SHILLONG, SEPT 4: Accusing police of biased action, the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) on Friday set a three-day deadline for the government to arrest those behind the attack on anti-public hearing protesters at Lum Syrman.
After its CEC meeting on September 4, KSU said the state government during talks on August 26 had assured action on five key demands. These include setting up facilitation centres at Umling and Ratacherra and implementation of the Migrant Workmen Act within 20 days.
“We will follow up on these assurances in coming weeks. Our silence does not mean we have accepted delay,” KSU said.
The Union alleged its leaders are being booked almost daily and condemned the arrest of Samuel Kharbani, general secretary of Shillong Mihngi Circle.
According to KSU, Kharbani was called to Sadar police station for opposing illegal construction of a mandir inside CBI office, a public office, but was instead arrested over the August 19 peaceful bike rally.
The Union said the move shows “failure and inability” of police.
“Police has not arrested even one person who damaged vehicles, dug up public road and attacked people opposing Shree Cement public hearing at Elaka Nongkhlieh on July 30-31, even after two months. Instead, they randomly pick up our members without evidence,” it said.
KSU demanded arrest of all culprits including government employees if involved within three days.
“If demands are not met and government does not show intent to implement them, we will lift temporary suspension of agitation announced on August 26 and resume public agitation in democratic manner,” it warned.
