Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has strongly condemned the brutal killing of a youth in West Garo Hills district and assured that all those responsible for the crime will face strict legal action. He also appealed to citizens to maintain peace and communal harmony amid concerns over law and order following the incident.
The incident took place around 2 pm on January 9 at Goalgaon under Rajabala Police Station. The victim, Dilseng M. Sangma, son of Gaban Ch. Marak of Amokgre village in Phulbari, was allegedly attacked by unidentified assailants. He was initially rushed to Bhaitbari Community Health Centre and later referred to Tura for advanced medical treatment, but succumbed to his injuries while being shifted.
Reacting to the incident, Chief Minister Sangma described it as “tragic and unfortunate,” stating, “Yesterday, there was a very tragic and unfortunate incident in Garo Hills, where one youth lost his life and another was seriously injured. We condemn this act and express our condolences to the bereaved family.”
He added that the administration and police are fully engaged in the investigation and assured that “all those involved in this heinous crime will be brought to justice.”
Following the attack, West Garo Hills Police conducted multiple raids and arrested three individuals, while investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects. The Deputy Commissioner also held discussions with representatives of civil society organisations to form a peace committee and deliberate on steps to maintain communal harmony in the area.
An emergency review meeting was convened late Friday night at the office of the Superintendent of Police, West Garo Hills. Senior officials, including the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent and Additional Superintendent of Police, Circle Inspector, and representatives of the ACHIK NGO, reviewed the prevailing security situation, assessed the progress of the investigation, and discussed immediate measures to ensure public safety.
Authorities are considering preventive steps such as the imposition of a night curfew and temporary suspension of internet services to prevent any escalation of unrest. Officials reiterated that the investigation will be conducted in a fair, impartial, and time-bound manner, with strict action against all those involved.
Meanwhile, Dr Mizanur Rahman Kazi, MLA of Rajabala, also strongly condemned the incident. Expressing his condolences, he said he is in constant touch with the district administration and the Chief Minister. “Together we will ensure that the culprits will be punished as per law. We are doing everything possible to maintain law and order and brotherhood amongst us,” he said.
The MLA informed that a peace committee meeting will be held at 3 pm today at Rajabala, to be attended by the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, senior leaders from all communities, and NGOs. As a mark of respect and solidarity with the bereaved family, and to condemn the incident, it has been decided to close all shops from Hallidayganj to Gomaijhora from 12:30 pm on Saturday.
Dr Kazi stated that the overall situation remains peaceful and urged people to refrain from spreading false rumours. Chief Minister Sangma also appealed to citizens to rely only on verified information from official sources as the investigation continues.
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