Influx of outsiders and internal divisions threaten the community: Lambokstarwell Marngar
Shillong, April 04: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) on Saturday observed the Khasi National Awakening Day. The organisation commemorates this significant day to remind the people that in the 19th century, on April 4, a fierce war broke out between the British Government (East India Company) and the Hima Khasi under the leadership of Hima Khadsawphra, ruled by Pa’iem Tirot Sing Syiem. This war is known globally as the First Anglo-Khasi War and remains one of the longest conflicts in Khasi history.
The programme began with a rally from the premises of Meghalaya Bharat Scouts & Guides, Laban, and concluded at the ground of Shillong Vidyalaya Secondary School, Lumshatsngi.
Tension flared up during a rally after a stone was allegedly thrown from a house opposite to Apayani Tea Stall. According to eyewitnesses, members of the KSU were peacefully proceeding along their designated route when the stone was suddenly hurled from a house in the locality, nearly triggering a confrontation.
In reaction, some KSU members reportedly picked up the same stone and threw it back towards the direction from where it had originated, leading to a tense situation in the area.
Residents who witnessed the incident stated that the rally participants were moving in an orderly manner before the unexpected act disrupted the atmosphere.
Meanwhile, members of the public who were recording the rally on their phones were forced to flee the spot in fear, as the situation threatened to escalate into a clash.
Addressing the gathering, after the rally KSU President Lambokstarwell Marngar said, “We are Khasi by blood and Indians by compulsion.” “We have raised the demand for Inner Line Permit (ILP) with both the Government of India and the State Government, but they have remained silent,” he said.
He also referred to comments on social media stating that KSU has already awakened the people while many still remain unaware. “However, in its 48 years of journey, KSU will not tire in continuing to awaken the community in the days ahead,” he added.
Speaking on the threat posed by illegal influx, the KSU President said, “The growing presence of outsiders in our land, Bri u Hynñiewtrep, is deeply alarming. Yet, there are those from within who are creating divisions.” “Along with the influx of outsiders, internal disunity also poses a serious threat to the community,” he said.
“It is unfortunate that whenever we raise issues or conduct drives against outsiders, cases are filed against members of the organisation from time to time. No one recognises the sacrifices of the youth; instead, they are only criticised and targeted,” Marngar remarked.
He further alleged that outsiders are able to gain control due to the presence of “traitors” within the land and urged the people to learn from the situations in Assam and Tripura. Marngar called for unity among the Khasi people to strengthen the community. “Unity will further strengthen our struggle as a people,” he said, citing the sacrifices of Tirot Sing Syiem and Woh Kiang Nangbah.
“We do not seek awards or recognition; we seek a secure future in all aspects. As a community, we have our own agreements which have been violated by the Government of India despite being signed with the Khasi Syiems. Why is this so? Are we so weak that our rights can be trampled upon? There are those who mislead and divide us,” he stated.
He urged the present generation of educated youth to understand the history of the community and to continue raising its rights, especially as the Government of India allegedly neglects their demands. He also said the organisation will explore other means and will not remain silent until strong protective laws are secured for the community.
The programme was also attended by North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) Chairman Samuel B. Jyrwa, leaders of FKJGP, HNYF, JSU, along with college students and school children.
