Organisations appeal for public support for peace in Karbi Anglong

Guwahati, Sept 3 (UNI) People of ethnic-strife torn and insurgency-hit Karbi Anglong district of Assam today appealed for discussions between warring groups to sort out differences and return peace to the hills district.

Representatives of two NGOs of the district, Diphu Citizen Peace Forum and Karbi Human Rights Watch, made this appeal at a press meet here.

Pointing to the trouble torn situation in Karbi Anglong, which had witnessed a spurt in militant activities over the past years and became a hotbed of militancy, the representatives called for resolving conflicts through talks and discussions.

They said, ''We may be different in religion, caste and colour.

But we are united by our problems, challenges and threats.'' The NGOs urged for discussions and added, ''Ideas can be exchanged during talks and main conflicts avoided at the grassroots level itself.'' They appealed to the media, political leadership and religious leaders to pave way for restoration of peace in the district.

On the rising incidence of militant activities in the district, the representatives pointed out that extortions and kidnappings have become the order of the day there.

Pointing to a new outfit 'Banga Sena', they said it was carrying out extortions and demanding a 'Bangabhumi' carved out of the district, a move that could disrupt the peaceful coexistence in Karbi Anglong.

UNI