Shillong, June 13: One of the prominent Advocate of Shillong, Mr Erwin K. Syiem Sutnga today has written to the home minister Mr H.D.R Lyngdoh urged the state government to initiate talk with the KSU forsaking ego and pride in the larger interest of the peace and safety of the people of this state.
In the letter sent to the home minister Mr Erwin said that “It is with a deep sense of concern and apprehension of the deteriorating law and order situation that I write to you on the issue raised in the subject given herein above”.
The issue relating to the construction of a Rail Head at Byrnihat and the ongoing civil works has created a situation which has exploded into violence and may dangerously impact against innocent people. As you are aware the State of Meghalaya is in a stage of economic crisis due to the continuing ban on the mining, sale and transportation of coal in and outside the State of Meghalaya.
One of the key economic sectors that will be adversely affected by an atmosphere of insecurity will be the Tourism sector which of late has created many employment opportunities for people; especially in Shillong City, East Khasi Hills District, West Khasi Hills District and other areas who would otherwise would be left without jobs.
Against this backdrop, there is a serious concern that both tribal and non-tribal communities may get caught in the ongoing fight between the Khasi Student Union (KSU) and the Government of Meghalaya. Now to add more fuel to the fire, the Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has also threatened to explode I.E.D’s to protest the construction of the rail head and rail lines at Byrnihat.
Mr Erwin said that this should not to be taken lightly and the state Government has to initiate talks immediately forsaking ego and pride in the larger interest of the peace and safety of the people of this state. In fact this contentious issue should be discussed and all apprehensions should be addressed in the proper manner to the satisfaction of all stakeholders.
The matter is left to your wisdom but only remember that any further worsening of the situation will only be blamed on the MUA led government in the state of Meghalaya. In view of the public importance of the issue so that right thinking citizens will also come out and express their views on their matter. Said Mr Erwin K. Syiem Sutnga Advocte.
