By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 11: In the wake of the ‘murder’ of an activist during an inspection of an illegal stone quarry site in West Garo Hills, the State BJP has called for permanent closure of all unlawful mining activities, stressing that decisive action is needed to prevent further human tragedies, while also seeking a thorough investigation into illegal mining across sectors in Meghalaya.
State BJP Spokesperson Mariahom Kharkrang said this while condemning the killing of Dilseng M Sangma, who was assaulted by a group allegedly involved in illegal mining in Garo Hills. He described the incident as brutal and said it had left citizens across the state in shock, dismay and disbelief.
Kharkrang said the administration must go beyond making a few arrests and ensure that every individual involved in illegal mining is identified and brought to book. He urged Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, to initiate comprehensive corrective measures to eradicate illegal mining permanently.
He further said the victim belonged to the Garo community and noted that the incident once again exposed the recurring menace of illegal mining in the state.
Referring to similar incidents in Jaintia Hills and Khasi Hills in the past, Kharkrang said the killing in Garo Hills only adds to a growing list of crimes and human tragedies linked to illegal mining, warning that unless firm action is taken, such incidents will continue to occur.
VPP condemns killing
The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has strongly condemned the assault and killing of Dilseng M Sangma.
In a statement issued on Sunday, VPP spokesperson Dr Batskhem Myrboh urged the authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly arrested and brought to justice. The party also expressed condolences to the bereaved family.
Police said the situation in the area continues to be closely monitored to prevent further escalation, as investigations into the murder and the quarrying dispute are ongoing. The killing, which took place on Friday, is linked to a violent altercation over an alleged illegal stone quarrying dispute near Goalgaon under Rajabala Police Station in West Garo Hills.
Police sources said the assault on ACHIK members led to the death of Dilseng Sangma, triggering widespread tension and fears that the situation could take on a communal dimension.
Amid the rising unrest, police arrested three alleged perpetrators on Saturday. According to police sources, the arrests were made based on specific inputs received regarding the involvement of the accused in the murder.
Raids were also conducted at several locations, including the residence of the alleged illegal quarry owner, who is suspected to be a key figure in the dispute. However, the quarry owner reportedly fled before police could apprehend him and remains absconding.
