NONGPOH:
Realising the need to have a common platform to discuss various issues concerning the district, the state, and the region, different stakeholders from across the district, on August 3, formed a forum – of which the name is yet to be decided.
The forum comprises different stakeholders like church elders, pressure groups, women’s organisations, Ri Bhoi Dorbar, Synjuk ki Rangbah Shnong, Ri Bhoi Journalist, and all the MLAs from Ri Bhoi District.
Convened by Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem, the meeting discussed at length the prevailing law and order situation in the state and in Manipur.
“In Shillong, there are some anti-social elements that try to destroy the peace and harmony that the people of Meghalaya are enjoying. Therefore, in the meeting, we can decide on ways and means, as a forum, to help control the situation as such cases tend to create tension among the people of the district and the state,” Syiem said.
A journalist from Ri Bhoi, Cornelius Laloo, said, “There are so many issues that we have to take into consideration; but for now, let’s just focus on peace because our state has been known as the safest state but now, the state is experiencing some serious challenges that affect the safety of our citizens.”
On the other hand, Rev. DS Muktieh said, “Peace is something that will not come on its own; we have to create and maintain it. Therefore, it is important to have a forum to help maintain this peace. Our District is the ‘Gateway of the State of Meghalaya’ and other neighbouring states; hence, our district is a very sensitive area that can help create or break the peace.”
Other speakers suggested having a forum to look after development, Border Issues, Influx, and Peace.
During the meeting, it was resolved that the name of the forum will be decided at a later stage but at present, the forum will focus on the peace and safety of children and women.
The members of the ad hoc body included Banbuhai Makdoh, Fr. Peter Syiemlieh, Ferdinand Kharkamni, Rev. D.S. Muktieh, Mayral Born Syiem, RB Shadap, and Biolin Lyngdoh.