SHILLONG: The government is non-committal on banning the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) despite the cases of arson and violence in different parts of Ri Bhoi and Khasi Hills.
When asked whether the government is planning to include KSU in the banned outfit list, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said on Thursday media persons should look at the relevant acts which lay down provisions for banning an organisation.
“We know how to deal with these people and it will not be far when Meghalaya will be the same island of peace,” he added.
About having a dialogue with the pressure group, Sangma reiterated that the government would not engage in talks till they abjure violence.
“Why should I talk to an organisation that is indulging in criminal activities as this will only embolden others to indulge in similar criminal activities,” said the chief minister.
On the “KSU-HNLC nexus” and the banned militant group’s threat to supply explosives to agitators, Sangma said the law of the land would prevail, adding, “I hope KSU is a responsible NGO and that they will not hobnob with HNLC as they are aware that hobnobbing with HNLC will attract provisions of law.”
KSU, however, has not issued a statement condemning HNLC or denying any nexus with the outfit.
On Wednesday, the chief minister had said the government would probe into the link between the NGO and the outfit.
“The State’s internal security apparatus as well as the Central Government are capable of identifying those who will have nexus with HNLC,” he warned.
Referring to the violent protests in the city over inner permit line in 2013, the chief minister asserted that the government set a “benchmark” in dealing with these groups and it would not change it.
“The government wants that Meghalaya is seen as a state where law of the land prevails… law is good for everybody and for the good of the people and the State,” he added.
