From C K Nayak
Purno takes PR cry to Parliament
NEW DELHI: Taking his attack on Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma to Parliament, NPP supremo Purno A Sangma on Tuesday demanded imposition of President’s Rule in the Hill State following the alleged collapse of the law and order situation and rise in militant activities amid allegations that the head of the government has nexus with various rebel groups.
Participating in the debate on the President’s address in the Lok Sabha, Purno, bête noire of Mukul Sangma, alleged that the head of the State Government has close links with the militants, particularly the ANVC-B.
He even waved a letter purportedly written by the ANVC-B confessing to bombing dissident ministers and their houses as per Mukul Sangma’s desire.
Purno was explicit in his criticism but senior AIDMK leader Thambi Durai, who was chairing the proceeding, intervened and expunged the specific designation of the person he was referring to.
“A chief minister cannot be named,” Thambidurai said.
Purno clarified that he had not taken anybody’s name but pointed towards the involvement of the head of the Government.
Purno recalled the recent incidents of violence in Meghalaya particularly in his constituency, Tura besides the ghastly killing of a woman by militants.
“Ï have met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and apprised him of the deteriorating law and order situation in Meghalaya. Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju has assured that he will visit the area for an on-the-spot assessment, ” he said.
Purno recalled that four years ago before the present head of the Government took over there were only two militant outfits ANVC and HNLC.
“Now there are at least 10 militant outfits as per the Government’s own admission,” the Tura MP said demanding an explanation on the emergence of the other eight militant groups.
“Innocent persons are killed or kidnapped by the militants and anti-social elements,” the former speaker said adding that non-tribals have become special targets even as the state government continues to remain apathetic.
Purno also revived his demand for a separate Garoland. He suggested the formation of a state reorganisation commission to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of smaller states.
He also demanded for various developmental projects for Meghalaya.
