Shillong, March 20: Hundreds of KSU activists on Tuesday took out a procession to mark the beginning of the year-long celebration of the Union’s 40th anniversary even as it reiterated its fight against influx and illegal immigration into the state.
The procession which also witnessed participation of former leaders of the Union, began from the office of the KSU at Jaiaw and culminates at the state central’s library, where a formal function to inaugurate the celebration was held.
As the processionists carrying blue flags passes through the Khyndailad area, shops were seen with their shutter down. However, few shops and a vehicle were damaged when there was a stone pelting incident during the procession.
Delivering his presidential address on the occasion, KSU chief Lambokstar Marngar said that the demand for implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system is very much alive.
“Just because the Union is demanding for speedy setting up of the entry/exit points, it does not mean that it is sleeping over the demand for implementation of the ILP,†he said while urging many not to misunderstand the union’s stand on the issue.
Marngar informed that it was after the reluctant of the state government to implement the ILP that the leaders of the KSU had proposed the implementation of the comprehensive mechanism for tackling the issue of influx and illegal immigration into the state.
“We are still conducting a follow up and also discussing with the cabinet ministers for speeding up the implementation of the comprehensive mechanism also,†he said.
Pointing out that in neigbouring states like Manipur a resolution was already passed for implementation of the ILP, Marngar however said but here in Meghalaya, the government has failed to even discuss the issue.
“It is high time that the issue is brought in the Assembly and we hope that the new government in the state will come up with effective laws to resolve the issue of influx,†he added.
Meanwhile, the KSU chief also warned the government over the delay in resolving the inter-state border dispute with Assam.
“46 years have passed yet the state is without proper boundary. We hope that the new government will take up this matter seriously because if this issue continues, we will be compelled to think otherwise and ensure we do not remain as spectators,†he said while referring to hardships faced by the people residing along the border area.
Stating that the Union has been struggling on various issues affecting the indigenous community for past 40 years, Marngar said, “The more the challenges, the more stronger the KSU will be.†He also pledged that the Union will continue to fight for the cause of the indigenous community.
Also present on the occasion were Sports minister Banteidor Lyngdoh, Urban Minister Hamletson Dohling, who is also a former general secretary of the KSU, former leaders of the Union and others.