Shillong: The Khasi Students Union gave the state government three days to lock up everyone involved in a string of attacks at Lum Syrman. Vandalism rocked the area during public hearings for a Shree Cement Ltd limestone mining project on July 20 and 31. Assailants smashed vehicles, dug up roads, and beat locals who opposed the plant in Elaka Nongkhlieh. No arrests have been made two months later.
KSU leaders held a central committee meeting Friday to review a five-point demand list originally submitted on August 26. The union claims the government applies the law selectively. While investigators book KSU members without enough proof, the culprits behind the mine-related violence remain free. The group demands the arrest of all attackers, including any government officials involved in the mess.
The union expects results fast. They warned the government that silence does not mean they accept the current delays. The organization stated, “When the law is meant for everyone and no one is above the law, why is it being applied selectively against KSU members, who are being arrested without sufficient evidence?”
Failure to meet these demands will end the union's temporary protest freeze. The group is also watching for the launch of facilitation centers at Umling and Ratacherra. They expect the state to enforce the Migrant Workmen Act within 20 days. The KSU is currently fighting several legal battles, including cases against Samuel Kharbani over a temple protest at the CBI office and a motorcycle rally held on August 19. The government now faces a choice: act immediately or deal with a fresh wave of agitation.
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