Tura, June 10: “Enough crime, enough militancy. Time to do away with them”, read a placard as thousands of people came out here to take part in a silent procession to condemn the horrific Raja Ronggat incident, where 35-year-old Jospin M. Sangma was brutally killed as her four minor children and husband watched helplessly.
Jospin was killed by Garo National Liberation Army on June 3 evening. The outfit’s political secretary, Bikdot Marak and area commander of Chokpot, Jangjang Marak had claimed responsibility for the ghastly act. In two separate press communiqué, the outfit had branded her as ‘police informer’ for her execution.
People from all walks of life today gathered at Chandmari playground to pray for the bereaved family and condemned the inhumane act of the militants. At least, 3000 people raised their voice in unison saying, “Let us build peace and harmony”.
The peaceful demonstration was spearheaded by Mother’s Union and supported by several NGOs and church organisations. Bishop of Tura, Rev Fr. Andrew Marak also attended the procession to show his solidarity, along with many eminent personalities of Tura.
“The militant has put our community to shame. We condemn their act. They should stop their cowardly acts. Meghalaya government should ensure that this is to put to an end”, said Viola Sonatchi B. Sangma, former chairperson of Meghalaya Public Service Commission. Former Pro-Vice Chancellor of ICFAI University Meghalaya, Milton Sangma said, “Random killing, extortion and kidnapping should be stopped.
The violence must end! It is hurting the people. The gun culture should stop for once and all. The outfits should accept the clarion call of the government and come forward for negotiation”. He added, “New Delhi should intervene in this time of crisis and appoint an officer to hold dialogue with the militants. People can’t live in constant fear anymore. Enough is enough!”
The silent procession passed through the main through fare of the town
and culminated at Chandmari playground. There were many voices, which said, “Insane atrocities in the name of motherland, does not carry any weight”.
The ongoing situation has forced the people to even demand for an army. “Army is the only option in Garo hills now. People may have to suffer a bit but all these ANVC-B, GNLA, UALA, ATF, ANLA, etc will be finished off and we will get a permanent peace”, said Togan Nengminza, a concerned youth. Shops and business establishment closed their shutter from 3 pm to 5 pm as a mark of condemnation.
Another concerned citizen, Sinnednud Sangma said, “Killing a fellow human being for whatever reasons is no doubt highly condemnable by everyone. And the spat of killings are taking place on regular basis which is alarming. The need of the hour is to find the solution to all these problems by urging upon the leaders, church and NGOs to come together and work towards the restoration of peace. Failure to act in time may contribute to the even greater uncertainties in the days to come”.(SP News)
