Living in Meerut Despite Negative Attitudes: A Complex Reality

Is it possible for people to have negative feelings about a place like Meerut yet continue to live there? Indeed, many individuals find themselves in such a situation, often due to a combination of personal, social, and economic factors. This article explores the nuanced reasons behind staying in a place one does not particularly adore, and sheds light on the experiences of someone who has spent a significant part of their life in Meerut.

Reasons for Staying Despite Negative Views

Economic Necessity: Many people remain in a place like Meerut due to economic reasons. Whether it's job availability, financial constraints, or the sheer lack of affordable housing elsewhere, these practical considerations often override desires for a change.

Family Ties: Family connections and responsibilities often tie individuals to their hometown. Even if they harbor negative feelings towards the place, the emotional and social bonds they have with their family can make it incredibly difficult to leave.

Cultural Attachment: A deep-rooted connection to one's hometown can also play a significant role. Memories, relationships, and a sense of belonging often mean a lot more than the negatives associated with the area.

Lack of Alternatives: Despite dissatisfaction, the absence of better alternatives can make it difficult to leave. Many people might feel that there is no place in India that can provide them with the same opportunities or lifestyle they have in Meerut.

Hope for Change: A cautious optimism that the situation could improve in the future can also lead to staying put. Residents might hold onto the belief that things can get better with time and efforts.

Personal Journey Through Meerut

For someone who has spent 16 out of 22 years of their existence in Meerut, the experiences mentioned offer a unique perspective. I have grown up here, and my family still resides in the city. While I do not hate Meerut, I certainly have had negative feelings towards the people of Meerut.

Many individuals I have encountered are uncouth, classless, aggressive, and rude. Their condescending attitude towards others, combined with the harshness of the language, often leaves a bitter taste. Furthermore, the prevalence of dominant castes with political influence engaged in crime and extortion adds to the city's chaos.

However, Meerut was a different place when I was younger. The shift in perceptions began when I moved to Pune for further studies. Upon returning, the city felt like a harsh pinch, and it is not surprising why after having experienced the culture and way of life in Pune. The contrast highlighted the shortcomings of Meerut, and it was difficult to return to a place that is so different from what I had experienced elsewhere.

Life in the outskirts of Meerut

Currently, I continue my studies at Subharti University, located in the outskirts of Meerut. Despite the university being satisfactory, living far from the city center presents its own set of challenges. As a Northeasterner, it has not been easy to integrate into the local community. The locals, who are primarily small-minded, display a distinct disinterest in people from other parts of India, especially the Northeast. This is often perceived as racism or discrimination, and despite my best efforts, the situation remains challenging.

However, it is essential to note that there are good and generous people who are willing to help those in need. While it is true that there is discrimination, there might be a lack of awareness about the Northeastern region. Once the little knowledge they have is dispelled, their attitudes often change, becoming more welcoming. Nevertheless, the stress and personal challenges of life in Meerut's outskirts, especially for nonlocals, should not be underestimated.

Security Concerns

Living on the outskirts of Meerut presents additional risks. One of the main concerns is the safety aspect; I have faced numerous instances where locals have become angry and even violent. For instance, when I asked my neighbor about a trash issue, it escalated into a quarrel that ended up in a threatening situation. Although I was able to file an FIR, the ongoing case highlights the serious nature of the problem.

In conclusion, while the desire to move away from a place one despises is understandable, the reality is that economic, familial, cultural, and social factors often compel people to stay even in such challenging environments. Furthermore, the experience of Northeasterners in Meerut further underscores the complexity of these issues and highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding.