SHILLONG: A delegation of different organisations from West Khasi Hills met Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to seek explanation on the allegations that the paid agitators in the recent clash were from the district.
The representatives of organisations are Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC), HANM, Western Youth Federation (WYF), WKSU, HNYF, Synjuk ki Seng Bhalang, Seng Samla New Nongstoin and Seng Samla Lad Wytang.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, D. Sun, chairman of Synjuk ki Seng Bhalang said, “The chief minister said he did not specifically point to the involvement of people from West Khasi Hills.”
Earlier, during a news briefing on June 3, the chief minister had said that after holding meetings with the headmen of various localities and the stakeholders concerned they were of the opinion that the protesters were not from the city areas.
“We are wondering who these people are. None of these people are from the Shillong localities.”
“Who are the individuals and from where they are coming. All these will be looked into”, Sangma had said
Sun also added that the chief minister informed the delegation that he will continue to have close association with the people from the district and appealed them not to be upset.
As for the allegations that mercenaries are funding the agitation, Sun said, “It is unacceptable to us to say that the fight for the rights of the indigenous community is done for money.”
Speaking on the recent agitation that led to turmoil in parts of Shillong, he said it is up to the government to bring an urgent solution to the matter.
“When there is a war, there must be a solution, similarly, when there is an agitation, there must be a solution,” Sun said.
Sun said the organisations support the decision to relocate the residents of Sweepers’ Colony (Them Iew Mawlong) and maintained there is the legal route that can be taken which is as per democratic principles.
Wanteibok Lyngdoh, general secretary, HYC West Khasi Hills demanded the release of those who were arrested and urged the government to consult the youth so that they will not be misled in the future.
