It is true that this is a very bad sign of things to come for several reasons. First off, it is a bad design, failing to satisfy current users and failing to meet its objective of making it easier for new users. Second it removes key functionality, ruining existing user workflows. Third, the immediate Adobe reaction is that going back is not an option, showing an arrogant and intransigent attitude. Fourth, the poor, dumbed down design does not bode well for the future of lightroom.
However, your contention that lightroom is no longer a functional DAM may be a bit hyperbolic. You can still import, but you now have to do more work inside the library module. If the current LR import does not work for you, you can use a third party product like Photo Mechanic. The DAM isn't broken (yet) but your workflow probably was.