SHILLONG : Cabinet Minister and MDA spokesperson Wailadmiki Shylla on Wednesday urged the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) to come forward for dialogue with the Meghalaya Government, saying discussions are the best way to address the union’s demands.
Commenting on the ongoing KSU protests across Shillong, Shylla said the government remains open to discussions and is prepared to listen to the concerns raised by the student organisation.
“Yes, definitely we are ready for talks. I want to make it very clear that the government is open for discussion. I request and urge the KSU to come and have dialogue with the government. That is the way forward,” Shylla said.
KSU’s five-point demands
The KSU’s five-point charter includes a demand to scrap the July 31, 2026 public hearing for Shree Cement in East Jaintia Hills, which the union has alleged was “pre-arranged.”
The union has also sought action against the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, senior police officers and officials of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) over alleged obstruction of participation in the hearing.
Another major demand is the full implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), 2016 until an Inner Line Permit (ILP) system is introduced.
The KSU has demanded Facilitation Centres at all 18 entry points in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, along with verification through the respective Dorbar Shnong.
The union is also seeking immediate implementation of the amended Migrant Workmen Act, 2020.
Recruitment reforms among key demands
Recruitment reforms at NEIGRIHMS form another major part of the KSU’s charter.
The union has demanded an 80:20 female-to-male ratio for nurses and proper reservation for Khasi, Jaintia and Garo candidates.
It has also called for the removal of interviews for Grade B, C and D posts, along with the introduction of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all recruitment boards.
Shylla’s appeal for dialogue comes amid the KSU’s ongoing agitation over its five-point charter, with the union continuing its campaign to press the government to act on its demands.