Tura, May 17: The Catholic Church from across Garo hills today met here to strongly condemn the ongoing militancy in the region. As a mark of protest, all catholic institution in Garo hills will remain close on May 20.
On May 14, a catholic mission in Ampati, about 70 km from here was issued an extortion threat by a militant group demanding Rs. 5 lakh. The outfit has set a deadline of May 20 to pay the ransom.
In a release issued here, the catholic diocese of Tura said, “We strongly condemn the ongoing militancy and extortion by self-styled groups on individuals, families and institutions. This has led to utter lawlessness, sense of fear and insecurity, price rise, increase in poverty and poor quality of education”.
It also stated that no money or ransom would be paid to any anti-social groups irrespective of whatever the consequences might be.
“Church has always been at the service of the people and will continue to be so and its doors are open for constructive dialogue for the well-being of the people of Garo hills”, said the release.
The catholic diocese has made an appeal to all people of ‘Good Will’ to cooperate and work towards peace, progress and prosperity in Garo hills.(SP News)
