Editor,
I write to express my deep resentment at the ongoing selective hunger strike undertaken by the Chairman, Greentech Foundation, Meghalaya. While the cause of Lumpongdeng is understood, the selective nature of the protest raises serious questions about the credibility and consistency of the Foundation’s activism.
Since its supposed inception in 2019, the Foundation has remained conspicuously silent on pressing environmental issues. It did not raise its voice against the rampant coal mining in Jaintia Hills, which has caused severe ecological degradation. It was equally silent when trees were uprooted for the ropeway project in Lawsohtun. Yet, the Foundation was vocal in opposing the coverage of a stretch at Wahthangsniang in Laitumkhrah for road widening, while remaining mute when Umshyrpi in Malki was covered to pave way for parking and shops. There is illegal felling of trees for charcoal burning that the foundation must have skipped for unknown reasons but it seems to be vocal only on projects that the govt is initiating or is in a nascent stage like the Umiam tourism project or the Nonghyllem eco-tourism project. Such selective interventions betray inconsistency and weaken the moral ground of the current hunger strike.
Moreover, the Government has already clarified that no permanent structure will be permitted at Lumpongdeng. In light of this assurance, the hunger strike appears to lack justification. The participation of a few political parties further politicizes the issue, and the labelling of spa tourism as “sex tourism” is both demeaning and misleading. Traditional massage equivalent to spa is a respected practice in Meghalaya, rooted in culture and wellness. To malign spa vis a vis massage with such terminology is uncalled for and I urge the President of the VPP to withdraw this remark and issue an apology at the earliest.
Environmental activism must be consistent, balanced, and rooted in genuine concern for nature and community. Selective protests and disparaging statements only erode public trust and diminish the credibility of those who claim to champion the environment.
Yours etc,
Suzzane K.
Shillong-2
Death Traps on Our Streets: The Crisis of Crumbling Roads
Editor,
Through this letter, I wish to highlight the appalling condition of the roads in our city, which have now reached a breaking point. What were once minor cracks have transformed into craters, turning our daily commutes into a dangerous obstacle course, almost at every lane and bye lane in the state capital.
The danger is amplified during the rains. These water-logged potholes are “invisible” hazards that lead to vehicle damage, physical injuries, and endless traffic snarls. It is frustrating to see the public bear the cost of damaged suspensions and lost time due to the apparent negligence of the municipal or Public Work maintenance departments.
Good roads are the backbone of a functioning city. I request the authorities to take immediate, high-quality remedial action rather than applying “quick-fix” solutions that wash away with the next shower. The citizens deserve roads that facilitate movement, not hinder it.
Yours etc.,
Medual Nongrum,
Shillong
Ward’s Lake- An Endangered Beauty Spot
Editor,
I would like to bring to your kind notice that the present situation of Wards Lake is pathetic. The structures coming up around the Lake and the Bridge remaining closed for several years gives a very poor impression to visitors. I fail to understand why Wards Lake is being used for purposes other than what it was created for, especially in the last few years. Needless to say the beauty of the Lake is marred by the structures nearby and one fails to understand why events should be held at the Lake. The Lake was created as a serene beauty spot of Shillong not a noisy platform for buying and selling and loud music. Is this Government intending to extend Police Bazar toward the Ward’s Lake? From all indications it would appear that is the long term plan but we the people of Meghalaya have to stop this from happening and reclaim Wards’ Lake so that it can provide us with the silence and calm that it used to in the past. Tourists don’t come to Meghalaya only for songs and dances and for shopping. They come to get their moments of peace. The Tourism Department should understand the psychology of tourists who come here.
Yours etc.,
Paul Jyrwa,
Via email
Allegations of Favouritism in Posting & Transfer Under NPP-Led Government
Editor,
Through this letter, I wish to express serious concern and strong dissatisfaction over the growing instances of favouritism in the posting and transfer of government officials under the present government led by the National People’s Party.
The process of posting and transfer is a critical pillar of governance, meant to ensure efficiency, neutrality, and optimal utilization of administrative talent. However, the current trend suggests that these decisions are no longer guided by merit, experience, or public interest, but rather by political loyalty and personal connections. This has created a system where a select few continue to enjoy favourable postings, while many competent and sincere officers are sidelined or repeatedly transferred without clear justification.
Such arbitrary and frequent transfers not only disrupt administrative continuity but also severely hamper the implementation of government schemes and development programmes. Officers who are constantly moved from one post to another are unable to deliver effectively, leading to delays, inefficiency, and poor public service delivery. In contrast, those who are perceived to be close to those in power are often placed in key or resourceful departments, raising serious questions about transparency and accountability.
This trend has far-reaching consequences. It demoralizes honest officers who strive to work with integrity, discourages professionalism within the system, and fosters an environment where political influence overrides institutional norms. In a state like Meghalaya, where administrative resources are limited and development challenges are significant, such practices can further widen the gap between policy and implementation.
It is deeply disappointing that the National People’s Party-led government has allowed such a culture to persist. Governance must be based on fairness, rule of law, and equal opportunity—not on patronage and favoritism. If this continues, it will not only weaken the administrative machinery but also erode the faith of the public in the government.
I urge the concerned authorities to take immediate corrective measures by introducing a transparent and standardized transfer policy, ensuring minimum tenure for officials, and establishing an independent mechanism to oversee postings and transfers. Only through such reforms can the credibility of the system be restored and public trust regained.
I hope this issue receives the attention it deserves and prompts necessary action in the interest of good governance and the people of the state.
Yours etc.,
Manhi Passah
Jowai
