SHILLONG: Following a bomb blast at Punjabi lane in Shillong city of Meghalaya on March 09 and alarmed by the threats faced by the residents of the area, the Harijan Panchayati Committee (HPC) has sought the assistance of union home minister Amit Shah.
The HPC in Shillong city of Meghalaya has urged union home minister Amit Shah to intervene and resolve the situation regarding Punjabi Colony in a tripartite manner.
In a letter addressed to Amit Shah, HPC secretary Gurjit Singh highlighted the urgent need for intervention, citing the ongoing tensions and the recent IED bomb blast that has instilled fear among the non-tribal populations.
Singh emphasized that the case concerning the rights and residence of community members is currently under judicial review, with efforts underway between the Meghalaya government, the Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC), and other stakeholders to reach a resolution.
Despite numerous meetings and dialogues, tangible progress has been elusive, Singh noted, adding that the promised intervention by the central government following previous tensions remains unfulfilled.
He expressed confidence that with the central government’s initiative, a resolution could be achieved.
Also read: Meghalaya: Former GNLA camps transformed into tourist destinations in Garo Hills
Describing the recent blast as a deliberate attempt to derail the fragile peace process, Singh underscored its broader implications for communal harmony and the safety of minority communities in Meghalaya.
He criticized the lack of condemnation from the political leadership of Meghalaya and urged immediate action to address the situation.
Singh informed Shah that various Sikh organizations and human rights bodies have visited Punjabi Lane to support the residents in their struggle for rights.
The letter urged the central government to take swift and decisive action to investigate the violence thoroughly and hold accountable those responsible for issuing threats and fostering fear among non-tribal populations.
Highlighting the residents’ desire for peace and harmony, Singh stressed the importance of restoring order to ensure societal cohesion and the Meghalaya’s development.
Singh emphasized the central government’s duty to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights and safety of all citizens, irrespective of their ethnic or communal backgrounds.
The letter concluded with a plea for Shah’s immediate attention and intervention to ensure the safety of Punjabi colony residents and send a strong message against communal violence and intolerance.