SHILLONG: A silent protest-cum-peace rally against the recent killing of three innocent civilians by armed miscreants was organized by NGOs and members of the Hajong community at Ampati, South West Garo Hills, on Tuesday.
Around ten thousand people drawn from the various sections of the community including women, elders, youths and children took part in the rally which started from Betasing Tinkona Para and culminated at the DC’s Office, Ampati.
A memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister was also submitted to the Deputy Commissioner.
The demands of the group included setting up of paramilitary camps in Garodoba, Betasing, Bhoirakopi, Zikzak, Zekabari, Katuli, Kodoldhowa and Bhajamara areas to control the activities of the militant groups.
The protesters also demanded ex- gratia payment of Rs. 10 lakh each to the next of the kin of those killed and educational expenses for all the dependent minors.
Medical and educational allowance to the minor girl injured in the attack, strengthening and up-gradation of the Village Defence Party in the entire area and smooth supply of electricity and network connectivity were other grievances addressed in the memorandum. A demand was also made for a judicial inquiry to investigate the details of the case so that the culprits could be booked as per the law.