Shillong Nov 9: A protest rally will be held in Shillong on Saturday to condemn the attack on social activist, Agnes Kharshiing and her friend, A. Sangma who both are in critical condition after a group of people allegedly instigated by coal mafias in the district attempted to murder them at Sohshrieh village in coal-rich East Jaiñtia Hills district.

Both Agnes and Sangma are being treated at the critical care unit of North East Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Mawdiangdiang.

Earlier during the day, urban affairs minister, Hamletson Dohling visited the hospital and met the family members of Agnes and Sangma at the hospital.

Well wishers, relatives and supporters of Agnes also thronged the hospital to wish speedy recovery to her and Sangma.

According to NEIGRIHMS spokesperson, Dr K.K. Pandita, the condition of Agnes was still critical and she is under ventilator and Sangma is stable and off the ventilator.

“We cannot say anything so far,” Pandita said.

East Jaiñtia Hills district superintendent of police, S. Nongtnger said that two persons, Elphon Dkhar and Meklison Siangshai from Kongong village suspected to have been involved in the attack were picked up on Friday.

“We are yet to establish who the attackers are. So far, two suspects have been picked up and they are in police custody for five days for interrogation,” the SP said.

A group of persons around 30 brutally attacked Agnes and Sangma at Sohshrieh village while stopping there to take pictures of coal-laden trucks. There were reports of illegal mining in the coal-rich area despite the ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

A case related to attempt to murder and robbery was registered at Khliehriat police station.

The Deputy Superintendent of Police, G. Marshillong has been tasked as an investigation officer.

The statement of the driver of a local taxi that ferried Agnes and Sangma was also recorded.

The NGT had on April 17, 2014, imposed the ban on coal mining in Meghalaya. Though transportation of assessed extracted coal was allowed by the NGT as well as by the Supreme Court at different intervals, but illegal mining and transportation was reported even during the ban period.