Editor,
The recent allotment of CUET exam centres has stirred anxiety and frustration among thousands of students in Meghalaya. Just days before the exam, students were notified of their exam centres, many assigned to faraway states like Assam, Mizoram, West Bengal, and Nagaland. This short-notice announcement has created a storm of logistical and emotional difficulties.
With barely a week to make arrangements, students and their families are left scrambling to find affordable transport and accommodation. Many flights and train options are already full or too expensive, pushing students from economically diverse backgrounds into an impossible corner. The emotional weight of unfamiliar locations, disrupted routines, and navigation uncertainties has led to severe stress and anxiety. Concerns about safety and performance are now major hurdles for aspirants.
Parents, too, are bearing the brunt of this crisis. “We don’t know where our children will stay, how they’ll eat, or if they’ll be safe. It’s terrifying,” shared a concerned father from Shillong. The financial strain is compounded by the emotional toll of sending their children far from home for an exam that could decide their future.
The issue of long and unfair intervals between exam papers further exacerbates the problem. One student’s schedule includes a first paper on May 16 and the next on May 24. For families who cannot afford to stay for extended periods or travel twice, this arrangement is simply unjust.
Another root of the crisis lies in Meghalaya’s lack of digital infrastructure. While exams like NEET are conducted via OMR sheets (pen-and-paper), CUET follows the CBT (Computer-Based Test) format. With inadequate facilities in the state, students are forced to travel long distances to access exam-ready centres, something that could have been addressed with better planning.
While students are deeply grateful to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and state authorities for their recent steps to address this crisis, they also urge that faster and more concrete action be taken to support affected students. The incident at NEHU last year should have served as a wake-up call for better preparedness, unfortunately, the lessons seem unlearned.
The students of Meghalaya are not asking for special treatment, only a fair chance at shaping their futures without undue burdens. Time is running out, and we hope the authorities move swiftly to bring relief and restore hope.
Yours etc.,
Krish Marwein,
Via email
Footpaths occupied by street vendors in Motphran – Pedestrians endangered
Editor,
I wish to draw the attention of the concerned authorities over the congestion at the commercial areas of Motphran, which is catastrophy for the general public abd pedestrians in particular.
Starting from Mawkhar point till Jeep Stand, Mawlonghat and Bimola Point, have turned into a challenge for individuals trying to reach their respective destinations without being pushed and pulled around on a daily basis. Some have lost their belongings or are being picked-pocketed. Most prefer not to lodge any complaints knowing very well that the can never trace back their lost articles or cash.
I am deeply concerned about the growing difficulties faced by pedestrians in such busy market areas, where footpaths are heavily occupied by street vendors, forcing people to walk on the roads instead of safe pedestrian walkways, which vanish during the day. This situation is not only inconvenient but also extremely dangerous, especially for school-going children, elderly citizens, and people with disabilities.
The roads in these areas are already congested with traffic, loading and unloading of goods throughout the day and the added burden of pedestrians walking alongside vehicles increases the risk of accidents. For small children, it is particularly unsafe as they often have to navigate through busy roads with little visibility and no protective space to walk on. While street vendors are also trying to earn a livelihood and deserve support, their occupation of footpaths is making everyday movement for pedestrians both unsafe and uncomfortable. It is essential that a balance is struck between supporting vendors and ensuring pedestrian safety.
I urge the concerned authorities to:
1. Designate proper vending zones away from narrow footpaths, especially near schools and traffic-prone areas like Motphran, Jeepstand, Mawlonghat and G S Road.
2. Enforce regulations to keep footpaths clear for pedestrian use.
3. Install barriers or railings in high-risk areas to guide pedestrians safely and prevent them from stepping into the road.
4. Improve traffic control measures, especially during school hours.
It is high time we rethink urban space management in Shillong and ensure that public walkways serve their primary purpose—safe passage for pedestrians. I hope the authorities will take immediate and effective steps in this regard.
Yours etc.,
Elakyntiew Lyndem,
Via email
Demand for local exam centres for CUET
Editor,
As students across the country prepare for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), I would like to draw your attention to the plight of many aspiring candidates. With short notice periods, emotional baggage, and demotivated parents, the stress of appearing for exams in distant cities or states is overwhelming. The financial burden on students who have to travel to other states or towns/cities to appear for the exam is substantial, and it’s imperative that the National Testing Agency (NTA) considers this aspect.
The government should be prepared with proper infrastructure to accommodate students in their own towns/cities. Allowing students to appear for exams in their local areas would greatly reduce the stress and expenses associated with travel. This would also enable them to focus on their preparation without the added burden of long journeys and accommodation. Moreover, it would be beneficial for students who have to balance their preparation with other responsibilities, such as part-time jobs or family obligations.
Furthermore, the traditional pen-and-paper format (OMR sheets) requires careful planning and execution. Intervals and other logistical aspects must be managed efficiently to ensure a smooth experience for all candidates. The NTA should prioritize the well-being and convenience of students, ensuring that the examination process is conducted in a fair and transparent manner.
I urge the NTA and the government to take immediate action to address this issue. Allotting seats to students within their town/city would be a significant step towards making the examination process more student-friendly. This would not only reduce the financial burden on students but also provide them with a more comfortable and familiar environment in which to take the exam.
By providing local exam centers, the NTA can demonstrate its commitment to making the CUET a more inclusive and accessible examination. I hope that the authorities will take note of this pressing issue and work towards providing a more student-centric approach to the examination process.
Yours etc.,
Sudarshan Dasgupta,
Shillong -4.