NONGPOH, June 17: A newly acquired ambulance service was unveiled by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Umsning Circle, on Monday, which will cater to the healthcare needs of the people of Umsning. The launch also marked the observance of the 38th death anniversary of (L) Paul Biswal Makri, a martyr who laid down his life during the Anti-Foreigners Movement in 1987.
The inauguration ceremony was led by KSU central body general secretary Donald V Thabah and attended by key figures including president of KSU North Khasi Hills District (NKHD) Ferdynald Kharkamni; Chairman of the Umsning Town Dorbar, Rocky Kylla; besides other union members and invited guests.
The ambulance was purchased through locally organised fundraising activities such as football tournaments, fetes, housie games, and other community-driven efforts, demonstrating the tireless commitment of KSU Umsning members to serve their region.
Speaking at the event, Umsning Town Dorbar Chairman Rocky Kylla, NKHD KSU President Ferdynald Kharkamni, and General Secretary Donald V. Thabah praised the leadership and collective efforts of KSU Umsning Circle in mobilizing resources to meet critical healthcare needs—especially for economically disadvantaged families.
In an emotionally charged address, Thabah recalled the sacrifice of (L) Paul Biswal Makri, a resident of Umrit village in Ri Bhoi District and a committed KSU member. Makri was shot dead by CRPF personnel during a protest rally at Motphran, Shillong, on June 17, 1987, while actively participating in the Anti-Foreigners Movement led by then KSU president (L) Bull N Lyngdoh.
Makri, along with other youth leaders, was part of the resistance against growing threats posed by aggressive demographic shifts and the exploitation of land and women by alleged Nepali settlers. The violence escalated on June 15 and 16 of 1987, with CRPF forces indiscriminately firing upon protestors across Shillong, resulting in numerous injuries.
Despite the brutality, demonstrators regrouped for a major protest the following day — June 17 — when Makri and another man from Smit village were fatally shot. Reports suggest Makri was struck in the head, while the other man — who had no connection to the protests — was beaten and subsequently shot by the CRPF.
Thabah emphasised that Makri’s martyrdom was a defining moment in the Ri Bhoi region’s history.
As part of ongoing tributes, KSU North Khasi Hills District president Ferdynald Kharkamni announced plans to erect a permanent memorial to Paul Biswal Makri in Nongpoh town in the near future.
