Khasi Students Union Demands Stronger Land Laws on U Tirot Sing’s Death Anniversary

Shillong, July 17: Paying tribute to legendary Khasi freedom fighter U Tirot Sing Syiem on his 190th death anniversary today in Shillong, the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) demanded that the state government and those in power prioritize implementing effective laws to protect land and people, rather than engaging in ceremonial activities.

The KSU criticized lawmakers from both the ruling and opposition parties for focusing on political allegations instead of enacting laws that benefit the people.

“The state government and the people in power should not waste time in cutting ribbons but they should instead implement effective laws to protect the indigenous people and their land,” said KSU chief Lambokstarwell Marngar while addressing a function held in front of U Tirot Sing Syiem’s statue here today.

Also read Delhi-Imphal IndiGo Flight Returns Mid-Air After Technical Snag

“People are sending legislators to the secretariat/assembly to legislate laws for ensuring safety and security of our land and the people, but these legislators are seen wasting time in making allegations and counter-allegations instead of discussing important legislations that will protect our land and people,” he said.

Marngar said the KSU has raised many issues concerning the safety and security of the indigenous community. He recalled the arrest of many youth during the 2013 Inner Line Permit (ILP) agitations, and blamed lack of political will for forcing people to take to the streets.

He also called on youths to take responsibility for the safety and security of their motherland and not rely solely on elected representatives.

“As long as we are still breathing, we should not lose hope. We should not depend on these contractual MLAs sitting in the secretariat. We need to stand firm to protect our land and our people,” he said.

Also read UNPO, GNF Call on UN to Press India on Indigenous Recognition, AFSPA Repeal, and Border Fencing in Naga Areas

Marngar expressed concern over proposed railway projects, claiming those involved were motivated by personal gain rather than public benefit.

“When we tried to find out the reason behind bringing railways to the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, we found that their motive is not to benefit the people but for their own interests,” he said, urging people to hold those in power accountable.

The KSU chief reaffirmed the union’s commitment to pursuing issues of safety and security for the indigenous people, adding that brave hearts live on through their deeds.

He urged the community to stay vigilant and identify external forces disguised as sympathizers who attempt to harm society. Marngar also addressed the growing issues of drug abuse and theft in Shillong, questioning why such problems persist despite strong cultural values.

Emphasizing the need for unity, he called on the community to remove “black sheep” who prioritize personal gain over communal well-being. “We are confronted by enemies who live amongst us. Some are willing to sell this land for their own benefit. I call upon you to detect and remove such black sheep from our community,” he said

Also read TYCM to Launch Ground Survey in Tribal Villages to Assess Development Gaps

In his address, North East Student Organizations (NESO) chairman Samuel Jyrwa reflected on the ongoing struggle of the Khasi people for their land and rights.

Jyrwa questioned whether the community had achieved true security and independence despite 54 years of statehood and 78 years of India’s independence.

He urged the younger generation to take responsibility for securing the future, emphasizing the need to remain masters of their land. Jyrwa cited past movements in 1979, 1987, 1990, and recent years as examples of the community’s ongoing struggle to protect its interests.

(Newmai News Network)