SHILLONG, AUG 20: Former KSU president Lambokstarwell Marngar on Thursday said arresting its leaders will not weaken the Khasi Students’ Union but will intensify its agitation for its five-point charter of demands.

Reacting to the arrest of president Raymond Kharjana, vice-president Pynkmenlang Sanmiet and general secretary Reuben Najiar and the police raid at the KSU office in Jaiaw, Marngar condemned the action alleging vandalism and harassment of residents.

“Three top leaders have been arrested. What we condemn is that after arresting them, they vandalized the office and houses nearby. This is unacceptable,” he said.

He alleged police entered the locality as if hunting militants, used abusive language and intimidation, and tear gas entered houses frightening children.

“Police have to do their duty, but in a proper manner. There are headmen and youth clubs,” he said.

Asserting KSU has many leaders beyond the three arrested, Marngar said, “You can arrest anyone, but the issues will continue.”

He said the government’s action will “not extinguish the fire but add fuel” and accused it of giving more importance to Shree Cement than to indigenous issues. 

The KSU has been protesting the July 31 public hearing for Shree Cement in East Jaintia Hills, alleging it was pre-arranged.

On the violence during Wednesday’s bike rally where 31 vehicles were vandalised, Marngar claimed miscreants infiltrated the rally to defame KSU.

“The KSU has clarified there were opportunists during the rally. In 9 years of leading KSU, I have seen attempts to sabotage its programs,” he said, adding the union will agitate “with wisdom, not weapons.”

He clarified the agitation is not against people of Assam but against the state government for remaining silent on core issues.Targeting the NPP-led government, he said, 

“You were made to sit in the Secretariat by the public. Don’t think CM, Home Minister or MLA is a permanent post. It is contractual for five years. The public has the power to remove you.”

Warning the government, he said, “When the needle leads, the thread will definitely follow. Whatever happens next, the government will have to bear responsibility.”

On the DC revoking permission for the sit-in at Khyndai Lad, he said, “Since the government has fuelled the fire, let the government answer.”

Asked if KSU will demand the release of its leaders, Marngar said, “Our main demand is implementation of the five demands. Release or not, the issues will go on.”