From Our Correspondent
TURA, Sep 30: The victims of the tragic police firing on September 30, 2005, during protests against the alleged bifurcation of the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBoSE), were honoured on Monday in a solemn prayer service held at the District Auditorium in Tura.
Nine people had lost their lives on that day after police fired upon an agitating mob that had reportedly turned violent.
The incident, which shocked the entire Garo Hills region and the state, saw police open fire on protesters at two locations—Tura and Williamnagar.
Four people were killed at Chandmary Playground in Tura, while five others lost their lives at Rongrenggre Playground in Williamnagar.
Since the incident, the 30th September Victims’ Solidarity Forum organises an annual prayer service to remember the victims.
The memorial event on Monday was attended by leaders of various churches, senior citizens, social organisations and student groups, who honoured the families of the victims during the service.
Following the prayers at the District Auditorium, the gathering marched to the site of the tragedy, offering floral tributes and lighting candles at the cenotaph erected in memory of the victims.
Bamboo torches were lit by family members at the exact locations where each victim fell, adding a poignant touch to the solemn remembrance.