Public against militants, deadline served

.... children and differently abled also took part in the rally................ — ***…. children and differently abled also took part in the rally…………….***

***Thousands of people came out to protest against kidnapping by militants in Kharkutta***

KHARKUTTA, NOV 25: It was a massive show of strength against growing insurgency and act of terror, which was displayed by over 15,000 people at Kharkutta in North Garo hills today. The protest rally was called to denounce the act of abduction by A’chik National Liberation Army (ANLA), who has allegedly held captive two masonry workers – Soloman Ali, 45 and Shahjuddin Sheikh, 35.

Ali and Sheikh were working under a firm implementing the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). On November 17, the two were held captive by ANLA outfit. The public showed their anger against the outfit by holding placard and burning the effigies of the outfit.

They have resolved to serve two days ultimatum to the outfit to release Ali and Sheikh or else the public would start their operation against the rebel group. “ANLA, Don’t suck blood of Garo hills”, read one of the placard.

The public termed the rebel group as “street beggar”, who are unleashing terror by looting money. The rally echoed in one voice that act of terror will not be tolerated by the people.

.....public burns effigy of militants during the rally. — ***…..public burns effigy of militants during the rally.***

The Kharkutta rally for two masonry workers displayed a perfect example of communal unity and co-existence as people irrespective of caste and creed have come together to condemn the act and sought for immediate release of Ali and Sheikh.

Ali and Sheikh were resident of Kankata and Simoltala village under Goalpara police station in Assam.

Today’s protest was a significant one, as public came out in large number to show their ire against militants. “Enough is enough, we cannot tolerate anymore the terror unleashed by militants. If such act of terror continues, we will not be able to see peace in Garo hills”, said Wilness Marak, an activist of Garo Students Union.

The protest was spearheaded by several citizen organisations including Garo Students Union (GSU), Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People, All A’chik Youth Federation, A’chik Youth Welfare Organisation, Federation of A’chik Freedom, amongst others.

“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Ali and Sheikh”, said Bilseng Sangma of GSU. He also termed that the militant act for their personal gains, they are not bothered about the welfare, progress and development of Garo hills.

He also remarked that entire Garo hills have come together to ensure normalcy is restored. “If situation continues to be fragile with militant continuing to unleash terror, who will be responsible, if Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act is invoked in Garo hills?” asked the GSU leader

“We have come to show our anger against militancy. It is time to put an end to militancy, which has subjected the people to fear”, said a participant.

“While on the one hand the government and the people of Garo hills have been protesting against the imposition of AFSPA. These acts are making the case strong with their irresponsible acts. If AFSPA is invoked, these people (militant) will have to take responsibility for it”, said Cherak Momin, legislator of Kharkutta, who was present at the protest rally.

Another activist said, “If the militant claim that they are fighting for the cause of Garos. Why are they not listening to our call for resorting normalcy in Garo hills”.-From Our Correspondent