Khliehriat, Aug 11: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has warned that its agitation will intensify across Meghalaya if the state government fails to fulfill its demands by August 15.
Speaking at a public meeting in Khliehriat, East Jaiñtia Hills on Tuesday, KSU President Raymond Kharjana alleged that during the recent public hearing for Shree Cement, only supporters were allowed entry while those opposing it, including KSU members, were blocked. He said they faced lathi charge, tear gas and vandalism of vehicles.
“We stand firm. We demand cancellation of the Shree Cement public hearing and suspension of the DC, SP of East Jaiñtia Hills and senior officials of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board,” Kharjana said.
He said while the centre is still examining the ILP, the state should immediately implement the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, 2016.
KSU General Secretary Reuben Najiar raised concerns over recruitment, alleging that despite clearing exams, many youth do not get jobs without political connections or money. The union also demanded a transparent recruitment process, scrapping of personal interviews, reforms in MPSC and DSC, and an SOP for all recruitment boards.
Other demands include amendment of the Meghalaya Identification Registration of Migrant Workers Act, 2020 and resolution of recruitment issues in NEIGRIHMS.
Hima Sutnga Youth Federation General Secretary Samanbha Supooh extended full support to the KSU’s five demands. He criticised the East Jaiñtia Hills SP for failing to ensure access to the public hearing, and warned that similar force could be used for proposed uranium mining in West Khasi Hills.
“If police can suppress us during a public hearing, they can do the same for uranium. We must stay united to oppose any force that tries to oppress us,” Supooh said.
Representatives from the Jaintia National Council, Jaintia Students Union, Federation of Khasi, Jaintia and Garo People and residents from Nongkhlieh area also attended.
The Khliehriat meeting is the second public meeting announced by the KSU, which began on Monday from Mawkyrwat, to press the state government on five long-pending demands.
Other scheduled meetings are at Mawryngkneng, Umsning, Mairang, Sohra, Jowai and Nongstoiñ.
