Editor,
Apropos of the news “Governor’s House renamed as Lok Bhavan” (ST 5th December, 2025) the renaming of Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan in Shillong is symbolically significant. The term Raj Bhavan carries colonial and monarchical connotations— “Raj” evoking rule and authority. Lok Bhavan translates to “People’s House,” signalling a deliberate move toward democratization of language and a more citizen-centric identity for constitutional offices. This aligns with a broader national directive to rename Governor’s residences across India, reframing them as spaces that belong to the people rather than symbols of elite power. Such renaming can be seen as an attempt to bridge institutional distance—making governance feel more accessible and less hierarchical. However, the impact depends on whether the change is accompanied by substantive reforms in transparency, civic participation, and accessibility. A name alone cannot restore trust unless the institution embodies the values it now claims.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
A Flight of Frustration
Editor,
I want to share my recent travel experience with Indigo and express how their poor service caused significant inconvenience, showing little regard for passengers’ time or concerns. I woke up early on December 4, feeling refreshed and ready for my morning flight from Shillong to Kolkata via Indigo Airlines. The message from the airline the night before had confirmed that everything was on schedule, and I arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare. As I went through security and check, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and relief. I had an urgent meeting in Kolkata with a high-ticket client and was eager to get there as quickly as possible.
But as the minutes ticked by, I began to sense a change in the atmosphere. The flight was delayed, and then delayed again. 15 minutes turned into 30, and then 45. Still, no clear announcement from the airline.
I looked around and saw families with young children, weary and frustrated, trying to make sense of the situation. Some were on their phones, frantically trying to contact the airline or book alternative flights. Others were just sitting, staring blankly into space, wondering what was happening.
And then, came the words I dreaded: “The flight has been cancelled.”
I couldn’t believe it. How could this happen? Why hadn’t the airline communicated with us sooner? What were we supposed to do now? I joined the throng of passengers, all trying to get answers and assistance. But it was like talking to a brick wall. The airline staff seemed overwhelmed, unhelpful, and uninterested. All they could offer us in the end was a refund for the flight.
As I waited, I couldn’t help but think about how this could have been avoided. A simple SMS notification, a clear announcement, a bit of empathy and support – it would have gone a long way. But it seemed that Indigo Airlines had forgotten one crucial thing: that they are in the business of serving customers, not just operating flights.
As I left the airport, feeling frustrated and defeated, I couldn’t help but wonder if I would ever trust Indigo Airlines again.
As I reflected on this horrid experience, I realised that there were a few key takeaways:
Communication is key: The airline’s failure to communicate effectively was the root cause of the chaos.
Support is crucial: Passengers need help and guidance, especially in difficult situations.
Contingency planning is essential: Airlines should have a plan in place for handling delays and cancellations.
I sincerely hope that Indigo Airlines will take note of this incident and make changes to improve their customer service and communication. Until then, I’ll be thinking twice before booking with them again.
Yours etc.,
Aric Chakma,
Via email
Inconsistent Actions of Synod Sepngi
Editor,
Through your esteemed daily, I wish to draw the attention of the public—especially the Christian community in our State—to a grave concern regarding the recent conduct of the KJP Synod Sepngi in relation to the funeral service of the late Rev. G.P.L. Gadew.
Rev. Gadew, a senior pastor highly respected by many, passed away merely three weeks after he was placed under suspension by the Synod on allegations of encouraging “Tangjait”, an act the Synod deemed to be in violation of one of its resolutions. Yet, to the surprise of many, the same Synod—which has never conducted funeral services for any minister under suspension—chose to officiate the funeral service in this case.
What has disturbed many believers even more is that the Synod had ample opportunity to revoke his suspension before the funeral, particularly since its Executive Committee held an emergent meeting on 4 December 2025, just a day prior to the funeral. If the Synod had revoked the suspension at that time, it would have brought immense relief and dignity to the grieving family and community. Instead, the mixed signals have only deepened doubts about the fairness and consistency of its leadership.
This is not the first time such a situation has arisen. The late Rev. P.B.M. Basaiawmoit faced a similar fate four years ago—he died while still under suspension. In that instance, the Synod refrained entirely from conducting his funeral service, leaving the responsibility to the Mawlai Presbytery alone. If the Synod insists on uniformly upholding its resolutions, why was one case treated so differently from the other?
The Christian community deserves transparency and fairness from its highest ecclesiastical body. Believers cannot be expected to follow blindly when actions appear inconsistent and decisions raise questions of bias. Moreover, if the Synod’s Moderator—who conducted and presides over a service for someone still technically under suspension, does this not mean he has violated the very resolutions the Synod used to suspend others? Should such an act not warrant scrutiny under the same yardstick?
In the interest of moral integrity and institutional credibility, the Synod owes the public an unqualified apology for the confusion and pain caused. Without such accountability, the spiritual trust and future standing of the Synod may be at serious risk.
Yours etc.,
Bashanlang Kharumnuid
Shillong -8
Accountability needed for delayed results
Editor,
Through your esteemed daily, I wish to highlight the irregularities during the recent MPSC examination for typists. At one examination centre, the test began much later than the scheduled time, and the invigilator made no effort to verify or correct the delay. Candidates were compelled to rush through the paper, and when we requested a brief extension to compensate for the late start, the invigilator refused.
This raises a fundamental question of accountability. Should candidates suffer for an error not of their making? Such lapses cast serious doubt on the fairness and transparency of the recruitment process.
I urge the authorities to inquire into the matter and ensure proper conduct in future examinations.
Yours etc.,
Name withheld on request
Via email
