Editor,
With the untimely death of musical icon Zubeen Garg in Singapore, the state of Assam and the nation as a whole has lost one of its greatest sons. The exact circumstances leading to his death remain murky at this moment and both the Singapore Police and the Assam Government have initiated probes into the incident. A musical prodigy who sang over 30 thousand songs in about 40 languages in a career spanning about three decades is an incredible feat. The youth of today’s Assam and most of my generation too have grown up listening to his music. Among his fan following, he was no less than God. Through his poetic lyrics and a God gifted voice, he had etched such an indelible mark in everyone’s heart.
However, the point I want to make here is his deep connection to the people. We may not have a dearth of talented artists in today’s time, but the love and affection Zubeen Garg had for his people and his state is an extreme rarity. Throughout his illustrious career, he stood by the people at every difficult moment. His musical talent was enough for him to lead a glamorous life in Mumbai but he chose to return to Assam to be amongst his people. As a whimsical person and one who always spoke his heart out, Zubeen was no stranger to controversies. But he always stood by his convictions and people always adored his childish behaviour and never took any offence against this pure soul. There are countless stories how he helped the needy, monetarily or otherwise without keeping anything for himself. One would be surprised to know that a star of his stature had to buy a personal car on a bank loan! A nature lover to the core, he was strongly associated with PETA and was vocal against ritualistic animal sacrifices.
Today the people of Assam are in a state of shock and despair. They have lost their dearest friend, guardian and a fearless voice. To pay their last respects or to catch a glimpse of his mortal remains, people are queuing on the streets with swollen eyes. Assam has come to a standstill; business establishments remain closed with only Zubeen’s immortal songs in the air, reminiscent of the days when Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika expired. The rare display of unconditional love and adulation from millions of his fans and followers is something that only a true people’s artist can command. The Government of Assam is taking steps to preserve the legacy of the musical icon but without any doubt Zubeen Garg will remain immortal in the heart of every Assamese!
Yours etc.
Uttam Saikia,
Zoological Survey of India, Shillong
 No Seats at the Table, But Plenty in the Field
Editor,
The recent criticism by the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) regarding the absence of women and minority representatives in the present Cabinet has drawn significant public attention. While the concerns raised are valid in spirit, it is equally important to examine the broader context of governance and the choices made by the MDA Government.
1.Governance Beyond Symbolism : Cabinet formation in a diverse State like Meghalaya is a complex exercise that requires balancing multiple factors — regional representation, party coalition dynamics, experience in administration, and political stability. While gender and minority representation remain important, they are not the sole determinants of good governance. The MDA Government’s choices reflect an attempt to maintain equilibrium among various constituencies and coalition partners, ensuring a stable and functioning Cabinet in the larger interest of the State.
2. Commitment to Women and Minority Empowerment : It would be unfair to assume that the absence of women in the Cabinet translates into a lack of commitment to their empowerment. The government has consistently advanced programmes that support women’s welfare, from rural livelihood missions to self-help group strengthening, healthcare initiatives, and education schemes targeted at young girls. Similarly, minority communities have benefited from welfare projects, infrastructure development, and cultural preservation initiatives. Representation in governance is not restricted to Cabinet seats alone, it extends to policy, budget allocations, and grassroots programmes.
3. Reality of Coalition Politics : Meghalaya’s coalition politics requires constant negotiation and compromise. Unlike single-party governments, coalition Cabinets must accommodate multiple interests to function smoothly. The allocation of ministerial portfolios often follows this principle of coalition management. The absence of women in the Cabinet, while regrettable, does not imply deliberate exclusion; it is the outcome of political arithmetic that prioritises stability. Without stability, even the most progressive policies cannot be implemented effectively.
4. Respecting Traditions While Building the Future : The criticism that the current Cabinet undermines Meghalaya’s matrilineal traditions oversimplifies the issue. The matrilineal system is deeply rooted in family, inheritance, and societal respect for women, values that the government continues to uphold through legislation and social policies. Cabinet composition, however, must be viewed through the lens of political negotiation rather than cultural symbolism. The true measure of respect lies not just in ministerial titles but in creating conditions for women to thrive socially and economically, something the government has actively pursued.
5. Forward-Looking Perspective : Instead of reducing the debate to symbolic representation, the focus should be on measurable outcomes. How many women are being lifted out of poverty? How many young girls are gaining access to quality education? How many minority communities are benefiting from inclusive policies? On these counts, the MDA Government has demonstrated its commitment to inclusive growth. The absence of women in ministerial chairs should be seen as a temporary phase, not a reflection of long-term intent.
While representation in the Cabinet is important, governance must not be judged solely on optics. The MDA Government has chosen stability and coalition balance as its guiding principle, while simultaneously pursuing programmes that empower women and minorities on the ground. Criticism is a part of democracy, but it is equally essential to acknowledge that true empowerment extends beyond ministerial positions into the lived realities of everyday citizens.
Yours etc;
Jack Syiemlieh
Via email
Sign of political maturity
Editor,
Apropos of the headlines “Conrad defends removal of eight ministers amid muted discontent” (ST September 17, 2025) while exiting the cabinet led by Conrad Sangma, former Tourism Minister, Paul Lyngdoh’s statement, “I believe every setback can be a setup for something greater,” is a powerful reframing and one that resonates deeply with the ethos of symbolic resilience and participatory transformation. Despite losing key portfolios like Tourism and Social Welfare, where he has done a commendable job which nobody really cared for ages, he rightly described himself not as defeated, but as a “conveyor belt for change, growth and progress.” That is not just political optimism but it is a narrative pivot that transforms institutional reshuffling into a symbolic reset.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
