Editor,
The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir has thrown up many shocking revelations about how terror is manufactured in Pakistan and how it is let loose in India. Amidst ongoing threats to humanity, complacency only helps terror modules spread their tentacles. How that is possible remains another serious concern. The Congress MP from Tura, Saleng A. Sangma, was among the first to sound the alarm. He expressed deep concern for Meghalaya, which shares a 443 km border with Bangladesh, warning, “Meghalaya will turn into Bangladesh if the influx is not stopped” (ST, April 21). This statement clearly highlights the pressing need to curb cross-border infiltration to ensure the safety of peace-loving citizens.
Well, the situation in West Bengal should also serve as a wake-up call for the entire Northeast. In particular, the provocative statements and speeches made by top leaders of Bangladesh and even the Army Chief of Pakistan should no longer lull the citizens of the Northeast into a state of inaction. Can we ignore the harrowing condition of innocent native Bengalis in West Bengal, who have become the victims of brutal extremism? Many have been rendered homeless in their own homeland and forced to seek refuge in camps.
Environmental expert and President of the MCA, Naba Bhattacharjee, also expressed his deep anguish in a recent article published in this daily, “Tremors of Pahalgam Genocide” (ST, May 1,2025) emphasizing that the inhuman massacre in Pahalgam has sent shockwaves across the nation and the world. He noted that religious fundamentalism has historically ignited hatred, engulfing humanity. Bhattacharjee further pointed out that Pakistan continues to promote and breed terrorism, accelerating its descent into a failed state, and warned of the ominous implications for the region.
Frankly speaking, what if the Assam government had not promptly taken a hard stance following the Pahalgam attack? The state might have plunged into chaos, with the natives caught hopelessly between the devil and the deep sea. The situation could be much like the unrest in West Bengal, with ripple effects spilling into neighbouring states as well. Kudos to the Assam police for acting swiftly and allegedly arresting 39 individuals, including an MLA, for making inflammatory speeches and supporting Pakistan.
Richfield Kharbudon, a socially conscious young entrepreneur from the town, lamented, “How can certain individuals take others’ lives while claiming to be the sole believers in God? Such dangerous ideologies and thoughts are the root causes of growing hatred. Will hatred ever bring peace?” A profound question in a world today where some confuse God devotion with blood thirst.
In response to the Pahalgam incident, a learned Islamist scholar Maulana Kalbe Jawad came down heavily on religious fanaticism, stating, “Though practicing different faiths, we are brothers and sisters — we must not let politics divide us with hatred. Islam teaches us never to harm the innocent. Prophet Mohammad said even if a non-Muslim cries out for help, it’s our duty as Muslims to stand by them. If we turn away, we fail the very essence of our faith. Those who kill in the name of religion are not true Muslims.” Maulana Kalbe has won the hearts of millions with his amazing humanitarian service.
In light of all these acts of violence, it is extremely important for society to remain vigilant and address the root causes of growing extremism. It is time we worked towards upholding the values of humanity and peace, never tolerating the roar of hatred and violence. For heaven’s sake, let’s agree — when terror speaks, silence becomes complicity.
Yours etc.,
Salil Gewali,
Shillong
Ongoing tension in the Assam -Meghalaya border
Editor,
Through the columns of your respected newspaper, I humbly appeal to the concerned authorities to take sincere and timely steps for resolving the long-standing Assam-Meghalaya border issue.
For decades, people who live in the border areas have faced certain levels of uncertainty, administrative confusion and sometimes even violence. The incident in Mukroh, along with the other similar incidents all highlight the immediate necessity for both a peaceful and permanent solution. We feel disheartened because the situation on the ground remains tense and unclear, not to talk about the fear that grips the people in the border areas despite several rounds of talks now.
I sincerely request both the State and Central Government to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves. Incorporating the voices of each of the local communities that have been living with the issue for generations into the decision-making process is of great importance.
Peace will be restored by means of a resolution that is fair and also transparent. Development and cooperation within the region will also be possible. The authorities should take all the necessary steps as early as is reasonably possible.
Yours etc.,
Phidaaisuk Diengdoh,
Via email
Retired teachers out on a limb
Editor,
Referring to the letter in this paper under the caption ‘Retired Teacher’s Plight: A plea for Timely Pension implementation (ST April 25 2025)I, the undersigned fully support the views expressed by Mr J Chhetri. It is a matter of grave concern that a teacher ,who dedicates his entire life to imparting knowledge and shaping the future citizens of our country should face such a precarious future upon retirement. Instead of security they are left to shiver with fear, lacking adequate social security and forced to survive solely on their CPF amount and Gratuity
The stark contrast with Government officials is disheartening. While Government employees receive their accumulated funds within two months, a retired teacher often faces agonising delays for their rightfully earned CPF money and gratuity sometimes having to wait for a year or even two if they are fortunate. This raises a critical question as to why this unacceptable delay in releasing their dues
The situation has become even more dire recently. Retired teachers are now being deprived of their CPF amounts due to funds being deposited in Non-Government School and Colleges centralised pension and provident Funds. Consequently these teachers are left with absolutely no benefits. They no longer get a salary after retirement and their accumulated savings are also not accessible. What a pitiable condition for someone who has dedicated their life to education! How are they expected to run their households?
The retired teacher is left with no viable options. I therefore implore upon the Education Department to urgently look into this matter and take necessary action at the earliest .If the pension scheme is to be implemented, it must be done without further delay to alleviate the grief and sorrow of these retired educators. Has anyone truly considered how a retired teacher is currently surviving without a single penny? I bring this to the urgent notice of the Government lest the very makers of our future citizens are left to starve and beg on the streets after their years of dedicated service .
Yours etc.,
H.Joshi
Shillong 2
Urgent need to address harassment of women in public transport
Editor,
Through your esteemed newspaper, I wish to raise serious concern about the sexual harassment faced by women and girls while using public transportation in Shillong. Incidents of inappropriate touching, staring, and verbal harassment in taxis, buses, and other shared vehicles have become alarmingly common. For many woman, a simple commute becomes a daily battle between fear and necessity. The lack of surveillance, accountability, and sensitivity among transport staff has made public transport spaces unsafe and untrustworthy. This is not just a social issue—it is a violation of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to move freely and dignity. It also disregards the Vishaka Guidelines and the Sexual Harassment Act 2013, both of which stress the need for safe public spaces for women.
I strongly urge the authorities to take immediate action: install CCTV cameras in public vehicles, maintain a verified database of drivers and conductors, and conduct mandatory gender-sensitization training. For shared taxis, a simple rule should be introduced—if a woman is present, the backseat must be reserved for female passengers only.
Women deserve mobility without fear, and dignity without compromise. The time to act is now.
Yours etc.,
Phayoton Zimik
Shillong