Shillong, April 2: The Achik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF), Garobadha Regional Unit, has requested the South West Garo Hills police to ensure strict security and the prohibition of gambling at the upcoming Chenga Benga Mela. The appeal comes in the wake of safety concerns and past incidents that marred the festival.

In a letter to the Superintendent of Police of South West Garo Hills, on Wednesday, ASPF president Sanjhu T. Sangma expressed deep concern over reports that inquiries are being made about permitting gambling activities during the festival. The ASPF strongly opposed such practices, warning that they could lead to “unlawful behavior” and disrupt the peaceful nature of the festival.

The letter also cited a tragic incident from last year’s mela, where two minor girls were allegedly gang-raped in Gandhipara village. The incident had drawn national attention, with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) expressing concern over the possible involvement of Rohingya infiltrators in the case.

The ASPF demanded ban on all forms of gambling, including betting, lotteries, and games involving money or valuables; enhanced security; installation of CCTV cameras and regular patrolling to deter criminal activity; proper screening and vetting of all individuals associated with the event; and establishment of help desks, emergency response teams, and awareness initiatives to ensure safety for protection for women and children.

The ASPF urged the district police to take immediate action to prevent any illegal activities, especially gambling, and to ensure the safety of all attendees.

Also Read: Hek supports demand for smaller states in North East

Also Watch

Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.

Also, Follow us on-

Twitter-twitter.com/nemediahub

Youtube channel- www.youtube.com/@NortheastMediaHub2020

Instagram- www.instagram.com/ne_media_hub

Download our app from playstore – Northeast Media Hub