R.S. Mooshahary

Shillong, Aug. 5: Former Meghalaya governor Ranjit Shekhar Mooshahary today said only negotiations could bring about a positive outcome to the ongoing demands for statehood by various groups in Assam.

Mooshahary, the first IPS officer from Assam’s Bodo belt, also called for negotiations to put an end to the current violence that has erupted in some parts of the state. “There are people who are demanding separate states (in Assam), and then there are those who are not for it. I feel that only negotiations can bring about a positive outcome regarding such demands,” the former governor told The Telegraph over phone.

Referring to the ongoing agitation in the Bodo belt and also in Karbi Anglong, Mooshahary wanted the state government to initiate talks with the warring groups to contain the situation.

“We may run out of essential supplies as the roads are being blocked. This could also lead to price-rise in the days to come, besides encouraging black marketing. It is, therefore, important for the government (Assam and the Centre) to activate its agencies and hold meaningful negotiations,” he said.

Garo hills closure

The Garo hills are bracing for more closures in the coming days, ranging from those seeking a separate Garoland state to removal of alleged tainted officers.

The Garo Hills State Movement Committee conglomerate of NGOs has announced a dawn-to-dusk shutdown of the five Garo hills districts on Thursday to demand for a separate state. The Garo Students’ Union and its allies have also announced a separate closure of the largest civil subdivision early next week.

The GSU and several student organisations have announced a 5am-to-5pm non-cooperation movement in entire Dadenggre civil subdivision area, including National Highway 51, on August 12 and 13. They are demanding the removal of Selsella block officer D. Roy, accused of misappropriating funds, and revoking the transfer of lady education officer I.G. Momin from Dadenggre to Mairang in Khasi Hills.

The GSU had held office picketing and observed a two-day closure of Dadenggre last week to demand the same.

“The government refused to listen to our demands. We are compelled to restart our agitation programmes. We want Roy removed from Selsella and I.G. Momin retained in Dadenggre,” said GSU regional president Rupa Marak to The Telegraph.