Editor,
Apropos of the editorial “Perils of Tourism” (ST 29th May 2025). Safe tourism requires a combination of personal preparedness, local regulations and responsible travel practices. Some of the key prerequisites for safe tourism, particularly in regions like Meghalaya are:
1.Unfamiliar terrains, especially those with challenging landscapes, often require local guides. Tourists venturing alone into risky areas without knowledge of the surroundings can lead to accidents or getting lost.
2. Establishing entry and exit points where tourists can register their details and planned destinations can help authorities track visitors and ensure their safety.
3. Understanding and appreciating local cultures, traditions, and language barriers is crucial. A respectful approach enhances the tourism experience for both visitors and residents.
4. Governments and local promoters on tourism should ensure well-maintained trekking paths, controlled access to sensitive areas, and proper briefing for travellers regarding safety precautions.
5. Having dedicated security personnel or a tourist police force to assist visitors in case of emergencies or incidents can significantly improve safety measures. The government may kindly revive the fizzled-out scheme as the editorial pointed out, if the resources are available.
These factors contribute to a secure and enjoyable tourism experience. Whether you’re exploring Meghalaya or any other region, staying informed and cautious is always a wise approach! I do not disagree with the editorial that “tourism can no longer be left to the communities who are untrained and whose language skills are wanting.”
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
Umsohsun sexual assault case
Editor,
On the early morning of the 23rd may 2025, a minor school girl was sexually assaulted by a masked criminal at Umsohsun, Shillong while on her way to morning school. An FIR was lodged and on the 24th May a special police team was set up to investigate the case. On this occasion one must congratulate the Meghalaya Police for a job well done because by May 28 within a brief period of only 5 days, our Police, with the assistance of modern technology identified the criminal; traced him to his village in Jorhat, Assam where he had fled to and promptly arrested and booked him under the POCSO Act. POCSO by the way stands for Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012, a law in India enacted to protect children from sexual assault, sexual harassment, and child pornography. It is a tough law and stringent punishment is meted out under its provisions. This prompt action of the Meghalaya Police is to be applauded as it will serve as a forceful deterrent to future would be criminals that it is not safe for them to criminally monkey around in Meghalaya. The early arrest also is a glaring example that the Police , when left to do their job and freed from the negative pressure of politics, can deliver when the occasion so demands.
Here I would also like to add that it is not only politicians but especially those wanna-be- self –styled leaders of society who often get in the way of the swift execution of justice here in Meghalaya. The sentiments and emotions of the public is often whipped into a frenzy sometimes over issues that have no real merit or worth. Sometimes known criminals, extortionists and known murderers are setup on a false pedestal for hero worship when they meet a sad end of their own making. It is only when things calm down that people begin to realize that they had been taken for a ride and that such rabble rousing antics only encourage potential criminals to defy and challenge the law of the land. Such actions only lead to public disorder and mayhem, simply helps push governance of the state further downhill. It adds nothing to the well-being and development of the state and its people. I take this occasion to caution our people against such anti social practices in the future and not to allow sheer emotions to take control of their common sense. I would like to end with once again saying Thank You Meghalaya Police for ridding, from the minds of our innocent young girls, that fear and apprehension of being preyed upon by sexual predators.
Yours etc.,
Toki Blah,
Via email
Concern over unfair practices in Meghalaya Police exams
Editor,
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding the alleged unfair practices that have reportedly taken place during the recent Meghalaya Police Recruitment Exams. This issue has come to light through public discourse, especially in the comments section of several videos posted by the YouTube Channel Spotlan Dairies where many candidates and concerned citizens have raised serious allegations.
Several comments have mentioned instances of favouritism, using of mobile phone in the examination hall, questions papers have been opened before the exams and lack of transparency in the written process in some of the centres. Such practices not only rob deserving candidates of their rightful opportunity but also undermine public trust in the integrity of our institutions. While these claims may have originated in an informal online space, the volume and consistency of the complaints cannot be ignored.
I urge the relevant authorities to take these concerns seriously and initiate a thorough and impartial investigation. If there is any truth to the allegations, strict action must be taken against those responsible. At the same time, I appeal to the media and civil society to shed light on these issues to ensure accountability and justice for the aspiring candidates.
The youth of Meghalaya deserve a fair and transparent recruitment system—one that values merit, integrity, and equal opportunity.
Yours etc.,
Riwanki Suchiang,
West Jaiñtia Hills
Why the frequent power cuts in rural areas
Editor,
It is deeply ironic that while the Minister in charge of Power recently declared that our State is now generating surplus electricity, residents in rural areas continue to face frequent, unscheduled power cuts. This stark disconnect between official claims and ground realities is both frustrating and concerning.
Take for example, the situation in Smit village and its surrounding areas. From May 25 to 26 there was a power outage lasting nearly 36 hours. Again, on May 28, power was cut from 6:30 PM and had not been restored at the time of writing this letter. Such extended blackouts are not isolated incidents — they have become disturbingly routine. Short, frequent power disruptions now seem more like the norm than the exception.
What remains unclear is the reason behind these recurring outages. The MeECL has offered no clear explanation to the public. If the State truly has surplus power, why are rural communities being left in the dark—literally and figuratively? Reliable electricity, especially in today’s world, is a basic necessity, not a luxury.
While we understand that extreme weather can cause temporary disruptions, regular and prolonged outages in fair weather raise serious questions about the efficiency of power distribution and infrastructure management.
We urge the concerned authorities to address this issue transparently and take concrete steps to ensure uninterrupted power supply, particularly in rural areas. The promise of surplus power must translate into reliable service for all citizens—not just a statement for the press.
Yours etc.,
D L Wankhar
Via email