Atrocities on Bengalis: MLA Kamalakhya meets Meghalaya CM, expresses dissatisfaction

Dec. 2: Atrocities on the Bengalis residing in Meghalaya is not a new phenomenon. It has been the trend since almost the formation of the state. The Bengalis in Meghalaya are always at the receiving end. However, recently, there were number of instances wherein the Khasi Students’ Association allegedly was involved in perpetrating atrocities on the Bengali population. The recent closure of the gate of Shillong Ramakrishna Mission is one such glaring instances of intolerance. To add to the woes are the reports which came in the media as regards implementation of Inner Line Permit (ILP) in the state of Meghalaya.

It is in this backdrop that North Karimganj MLA Kamalakhya Dey Purakayastha, on Tuesday, met with Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma in Shillong over alleged atrocities on Bengali population at the state. The MLA also lodged dissent to the proposed ILP in the state as it will create problem to the commuters moving from South Assam to Guwahati. He was accompanied by Sabyasachi Roy, Associate Professor of Karimganj College and Advocate Ahmedur Rahman Tapadar. During the conversion, Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma accepted the allegations of atrocities on Bengali population in his state.

As regards posters wherein it was written that ‘All Bengalis are Bangladeshis,’ the Chief Minister said that it was the handiwork of some miscreants. The CM accepted that there were some sporadic incidents of atrocities on the Bengalis but in every case his government has taken action. Sangma said, “Our government is committeed to move along with all.” However, on the isuue of implementation of ILP, the Chief Minister said that it is the decision of the Union government. At the same time, he also said that ILP will not be required for the transit passengers.