Editor,
In reference to the news report captioned “KJP under fire over Rs 4-cr scandal at Mawkhar Presbyterian Church” (ST February 23, 2026), I wish to say that the headline is somewhat erroneous and misleading as because the KJP Synod has absolutely nothing to do with the internal matter of the Mawkhar Presbyterian Church in its case of misappropriation of church funds in 2019.
It is a veritable fact that the Mawkhar Presbyterian Church unfortunately stands divided today, with two factions emerging. One faction had withdrawn itself from the KJP Synod Sepngi from the beginning of the month of February 2026, and is seeking affiliation to any other Synods. Apparently, the news report might have been based mainly on the views and assertions of this faction only, since the same things had previously appeared in the social media. The other faction consisting of all the pastors and majority of the elders of the church had decided to remain steadfast with the KJP Synod Sepngi, which is the highest Church Body under the graded system of church governance as per the constitution of the Presbyterian Church in India (PCI). As members of the church, irrespective of denominations, we need to know the whole truth and not only half-truth.
My understanding is that if the faction that has come out from one Synod and gains affiliation to another Synod under the prevailing circumstances, and amid controversies surrounding the Presbyterian Church at Mawkhar, it might lead to strained relations between Synods and possibly result in friction and disunity between them, with far reaching consequences for the Presbyterian Church as a whole. It is here that church leaders at all levels need to tread with great caution and responsibility.
Certainly, a few issues and facts have been stated but some of which need to be verified and vetted independently before reaching to any conclusions. In recent years, especially during this winter, we have had different narratives, claims and counterclaims, insinuations, allusions, and propaganda being played out in the media. But all these have only driven towards wider schisms in the church.
Maybe many things have been tried and several efforts have been made by individuals and church entities to bring peace and reconciliation in the church, but to no avail. Perhaps, it would be essential, to look for legal scrutiny and judicial adjudication on all contentious issues confronting the Church today. Afterall, the case of embezzlement of church funds that happened in 2019 has since reached the court of law, and after six years, I believe that legal proceedings have already taken place, and it is hoped that there would be no further delay for the truth to come out and justice served in the interest of the Church that has suffered so much.
Yours etc.,
S. F. Diengdoh
Via email.
Urgent need for Emergency Response System
Editor,
With reference to the newspaper article dated 23rd February 2026 published in The Shillong Times regarding our late and respected Member of Parliament, Shri Dr. R. A. J. Syngkon, I wish to share a matter of serious public concern.
We are all aware that Meghalaya is currently facing a shortage of doctors. This unfortunate incident raises broader concerns about whether healthcare personnel are sufficiently trained to manage emergency situations. The issue is not limited to a public representative; such an event could happen to any ordinary citizen. It compels us to reflect on whether our health centres are adequately equipped and capable of delivering quality emergency care, or whether facilities are limited to providing only basic services along with administrative reporting.
Special attention must also be given to residents of Mawlai Mawiong and surrounding areas, which remain relatively distant from major district and private hospitals. For communities in such locations, the nearest community health centre( CHC) often becomes the first and only line of emergency care.
This tragic incident should serve as a wake-up call for strengthening emergency preparedness across the state.The first crucial period is the time between the individual’s collapse and arrival at the nearest health facility. This golden window often determines survival. We may need to consider establishing a toll-free emergency helpline that provides immediate telephonic guidance on managing such situations, similar to international emergency response systems, so that bystanders or family members can receive step-by-step instructions while awaiting medical assistance. Also, all healthcare staff must undergo regular training in emergency response including CPR and the use of life-saving equipment. Clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) should be established and implemented in emergency rooms to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Essential equipment such as ECG machines and defibrillators must be made available and functional in every PHC and CHC across all districts, both in urban and rural areas. Ensuring preparedness today can help save lives tomorrow and restore public confidence in our healthcare system.
Yours etc.,
Name withheld on request,
Via email
Constitutional Objection to Misrepresentation of Khasi–Jaintia Reservation
Editor,
I am writing to place on record, for public awareness, that I have formally submitted a constitutional representation to the Hon’ble Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly concerning the misrepresentation of the “Khasi–Jaintia” reservation category during recent Assembly deliberations on the Meghalaya Job Reservation Policy.
The representation raises concerns regarding the selective omission of the Jaintia component while referring to the 40% reservation category officially classified as “Khasi–Jaintia.” The matter is not semantic but constitutional in nature, as it pertains to the integrity of officially notified Scheduled Tribe classifications and the responsibility of legislative discourse to reflect accuracy and neutrality.
In my submission, I have respectfully urged the Chair to examine the official records of the debate, issue necessary clarification reaffirming the composite classification, and advise adherence to officially recognised terminology in future proceedings.
This communication is intended to uphold constitutional propriety, institutional accuracy, and the equal recognition of distinct tribal identities within the State. It is not adversarial, but grounded in constitutional principle.
A copy of the full representation can be made available upon request.
Yours etc.,
Dr Omarlin Kyndiah,
Via email
Belief Sacred, Extremism Must Be Challenged
Editor,
The editorial “RSS’s Divide & Rule Agenda” (ST February 26,2026) made interesting reading. People propagating religious extremism should not be allowed to operate freely in the world. While freedom of belief is a fundamental human right, extremism that incites violence, hatred or discrimination crosses a line that societies must not tolerate. Why is unchecked religious extremism dangerous? First, it undermines social harmony: It fractures communities, fuels sectarianism and erodes trust between groups. Secondly, it threatens democratic values: Extremist ideologies often reject pluralism, equality and the rule of law. Thirdly, it incites violence: From lone-wolf attacks to organised terror, extremism has led to countless deaths and displacements and fourthly, it exploits vulnerable minds: It preys on fear, poverty and identity crisis especially among youth.
So what should societies do? One, protect freedom of worship, but draw a firm line against incitement, militancy and hate speech. Two, strengthen education and civic engagement to build resilience against radicalization. Three, enforce laws that target extremist networks while safeguarding civil liberties and four, promote interfaith dialogue and community-led peace building. Belief is sacred. Extremism is not. Society must defend the former while dismantling the latter with clarity, courage and compassion.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
