Editor,
Every year, the Cherry Blossom Festival is overshadowed by some untoward incident. This year, the tragedy that unfolded on the very first day raises critical questions about the overuse of escorts, VIP vehicles, and similar excesses. What is the need for such immoderation in a state, which is comparatively peaceful than others in the region? Such a fatal beginning casts a shadow over the festival’s reputation.
The inability of the state government to look into the welfare of the teaching class while spending lavishly on such an extravaganza is unbecoming of Meghalaya that sustains on central doles. No other state in the region exhibits such a rank contrast between a population deprived of their basic entitlements, and funds being directed toward festivals that suit a handful.
The tragedy that should have befallen elsewhere has ultimately stricken the commoners – who are always at the receiving end.
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Yours etc.
A Shillongite based in Bangalore
