Our Bureau
TURA/SHILLONG, March 17: The All Meghalaya Minority Students’ Union (AMMSU) on Tuesday condemned the recent violence in the Garo Hills region which occurred during tensions surrounding the now-deferred election to the GHADC, while calling for an independent and impartial probe into the violence that claimed two lives.
The AMMSU in a press statement expressed deep anguish over the attacks on public and private properties, including places of worship, calling such acts a blow to communal harmony and the region’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence.
It mourned the loss of lives during clashes in the Chibinang area and urged the government to provide compensation and support to the affected families.
Seeking a fair and impartial investigation into the incidents of violence, the union demanded strict action against those responsible. It appealed to all communities to remain calm and not be influenced by rumours or misinformation.
Highlighting the history of the GHADC, the AMMSU noted that non-tribal participation in certain constituencies has long been peaceful and based on merit rather than communal considerations. It cautioned against labeling any group as biased, stating that such narratives could harm social unity.
The union emphasised that dialogue and constitutional means are the only way forward and urged community leaders, civil society, and citizens to work together to restore peace and harmony in the region.
Meanwhile, Rajabala MLA Mizanur Rahman Kazi said that community leaders and stakeholders are leaving no stone unturned to bring peace and unity in Garo Hills. He sniffed a political ploy behind the tensions.
Kazi told reporters that the situation is quite peaceful and under control. He admitted that there still is some panic among people but the administration has initiated confidence-building measures.
To a query, he said the incidents occurred due to a misunderstanding but did not rule out political involvement.
Two persons had lost their lives while properties worth lakhs were damaged in the violence. The police arrested around 27 individuals, including former Balachanda MDC Sofiur Rehman, in connection with the violence.
