For insurgency ravaged Garo Hills and especially for the victims affect ed by the violence unleashed by the militant groups, it’s not a merry Christmas this time.
Rampant extortion by various militant groups and other criminal elements have put the common man in a difficult situation as the prices of various items have gone up in the markets in Garo Hills.
“Unlike the past few years where Christmas was celebrated with utmost joy and peace in the region, this year, with the increase in crime, the feeling is dampened and fear persists,” general secretary of Garo Students’ Union, John Miltu Sangma said.
With Christmas around the corner, crime however, doesn’t allow any celebration to be done in a peaceful manner and the message of Christmas has no meaning in this context, he said.
Stating that they have been struck with militant activities time and again, Sangma said there is a need to revive a feeling of brotherhood, resist violence, and maintain peace and also to instill a sense of security among the people of this part of the State.
Appealing to the people of the State to put aside their fear and develop a vision of peace, Sangma said “The real meaning of Christmas, being a festival of peace, joy and hope for a better tomorrow should be realized by the people and should be kept intact,”.
The GSU general secretary also extended the appeal to the militant groups to uphold peace and tranquility in the region.
Meanwhile, a Pastor of the United Churches Association in Garo Hills, Rev M Momin, expressed confidence of celebrating Christmas amidst all the problems in the region. “Keeping aside all the problems and difficulties faced by the people in Garo Hills, we are focusing on celebrating Christmas and spread the message of peace and love to the people,” Rev Momin said.
Putting forward his appeal for peace to the militant groups, Rev Momin said, “Though we continue to appeal for peace from time to time, yet the situation is no better. Not losing hope, we continue to appeal to the insurgent groups to consider the true meaning of Christmas and to abstain from burdening the people with fear and restlessness.”
Ironically, the ANVC-B assured peace during Christmas and New Year by saying that they do not want to see any conflicts during the festive season. The cadres have also decided to visit their families during Christmas. (Ibankyntiew Mawrie)