Shillong: A collective representation from the people of Meghalaya—particularly from the hill communities of Sohra (Cherrapunji) and surrounding areas—has called upon The Times of India to issue a formal public apology over a recent term used in its Bhopal edition that referred to the region as “crime-prone hills.”
In a letter addressed to the Editor-in-Chief of the national daily, the signatories expressed “utmost seriousness and deep concern” regarding the portrayal, which they said has deeply hurt the sentiments of the local communities and damaged the state’s image.
While acknowledging the corrigendum issued by the publication—clarifying that the term was not intended to describe the entire state and noting that it had been removed from the online article—the letter emphasised that “the damage to the image and dignity of Meghalaya and its people is real and remains deeply felt.”
Meghalaya, often lauded for its serene landscape, peaceful communities, and rich tribal values, has expressed particular dismay over what they consider a sweeping generalisation that undermines the efforts of local law enforcement.
Referring to the recent Weisowdong incident, the letter said: “Most disheartening is the disregard this phrase has shown toward the relentless efforts of the Meghalaya Police, who, with dedication and resilience, searched for days under extremely challenging conditions to bring facts to light.”
The appeal also stated that the characterisation could have lasting repercussions on tourism in the region.
It called on The Times of India to issue a formal public apology, not only in its print and online editions but also across verified social media channels.
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The letter read: “We respectfully, yet firmly, request The Times of India to issue a formal public apology across all your national editions… This apology should be directed specifically to the people of Meghalaya, acknowledging the error and the harm it has caused to the collective dignity of our state.”
Framing the appeal as an opportunity for ethical correction, the letter concluded with a message to the publication: “Let this moment be an opportunity for a leading national daily like yours to demonstrate accountability, humility, and respect for the diverse communities that make up this great nation.”
The letter was signed on behalf of “the Unified Voice of All Villages in the Sohra Region.”
