The Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) held its planned rally against comments made by Trinamool Congressman Kirti Azad, who had recently mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wearing traditional Khasi clothes on a visit to Shillong.
Although Azad subsequently apologised for causing hurt to the community with his comment, HITO went ahead with the rally, which coincided with U Kiang Nangbah Day, which honours a renowned local freedom fighter.
HITO encouraged those joining in the protest to come wearing traditional Khasi clothes. Men rarely wear traditional outfits any more, except on ceremonial or cultural occasions.
Attired in their finery, a large number attended the rally, which went off peacefully from Motphran to the State Central Library premises.
Dkhar said the reason HITO members wore traditional attire is to uphold and show respect to the proud history of the state and its people.
