When music and slogans go hand in hand, the Voice of the People’s Party’s (VPP) peaceful “March to Secretariat” in Shillong reflected a disciplined public movement, with party MDCs seen singing as they led thousands of supporters through the city streets. Significantly, the march concluded before schools closed for the day, ensuring there was no disruption to students or school traffic during dispersal hours.
Be it a protest, political rally, public gathering, concert or even a government programme, music has long been an inseparable part of public events. The VPP march stood out not only for its massive turnout but also for its orderly conduct. Despite thousands participating in the procession, supporters adhered to traffic regulations, maintained discipline throughout the march and ensured there was no unruly behaviour, with music accompanying the peaceful demonstration from start to finish.
Led by VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, the march was organised to convey public dissatisfaction over the government’s functioning and its alleged failure to respond to repeated demands raised by the Opposition.
Speaking to mediapersons, Basaiawmoit said the party had instructed its supporters and volunteers to ensure that the march remained peaceful and did not cause inconvenience to the public.
“Our supporters, our volunteers all those who supporting us are made to understand that we will do anything which is peaceful and which is right. We do not have any intention to create any law and order problem or public inconveniences,” he added.
