Editor,
Apropos of the special article “Indo-Bangladesh border, threats and non-lethal strategy” by Rattan Chand Sharma, ex- Commandant Border Security Force (ST Oct 27, 2025), the author has covered in-depth on both the software and hardware of the force who are the first line of defence of the country. The perils of the Border Security Force’s non-lethal strategy and its long-term implications for national security, particularly in the light of the current establishment’s instability given the shifting political landscape in Bangladesh and the porous nature of the Indo-Bangladesh border is a layered and urgent question that the mandarins in the Home Ministry can ignore at their own peril.
The immediate tactical perils are – increased aggression by smugglers and infiltrators which non-lethal posture emboldens cross border actors – cattle smugglers, narcotic traffickers and even armed groups who exploit BSF’s restraint to breach security lines. The BSF jawans face asymmetric risk with limited deterrence tools, personnel are vulnerable to mobs’ attacks, grenade assaults and sharp weapons injuries, especially during night patrols. Repeated exposure to high-risk situations without proportional response capability affects jawan morale and long-term readiness.
The strategic risks are amplified by Bangladesh’s political flux. Post the crisis created by Hasina’s flight to India, instability has triggered political chaos, weakened border coordination and increased infiltration attempts. The rise of anti-India sentiment where certain factions within Bangladesh may exploit BSF’s non-lethal stance to test India’s border resilience, especially in West Bengal, Assam and Meghalaya is possible. Historical patterns suggest Border Guards Bangladesh has at times patronized illegal immigration and turned a blind eye to smuggling networks.
Hence the non-lethal doctrine signals a soft posture that may undermine India’s perceived strength in border regions. It degrades civic trust where local populations may lose faith in BSF’s ability to protect them, especially when smuggler aggression goes unchecked. Then there is a geo-political vulnerability with China and Pakistan watching closely. Any perceived weakness along the eastern frontier of the country could be leveraged in hybrid warfare scenarios.
What might a strategic recalibration look like? In the context-sensitive escalation protocols allowing calibrated use of force based on threat density and symbolic capital gradient are needed. Mapping aggression hotspots, civic trust erosion and ritual density to guide enforcement posture is also important. There is need to balance enforcement with regional stability through scenario simulations of political shifts in Bangladesh. The Ex-Commandant, BSF Rattan Chand Sharma who was a field officer himself in the first line of defence of the nation has rightly concluded in his special article that “those handling policy and conceptual level of border management should realize the perils of non-lethal response and its long-term impact on national security and initiate course correction.”
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
Aaapeal for urgent repair of Arbuthnot Road
Editor,
Through this column, I wish to draw the urgent attention of the concerned authorities to the deplorable condition of the Arbuthnot Road leading to the old DGAR in Nongrimmaw, which has remained unrepaired since 2023. Despite repeated appeals and public concern, no substantial action has been taken to restore this vital route. As a result, residents and frequent visitors are forced to navigate pothole-ridden stretches that pose daily risks to life, limb, and property.
Adding to the distress, portions of the road dug up by the Public Health Engineering Department for the laying of ductile iron pipes since November last year remain unrepaired. This issue now appears to have extended to other localities in the Laitumkhrah area. These excavated sections, left exposed for months, have turned into hazardous traps especially during rains leading to multiple accidents and severe inconvenience for both pedestrians and motorists.
We earnestly urge the authorities to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves. The immediate repair and restoration of roads is not merely an infrastructure concern it is a matter of public safety, dignity, and administrative responsibility. Timely action by the concerned line departments is not only expected but imperative.
Yours etc.,
Wankitbok Pohshna,
Shillong -11
Support MSSASA’s effort to protect our Teachers and Education System
Editor,
Through your esteemed daily, I would like to share my concern regarding the recent directive that in-service SSA teachers in Meghalaya must clear the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) within two years to continue in their jobs. The Meghalaya SSA Schools’ Association (MSSASA) has filed a review petition in the Supreme Court against this decision. Their step deserves public support because it deals with the future of our teachers as well as our children.
These teachers have given 15 to 25 years or more of service, often working in difficult and remote places. They joined under the rules that existed then and have helped build the foundation of elementary education in our state. After such long service, suddenly being told to appear for an exam or risk losing their livelihood feels harsh and unfair. It is painful to see experienced teachers living in fear of losing the jobs they have devoted their lives to.
Teaching is not just about clearing a written test. It is about understanding children, handling mixed-ability classrooms, guiding young minds, and building trust with communities. An exam cannot measure years of experience or commitment. There is no clear proof that making long-serving teachers take TET will improve learning in classrooms. Instead, it may lower morale and create unnecessary tension.
If improving quality is the goal, then the government must invest in proper in-service training. These trainings must be led by experts who truly know the ground realities of elementary education in Meghalaya. Many teachers have had training sessions where resource persons themselves admitted that classroom teachers know the problems and solutions better. This shows a wide gap between policy and real needs.
Calling teachers “not qualified” after they have served for decades hurts their dignity. These same teachers have helped many students succeed over the years. Their track record should speak louder than any exam.
MSSASA is trying to protect teachers from a sudden decision that threatens their future. This is not about seeking privilege. It is about fairness, respect, and a better way to improve education. Parents, community leaders, and citizens should stand with them so that:
• Long-serving teachers do not lose their jobs
• Experience continues to be valued
• Improvements come through proper support and training
• Teachers feel respected for their service
A strong education system grows when teachers feel encouraged and supported. Our children will learn better from teachers who feel secure and appreciated.
Through this letter, I appeal to everyone to support MSSASA in their fight for a sensible solution. When we stand by our teachers, we stand by our children’s future.
Yours etc.,
Jairaj Chhetry.,
Via email
