NPP appears to be specific target of mob violence
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 11: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma in a video post on Wednesday disclosed that he had received information that a mob was allegedly heading towards his residence in Tura with an intention to burn it and attack his family, but he refused to leave despite being advised to relocate under security protocol.
This revelation underscores that the National People’s Party (NPP)—the ruling party headed by Sangma—appears to be the specific target of the mob violence that has gripped West Garo Hills since Monday.
The planned assault on the Chief Minister’s residence in Tura, his family home and a prominent symbol of NPP authority in the Garo Hills, points to politically motivated targeting amid tensions over the GHADC elections.
Compounding this, reports confirm that unruly mobs torched the NPP office in Tura’s Hawakhana area—further evidence of deliberate attacks on NPP infrastructure rather than indiscriminate unrest.
The Chief Minister said security officials had advised him to move to another location as a precautionary measure. He said he chose not to relocate as he was not afraid and that his life rests in the hands of God.
Describing himself as an A•chik (Garo), Sangma said the blood of his father, the late P.A. Sangma, runs in him and he draws courage from his father’s legacy.
He said he deeply loves his community and has continued to work for the welfare of the people with integrity and honesty.
Appeal for calm
Appealing for calm amid the prevailing tensions, Sangma expressed concern over incidents of violence and vandalism reported in different areas.
Sangma noted that government properties and religious places were being destroyed and vandalised, while homes were being intruded upon and families disturbed.
Stating that such actions do not reflect the values of the community and society, he urged citizens to refrain from violence. He stressed that the situation can be resolved only through dialogue and called upon people to respect democratic systems and institutions, place the interests of the community and the state first, and work collectively to restore peace. He appealed to citizens to maintain law and order, announcing that the government will soon convene a meeting with political parties and stakeholders to deliberate on the situation and work out a possible solution.
He said the meeting would seek to address issues surrounding the situation and ensure that all sides are taken on board in finding a way forward.
“In this critical juncture, I appeal to all our citizens of Meghalaya especially Garo Hills to maintain peace and law and order,” the Chief Minister stated in a social media post.
