New Delhi: A curfew was imposed on Monday in areas under Mawkynrew village in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district after some people were injured during vandalism at a Ramakrishna Mission (RKM) School following dispute over construction on the school premises. Preliminary reports indicated that a crowd vandalised the under-construction school building, forcing the police to implement preventive measures to manage the situation.
‘Serious deterioration of law and order’
East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner RM Kurbah stated in her order, “Information has been received about a serious deterioration of law and order in Mawkynrew village under Madanrting PS, with reports of vandalism causing destruction to property at Ramakrishna Mission School.” The DC added that “in view of the urgency of the matter, this order has been made ex parte”.
Ramkrishna Mission facing hurdles, opposition
The Ramkrishna Mission started its school in 2021 with the opening of classes nursery to 4. Every year the school is upgraded by opening an additional class. By 2024, the Mission upgraded to Class VII, while enrolling 166 students from villages such as Jongksha, Lynshing, Umtong, and Mawlein, with nine teachers providing education. However, during this time, the efforts of the Mission have been facing hurdles and opposition allegedly due to local politics and religious biases.
‘Claims of protesters lacks merit’
On Monday, a protest was allegedly led by the former sordar of Mawkynrew, Phrangstarwell Wankhar, and Tanborlang Surong, the president of the Mawkynrew Sports Club. The protesters, including villagers, claimed that the land allocated to RKM by the village council had already been allotted to the Sports Club. While staging protests, they vandalised parts of the school. According to the Mission, the claim of the protesters lacks merit, as the land allocation was properly sanctioned by the village council and backed by the local Syiem. Protesters reportedly also issued threats to raze the school down, reflecting the hostility towards the Mission.
According to Patricia Mukhim, Padmashree and editor of Shillong Times, the RKM’s school has provided a long-awaited opportunity for the people of Mawkynrew and surrounding areas. Yet, instead of support, it faces resistance rooted in misinformation and vested interests. “For Meghalaya to progress, leaders and communities must prioritise equitable access to education and healthcare over personal and political agendas.”
It is alleged that before the vandalism and rampage, a notice was issued by Christian leaders to villagers to come out against Ramkrishna Mission School. All the villagers aged above 18 were asked to come at the RKM school premises on Monday. The notice also said that all the people need to carry tools like rack, plough and Borsa.
