Shillong, Oct 18: People from all walks of life gathered for two candlelight vigils at Jaiaw and Nongrah localities today in memory of two toddlers who were murdered in recent days.
Local youth of Jaiaw Pyllun organised the candlelight vigil at the community hall–cum–sports complex of Lumpyllon to emphasise community, togetherness, and support to families who are grappling with grief.
Speakers said the candlelight vigil is a tribute to the young lives lost and a warning that the community will not remain silent. They appealed for faster investigations, improved night patrols, and preventive steps to protect children and vulnerable residents.
Organisers called for the installation of CCTV cameras at key locations, tighter law enforcement and coordinated community policing to deter crime and restore public confidence.
North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum urged the state government and police to take swift action to curb rising incidents that threaten public safety.
The body of a 4-year-old girl from Nongrah was found at an under-construction building in September. A 13-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, admitted to having been involved in the death but claimed that it was an accident. He is currently in detention at a juvenile home. The boy and the girl were known to each other prior to the incident.
On October 9, a 7-year-old boy was found dead under mysterious circumstances in the same area. No arrest has been made so far.
