MPHRC deplores 'erosion' of democracy in Meghalaya

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG, Sept 15: The Meghalaya Peoples Human Rights Council (MPHRC) has strongly deplored the increasing erosion of democracy due to the repressive policies and many allegations of human rights abuses related to the peoples protest in Meghalaya, stated a press release on Tuesday.

“On Intertiol Day of Democracy 2015, we call upon the government to recognize that civil society is the space that connects the government and its people essential for a truer democracy,” the release said.

 “Unfortutely Space for civil society is shrinking rapidly today with no democratic tradition due to the growing disconnect between elected officials and the people. We see this disconnect manifested in the recent surge of many protest in the State,” said Dino D. G. Dympep, chairman, MPHRC.

“Civil society must reclaim its rightful place by demanding genuine participation in governce, including decisions on peace initiatives, environmental protection and preservation of their rights and culture. “Fast-tracking” legislation ected without consulting stakeholders and without responsible debate is ucceptable in a democracy” said MPHRC.