Shillong, Jan 10: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday strongly condemned the killing of a youth in West Garo Hills district, describing the incident as tragic and deeply disturbing, while assuring that all those responsible would be dealt with strictly under the law. He also appealed to the public to maintain peace and communal harmony as the investigation progresses.
The incident took place around 2 pm on January 9 at Goalgaon under the jurisdiction of Rajabala Police Station. The victim, identified as Dilseng M. Sangma, son of Gaban Ch. Marak and a resident of Amokgre village in the Phulbari area, was allegedly attacked by unidentified assailants. He was first rushed to the Bhaitbari Community Health Centre and later referred to Tura for advanced medical care, but succumbed to his injuries while being transported.
Reacting to the incident, the Chief Minister said it was a “very tragic and unfortunate” event in which one youth lost his life and another sustained serious injuries. Expressing condolences to the bereaved family, Sangma said the state government would not tolerate such acts of violence and assured that the police and district administration were fully engaged in bringing the culprits to justice.
Following the attack, West Garo Hills Police carried out multiple raids and arrested three persons in connection with the case. Investigations are continuing to identify and apprehend other suspects allegedly involved. In response to concerns over law and order, the Deputy Commissioner convened a meeting with representatives of civil society organisations and initiated the formation of a peace committee to help maintain communal harmony in the district.
An emergency review meeting was also held late on Friday night at the office of the Superintendent of Police in West Garo Hills. Senior officials, including the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent and Additional Superintendent of Police, Circle Inspector, and representatives of the ACHIK NGO, assessed the security situation, reviewed the progress of the investigation and discussed immediate measures to ensure public safety.
Officials said preventive steps, such as the imposition of a night curfew and temporary suspension of internet services, are being considered to prevent the spread of unrest or misinformation. The district administration reiterated its commitment to a fair, impartial and time-bound investigation, stressing that stringent action would be taken against all those involved in the crime.
Chief Minister Sangma also urged citizens to remain vigilant against rumours circulating on social media and to rely only on verified information issued by official sources, emphasising that cooperation from the public is essential to restore normalcy and uphold peace in the region.
