Shillong:
The prime witness in the assault of social activist Agnes Kharshiing in November 2018 at Sohshrieh, East Jaintia Hills has written to the state chief secretary asking that the order for the withdrawal of her police security be revoked.
Speaking to The Meghalayan on Wednesday, Amita Sangma, who also sustained injuries during the assault, claimed that the authorities were shirking their responsibilities and were tightlipped when asked about the withdrawal of her security. Her security was withdrawn on April 26.
She also filed an RTI in the Home department on May 2 seeking information on the withdrawal of security and has asked the Public Information officer to reply within 48 hours as per Section 7 (1) of the RTI Act as it pertains to a threat to life and liberty.
She asked who took the decision and what was the reason to withdraw the security personnel.
She expressed shock that security was withdrawn without any prior notice even though she is the prime witness in the case.
“I do not feel safe. The mafias are roaming free. Nobody is clear as to why the security was withdrawn and even the release order is also not there. I am not aware of the status of the case also. There is no justice and I have not received the compensation either,” she said.
She claimed that a letter was sent from the Special Branch of police to withdraw the security and said that no reason was provided.
An irked Sangma said, “Who spread the report that there is no threat to my life? There has to be an ulterior motive for this. Thieves do not give prior information that they will rob a house. I do not feel safe at all. I get calls from people that Nidamon (Chullet) is nearby.”
It may be mentioned that Nidamon Chullet is a prime accused in the assault of Kharshiing and Sangma.
In the letter to the chief secretary, Sangma stated that her life is being targeted by the coal mafia who had instigated the mob attack and any unexpected adversity may occur in the absence of security.
It was on November 8, 2018, both of them went to Sohshrieh to check on reports of illegal coal mining and illegal transportation despite the ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal in 2014.
“I have approached the High Court of Meghalaya vide WP (C) No. 433 of 2018 whereby the Hon’ble High Court in vide order dated.15.11.2018 was pleased to grant the security guard to protect and safeguard my personal life and liberty and my family members as it was highly apprehension that I might be attacked and kill by the goons or call mafia at any point of time,” she stated in her letter.
The police department provided security after ascertaining that she and her family were indeed under serious threat.