SHILLONG, NOV 8: The opposition Voice of the People Party on Friday strongly condemned the alleged “excesses and brutality” committed by the MDA government on the office bearers and members of the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners’ and Drivers’ Association.
“The action of the Government deserves strongest condemnation from all quarters and it has no place in a democratic society.
The action of the government has brought shock to the residents of Mawryngkneng particularly women and children,” VPP Spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh said in a statement issued on Friday.
“Instead of ensuring peace and tranquillity in the state the government chooses to strike fear among the people while at the same time treat the cement companies as the VIPs of the state,” he added.
The VPP leader accused the government of prioritizing cement companies over citizens’ welfare, citing previous incidents of brutality, including the Thangskai incident in East Jaintia Hills District and the use of teargases on peaceful protesters.
The party congratulated Mawryngkneng residents for resisting the government’s authoritarianism and demanded the immediate release of arrested MCTODA leaders, dropping all charges against them.
“Peaceful protest is a democratic right that needs to be respected,” Myrboh said.
By Our Reporter
