Editor,
I write this letter with deep anger and shock at the violence that erupted during the so‑called KSU rally this evening. What was permitted as a “peaceful gathering” turned into a night of chaos. Vehicles were burnt, innocent citizens were attacked, and fear once again gripped Shillong’s streets. This is not protest; this is lawlessness.
When the administration clearly could not ensure even basic security, why was permission granted at all? If an undertaking was taken from the organisers, then it must not remain a mere formality. The organisers should be held fully accountable for every act of vandalism committed under the banner of their rally.
The burning of government vehicles is not just an attack on the administration, it is the destruction of public property bought with taxpayers’ money. Will these hooligans ever realise that they are damaging assets that belong to the very people they claim to represent?
Reports of the damaging of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s statue and the vandalisation of Swami Vivekananda’s bust is outrageous and such acts cannot be tolerated under any circumstance. These are national icons and symbols of India’s freedom, intellect, and sacrifice. To defile their memorials is an insult not only to history but to the collective dignity of our society.
It is time for the government to stop taking such incidents lightly. Any rally that allows masked attendees, or any gathering where security cannot be assured, must be denied permission outright. Public safety cannot be repeatedly compromised in the name of “freedom of expression.” Rights come with responsibilities, and those who fail to uphold them should face strict consequences.
Shillong deserves better than this cycle of violence, vandalism, and administrative negligence.
Suzzane K.
Shillong-2
