SHILLONG:
“It was a frightening experience,” said the affected students, who now breathed a sigh of relief as they safely reached Meghalaya from violence-hit Manipur on May 5.
In an interview on May 6, the students shared their experience and termed it as frightening.
“My overall experience was scary because we didn’t know what was actually going on. Yes, riots were happening but, in our area, luckily – by God’s grace, nothing happened and we were protected. It was frightening because we could hear blasting and gun shots. We could only pray,” said Licola Amanda Tariang, one of the students who was evacuated from Manipur.
Echoing similar experience, another student, Sanriiariti S Kharbuli said they felt insecure. “We were assured by our hostel authorities that we were protected and safe. But the sound of gun shots outside was very loud. We were told to turn off the lights; it was a total blackout. We did not know what was happening outside as internet was shut down and communication was cut off,” she added.
ALSO WATCH:
“From what we saw with our own eyes, the situation has been controlled. During this whole time, we didn’t know what was happening as internet was cut. But I feel it is going to get better,” said another student Hazekhayah Diengngan.
The students were also filled with gratitude for the Meghalaya government and the Indian Army for ensuring their safe and hassle-free return to the state.
“I am grateful to be back home. I thank God for protecting us. The state government and Indian Army were very helpful. I feel bad for the other students who are still stuck there. I hope they return to their respective states safely. Our government was the fastest (in following up on the evacuation process),” said Sanriiariti S Kharbuli.
“I want to say a big thank you to the Meghalaya government, the Indian Army. We respect you,” Licola Amanda Tariang echoed similar words.
“I thank God for protecting us and the Meghalaya government for prioritising our safe return and of course, the Indian Army for lending their support, for protecting us during the whole evacuation process,” said Hazekhayah Diengngan.
At least 66 students were evacuated from conflict-hit Manipur on May 5.