By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 14: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) Bengaluru Unit has once again reiterated its demand for the speedy establishment of a Meghalaya House in Bengaluru to support students and professionals from the state residing in Karnataka’s capital.
Highlighting the growing challenges faced by the Meghalaya community in Bengaluru, KSU Bengaluru Unit president Donboklang Nongphud expressed concern over the prolonged delay in the government’s plan to set up a state guest house. “We were assured by the Meghalaya government that updates would be shared, but nothing has materialised so far,” Nongphud said.
Referring to earlier media reports, Nongphud recalled that the state government had announced plans to purchase a building worth Rs 20 crore in Bengaluru to function as a Meghalaya House for students and visitors.
He further pointed out that the proposal, discussed during a Cabinet meeting on March 26, included plans for two dormitories with the capacity to accommodate 50 boys and 50 girls.
Additionally, Nongphud noted that in February 2024, the General Administration Department (GAD) had issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) to acquire land in the Bengaluru Urban District for the same purpose.
“But even after all these months, there’s been no visible progress,” he said.
When asked about the KSU’s future course of action, Nongphud stated that the unit is awaiting further instructions from KSU general secretary Donald V Thabah. However, he stressed that if there is still no update, he will personally lead a delegation to meet the concerned minister again, along with leaders from the KSU Central Executive Committee.
“This will be my third visit regarding the issue,” he added
Nongphud also recalled that in 2022, he had met GAD officials, who showed him a letter addressed to the Karnataka government, expressing Meghalaya’s interest in setting up a Meghalaya House. “At the time, they said they were waiting for a response from Karnataka,” he said.
He emphasised the urgent need for a Meghalaya House, pointing out that currently, KSU volunteers and students are shouldering the responsibility of assisting fellow residents.
“An official state house would ensure proper support and representation for our people here,” he said.
In addition, Nongphud urged the Karnataka government to set up a dedicated helpline for people from the Northeast, with language support in Khasi and other regional dialects. “Such a helpline would be crucial during emergencies,” he stressed.
He also raised serious concerns about fraudulent education agents operating in Bengaluru.
“Many students are misled by agents promising top-tier education, accommodation, internships, and job placements. But once they arrive, the reality is far from what was promised,” Nongphud said.
He cited a case from 2013, when students were forced to sleep in classrooms due to the absence of hostel facilities.
“These issues still persist today, especially among nursing students. We’ve issued warnings to caution students against these deceptive agents,” he added.
Nongphud further highlighted the issue of employment scams targeting job seekers from Meghalaya.
“There have been cases where people are promised decent salaries and housing, but after arriving in the city, the employer becomes unreachable. One victim was offered Rs 15,000–Rs 20,000 per month but was left stranded,” he said.
On the topic of integration, Nongphud encouraged people from the Northeast to learn Kannada.
“I’ve lived here since the 6th standard and speak Kannada fluently. It helps a lot in everyday interactions and with authorities,” he said.
He noted that Khasi students who don’t speak Kannada often face difficulties, especially when dealing with law enforcement. “When we don’t speak the language, our complaints aren’t taken seriously. Sometimes we’re treated as outsiders,” he explained.
Nongphud also called out the discriminatory treatment Northeasterners face when seeking accommodation. “Many landlords treat us differently and refer to us as ‘Chinese’ just because of our appearance,” he said.