Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma of Meghalaya has pledged stringent measures following the tragic death of a member of a Garo civil society organization in West Garo Hills district. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the region, occurred on Friday afternoon and has prompted a swift police response and high-level appeals for peace.
Details of the Fatal Assault
Dilseng M Sangma, a member of the A’chik Conscious Holistically Integrated Krima (ACHIK), was fatally assaulted by unidentified persons at Goalgoan in West Garo Hills around 2 pm on Friday. The victim was initially rushed to the Bhaitbari Community Health Centre. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was referred to Tura Civil Hospital but tragically succumbed while being shifted.
The attack reportedly took place after ACHIK members had visited Wadagokgre Aking. The area is known for alleged illegal stone quarrying operations within a zone protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. While the group was returning from their visit, they were ambushed by miscreants armed with weapons.
Swift Police Action and Arrests
Reacting to the heinous crime, police launched immediate raids on Friday night. This led to the arrest of three persons in direct connection with the attack. Law enforcement officials also conducted searches at the residence of a quarry owner who is suspected to be linked to the violence. However, this individual remains absconding as of the latest reports.
Chief Minister Sangma confirmed the police action, stating that efforts are ongoing to apprehend all remaining perpetrators. He assured the public and the victim's family that everyone involved would be brought to justice.
Condemnation and Calls for Peace
Expressing profound grief, CM Conrad Sangma said, "Deeply distressed by the tragic loss of a young life and the serious injury sustained by another in the incident at Rajabala in West Garo Hills district. I strongly condemn this heinous act and extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family."
In a bid to prevent further unrest and address community concerns, the West Garo Hills District Commissioner, Vibhor Aggarwal, has initiated dialogue with civil society organizations. The administration is working to constitute a peace panel to facilitate discussions and resolve tensions. A peace meeting was convened at the Tura Circuit House, bringing together officials, community leaders, representatives from churches and mosques, the central puja committee, youth groups, and NGOs. The gathering unanimously called for unity and cooperation to maintain law and order.
Echoing the administration's appeal, Rajabala MLA Mizanur Kazi has also urged citizens to remain calm. The Chief Minister appealed to the people of Garo Hills to uphold communal harmony and resist the spread of misinformation or rumors that could disturb the region's peace and unity.
Heightened Security Measures
In response to the volatile situation, additional police forces have been deployed across the district. Security has been particularly tightened in sensitive areas to prevent any escalation of violence or retaliatory actions.
The state government's combined approach of strict police action against the culprits and proactive community engagement for peace underscores the seriousness with which it is treating this incident. The focus remains on delivering justice for the victim while ensuring stability in the plain belts of West Garo Hills.
