Pressure groups in the state used the 158th anniversary of the death of freedom fighter Kiang Nangbah to press once again for the introduction of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Meghalaya.
Speaking on the occasion, Khasi Students Union (KSU) President Lambokstarwell Marngar said, “We do not demand a separate flag or a separate constitution but we demand ILP in Meghalaya.”
Marngar was also miffed that the resettlement of non-Khasis in Them Iewmawlong had not been achieved till date. He blamed this on a lack of political will.
Meanwhile, Federation of Khasi, Jaiñtia and Garo People (FKJGP) President Wellbirth Rani said that the government should speed up the construction of entry-exit checkpoints throughout the state, especially in the Jaiñtia and Garo Hills regions. There is just one currently functioning checkpoint, in Umling in Ri-Bhoi, and this is not enough, he added.
Rani also warned that the pressure groups will intensify their agitation if the government delays in expediting the setting up of entry and exit points.
Kiang Nangbah was hanged by the British in Jowai on December 30, 1862 for leading an uprising against British rule.
Remembering the freedom fighter, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma in a tweet said, “On his 158th death anniversary, we pay tribute to the martyrdom of U Kiang Nangbah, the freedom fighter from #JaintiaHills of #Meghalaya who led a rebellion against the British army & fought for the rights of the people. Stories of his bravery will always be etched in our hearts.”