By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 13: Members of the Naga community, civil society organisations and students gathered at Khyndai Lad on Saturday evening for a candlelight vigil to honour the memory of six Naga civilians who were recently killed in Manipur.
Organised by the Naga Elders Forum Shillong (NEFS), the programme was held from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm and witnessed a large turnout of people who lit candles and offered prayers in remembrance of the victims.
The gathering was organised as a mark of solidarity with the bereaved families and as a collective appeal for peace and unity amid the continuing unrest in Manipur.
Participants observed a solemn silence in memory of the deceased and reflected on the loss of innocent lives.
Speakers at the vigil expressed concern over the prevailing situation in the violence-hit areas and stressed the need for restoring normalcy and communal harmony.
The gathering also urged the government to take immediate steps to restore peace in the affected areas of Manipur and ensure the safety and security of civilians.
Participants further demanded swift and impartial justice for the bereaved families, calling for all perpetrators and accomplices involved in the killings to be identified and brought to account through due process of law.
Meanwhile, organisers said the vigil was intended not only to pay tribute to the victims but also to convey a message of compassion, solidarity and support to the affected families and communities. They expressed hope that justice would be delivered and that lasting peace would return to the region.
Meanwhile, the East Khasi Hills district administration had put in place necessary arrangements to ensure the peaceful conduct of the programme. Sector magistrates in the Sadar area coordinated with the Superintendent of Police and other authorities to maintain law and order during the event.
