Editor,
There is always a certain charm in political storytelling, especially when it arrives with dramatic lighting, selective memory, and a carefully chosen villain. Listening to the assertions linked to Sunil Deodhar, one might believe Pynter existed in suspended animation until the mid-1990s.
We are told that before the mid-1990s, an entire village existed in near darkness, no roads, no opportunity, no dignity, as though history itself had taken a long tea break. And then, suddenly, awareness dawned. Identity was rediscovered. Culture was “protected.” Education was reimagined.
It makes for excellent theatre.
The narrative paints a picture of systematic discrimination, of indigenous believers denied opportunity while church-run institutions allegedly controlled the gateways to progress. It certainly makes for a compelling narrative. Yet compelling narratives tend to smooth out the rough edges. Meghalaya’s social fabric, shaped over decades of shared spaces and layered histories, rarely fits neatly into a simple script of villains and victors.
At one point, it is suggested that education itself led people toward a particular faith, almost as if belief came along with the textbooks. The message seems to be that education must be handled carefully so it does not shape personal choices too much. The solution offered is schools without obvious religious pressure, but still guided by one clear spiritual outlook. In other words, religion is not described as forced, just presented as the natural direction to take.
Then comes the moment of triumphant return, a ceremonial homecoming where many who had once left the indigenous fold reportedly came back.It was described not as a personal choice, but as if something had been “set right.” The tone sounded calm, even respectful, but the message was clear. Instead of treating faith as a private and deeply individual decision, it was spoken about like a correction that needed to happen. When belief is presented this way, it stops being about conscience and starts sounding like a scorecard. That is where the problem lies.
Naturally, the arc of the story bends toward national validation.
Then comes the delicate distancing act: not working for any external organisation, “especially not the RSS” while acknowledging support from it and allied groups. It takes considerable political balance to keep one foot outside the door while accepting help from inside the house.
Naturally, credit is extended to Narendra Modi for giving recognition to indigenous faiths. Recognition is welcome. Yet one wonders whether Niam Tynrai truly required certification from Delhi to validate centuries of existence.
The speech ends with strong words about unity, pride, and protecting culture. It also repeats the idea that some beliefs came “from outside,” along with the line “Khasi by blood, Indian by accident.” It is a powerful phrase meant to create emotion and draw a clear line about identity.
But history is not that simple. Every culture has grown over time through contact with others. New ideas, religions and influences have always shaped societies. Nothing develops in complete isolation.
Indigenous traditions absolutely deserve respect and support. That is not the issue. The concern arises when protection of culture starts sounding more like a political message than a genuine effort to preserve heritage. When identity becomes a slogan, it is fair to question the intention behind it.
After all, the village did not wait for speeches to build its school. It did not need ideological supervision to strengthen its children’s future. It improved through effort, not echo chambers.
Identity, when secure, does not need dramatic retelling. It simply endures.
Yours etc;
Jack Syiemlieh,
Via email
Concerns Regarding the Newly Launched Bus service
Editor,
Through your esteemed column, I wish to draw the kind attention of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, to an incident that raises serious concerns about the recently launched public transportation system, “Ka Bus Jong Ngi.”
It was shocking and disappointing to witness a brand-new bus break down in the middle of the road at Upper Shillong, resulting in a massive traffic jam. How is it that a newly acquired vehicle is already malfunctioning? This naturally raises questions about the quality of procurement, inspection, and preparedness before unveiling such a project to the public.
Moreover, one wonders why such large-sized buses and air-conditioned models were selected for routes running through narrow roads where traffic congestion is already a daily challenge. An AC bus not only increases operational costs but is also unnecessary in our naturally cool climate. A smaller, simpler, and more agile bus would have served the purpose far more effectively while easing congestion instead of adding to it.
Another concern is whether adequate consultations were held with local bodies, community representatives, and stakeholders. Or is the government simply relying on the recommendations of hired consultants—consultants who have a track record of questionable proposals, such as the failed “ride-a-cycle” scheme introduced earlier in Police Bazar to name a few.
The choice of routes—particularly the IIM Shillong to Upper Shillong stretch, as reported—appears poorly thought out. How was this route selected, and on what basis? The entire exercise gives an impression of being rushed for publicity rather than grounded in practical planning and a genuine understanding of local commuting needs.
We have seen in the past how the once-introduced JNNURM buses eventually became defunct due to similar issues. It is disheartening to think that “Ka Bus Jong Ngi” may go down the same path if corrective measures are not taken immediately.
I sincerely request the Hon’ble Chief Minister and concerned authorities to look into the matter, review the operational and planning flaws, and ensure that this promising initiative does not become yet another failed experiment.
Yours etc.,
Maitshaphrang Lyngdoh,
Via email
How Sustainable is the Newly Launched Bus System
Editor,
84 brand-new tech upgrade buses for the state capital is an attempt on the part of the government to unclog the narrow streets of Shillong. The question that comes to mind is will these 84 new buses really address and solve traffic jams and parking space as well? The way things are now, public transports like the red buses have not managed to convince private vehicle owners to leave their vehicles at home and switch over to public transport. The need of the hour is certainly not the air conditioning, individual charging point, etc. but to ease traffic jams and provide space for parking. In fact, it will be a very good example set by our representatives and the higher echelons if they could use the newly launched buses and ditch their swanky SUVs and experience the kind of trouble that we ordinary people go through daily. Their doing so will help reduce the number of vehicles plying on the road to a certain extent.
Yours etc.,
Jenniefer Dkhar,
Via email
