SHILLONG: Deserted streets, children playing on near-empty roads and closed shops during Republic Day and Independence Day celebrations have become a thing of the past following the Meghalaya High Court order restraining the publication of bandh calls made by any organisation, extremist or otherwise.
Though a certain section has expressed concern over the High Court decision, which, according to them restricts free flow of information, those residing in “peace zones” have largely supported the cause.
The Shillong Times spoke to a cross section of citizens to solicit their views on the decision and the changing trend.
UDP legislator Jemino Mawthoh said people are no longer apprehensive of celebrating the day but welcome it with all enthusiasm.
“I am elated that people are coming forward to celebrate Republic Day. In Meghalaya, even traditional institutions and NGOs have started celebrating the occasion,” he said.
“The society is getting normal and it is good for our youths as they will understand the meaning and objective of celebrating this day,” Mawthoh added.
A senior High Court advocate said, “Bandh culture is now history… Restraint of any nature, whether by wrongful arrest or forcibly keeping us indoors, is undesirable. India is a country where freedom is guaranteed under the Constitution,” he said.
A young freelance music writer Mebanaibor Nengnong said that bandh/agitation call by various organisations has affected the livelihood of many people.
“Surely, they’re called for a cause, to set free from the shackles of injustice, ignorance and biased system, for a separate statehod demand etc., but has any of these causes seen the light of day,” he asked
Questioning the stand of rebel groups for “demanding silence on the streets” during Republic and Independence Day celebrations, he said, “Sure we may feel that we do not have freedom in its truest form but keeping us behind closed-doors does not give a sense of liberty either.”
According to him, bandhs are repulsive in nature and only rob the daily wage earners of their day’s earnings.
A resident of Laitumkhrah, J. Kynjing expressed contentment at the judgment made by the High Court since people can now earn their livelihood without any disturbance.
“It is beneficial for people doing business. Ever since the closure of my office, I drive a local taxi for a living.
“The decision (of the HC) allows me to operate without any disturbance,” he said.
“Bandhs never had a positive outcome. It simply gives us hardship,” he added.
