SHILLONG: In the wake of the rise in conflict in Meghalaya, especially in the Garo Hills region, the Department of Social Work, Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU) in collaboration with its NSS unit organised a panel discussion on the theme, “Peace Building: A Collective Response” here on Friday.
The panel discussion was organized on the occasion of International Day of Peace which is on Sunday.
While empathizing with the people in the conflict affected areas, MLCU VC, RG Lyngdoh said that the turbulence in Garo Hills is a matter of grave concern even for those that are not affected by it directly.
“Peace is needed right now in Garo Hills but it cannot come overnight. We all have to pitch in,” said Lyngdoh.
Addressing the gathering, SP City (Crime), Vivek Syiem listed a few probable causes of rise in violence in Garo Hills which included failure of the educational system, unemployment and corruption. “The youth in Garo Hills are frustrated because of many issues like lack of skill-based education, rise of influence from technology like Facebook and Whatsapp, and the romantic idea of being freedom fighters,” said Syiem.
Chairperson of Meghalaya State Women’s Commission, Theilin Phanbuh drew attention to the vulnerability of women in Garo Hills.
“Whenever there is a conflict anywhere, the women are worst sufferers as they are the mothers, wives and daughters of those who are fighting,” Phanbuh said adding that peace should begin at home.
Others who spoke on the occasion included president of the Central Puja Committee, Naba Bhattacharjee, Associate Pastor Garo Baptist Church, Rev. RG Momin, Peace Educationist Sister Marlene Pinto and President of All Garo Churches, KC Momin.
The panel unanimously agreed that collective responsibility towards peace in Garo Hills is the only answer to the present crisis.
The panel discussion was followed by a silent peace march from Laitumkhrah to Barik point and back to Don Bosco Square.