Senior citizens for early release of rehab package for surrendered cadres

TURA: The Tura Garo Senior Citizens Forum (TGSCF) has urged the State Government to speed up the process of releasing the rehabilitation package to surrendered cadres of militant outfits like the ANVC and the UALA in view of the rise in crime in Garo Hills.
The demand came following a resolution taken during its annual general conference on October 11 where it observed that cases of extortion and kidnapping have been continuing unabated despite the fact that the ANVC and the UALA outfits have already been disbanded. It urged the government to release the agreed package to the cadres at the earliest to dispel their frustrations and to ensure that they do not return to a life of crime.
The forum also raised concern over the rise in rape cases against juveniles in Garo Hills with special reference to the Kendriya Vidyalaya episode and the incident of flesh trade reported from Khantolguri in North Garo Hills District. While strongly condemning both incidents the forum sought stringent punishment to the perpetrators of the crimes.
Recalling the controversy surrounding the proposed site for the Tura Medical College which came out in the media, the forum urged the concerned A’king Nokmas who are in dispute to resolve the problem amicably. Stating that the opportunity to avail of the medical college should by no means be wasted, it offered to work for bringing a solution to the differences between the two a’king nokmas.
The forum also raised the issue of rise in illegal sale of liquor as well as alcohol abuse among children despite the ban on the opening of wine stores and urged concerned authorities to check the menace while cautioning parents and guardians to take special measures to prevent their children from indulging in the same.
The forum also raised concern over noise pollution at Tura Market area especially during celebrations. It urged all concerned to ensure that such celebrations are done within enclosed venues so that sound does not travel outside.
The forum also sought the opening of special counters for senior citizens at SBI branches and the District Council Treasury to check inconveniences faced by the elderly.
Meanwhile, new office bearers to lead the forum were also elected during the annual meet.
Accordingly, Winstone G Momion was elected as President, Smt Crisline T Sangma as Vice President, Gredalson Ch Momin as General Secretary, Lyndon K Sangma as Joint Secretary, Oliver G Momin as Organizing Secretary, Goldfire R Marak as Accountant and Lalitamoyee as Treasurer besides other  members.