that starkly contrasts with the grim realities encountered by the citizens of Meghalaya.
The Industrial Festival Complex
These government-sponsored festivals have transformed into a self-perpetuating ecosystem. While officials are afforded the privilege of state-funded accommodations and meals, ordinary citizens are relegated to the role of mere ticket-buying spectators. This reflects the historical Chinese custom of “elegant bribery,” wherein officials augmented their wealth through state-funded entertainment.
The government asserts that these events will yield profits; however, they consistently operate at a deficit. The true beneficiaries are not the citizens of Meghalaya, but rather the artists, government officials, and a privileged few who gain from these lavish events.
The Illusion of Progress:
Given that Rs 2,105 crore was allotted over five years under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), it is clear that Meghalaya’s educational system still faces several difficulties. This systematic failure illustrates the challenges faced by numerous African nations, where development funds dissipated into bureaucratic obscurity while citizens remained engrossed in state-sponsored festivities.
The growing reliance of the state on external financial support, now reaching $1.07 billion, presents a considerable threat of intensifying its current crisis. Similar to Athens before its downfall, we are at risk of valuing fleeting entertainment above lasting security.
The Way Ahead:
The answer does not reside in an increase of festivals, but rather in the pursuit of transparency, accountability, and authentic development. Until that time, we exist akin to the inhabitants of Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” – lulled into complacency as our future deteriorates around us.The young populace of Meghalaya ought to rouse themselves from this distraction-driven lethargy and advocate for genuine transformation.
As history illustrates, societies that prioritize spectacle over meaningful content are destined for decline. The moment has arrived to cease conforming to the dictates of the government and to begin advancing toward authentic progress.
A Formal Request for Commitment
It is imperative that we, as Meghalayans, advocate for transparency in governmental expenditures, particularly regarding these extravagant events.
1. Prioritize the enhancement of education, healthcare, job creation, and a system devoid of corruption over entertainment.
2. It is imperative to hold our elected representatives accountable for their promises and behavior.
3. Cultivate critical thinking and encourage engagement in civic affairs among our youth.
4. Champion local initiatives that adeptly address authentic community needs.
Contextual Analysis of Historical Events:
Throughout history, governing bodies have employed entertainment as a mechanism for exerting influence and maintaining control. In the annals of ancient Rome, emperors such as Nero and Commodus indulged in extravagant games and spectacles, all the while turning a blind eye to the urgent social dilemmas that plagued their society. This strategy ultimately played a significant role in the empire’s decline.In a comparable manner, the opulence of the royal court at Versailles during the 18th century in France was in sharp juxtaposition to the destitution experienced by the general populace.
This inequality ultimately culminated in the French Revolution.In our contemporary landscape, we observe reflections of these historical trends. The administration of Meghalaya, reminiscent of historical sovereigns, appears to operate under the assumption that a citizenry captivated by diversion will remain oblivious to shortcomings in governance and progress.
The Societal Expense:
Although international artists such as Akon and Ed Sheeran undeniably generate enthusiasm, it is imperative to scrutinize the cultural implications of these external forms of entertainment. Are we not, perhaps unwittingly, eroding our profound local traditions and artists by perpetually seeking external cultural affirmation?Furthermore, the emphasis placed on these monumental occasions frequently undermines the support for grassroots cultural initiatives, which possess the potential for a more enduring influence on our communities.
The Ecological Impact:
Such extensive gatherings inevitably incur a considerable environmental toll. The arrival of numerous visitors, the erection of temporary edifices, and the resultant waste production significantly impact the delicate ecosystem of Meghalaya. The environmental degradation observed in a region celebrated for its natural beauty raises significant concerns.
The Misconception of Economic Principles:
The government frequently rationalizes these occurrences through economic arguments, asserting that they enhance tourism and benefit local enterprises. Nonetheless, the situation is considerably more intricate. Although certain enterprises might experience immediate benefits, the enduring economic ramifications remain dubious at best.The funds allocated to these events could be redirected towards sustainable economic development initiatives, which would yield a more enduring influence on the state’s economy.
The Journey Forward:
Understanding that this criticism does not amount to a total rejection of entertainment or cultural events is crucial. It represents a call for balance and the delineation of priorities. A government must address the basic needs of its citizens while also enriching their lives through cultural and recreational opportunities.To achieve this,
1. it is imperative to undertake a comprehensive analysis of public spending associated with entertainment events.
2. A clearly articulated policy concerning the alignment of these events with broader developmental goals.
3. Improved distribution of resources focused on education, healthcare, and the creation of employment opportunities.
4. Support for local creators and cultural initiatives.
5. Frameworks for involving citizens in offering feedback and contributing to the decision-making process.
Final Thoughts:
We must question ourselves as we stand at this turning point in Meghalaya’s history: Will we demand the significant change our state sorely needs, or will we remain passive spectators in this magnificent circus?We are the ones who make the decision. We may persist in swaying to the government’s rhythm, captivated by the allure and spectacle of global entertainers, or we can begin to advance towards genuine progress, insisting on authentic development and accountability.
Unlike the people of Rome, we should not be satisfied with bread and circuses as our society disintegrates. Rather, let us engage thoughtfully in the endeavor of shaping Meghalaya’s future. It is solely through our united efforts and unwavering attention that we can aspire to construct a state that genuinely caters to the needs of all its citizens, rather than merely providing them with amusement.The moment has come for transformation. The question is: Are we prepared to take action, recognize our limitations, and overcome them? The trajectory of Meghalaya hinges upon our response.
The writer is Advocate and Humanist and resdies in Ri Bhoi district, Meghalaya.