Editor,
The arrest of Sisters Vandana Francis and Preeti Mary — two Catholic nuns (from Kerala) — in Chhattisgarh, for alleged human trafficking and forced conversion, is truly appalling and should be condemned and confronted in no uncertain terms, not just by Christians, but by all righteous Hindus. Practising Hindus should protest groups like Bajrang Dal, for persecuting Christians and other minorities, and for distorting their religion. Righteous Hindus should be the first to protest all signs of Hindu fascism, which betrays and offends the highest principles of Vedantic Hinduism. Above all, India needs active inculcation of genuine religious cosmopolitanism, through education in interfaith theologies.
Christians have contributed immensely to Indian education and charities. The fragrance of Catholic education lingers with me to this day and I remain grateful for the beauty of Catholic culture.
To accuse nuns of human trafficking is preposterous to begin with. Instead of prosecuting the many rapists that abound in India, these hooligans are persecuting innocent nuns.
Yours etc.,
Deepa Majumdar
Via email
Serious concerns about safety & mismanagement at NSTI(W), Tura
Editor,
I was just checking out the ads for courses at the National Skill and Training Institute (NSTI) (W) formerly known as RVTI (W). Established way back in 1987, it’s supposed to be a shining beacon for women’s empowerment. But honestly, what I saw and overheard felt more like a comedy show gone wrong than a place seriously committed to empowering women. While at the institution I overheard some conversations. An accountant—who clearly isn’t a tribal—and his wife, who is from Assam and is appointed here as the Training Officer, were shouting at the girls as if they are the bosses of the universe. That set the tone. As I listened further, I heard many people talking about the real state of affairs there. Appointments of non-Garos (the indigenous tribes of Meghalaya) seem to be happening more often than not.
And the so-called hostels? They’re more like glorified shanties than proper accommodation. Dirty, unhygienic toilets, and here’s the shocking part – there’s no warden at all for these women boarders! Yes, you read that right. It’s complete neglect by the Department, leaving young women in a place with zero supervision or security. An open invitation for trouble!
Now, about the “mess.” Or should I say, the canteen? It’s a total joke. It’s not a proper mess, just a rundown canteen managed by someone who’s abusive and manages it like his personal fiefdom. The food? Unhygienic at best. And to make things worse—sometimes they even serve biri-kan’tong (raw tobacco roll stubs) along with the food! Eeww! Imagine young women from UP, Bihar, and other parts of India, eager to learn and grow, being served food with biri-kantong floating on their plates. It’s disgusting, unsafe, and frankly, borderline criminal.
And as far as safety is concerned, forget it. Some male workers reportedly enter and exit the women’s hostel at any time of the day or night. Without security or a warden to watch over them it’s a disaster waiting to happen. No security, no safeguards—just an open door for trouble.
This institute a truly unique one in Northeast India, is meant to serve women from all over India. But after more than 40 years, it remains a place of neglect, apathy, and mismanagement. No proper infrastructure, no permanent teachers, no oversight, just neglect wrapped in bureaucratic silence. If this isn’t a serious case for investigation, I don’t know what is.
I’ve also heard that some pressure groups recently visited this Institute and submitted some letters. What those letters said, I do not know. But if even half of what I’ve described is true, it calls for urgent action.
Our women, from all over India, deserve better. Our region deserves better. It’s high time the authorities stop turning a blind eye and start doing something. Because right now, this institute feels more like a sad joke than a place of genuine empowerment.
Please, do the right thing. Investigate, clean up, and give our women the respect, safety, and facilities they truly deserve.
Yours etc.,
Shashilla Sangma,
Via email
State Central Library in bad shape
Editor,
I am compelled to bring to your attention the state of disrepair of the State Central Library. Despite its importance as a hub of knowledge and learning, the library’s current condition is appalling. The premises are marred by dust and dirt, with bookshelves and floors that appear to have been neglected for a considerable period. The windows, which could provide natural light and fresh air, are instead grimy and inoperable, contributing to a stale and uncomfortable atmosphere.
Furthermore, the furniture within the library, including desks and chairs are also covered in dust, making it an uninviting place for study and research. The staircase, in particular, is stained with betel nut spit, which adds to the overall unpleasantness of the environment.
In contrast the North Eastern Council’s Library in Nongrim Hills is well-maintained, clean and provides a pleasant atmosphere that fosters learning and intellectual inquiry. The difference between the two libraries is striking, and it raises questions about the level of care and attention given to the State Central Library.
I strongly believe that immediate action is necessary to address the issues at the State Central Library. The staff responsible for the library’s maintenance should be hauled up to ensure that the premises are regularly cleaned and well maintained. Only then will the library become a welcoming and conducive place for readers and students to explore and expand their knowledge.
I hope that this letter prompts the authorities to take the necessary steps to improve the State Central Library.
Yours etc.,
Name withheld on request,
Via email