Editor,
The drama unfolding during the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) search at the I-PAC office in Kolkata represents a troubling low point in the erosion of federal cooperation and the rule of law in our country. It is profoundly disturbing that a sitting Chief Minister would physically intervene in a lawful search operation conducted by a central investigative agency. The video evidence and the open admission by Mamata Banerjee that she forcibly took possession of key evidence including digital devices and documents under the protection of the highest echelons of state police reflect a blatant disregard for judicial procedures and constitutional norms.
When state machinery is unleashed to obstruct federal investigations, it sets a dangerous precedent that strikes at the very foundation of India’s administrative and constitutional framework. The conduct, functioning, and repeated actions of the TMC government in West Bengal over the years increasingly give the impression of a parallel regime which acknowledges neither constitutional discipline nor federal authority. It appears that Mamata Banerjee is actually running a ‘separate country’ with only armed forces and currency beyond her control.
If such defiance is allowed to go unchecked, as has been hitherto done, it is not inconceivable that future actions may include denying entry to constitutional authorities like the Prime Minister or the Union Home Minister or even issuing arrest warrant against them if they visit West Bengal. Equally concerning is the continued silence of the Central Government, which has repeatedly appeared as a passive spectator to the systematic obstruction of its agencies and the breakdown of constitutional governance in West Bengal. It is baffling that instead of asserting its constitutional authority, the Central Government has consistently chosen to kow-tow before a rogue and defiant state administration.
Yours etc.,
D. Bhattacharjee
Shillong-1
Why this violation of the Constitution?
Editor,
The forcible entry into the premises of I-PAC and taking possession of documents & electronic devices by Ms Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal at a time when a duly empowered Central Government agency was lawfully conducting a search raises issues of the gravest concern. Such direct interference with an ongoing legal operation strikes at the very foundation of the rule of law. Under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, these actions fall within the ambit of several criminal offences, including:
· Section 147 (House-trespass): Punishable with imprisonment up to two years, or fine, or both.
· Section 148 (House-trespass after preparation for hurt, assault or wrongful restraint): Punishable with imprisonment up to seven years.
· Section 303 (Theft of property, including electronic devices and documents): Punishable with imprisonment and fine.
· Section 317 (Obstruction of a public servant in the discharge of official duty): Punishable with imprisonment up to two years, or fine, or both.
Had these acts been committed by any ordinary citizen, immediate arrest and prosecution under the aforesaid provisions would have followed. Article 14 of the Constitution of India guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws, leaving no room for privilege based on position or power. However, conspicuous absence of any legal action against Ms Banerjee, despite the prima facie commission of cognizable offences, reinforces the troubling perception that the law is applied rigorously to ordinary citizens while politicians enjoy de facto immunity in our country.
Yours etc.,
NK Kehar,
Shillong-3
Advantages of the Sohra-Mawsynram tourism circuit
Editor,
The news “Call to build direct road link between Mawsynram, Sohra” (ST January 9th 2026) was interesting and important. A common tourist circuit for Sohra and Mawsynram can be achieved primarily by building direct road connectivity between the two towns, integrating their attractions into a single itinerary, and developing joint infrastructure projects such as visitor centers, eco-tourism hubs, and thematic experiences (rainfall, caves, waterfalls). This would allow tourists to explore both destinations seamlessly without detouring back through Shillong. The MLA of Mawsynram Ollan Sing Suin rightly pointed out that the biggest hurdle is the lack of a direct road between Sohra and Mawsynram and currently, tourists must return via Upper Shillong, which discourages circuit travel. A proposed new road link would cut travel time and make a combined circuit practical.
Integrating Sohra, famous for its living root bridges, Nohkalikai falls, Mawsmai Cave, Nohsngithiang Falls and Thangkharang Park with Mawsynram the wettest place on earth, with caves, waterfalls and the proposed Rain Museum as a thematic anchor are good tourism selling points. By combining the two, tourists can experience caves, waterfalls, root bridges, and rainfall heritage in one circuit. Thematic development could be “Rainfall Tourism” as both Sohra and Mawsynram share extreme rainfall records. A joint “Rainfall Experience Circuit” could include museums, observation points and monsoon festivals and eco Tourism by promoting sustainable trekking routes, homestays and community led experiences across Khasi villages. Adventure Tourism like zip-lining, caving and waterfall treks can be marketed as a combined adventure package. However, there are risks and trade-offs like environmental fragility as both regions are ecologically sensitive; mass tourism could damage caves, root bridges and forests. As such strict eco-tourism guidelines are essential.
There is a need for community involvement as without local participation, tourism may lead to cultural erosion. Involving Khasi communities in homestays, guiding and cultural showcases ensure inclusivity. As for funding and coordination it will require joint planning between Meghalaya Tourism, local MLAs of Mawsynram and Sohra by exploring funding under central schemes like PM-DevINE and name it as “PM-DeviNE Sohra-Mawsynram Circuit”. Such a circuit is achievable if direct road connectivity is prioritized, attractions are packaged together under themes of rainfall, caves, and waterfalls, and eco-tourism. This would transform the two rainiest places on earth into a single world-class destination.
Further the Mawsynram Fossil Park offers a unique hike through ravines filled with ancient marine fossils, orchids, and marble deposits, while the Mawlyngbna Split Rock is a dramatic natural formation created by the 1897 Assam earthquake, where a massive rock cracked open into a walkable passage. Both sites add adventure and geological depth to a Sohra–Mawsynram tourist circuit where ancient marine fossils are embedded in ravines and caves. Vertical drop canyons formed by tectonic shifts, seasonal orchids and marble deposits along the trail add their own glamour. Natural pools for swimming, plus views of Weikynmei waterfall are an added attraction. A moderate 1 day hike (1,400–1,600 m elevation) that blends geology, biodiversity, and scenic landscapes from January–June for clearer trails and vibrant flora can be added to the itinerary. Mawlyngbna Split Rock is believed to have split during the 1897 Assam earthquake, leaving a vertical crack in a giant rock. Visitors can walk through the narrow passage, making it a popular trek and photo spot. Often combined with river canyoning treks and jungle trails they offer immersive adventure tourism. Sohra–Mawsynram Circuit adds the geological depth as Fossil Park highlights Meghalaya’s ancient marine past, while Split Rock showcases seismic history. Both sites attract trekkers, geologists, and eco-tourists, complementing waterfalls and caves. By adding these sites, the Sohra–Mawsynram loop evolves into: “Rainfall, Roots & Rocks Circuit” — combining rainfall heritage, living root bridges, caves, fossils, and seismic landmarks.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
