KHARKUTTA, DEC 1: People came out in large numbers today at Kharkutta in North Garo hills to register their protest against killing of two civilians by the army. A crowd of over 3000 people converged at Kharkutta mini stadium and sought action against the erring personnel of the army.
People in the rally denounced the magisterial probe, when the army has owned responsibility for the killing.
Alphius Momin and Sweetbirth Marak from Rajasimla village where shot dead on Wednesday last when they failed to stop their bike during an army checking at Konchikol village, near Kharkutta.
People in the rally wore black badge as a mark of protest against the alleged “highhandedness” of the army. The rally has served a 15-days deadline to the government to meet their demands, failing which the people will initiative severe agitations.
The rally was spearheaded by conglomeration of local citizens organisation including the Garo Students Union (GSU). Legislator from Kharkutta Cherak W. Momin and member of district council Smith Momin was also present at the rally.
Speaking to media GSU activist Rupa Marak said, “There is no need for a magisterial probe, when the army has owned up responsibility for the killing. We want the personnel involved in the incident to be punished”.
The activist also termed the incident as a “cold-blooded murder”.
The rally has sought immediate release of Rs. 10 lakh compensation to the bereaved families. They rally also urged the government of Meghalaya to intervene for removal of army along the Assam – Meghalaya border, where army can conduct operation within the radius of 20 km.
The rally also urged the militant outfits to come forward for talks.
“The government should show its keen interest to initiate talks with rebels for peace to prevail in Garo hills”, Rupa added.
Speaking to the crowd at the rally, Kharkutta MLA Cherak Momin said, “AFSPA Act does not empower the army to intrude inside Meghalaya without informing the local police of their presence. The army has to stop indulging in killing of innocent civilian. This is the second case of army killing at Kharkutta this year”.
In March this year, the army at Kharkutta killed two civilians.
The MLA also assured the public that he would urge the government to upgrade Kharkutta police outpost to a full-fledged police station.
“The magisterial probe will pinpoint the guilty personnel”, remarked Smith Momin, member of district council.
A resolution was passed at the rally to stick to the demands. “We will stand by our demand for immediate punishment for those guilty, Rs 10 lakhs as compensation as well as removal of the army from the state completely”, said GSU activist Wilness Marak.
Placard and banners that were carried by the people in the rally read — ‘We want justice’, ‘We condemn the act of the Army.’ After the rally the citizens and organisations met the families of both victims to provide moral support while also promising to continue the fight for justice.-From Our Correspondent
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