In a video message, Sangma said he had received information that individuals were moving towards his residence with the intention of burning his house and attacking his family.
According to him, security officials advised him to relocate to a safer location as part of standard protocol. However, he chose to remain at his residence.
Also Read: Meghalaya govt postpones Garo Hills polls after violence
“Earlier, I received information that different groups and several individuals were heading towards my residence with the intention of burning my house and attacking my family. Based on this information, and in accordance with my security protocol, I was advised to move to another place. However, I did not leave, and I did not agree to relocate, because I am not afraid,” Sangma said.
“Today, my life is not in anyone’s hands except in the hands of our Lord.” He also invoked the legacy of his father, former Lok Sabha Speaker P. A. Sangma, saying he drew courage from it.
“I am also an A-chik (Garo), and the blood of PA Sangma runs in me. I draw courage from his legacy. I love my community deeply, and I am working for the cause of our people with the utmost integrity and honesty,” he added.Sangma on Thursday visited the violence-affected area. Appealing for calm amid the prevailing tensions, Sangma expressed concern over incidents of violence and vandalism reported in different areas.
Sangma noted that government properties and religious places were being destroyed and vandalised, while homes were being intruded upon and families disturbed.
He urged citizens to refrain from violence. He stressed that the situation can be resolved only through dialogue and called upon people to respect democratic systems and institutions, place the interests of the community and the state first, and work collectively to restore peace.
He appealed to citizens to maintain law and order, announcing that the government will soon convene a meeting with political parties and stakeholders to deliberate on the situation and work out a possible solution.
He said the meeting would seek to address issues surrounding the situation and ensure that all sides are taken on board in finding a way forward.
“In this critical juncture, I appeal to all our citizens of Meghalaya, especially Garo Hills, to maintain peace and law and order,” the Chief Minister stated in a social media post.
Sangma on Wednesday said that the government has decided to postpone the April 10 elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council.
Two persons were killed when security forces opened fire to disperse violent mobs in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district on Tuesday.
Tension has flared up amid the situation surrounding the GHADC election nomination process. The incident occurred in Chibinang where clashes took place between tribal and non-tribal groups.
The district administration of West Garo Hills has extended the curfew till midnight of March 13 and continues the suspension of mobile internet services.
The unrest began on Monday after former Phulbari legislator Estamur Mominin was allegedly assaulted by protesters when he arrived at the deputy commissioner’s office in Tura to file his nomination for the GHADC polls.
Protesters have been demanding that non-tribals should not contest or participate in the elections.
