By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 7: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) on Sunday accused the state government of continuing a long-standing pattern of labelling the union’s movement as “illegal”, a practice the leadership says dates back to the era of its former president, the late Bull N. Lyngdoh.
Speaking at a gathering held to commemorate the 31st death anniversary of the former KSU leader at his bust near Shillong Law College, Dhankheti, KSU president Lambokstarwell Marngar criticised the government for what he described as the persistent criminalisation of the union’s efforts to safeguard the interests and identity of the indigenous people.
Marngar recalled that Lyngdoh had once been booked under the same stringent laws used against insurgent groups, after being accused of engaging in “illegal activities”.
“Even today, the government continues to use similar legal provisions to target the members of the union,” he said.
He argued that while the activities of the KSU may be termed illegal by some, the union views them as necessary acts of resistance aimed at securing laws that will protect future generations.
“If we wait for the laws the government keeps promising, even after 50 years, they will still be far from reality,” he remarked.
Calling for collective unity, Marngar urged the people to be “the law and the shield” of their community. “What matters most is strengthening the unity of the community. As we approach a new year, we must remind ourselves of the spirit of self-sacrifice and the willingness to serve and fight for our land and our people,” he said.
Reflecting on the legacy of the former president, Marngar said the union remembers Lyngdoh every year for his unwavering commitment to the cause of the Hynniewtrep people.
He narrated an encounter with a retired government employee who recalled the hardships faced by the late leader during the union’s struggle against illegal settlers.
He said that despite the criticism the KSU often faces whenever it takes up an issue, it remains steadfast in its mission.
“As members, we must not be misled. We must continue on our chosen path until the right time comes,” Marngar added.
The KSU president stressed that the sacrifices of past and present leaders ensure the continuity and safety of the community. “We must ensure we do not fall into the same traps created by others. We must continue to remember the work of Bah Bull,” he said.
As part of the commemoration, a one-minute silent prayer was observed, followed by floral tributes laid by leaders of the union’s Central Executive Council, circles, and units.
Other speakers at the programme included KSU vice president Biangbor L. Paliar, Bull Lyngdoh’s sister Hana Lyngdoh, KSU Malki Circle president Iashan Mukhim, and KSU NEHU Unit president Robin Nongrem.
