SHILLONG: The spirit of resistance and patriotism swept through the streets of Shillong today as major pressure groups converged to honour the 163rd Death Anniversary of the legendary freedom fighter, U Woh Kiang Nangbah.
In a display of unity, the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) led a massive gathering alongside the North East Student Organization (NESO), FKJGP, and HITO. The leaders and members assembled at the life-size statue of the martyr near Civil Hospital, Shillong where a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and a moment of silence marked the hero’s ultimate sacrifice for the soil.
While the day was dedicated to history, the message from the leaders was focused firmly on the urgent challenges of the present. The atmosphere turned electric as student bodies addressed three critical issues currently shaking the region:
Justice for Tripura:
A wave of outrage erupted over the tragic and brutal killing of a youth from Tripura in Dehradun. The organizations issued a “stern condemnation,” demanding immediate accountability and safety for Northeast students across India.
Border Threats:
Leaders sounded a clarion call to the Government regarding the “alarming threats” emerging from Bangladesh. They warned of potential aggression toward the North East region and demanded the state and central governments wake up from their slumber.
Protection of Identity:
The meeting concluded with a fierce demand for the immediate implementation of protective laws to safeguard the indigenous people and the territorial integrity of the Khasi-Jaintia hills.
“We are not just remembering a hero of the past; we are carrying forward his flame to protect our future,” remarked one of the organization leaders.
