Amid escalating tension in parts of Garo Hills, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday claimed there were reports that different groups and several individuals were heading towards his residence with the intention of burning his house and attacking his family, even as he said he refused security advice to relocate and instead chose to remain at his residence while appealing to citizens to maintain peace.
The Chief Minister said he had received information earlier that groups of people were moving towards his residence with the alleged intention of setting it on fire and attacking his family. According to him, security protocol required that he move to another location following such inputs, but he decided against leaving.
“Dear friends, earlier I received information that different groups and several individuals were heading towards my residence with the intention of burning my house and attacking my family. Based on this information, and in accordance with my security protocol, I was advised to move to another place. However, I did not leave and I did not agree to relocate, because I am not afraid. Today, my life is not in anyone’s hands except in the hands of our Lord,” he said.
Invoking his identity as a member of the A•chik community and the legacy of his late father and former Lok Sabha Speaker P.A. Sangma, Sangma said he draws strength from that legacy and remains committed to serving the people.
“I am also an A•chik (Garo), and the blood of P.A. Sangma runs in me. I draw courage from his legacy. I love my community deeply, and I am working for the cause of our people with the utmost integrity and honesty,” he said.
Expressing concern over incidents of vandalism and violence reported from the region, the Chief Minister said such acts were harming the social fabric and disturbing the lives of ordinary citizens.
“During these difficult times, I sincerely appeal to every citizen to maintain peace. We are witnessing incidents where government properties and religious places are being destroyed and vandalised. People’s homes are being intruded upon and families are being disturbed. Such actions do not reflect the values of our community and society,” he said.
Stating that the prevailing situation could only be resolved through dialogue, Sangma urged citizens to refrain from violence and work collectively to restore peace and normalcy.
“Therefore, I once again appeal to everyone to refrain from such acts. Whatever situation we are facing today can only be resolved through dialogue. Let us not resort to violence. Instead, let us respect our systems, put our community and our state first, and work together to restore peace. This is my earnest appeal to all of you,” he said.
