Shillong, July 27 — The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) have strongly condemned the Hynniewtrep National Youth Federation (HNYF) for obstructing Assam-registered vehicles from traveling to Sohra and Dawki on July 26. The groups denounced the move as detrimental to the efforts to maintain friendly relations between Assam and Meghalaya.
In a joint press release, AASU President Utpal Sarma and General Secretary Sankor Jyoti Barua, alongside KSU President Lambokstarwell Marngar and General Secretary Donald V Thabah, expressed their disapproval. They highlighted the collaborative approach needed to address shared issues like illegal immigration and criticized the disruption of travel for Assam tourists.
The student organizations, part of the North East Students’ Organization (NESO), have taken the matter seriously. The KSU clarified its non-involvement in the blockade and called for both state governments to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issue. “Tourists should be able to travel to Meghalaya without encountering such disruptions,” the KSU emphasized, advocating for peaceful relations between tourism stakeholders from both states.
Dr. Samujjal Bhattacharjya, Chief Advisor of AASU and NESO, also condemned the blockade and pledged efforts to ensure that Assam vehicles can travel to Meghalaya without issues. He reiterated the commitment of AASU, KSU, and NESO to fostering cooperation and protecting the interests of the indigenous communities while ensuring the safety of tourists.
Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to promoting harmony between the neighboring states and ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for travelers.