Editor,
This Tuesday turned into a nightmare in the scenic meadows of Pahalgam in Kashmir. In a matter of a few minutes, 26 innocent people were brutally shot, among them travellers from the UAE and Nepal. The brutality of the attackers was pre-planned. Only those belonging to their religion were spared by the terror group. The serene tourist spot, just filled with laughter and wonder some moments ago, was reduced to a grim canvas of pain and loss. In the videos that went viral, survivors spoke of a strange silence that followed the gunfire. One woman, whose husband was killed right in front of her, wept uncontrollably and begged Indian Army personnel to end her life too. Such attacks by terrorists targeted against innocent civilians in India are not new.
Yes, we boast of modern civilization with AI, space missions, and sophisticated weapons of war on one hand, and yet continue to see this “medieval brutality” on the other which is a contradiction in terms. Has this not practically torn down the very foundations of compassion and conscience that bind us as human beings in modern civilization? I think we have many more questions than answers. In this hour of nationwide grief, everyone should speak out, regardless of their religion, caste, or nationality, to condemn such terror attacks and inhuman brutality against humanity. The Government must take a decisive stand against the “country” that sponsors various terror modules. Let the citizens of each state also resolve to be even more vigilant in all possible ways to ensure that terror is never permitted to hold the nation to ransom.
Yours etc.,
Salil Gewali,
Shillong
Fragile peace in Kashmir
Editor,
At the very heart of a tourist resort of Pahalgam, terrorists shot 26 people dead in one of the most heinous attacks in years. The focal point has once again shifted to Kashmir, hitting the economic nerve centre-Tourism. When do we learn the lessons of history? March 4, 2019 Open magazine cover story titled, ‘The Last and Lost War of Pakistan’ by MJ Akbar gives a bird’s-eye view on the art of deception of the Pulwama attack which we have failed to learn from and innocent blood is shed because of the laxity in the intelligence mechanism.
Pakistan is remotely controlled by their Inter-Services Intelligence Directorate and our security services, is working on a thin line of both psychological and diplomatic demands of a sensitive state. We understand that state and non-state actors are studying unorthodox tactics, using small, swift teams that strike in urban environments with cyber kinetics. To study the human element in a converging battle space, former General Officer Commanding 15 Corps (Srinagar), 21 Corps & Military Secretary Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd), was able to bridge the division and Kashmiri awaam (people) through his hearts and minds theory.
India’s presence on the world stage is increasing and with neighbours like Bangladesh becoming belligerent and inching closer to Beijing, watchful radical elements trained in foreign lands can destabilise the eastern fringe. Carol Christine Fair, associate professor in the Security Studies Program at Georgetown University book, “In Their Own Words: Understanding Lashkar-e-Taiba,” throws a detailed insight into Lashkar-e-Tayyaba’s continuing importance and its thrust towards Pakistan’s regional and domestic affairs.
Yours etc.,
Christopher Gatphoh,
Shillong-10
Pillars of democracy must align with Constitutional principles
Editor,
Apropos of the editorial “Parliament as Supreme” (ST April 23rd 2025), Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has emphasized that Parliament is supreme and that elected representatives are the ultimate masters of constitutional content. He argues that there is no authority above Parliament as per the Constitution. This perspective highlights the importance of public accountability through elections and the role of Parliament in safeguarding democracy. However, this stance has sparked debate, with critics like Kapil Sibal asserting that the Constitution itself is supreme and that the judiciary plays a crucial role in interpreting it. The tension between legislative supremacy and judicial review reflects the ongoing balance of power in a democratic system.
Sharing perspectives from both sides of the debate. Vice President Dhankhar’s view emphasizes the democratic principle that elected representatives in Parliament embody the will of the people. On the other hand, critics argue that the Constitution is supreme, and the judiciary plays a vital role in interpreting it to protect fundamental rights. This debate highlights the delicate balance between legislative authority and constitutional safeguards. Parliamentary supremacy does emphasize the democratic principle that elected representatives, chosen by the people, should have the ultimate authority in governance. It ensures that the will of the majority is reflected in decision-making. However, it’s also important to consider how checks and balances, like judicial review, can safeguard against potential misuse of power. Balancing these elements is what keeps a democracy thriving.
Parliament is responsible for making laws that govern the country. It represents the will of the people and ensures that legislation is created to address national issues. However, the Executive is responsible for implementing these laws, and the Judiciary ensures they align with constitutional principles. Judicial review should not limit Parliament’s powers although it is a necessary safeguard against abuse of power. Judicial review serves as an essential check against potential misuse of legislative power, ensuring that laws align with constitutional principles and safeguard fundamental rights. However, Parliament must retain enough authority to function effectively and represent the people’s will. The ongoing debate between parliamentary supremacy and judicial oversight highlights how democracy thrives on this delicate balance. Striking the right equilibrium ensures governance remains robust and responsive while preventing any single institution from overstepping its role.
It is important to note that judicial review has played a crucial role in India in holding governments accountable by ensuring that laws and executive actions comply with constitutional principles. Some landmark cases where judicial review was instrumental are Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973). This case established the Basic Structure Doctrine, ruling that Parliament cannot amend the Constitution in a way that alters its fundamental principles. Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978), expanded the interpretation of Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty), ensuring that laws affecting personal liberty must be fair, just, and reasonable.
Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980) – reinforced the Basic Structure Doctrine, striking down amendments that attempted to limit judicial review. SR Bommai v. Union of India (1994) defined the scope of President’s Rule, ensuring that state governments cannot be arbitrarily dismissed. K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017), recognized the Right to Privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21.
These cases highlight how judicial review acts as a safeguard against unconstitutional laws and executive overreach. However, the editorial has rightly advised that “each side should mind its own business and provide space for the other arms of establishment to function smoothly.” It has also rightly stated that, “it is time for the three organs of the government to introspect as to whether delaying decisions on important matters is not tantamount to subverting the system itself as this slows down the process of governance, leads to time and cost overruns and undercuts the nation’s progress.”
Yours etc:
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email