Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi speaks to inmates of a camp in Udalguri. Picture by Eastern Projections

A sport called mudslinging

No amount of rhetoric by politicians can alleviate the suffering of those affected by the riots in Udalguri and Darrang districts. It is a matter of great shame that the government and forces, both political and apolitical, begin trading charges whenever there is a disaster. After all, till investigations reach their logical solution, it is too early to say who is at fault.

Another glaring aspect is the rush of politicians to clash-hit areas. The flurry of VIP movement contributes little towards restoring normality and causes great inconvenience for those trying to contain the unrest.

The local administration, instead of devoting itself to relief work, is forced to waste precious time in monitoring movement of dignitaries and later arranging for refreshments.

Besides, I wonder how the rioting could be allowed to continue for so many days. Where were the security forces that otherwise can be seen crawling all over the place in this troubled state of ours? Was there a shortage or was there a lack of efficient management of the resources available? The government must come clean on the riots that have left so many homeless.

Phanibhusan Barman
Guwahati

The AGP reunification meeting in Golaghat. Picture by Eastern Projections

Watchdog of democracy

A strong Opposition is a prerequisite for a healthy democracy. Unfortunately, in the absence of an effective Opposition in Assam, the ruling Congress in the past seven years of its uninterrupted rule has been able to get away with numerous shortcomings.

The government could not be pinned down on crucial issues.

Now that the AGP has reunited with all its splinter groups, we can hope that at least the Opposition will regain its lost sting and play the role of an alert watchdog.

Having said so, we wish that this time the AGP leaders will for once set aside their egos and work for the uplift of the state. It is also very important that they don’t repeat their mistakes, for which they have already apologised, since they may not get another chance after this.

Bijit Mahanta, Umesh Sarma
Ujanbazar, Guwahati