SHILLONG, Aug 17: A Meghalaya-based women’s social organisation, Saiñdur Tipkur-Tipkha Ïeng Ehrngiew Hynñiewtrep (STIEH), has condemned the recent killing of former Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) general secretary Cheristerfield Thangkhiew.
Rapping the government over its “insensitive behaviour”, the organisation accused the government of “using force to subdue citizens’ will, curb their freedom, take away their privacy and tamper with constitutional rights”.
It further alleged that the government “did nothing to pacify the public amid growing resentment but watched the situation with complete disinterest as if waiting for trouble to start blaming the citizens once again”.
Recalling the unrest that followed the August 13 killing, the organisation stated that some groups of CRPF jawans entered localities in Mawlai and created mayhem. Incensed public retaliated but situation calmed down after elders/NGOs intervened, the STIEH added. “Such callous behaviour on part of the administration only shows the lack of leadership, exposing the discombobulated state of the entire Cabinet,” it said.
Talking about the imposition of curfew and suspension of mobile internet connection in East Khasi Hills, the organisation said the administration chose to upset the public.
Moreover, it stated that the government’s request for additional reinforcement of CRPF and BSF forces into the state is “questionable” considering the calls for peace talks with local headmen and some politicians.
The organisation has recommended the state government to instead deploy the jawans along the Meghalaya-Assam border to protect the lives and properties of many tribals in disturbed areas.
It has also asked the government some questions regarding matters such as cops who led the mission to kill Thangkhiew, judicial probe, non-acceptance of Home Minister Lahkmen Rymbui’s resignation, etc.
It also pointed out that it is wrong and unfair to the public to go through another confinement, this time curfews, when they are already reeling under the economic burden of prolonged lockdowns due to the pandemic, and the toll on students.
On the other hand, the STIEH has requested all to avoid misleading the public with fake news regarding the situation prevalent in the state. “This is purely a public outcry against the state authorities, a protest of the cold-blooded murder of Cheristerfield Thangkhiew,” it said.
