Families demand unconditional release of arrested persons

Shillong violence aftermath

A Reporter

SHILLONG, June 12: Members of the families of those arrested by the State police during the recent violence that took place in the city, has urged the State government to stick to their promises and unconditionally release those who were arrested.

Around 68 people were arrested by police during the recent spate of violence in the State.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Banrap Hynñiewta representing members of the families said, “In our discussion with the State government on June 4, the government had assured us that all those who had been arrested will be released unconditionally.”

He said that the government had even sent three legislators which included Sports Minister Banteidor Lyngdoh, North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum and Nongkrem MLA Lambor Malniang on the night of June 4 to calm down the protesters.

“It was only after the three legislators read out the letter stating the stand of the government concerning the issue, which include constitution of the High Level Committee (HLC) and to unconditionally release all those who have been arrested by police, the stone pelting and massive protest came to a sudden halt since June 4,” he said.

“We urge the government to stick to their assurances which they had made on June 4, and release all those who were arrested,” he said.

He said soon the families of those arrested will also meet Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to discuss on this issue.

“Most of these youths who were arrested are school and college students belonging to underprivileged families,” he said.