Senior Assam Congress leader writes to Meghalaya Governor over "attacks on non-tribals"

Writing a letter to Governor B. D. Mishra, Mr. Saikia said that a detailed report must be sought from the State on why such incidents are “repeatedly happening”, violating the fundamental rights of the non-tribal citizens of Meghalaya.

Assam's Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia of the Congress urged Meghalaya Governor Brig (Retd.) B. D. Mishra to enquire into the alleged attacks on non-tribals in the neighbouring State.

Writing a letter to Mr. Mishra, Mr. Saikia on November 4 said that a detailed report must be sought from the State government on why such incidents are “repeatedly happening”, violating the fundamental rights of the non-tribal citizens of Meghalaya.

"I demand that an explanation regarding the recent incidents must be called from the government led by Conrad Sangma and an enquiry committee must be formed to ensure proper investigation of the same," the letter read.

Mr. Saikia pointed out that earlier this week a protest march taken out by some organisations led to massive chaos in Shillong and as per media reports, the protestors attacked passers-by while the police remained "mute spectators".

"It was observed that despite the police presence along the route of the rally, no action was taken against the attackers. While the protesters mainly targeted the non-tribal citizens of the State, many horrific incidents such as vandalism, ill-treatment of women and others were reported from the same incident," he added.

Mentioning a few incidents, Mr. Saikia alleged that they underlined the discrimination of the Meghalaya government towards the non-tribal citizens of the State.

"A directive committee must be formed which should be led by a judge of Meghalaya High Court or equivalent rank to address the issues faced by the non-tribal population of the State," he said in the letter to the Governor. Mr. Saikia appealed to Mr. Mishra to ensure adequate security for non-tribals living in the State.