Letters to the Editor

Neo Veerappans of Assam

We still remember the dreaded sandalwood smuggler-cum-dacoit Veerappan. He created terror in southern states of India -- Kartaka and Tamil idu. Thanks to the well-coordited efforts of the police forces who neutraized Veerappan a few years back. But in Assam two neo/new Veerappan have surfaced. Two years back, Dhemaji police arrested Mahat Talukdar, who was serving as the Divisiol Forest Officer (DFO) in Dhemaji, for garnering crores of assets through unfair means. Now, another Veerappan in the form of Aftubbudin Ahmed, also  a DFO, has come to light. The asset list of this tainted DFO, as released by the authorities concerned, is humongous. By going through the asset list of both the arrested DFOs, it can be assumed that corruption crossed all levels during the previous regime of Rakibul Hussain as the Forest Minister in the State. It can be easily gauged that both Mahat Talukdar and Aftubbudin Ahmed had full support, blessing and patronization from the former State Forest Minister. In the coming days, one can presume, more such Talukdars and Ahmeds will emerge from the Forest Department.

Joel Daimary,

Boko, Assam.

Regulate Prices of Essentials

It is observed that prices of essential commodities have been increasing frequently. Recently the price of cement has been increased. It is a matter of concern as to who increases the price. A section of traders tries to earn extra money and that is why they hike the rates at their own will. As such, there should be a mechanism / agency to fix the prices of essential commodities, including power tariff, auto fares , e-rickshaw fares and bus fares, price of milk, bread etc., and charge for services rendered by masons, plumbers, painters, carpenters and others who charge randomly at their own will. Government regulation regulation of such hikes in prices and charges by craftmen may be a succour for consumers. I would, therefore, like to request the Government and other authorities concerned to take this matter seriously as well as take action accordingly without delay.

Putul Sarma,

Bamgaon, Biswath Chariali.