CHANDIGARH/SHILLONG: BJP national secretary Tarun Chugh on Monday said the party would not allow uprooting and relocation of 350 Sikh families in Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya.
In a statement issued in Chandigarh, Chugh said his party would do everything to protect the rights of Sikhs who had been living in Shillong for almost two centuries and had contributed to the development of Meghalaya. “We won’t allow Shillong Sikhs to be victimised in any manner and shall ensure that their lives and properties are protected,” he said, according to UNI.
In Shillong, when contacted, BJP leader and Health Minister A L Hek said that a group of leaders held a meeting with Conrad Sangma on the issue on Sunday. “In the meeting, the chief minister said that ‘we should not speak.
) much about the issue as it is under litigation’ and I believe the same,” he told The Shillong Times.
State BJP president Shibun Lyngdoh did not answer calls by this newspaper.
Chugh said it was highly unfortunate that 350 Sikh families who had been a part of Shillong for so long and have been rightfully earning their livelihood have been receiving threats from a local militia group besides facing action from the authorities.
Chugh blamed that the Shillong Nagar Vikas (Municipal) Board was acting under the pressure of local militia group.
“The authorities have asked for evidence from the people who have lived at the same place for generations and over two centuries,” he said, adding that he has shot off a letter to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to ensure the safety and security of the people who were living under constant threat and stress.
He said the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre was committed to ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas’ and the concept includes justice to minorities living in every nook and corner of the country.
