Concern over impact of violence on students taking board exams

SHILLONG: Several groups and associations have expressed their concern on the violence at Ichamati and Shillong and also appealed to the people to maintain peace. Concerned about the students appearing for board exams, the associations also appealed for the return of normalcy at the earliest.
While condemning the violence at Ichamati and Shillong, the United Democratic Party (UDP) on Sunday extended their condolences to the members of the bereaved families and to those who were injured during the incidents.
They also appealed to the people of the state to remain calm and to maintain peace and safety.
“We condemn such acts and express our heartfelt solidarity with the bereaved families,” UDP general secretary, Jemino Mawthoh, said.
The party also urged the law-enforcing authorities to maintain vigil so that no untoward incidents take place.
“Violence is not a solution for any difference of opinion, however grave it is. The party asks the government to bring all those behind the heinous killings to justice,” the UDP general secretary said.
The Meghalaya Joint Council of Trade Unions & Associations (MJCTU&A) also expressed concern at the turn of events in Shillong and other parts of the district. The union said the prevailing situation is most undesirable and needs to be diffused at the earliest.
Stating that students are sitting for their final board examinations, the trade union said the uncertain environment will adversely affect their preparations and performances.
The association also made an appeal to all sections of people to show sense of togetherness, maintain calm and work positively for the return of normalcy, peace and tranquility and also wished for students to excel in the examinations.
Meanwhile, Meghalaya Retired College Teachers’ Association (MRCTA) also expressed concern for the breakdown of peace in Shillong and its adjoining parts. The situation calls for urgent constructive measures on the part of law enforcing agencies as well as by the concerned citizens so as to diffuse the situation and also return of normalcy at the earliest, said the association in a statement.
‘We need to be extremely responsible as the most crucial final Board examinations are to start now.  Our students are at the crossroads of most important step of their life-time. Any unusual situation with escalating tension shall adversely affect the preparations and hence performances of the Students in the examinations,’’ it said.
The MRCTA also conveyed wishes to the students.