Provide security to non-tribals, says Assam Legislative Assembly opposition leader Saikia to Meghalaya Governor Mishra

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Leader of Opposition of the Assam Legislative Assembly Debabrata Saikia has brought the attention of Meghalaya Governor Brig (retd), Dr BD Mishra, today that "a series of developments over the past few months have resulted in the exposure of horrific persecution of non-tribals in Meghalaya over the past few years.

In his letter to the Governor, Saikia said, "With the veil coming off its phobic driven shameful mistreatment of non-tribals, the government and various organizations are still in a deep state of silence. As I have been informed, earlier this week, a protest led by a tribal-centric organization has resulted in massive chaos inside the city."

Citing a media report, Saikia said that the protestors had attacked passers-by along the route of the rally while the police remained 'mute spectators. It was observed that despite the police presence along the route of the rally, no action was taken against the attackers.

While the protesters mainly targeted the non-tribal citizens of the state, many horrific incidents such as vandalism, ill-treatment of women and others were reported from the same incident, Saikia said, and added, "But unfortunately till date, not a single criminal has been convicted or punished according to the law. What we can observe is that even after being citizens of India, they are ill-treated in Meghalaya as a third-grade populace. The fear and uncertainty of their lives are still unprotected by the Government. Earlier in 2018, violence had erupted in Shillong's Harijan Colony after an argument between a Khasi bus driver and a Sikh resident. In September this year, the Meghalaya government finalized its plan to relocate Dalit Sikhs from the area. Which portrays the discrimination of Meghalaya Government towards non-tribal citizens of the state."

Saikia demanded that an explanation regarding the recent incidents must be called from the government led by Conrad K Sangma and an enquiry committee must be formed to ensure proper investigation of the same, besides providing security to non-tribals living in the state.

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