Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has sanctioned ₹5 lakh for the restoration of a vandalised bust of freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose during a visit to R.R. Colony in Rynjah, Shillong, on August 29.
Sangma visited the locality to inspect the damage caused to the bust and interacted with members of the community during his visit. The vandalism had occurred recently amid unrest in parts of Shillong.
Following the inspection, the Chief Minister announced the ₹5 lakh sanction for restoring the damaged bust. The move comes as authorities continue efforts to address concerns arising from recent incidents of violence and property damage in the city.
Sangma also reiterated the state government’s opposition to acts of vandalism and stressed the importance of protecting peace, harmony and unity in Shillong and across Meghalaya.
The damaged bust was vandalised during a recent Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) black-flag motorcycle rally in Shillong, according to reports. The rally and subsequent incidents resulted in damage to property at several locations in the city.
The Chief Minister’s visit was also aimed at engaging with residents and addressing concerns within the locality following the recent disturbances.
The Meghalaya government has maintained that those responsible for acts of violence and vandalism will face action in accordance with the law.
The restoration of the Netaji bust is expected to be taken up following the sanction announced by the Chief Minister.
