Jowai, Aug 26: A conglomeration of NGOs of Jaiñtia Hills under the banner of “Ka Sur ki Nong Jaiñtia” on Thursday organised a “BlacK Flag Peace Rally” to condemn the recent killing of Chesterfield Thangkhiew, the former General Secretary of militant outfit HNLC, in the wee hours of August 13.
The conglomeration includes organisations like the East Jaiñtia National Council (EJNC), Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Jaiñtia Students’ Union (JSU), Federation of Khasi Jaiñtia & Garo People (FKJGP), Hynñiewtrep Youth Council (HYC), Jaintia Youth Federation (JYF) East Jaiñtia, Jaiñtia Students’ Movement (JSM), Jaiñtia National Council (JNC), Hynñiewtrep Achik National Movement (HANM) and the Meghalaya People United Front (MPUF).
The rally commenced at Khliehriat, where a small gatering was organised near the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, followed by a car Rally to Jowai Town where a peaceful march was organised.
During the rally no untoward incidents were reported and many shops in Khliehriat and Jowai were closed. Many who took part in the rally were carrying black flags, banners and were shouting slogans condemning the recent killing of Thangkhiew and also condemning the failure of the Government.
The rally concluded with a gathering at Lad College where speakers from various oganisations raised their voice condemning the killing of Thangkhiew which they said was was unjustified. They termed the killing as excessive use of force just because he was alleged armed with a knife.
Speakers also demanded that the Judicial inquiry instituted by the government be free and transparent and those involved in the killing be punished as per sections of the law.
