SHILLONG: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has lodged a formal complaint against Meghalaya Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma, accusing him of delivering a divisive and inflammatory speech during the recent 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign.
In a letter addressed to the Superintendent of Police (SP) of East Khasi Hills, Riruraj Ravi, Finance Secretary of VPP, Danny Langstieh, condemned the Minister’s remarks as a direct attack on their party.
Langstieh’s letter stated, “Allegations were made that the said party (VPP) will destroy, kill, oppress, and annihilate other communities which is totally false, concocted and outright incorrect.”
The complaint also highlighted that such statements not only violate legal standards but also pose a severe risk of inciting communal disharmony and potential violence.
“… such reckless, communal and hate spewed speech is not only wrong and illegal but also dangerous as it contributes to an atmosphere of causing communal disharmony and the likelihood of communal tension, riots and violence,” the latter further added.
Citing a directive from the Supreme Court concerning hate speech, which invokes sections 153A, 153B, 295A, and 505 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Langstieh urged the SP to take swift and decisive action against Minister Sangma.
The Supreme Court has mandated immediate action in cases where such speeches are made, and any delay may be seen as contempt of court, the letter reminded.
The controversy erupted after a video purportedly showing Education Minister Sangma making provocative remarks against VPP went viral on social media.
In the video, allegedly filmed during a campaign rally in Garo Hills, Sangma is heard warning against the VPP, suggesting dire consequences if the party assumes power in Meghalaya, specifically mentioning the A’chiks (Garo people).
However, the authenticity of the video remains unverified at this time.
The Meghalaya Education Minister or his office has not yet issued a formal response to the allegations.
