Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma says he refused to leave residence despite mob threat
In his video message, Sangma said that he received information that people were moving towards his house with the aim of burning his house and attacking his family.
According to him, security officials advised him to move to a safer location as part of standard protocol. However, he preferred to stay at home.
Also Read: Meghalaya government postpones Garo Hills elections after violence
Sangma said, “Earlier, I received information that different groups and several people were heading towards my house with the intention of burning my house and attacking my family. Based on this information and as per my security protocol, I was advised to move to another place. However, as I was not afraid, I did not leave and did not agree to shift.” he said.
“Today, my life is in no one’s hands except the hands of our Lord.” He also touched upon the legacy of his father, former Lok Sabha Speaker PA Sangma, and said that he was encouraged by it.
“I am also an A-chik (Garo) and PA Sangma’s blood flows in me. I am encouraged by his legacy. I deeply love my community and work with utmost integrity and honesty for the cause of our people,” he added. Sangma visited the violence-affected area on Thursday. Calling for calm amid prevailing tensions, Sangma expressed concern over reported incidents of violence and vandalism in different areas.
Sangma noted that government properties and religious sites were vandalized and destroyed, houses were broken into and families were disturbed.
He called on citizens to stay away from violence. He stressed that the situation can be resolved only through dialogue and called upon people to respect democratic systems and institutions, place the interests of the community and the state first, and work collectively to restore peace.
He appealed to citizens to maintain law and order, announcing that the government will soon convene a meeting with political parties and stakeholders to deliberate on the situation and work out a possible solution.
He said the meeting will aim to address the issues surrounding the situation and ensure all parties are on the same page in finding a path forward.
“During this critical period, I appeal to all citizens of Meghalaya, especially Garo Hills, to maintain peace, law and order,” the Prime Minister said in a social media post.
On Wednesday, Sangma said the government has decided to postpone the April 10 elections for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council.
Two people were killed when security forces opened fire to disperse violent gangs in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district on Tuesday.
Tensions have increased due to the situation surrounding the GHADC election nomination process. The incident took place in Chibinang, where clashes took place between tribal and non-tribal groups.
The West Garo Hills district administration has extended the curfew till midnight on March 13 and continues to suspend mobile internet services.
The unrest began on Monday after former Phulbari MP Estamur Mominin was allegedly attacked by protesters when he arrived at the deputy commissioner’s office in Tura to file his candidacy for the GHADC elections.
Protesters are demanding that non-tribals should not contest or participate in elections.
