Khasi Students’ Union Blames Meghalaya’s Political Leaders for Failing to Protect Indigenous Community
The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of the Khasi indigenous community in Meghalaya since 1979. At a recent gathering to felicitate students who completed their BHMS and BAMS at the North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Homoeopathy (NEIAH), KSU General Secretary Donald V Thabah lamented the failure of political leaders to safeguard the interests of the Khasi people.
According to Thabah, the lack of effective leadership has led to land alienation, safety concerns, and a threat to the state’s demographic structure, prompting the KSU to take a leading role in addressing these issues. The union has also been vocal in its campaign against illegal immigration and influx in the state. KSU has prioritized education, recognizing its significance in the development of the indigenous people, and has been working towards providing relief during natural disasters and addressing other social issues.
In the early years, KSU focused on student-related issues, such as post-matric scholarships, which the government initially limited to only two students per family. This forced many economically disadvantaged students, mostly from the Khasi community, to drop out of college. To mitigate this, the KSU opposed the government’s decision, eventually securing a reversal of the policy.
The KSU has also expanded its reach, establishing units in other northeastern states, including Manipur’s Tamenlong, Assam’s Barak Valley, and Mizoram’s Vairangte. KSU members in Delhi and Bengaluru have also assisted local Meghalaya workers in these cities, helping them avoid exploitation by unscrupulous organizations. Noting that many were lured to these cities with false promises of decent employment, Thabah expressed concern over the widespread deception.
Twenty-six students who completed their BAMS and BHMS degrees were honored during the felicitation ceremony, which was attended by NEHUSU President Sandy Sohtun, KSU NEHU Unit President Shibaitlang Rymbai, NEIAH Deputy Director Dr. A Wanshai Shynret, and other officials.
The KSU’s tireless efforts to protect the rights of the Khasi community have been ongoing for decades, and their advocacy has resulted in positive changes, including the improvement of educational opportunities and the empowerment of the indigenous people. As the union continues to fight for the rights of the Khasi community, their dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of Meghalaya remains unwavering.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/03/23/political-leaders-failed-to-protect-rights-of-indigenous-people-ksu/
Category : MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2025-03-23 02:18:00
