HSPDP warns of law & order breakdown if govt allows holding of yatra in Shillong

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 17, 2024

The Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) said that there is a potential risk of law and order breakdown if the government allows the holding of the yatra, which seeks to declare cow as mother of the nation, in Shillong on October 2. 

In a letter to the chief minister Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday, HSPDP youth wing president Korbariang Syiemlieh said, “We humbly urge you to consider that there may be potential communal tensions and social unrest, there may be promotion of vigilantism and undermining of the rule of law affiliation of exclusionary and divisive messaging along with controversial involvement of Gau Rakshak groups are a serious concern to the citizens of the state who are very much against the mission and intention of the said yatra. There could possibly be a situation where citizens may be provoked giving rise to the untoward incidents which require your due attention.”

“In view of the potential risks that may bring about breakdown of law and order where sentiments of the citizens may  be provoked, it is humbly requested that your kind office deny permission for the yatra from being held as announced by its representatives and further ensure that any yatra or activity in the state promotes social cohesion which has the respect for all communities,” he added.

Syiemlieh said that the party while understanding the importance of promoting animal welfare and cleanliness, believe that this yatra has the potential to create communal tensions, promote vigilantism, and disrupt social harmony.

“The yatra’s focus on cow protection and purification may be perceived as exclusionary and divisive, potentially leading to conflicts and unrest. Moreover, the involvement of Gau Rakshak groups, known for their controversial methods, raises concerns about the program’s true intentions and potential consequences,” he stated.