Editor,
The recent cabinet reshuffle by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, which saw as many as eight ministers being dropped and later appointed as Chairmen and Advisers, has sparked wide public discussion across Meghalaya. While political reshuffles are part of democratic governance, the appointments that followed have raised serious questions about intent, priorities, and accountability.
Many of these newly appointed Chairpersons and Advisers reportedly hold qualifications as modest as matriculation or higher secondary pass some even class five . This naturally invites the question: what kind of “advice” can they offer to a Chief Minister whose own educational background and administrative experience far exceed theirs? If these positions were truly meant to strengthen governance, one would expect merit, expertise, and competence to be the guiding principles not political compensation.
In reality, this move appears to be a way of restoring ministerial status under different titles. These appointments often come with salaries, allowances, vehicles, and other benefits all drawn from the public exchequer. For a small and resource constrained state like Meghalaya, every rupee counts. Creating such posts for political convenience sends a wrong signal, especially at a time when unemployment among youth is at an all time high.
Across the state, thousands of qualified young people wait anxiously for job opportunities. Many are postgraduates, trained professionals, and civil service aspirants who continue to dream of serving their own State. To them, these appointments appear as a painful reminder that in our system, connections often outweigh competence.
Public office should not be a reward for loyalty, but a responsibility earned through merit and service.
Meghalaya needs visionaries and reformers, not ceremonial advisers. As citizens, especially as young people, we have every right to ask, ‘why must public funds be spent to maintain political comfort, when the same resources could be used to create employment, improve schools, or support entrepreneurship?
Governance must never lose its moral compass. It must inspire hope, not helplessness. It must create opportunities, not just titles. Meghalaya deserves a leadership that listens to the youth not one that drains their future to preserve its own past.
Yours etc.,
Marbianglang Lyngdoh Rymbai,
Via email
All religions deserve equal respect
Editor,
The recent anti-Sanatani remark made by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai during a hearing concerning the restoration of a decapitated idol of Lord Vishnu at Khajuraho has stirred deep concern among followers of Sanatan Dharma. This episode is not isolated. Over the years, several public figures and politicians have made disrespectful statements and comments against their traditions, deities, and scriptures while other instances—such as Nupur Sharma’s mere quoting of Islamic texts—have drawn stern observations from the judiciary. This asymmetry in response has led to growing disillusionment among Sanatanis.
Sanatan Dharma values tolerance, restraint, and pluralism. However, continued disregard of its sentiments by politicians and judiciary risks eroding this patience. If such trends persist, it is not inconceivable that Sanatanis may feel compelled to express their discontent more visibly through large street protests, civic mobilization, and public advocacy. Public figures and especially the judiciary, must uphold equal respect for all faiths, not only in principle but in tone and conduct. Let this serve as a reminder that reverence, restraint, and responsibility must guide our public discourse and not irresponsible comments.
Yours etc.,
D. Bhattacharjee
Shillong-1
My Love for Shillong and Celebrating Durga Puja Here
Editor,
Some places never leave your heart, no matter where life takes you—and for me, that place is Shillong. Nestled in the beautiful hills of Meghalaya, it isn’t just a destination; it’s an emotion, a canvas painted with misty mornings, pine-scented breeze, and soulful melodies that drift through its winding lanes. Every time I return, it feels like a homecoming.
But what makes Shillong even more special to me is experiencing Durga Puja here. The festival of Durga Puja, with all its grandeur and devotion, takes on a unique charm in this hill town. Unlike the overwhelming crowds of big metros, Shillong’s celebrations are warm, intimate, and deeply cultural. The community pandals, lit up with soft glows, the rhythmic beats of the dhak resonating through the chilly autumn air, and the fragrance of incense mingling with the aroma of food stalls—it’s a festival that feels both familiar and new.
Durga Puja in Shillong is a melting pot of traditions. You see Bengali households upholding age-old rituals, while locals from different communities join in wholeheartedly, adding their own colours to the celebration. That inclusiveness is what I love most. It isn’t just a festival for Bengalis—it’s for everyone who believes in joy, togetherness, and the triumph of good over evil.
And then there’s the city itself—Shillong dresses differently during Puja. The markets are bustling with shoppers, kids in new clothes beam with excitement, and friends gather to hop from pandal to pandal, often ending the night with steaming momos or jadoh at roadside stalls. The crisp October air makes the evenings magical, turning every outing into a memory.
For me, Durga Puja in Shillong is not just about rituals or celebrations—it’s about belonging. It’s about being part of a city that embraces diversity yet feels like one big family. It’s about standing under the starlit sky after Pushpanjali, with the hills silently watching over, and realizing how blessed I am to call this place a part of my life – my birth place !
Shillong will always be my sanctuary, and celebrating Durga Puja here makes the experience all the more soulful. It reminds me that festivals are not just about traditions, but also about love, togetherness, and finding joy in the simplest of moments.
Until next time …
Yours etc.,
Shibashish Rudra,
Shillong/Gurgaon
