Editor,
The Shillong Times of Jan 30, 2026 carried a letter titled “The Youth of Today”. The writer made several observations about the behaviour of children today. These observations are no doubt visible to all of us.
Adolescents and teenagers are still transitioning into adults. Formation into adults happens only by the mid or late twenties, and for some even later. Their brains are still developing and so they have not achieved executive function, the ability to make well-considered decisions. They are still cognitively, socially, psychologically, morally and culturally immature.
They indulge in risky behaviours. They don’t think much about consequences, and are easily influenced by peers. The writer herself/himself agreed that when we were teenagers, we did the same things, “but we never indulged in such behaviour openly”. So is it ok if we hide these behaviours? This is nothing but plain hypocrisy, and skirts the issue completely.
There is much research data on Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Actually they are better behaved than the older generations of Baby Boomers and Gen X. This generation takes less alcohol, nicotine and drugs, and they have less promiscuous sex, than my generation. They are better tuned in to environmental conservation, social justice and respect for other cultures.
The world of today is a much more stressful place. Today’s youth see little hope of careers, financial stability and happiness. So they are prone to anxiety and depression, and suicides are highest in this age group. In her editorial of Jan 30, 2026. Patricia Mukhim listed education, livelihoods and drugs as threats to our youth in Meghalaya today. There is little reassurance of a better future for our youth.
The same letter offers only punitive solutions such as “strict disciplinary measures on students”, and “routine inspections”. Harsh measures are often self-defeating and youth must be allowed their space and agency. I, for one, am glad that they are carrying condoms. It is well-known that decreeing abstinence from sex doesn’t work. Self-protection is better.
So are we to turn a blind eye to these public behaviours? Not at all. Parents, schools, and community organizations should engage with teenagers, treating them as adults, discuss and reason with them. At the same time, we should offer assurance and space for them to grow, giving them a strong support system.
Yours etc.,
Glenn Kharkongor,
Via email
Colonial legacy shapes the present
Editor,
This refers to Jairaj’s letter titled “Need for Justice with Balance: UGC Regulation 2026” published in your esteemed daily on 31st January 2026. The author has rightly emphasized the importance of maintaining a fair balance in the framing of laws that directly affect the lives of citizens.
The controversy surrounding the enactment of the 2026 UGC regulations, the widespread protests against them and subsequent stay granted by the apex court reveal how deeply the legacy of colonial governance continues to shape our present. The episode bears an unsettling resemblance to the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871 which rested on the notion that certain tribal communities were inherently criminal. Under the said Act, communal identity replaced individual evidence and once a tribe was “notified,” every member was presumed guilty without the safeguard of a fair trial. Birth alone determined one’s standing before the law. Few may realize that this draconian legislation remained in force in independent India until 1952, a full seven years after freedom was attained. Thus, Hon’ble supreme court’s remark while stalling the UGC regulations- whether we are moving backwards needs to be taken seriously by one and all. This episode exposes the fact that although the reins of governance have changed over time the colonial mindset of governance still continues.
Yours etc.,
NK Kehar,
Shillong- 3
Problems of border fencing
Editor,
Apropos of the news “VPP MP assesses Bangla border fencing concerns” (ST January 31, 2026), the “Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities” adopted in 1975 is a bilateral guideline between India and Bangladesh that mandates construction along the Indo-Bangla boundary at a distance of 150 yards (approximately 137 metres) from the zero line (international boundary), on the Indian side. The guideline is a part of mutual agreement to avoid encroachment and maintain visibility and access for both sides. Why 150 yards from Zero point? India and Bangladesh agreed that fencing should be built within Indian territory but not closer than 150 yards from the border to avoid dispute and ensure visibility for border forces. The fencing is meant to curb illegal migration, smuggling and infiltration while respecting the sovereignty of both nations. The Border Security Force (BSF) follows this guideline strictly, though exceptions may be made in difficult terrain or densely populated areas. In areas like Meghalaya and West Bengal, villagers often live and farm within 150 yards of the border. Fencing at this distance can cut off access to farmland, markets and water resources leading to protests. As of 2025, there are at least 95 critical patches along the Indo-Bangla border that remain unfenced due to terrain, disputes or local resistance. Occasionally, Bangladesh raises concerns about fencing alignment, especially if it affects shared resources or settlements.
In the case of Meghalaya, in Jaintia Hills if the National Buildings Construction Corporation Limited (NBCC) is planning to construct a fence nearly one kilometre away from Zero point that would amount to 7.30 times the norm. Therefore, the eight villages which are affected are right in stating that farmers could lose vast stretches of arable land if the fencing proceeds along the proposed alignment. The Hon’ble Member of Parliament 1 Shillong Parliamentary Constituency rightly said “If this happens, local residents could lose their homes, farmland and plantations, and such a proposal should not be accepted.” He also rightly rebutted the cost aspect claimed by the NBCC for construction of a bridge by saying “If a bridge is necessary for public welfare, it must be built – it is the right of the people.” There is no dearth of funds from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India whose budget for Border Management is about Rs 5000 crore the purpose of which is Indo-Bangladesh fencing, flood lighting and border roads. It is for the National Buildings Construction Corporation Limited (NBCC) a Navaratnam Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India to access the fund and build a bridge where it is needed the most at a time when the situation in Bangladesh is precarious.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh
Via email
Real development
Editor,
Development extends far beyond mere economic indicators, encompassing the holistic well-being and empowerment of citizens. A truly developed state prioritizes quality education, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and values that enable individuals to secure meaningful employment and contribute to society. Equally crucial is access to good health, allowing a resilient and productive population to participate actively in social and economic life.
Furthermore, real development encompasses social justice, equal opportunities, and inclusive growth. Ensuring citizens feel safe, respected, and fairly treated and cultivates trust in institutions. Essential amenities such as clean water, sanitation, affordable healthcare, and social security are vital components of this paradigm. Ultimately, development is about cultivating capable, healthy, educated, and empowered citizens, rather than merely constructing infrastructure or boosting economic figures, which is the mode adopted by most state governments and the central government too.
Yours etc,
Krishnendu Deb,
Via email
