Northeast Desk, 27th July: The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) have denounced the Hynniewtrep National Youth Federation (HNYF) for blocking Assam-registered vehicles from traveling to Sohra and Dawki on July 26. The move was described as undermining the longstanding efforts to foster friendly relations between Assam and Meghalaya.
AASU President Utpal Sarma and General Secretary Sankor Jyoti Barua, along with KSU President Lambokstarwell Marngar and General Secretary Donald V Thabah, expressed their concern in a joint press release. They emphasized the shared challenges faced by both states concerning illegal immigration and criticized the halting of tourist vehicles from Assam.
The student bodies, under the North East Students’ Organization (NESO), took the issue seriously. During a recent meeting, the KSU clarified its lack of involvement or support for such actions and called for both state governments to engage in dialogue to address the issue effectively. “Tourists should be able to visit Meghalaya without fear,” the KSU stated, advocating for peaceful interactions between tourist taxi associations of both states.
Dr. Samujjal Bhattacharjya, Chief Advisor of AASU and NESO, also condemned the action and assured that measures would be taken to ensure that Assam-registered vehicles can travel to Meghalaya without concerns. He reinforced the commitment of AASU, KSU, and NESO to maintaining harmonious relations and supporting each other in protecting indigenous rights.
The AASU and KSU reiterated their dedication to fostering a cooperative environment between the two neighboring states and ensuring the safety and comfort of tourists traveling between Assam and Meghalaya.