The East Jaiñtia Hills unit of the Khasi Students Union (KSU) has called for the removal of a Border Security Force (BSF) camps that cover three locations in the district after members of the public accused the force of harassment.
The KSU submitted a memorandum in this regard to Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong.
The camps targeted by the KSU cover Sonapyrdi, Ratacherra and Hingaria.
The pressure group said that local residents in these areas are facing undue harassment from BSF personnel.
Addressing reporters today, KSU leader Kwilniss S Suchiang said that the BSF camps were set up to enhance security measures in the region and ensure the safety of India’s borders. While this objective is commendable, the KSU is disheartened that a section of the local population is, according to it, experiencing various forms of harassment at the hands of the BSF personnel.
“The reported instances of harassment range from undue interrogations, frequent vehicle searches, intimidation tactics and disrespect towards the local community,” Suchiang said. “These actions have resulted in a sense of fear and insecurity among the residents, negatively impacting their daily lives and overall well-being. Such behaviour is regrettable and not in line with the principles of fairness and respect that our administration seeks to uphold. The Khasi Students Union is gravely concerned about the presence of this camp and is requesting its immediate removal or relocation to ensure safety to the people residing in these areas.”
The union leader referred to an incident in March where a group of armed BSF personnel in uniform allegedly attacked a student of Huroi village while he was on his way to school.
“This incident left the villagers feeling vulnerable and living in fear. This act has caused the villagers and the union to strongly condemn the actions of these personnel and moreover several attempts were made by the BSF to create fear and hostility among the local people,” he claimed.
He further stated that the union wants the BSF camps to be relocated to the remote border areas of the country and for the personnel to also be held accountable for their actions.
Meanwhile, the KSU has also demanded an additional anti-infiltration check gate along National Highway 6 particularly at Tongseng to curb influx from Bangladesh. Existing check gates are unable to stem the tide of illegal migrants, the KSU said. However, Tynsong reportedly told the KSU delegation that a check gate would not help in the matter.
“Tynsong instead said that in every district there is the district taskforce (DTF) and the respective DCs (Deputy Commissioners) should see that together with the Dorbar Shnong the DFT should be implemented. He also told us to meet the DC and that he will also meet the DC to see that they meet the headmen on this matter,” Suchiang informed.
The KSU also asked the government to intercede and take measures over the poor condition of NH-6. Work to repair it has yet to begin despite promises by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Suchiang added.
