Shillong, Aug 29 (IANS) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Saturday visited the R.R. Colony in Rynjah and met members of the local non-tribal community following the vandalism of a bust of freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose during a recent protest by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU).
Conrad Sangma inspected the damaged bust and interacted with residents to hear their concerns following incidents of violence and vandalism reported at different places in Shillong during the KSU’s black-flag motorcycle rally.
The Chief Minister assured the residents that the damaged bust would be restored and sanctioned Rs 5 lakh for the restoration work.
Chief Minister Sangma said the state government would not tolerate acts of vandalism or any activity that could disturb peace and communal harmony in Shillong and other parts of Meghalaya.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to maintaining peace, unity and harmony among different communities residing in the state.
The vandalism took place during the KSU rally, which was organised to press for various demands raised by the student organisation.
The motorcycle rally witnessed incidents of violence and damage to property at several locations in Shillong, prompting concerns among residents.
The state government has said that individuals found responsible for the violence and vandalism would face action in accordance with the law.
The vandalised bust holds particular significance because of Netaji’s historical association with Shillong.
Subhas Chandra Bose first visited the hill city in 1927 and returned in 1938 when he was serving as President of the Indian National Congress.
The bust at R.R. Colony was installed on January 23, 2023, to mark the birth anniversary of Netaji.
During his interaction with residents, CM Sangma sought to reassure the community that the state government would take steps to protect the city’s peaceful social fabric and prevent incidents that could create tension between communities.
The Chief Minister’s visit comes amid efforts by the state administration to restore normalcy following the disturbances linked to the KSU rally and address concerns raised by residents affected by the incidents.
–IANS
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