Editor,
It was distressing to see visuals of the police attempting to evict hawkers in such an aggressive manner. The issue of hawkers versus the state has persisted for over a decade, originating when the then state government unlawfully introduced its own law, in contravention of the central law that had already been enacted. This led to a court case in which the hawkers emerged victorious. However, it now appears that the Government is once again attempting to act outside the bounds of the law.
According to the law, the number of hawkers permitted in a particular location must be based on the holding capacity of the area. As per Section 2(b) of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, holding capacity refers to “the maximum number of street vendors who can be accommodated in any vending zone and has been determined as such by the local authority on the recommendations of the Town Vending Committee.” Furthermore, Chapter III, Section 3(2) of the Act stipulates that this figure is to be “two and a half per cent of the population of the ward or zone or town or city, as the case may be, in accordance with the plan for street vending and the holding capacity of the vending zones.”
The law also lays down specific provisions for the relocation of vendors. Section (zb), under the principles of relocation, clearly states that affected vendors shall be relocated in a manner that improves their livelihoods and standards of living—or at the very least restores them, in real terms, to pre-eviction levels. This means that any new location must not result in a decline in the vendors’ income.
Has the Government of Meghalaya conducted a holding capacity assessment? Has it undertaken a survey to ensure that relocated hawkers will not suffer a loss of income compared to their previous locations? These are not discretionary measures—they are legal obligations, which the Government explicitly committed to upholding in court. If these steps have not been taken, is the Government now reneging on its promise to the judiciary? Proceeding with forced evictions without complying with these requirements is a clear violation of the law. A government that ignores its legal responsibilities and acts arbitrarily forfeits its moral and constitutional legitimacy to govern.
Yours etc.,
Bhogtoram Mawroh,
Via email
Connectivity and environmental concerns
Editor,
The most challenging survey, mapping and road planning in the state of Meghalaya is from Shillong to Dawki and that can be described as an engineering feat and dedicated hard-work of committed team of people, agencies and community organizations that have made this possible silently yet motivated to bring better connectivity one that is safe, comfortable and time bound. The developmental process of this entire stretch has not been an easy task from hurdles in land acquisition, compensation, realignment and expansion every bit has been something different with the intention to bring villages and local communities closer. The project funded under JICA and the state government chipping in its work, has gradually transformed what was a congested area to commute is now a dream come true just like the national highway from Shillong to Tura. Environmental clearances, disaster mitigation plans and development of mitigation and prevention models would not have been possible without the expertise of individuals like Naba Bhattacharjee a Shillongite and other teams like NEEDS, Tynrai Foundation, Lasubon Nongkynrih, Allan Wahlang, Eudora Warjri, Gilbert Marak, Nayanika Rynjah even organizations like Meghalaya Institute of Governance who undertook the first Social Impact Assessment all of these and unmentioned names have been able to guide and execute collectively with the designated firms in a time bound manner. Today, the entire stretch of villages stand at the crossroads of taking advantage of the development and upscale in the economic activity that will soon open up. It is time that we open our eyes and minds towards ensuring safe connectivity with due respect and care towards Nature too.
Yours etc…
Dominic S. Wankhar,
Via email
The silent struggle of medical representatives
Editor,
In the vast and complex world of healthcare, where doctors, nurses, and specialists are rightfully recognized for their service, there exists another community of professionals working quietly behind the scenes — “the medical representatives”.
Their contribution to healthcare is rarely discussed, often misunderstood, and almost always overlooked. And yet, they are the critical link between pharmaceutical advancements and the practitioners who prescribe them. They are the ones who ensure that doctors remain updated with the latest medical breakthroughs, new formulations, and treatment options. But their journey is far from easy.
A medical representative’s day begins early and stretches late into the evening. It involves hopping between hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, navigating long travel hours, erratic schedules, and unforgiving weather conditions. And what do they wait for? A few minutes with a doctor and sometimes even less. Those few moments are all they have to introduce a new product, explain its benefits, and hope their words are retained amid a sea of daily clinical pressures.
They wait patiently — sometimes outside clinics for hours — often standing, often ignored. Many face closed doors, long queues, and, at times, unkind behaviour. Despite that, they return the next day, just as prepared, just as hopeful, and just as committed.
Beyond the visible grind lies an invisible weight — performance targets, sales pressure, and job insecurity. Their work is not just physically demanding, but mentally taxing too. And yet, they walk into every chamber with professionalism, courtesy, and quiet determination.
It’s easy to forget that these are individuals with families, responsibilities, dreams, and dignity. What they do is not “just a sales job.” It’s a profession built on science, communication, and perseverance. They are not just promoting brands but they are advocating for better healthcare.
So, how can we help? It doesn’t take much. A little respect, a few minutes of undivided attention, a kind word, a chair to sit on, or a glass of water while they wait and these small gestures can mean the world to someone who has spent their entire day running from one appointment to the next.
To every medical representative reading this: your efforts matter. You are seen. You are appreciated. Your persistence, resilience, and dedication form a quiet pillar of the healthcare system that more people need to recognize.
It’s time we give medical representatives the dignity they deserve and not just in policy or profession, but in our everyday human interactions.
Yours etc.,
Debarun Bhattacharjee,
Kolkata
