Suspend those behind killing of ex-HNLC militant: NGOs to Meghalaya govt

Shillong: Local heads, NGOs and youth bodies from Mawlai in Shillong have now given an ultimatum to the Meghalaya government to suspend those involved in the killing of former Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) leader Cherishterfield Thangkhiew within seven days.

Speaking with media persons after their meeting with chief minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday, Samran Syiem, general secretary of the youth body of Mawlai Pyllun, said that action should be taken against the erring police officials in the same manner as the government suspended those who had abandoned their weapons amid curfew on Sunday.

Syiem alleged that the incident happened because of the failure of the government and the state police department in particular. “Justice should be served to the people. Traditional institutions of the area will now monitor the law and order situation so that peace returns to the state,” he added.

While the representatives from Mawlai submitted a memorandum to the government, chief minister Sangma assured that he will look into the matter.

Also read | Ex-militant’s death: Meghalaya human rights panel chief to hold judicial probe

Sangma said that the chairperson of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission will head the judicial inquiry set up to investigate the killing of Thangkhiew by the police on August 13.

Concerning their demand to suspend the policemen, Sangma said that once the reports of the judicial inquiry come in, appropriate actions will be taken against them.