Newly elected Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) President Raymond Kharjana has asserted that the newly constituted Central Executive Council (CEC) will not be intimidated by external forces or government pressure, despite being a young leadership team.
Delivering his first address as KSU President, Kharjana reflected on his journey within the organisation, recalling the challenges he faced since joining the union. He revealed that after becoming a member of the Central Executive Council, he spent four months in jail during the agitation against the railway project in Meghalaya.
He maintained that such experiences have only strengthened his resolve to continue fighting for issues affecting the indigenous people of the state.
Kharjana also issued a strong warning against any attempt to revive uranium mining activities in South West Khasi Hills, reiterating the union’s longstanding opposition to uranium extraction in Meghalaya.
According to him, issues concerning the rights, identity and future of the indigenous people are not solely the responsibility of pressure groups but also require serious intervention from elected representatives and the government.
He informed that the KSU has already sought an appointment with Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and other public representatives to discuss matters concerning the welfare and protection of the Khasi community.
The newly elected president stressed that the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) remains the union’s top priority. He declared that the organisation would not retreat from its demand until the ILP is implemented in Meghalaya.
Kharjana further reiterated the KSU’s position that discussions on railway connectivity cannot proceed unless adequate constitutional and legal safeguards are put in place to protect the interests of indigenous communities.
The KSU also formally constituted its Central Executive Council for the 2026-2029 term, with Raymond Kharjana elected as President and Reuben Najiar as General Secretary.
The programme was attended by former KSU leaders, including Lambokstarwell Marngar and Donald V. Thabah, who delivered messages of encouragement to the new leadership. Leaders of various pressure groups and invited guests were also present.
