Peace rally at Williamnagar hails SIT, demands speedy justice
Tura, Jan 19: The state police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to inquire into the sensational killing of activist Dilseng M Sangma at Goalgaon, Rajabala in West Garo Hills district.
The SIT will be headed by RA Sangma, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Dadenggre.
Meanwhile, formation of the SIT has been welcomed at a peace rally organised by several civil society organisations to demand speedy justice in the case, at Williamnagar on Monday.
Led by the Garo Students’ Union (Eastern Zone), the rally was also participated by representatives of Mother’s Union, GES, AOSW, APA, FKJGP, Pick-Up Association, AHAM, ACHIK, AIGU, Simsanggre Indigenous People’s Forum (SIPF), Auto Association, NGCO, ADIL, AAYF and FAF, reflecting widespread public concern over the incident.
Ahead of the rally, a public meeting was held under the chairmanship of Taison D Sangma of the All India Garo Union (AIGU), which was attended by leaders of various organisations, parents and citizens from all sections of society.
Addressing the gathering, GSU Eastern Zone general secretary Alex D Shira welcomed the formation of the SIT and said the public expects a fair, transparent and time-bound investigation.
He stated that justice for Dilseng M Sangma must be delivered to restore public confidence and deter such crimes in the future.
Senior citizen Trueman M Sangma expressed hope that the SIT would bring accountability and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. He stressed the need for decisive action to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
Former vice-chairman of State Women’s Commission and Principal of Educere Secondary School, Williamnagar, Gamchi Timre R Marak, condemned the killing and urged the authorities to ensure that the SIT functions independently and effectively.
She also cautioned the public against emotional reactions, stressing the importance of lawful and measured approaches.
SIPF president Arun Marak informed the gathering about resolutions adopted by the civil society conglomerate during a meeting held on January 13, including demand for a dedicated investigation mechanism in the case.
Pastor Traistor D Shira of Bolkinggre Baptist Church conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and said the incident serves as a serious warning. While welcoming the formation of the SIT, he urged the public to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
Following the meeting, a peace rally was taken out from the Rongrenggre Government Higher Secondary School basketball court, passing through Soil Lake, the Main Market and the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, before returning to the starting point.
All shops in Williamnagar remained closed during the programme as a mark of solidarity.
