TURA, May 18 � About 6,000 students from more than 30 schools today took part in one of the biggest rallies here ever demanding the safe release of 70 year-old retired teacher Gaganendra Sanyal who was kidnapped on May 9. The rally started from Don Bosco School, where Sanyal was a teacher and ended at Tura Parade Ground.
Sanyal was kidnapped from his house at gun point from in front of his family. Widely regarded for his contributions in the field of education, his kidnapping has led to appeals from various sections of the society.
An eminent educationist, he had received the President�s and Governor�s Awards.
�He was also my teacher and we only have fond memories of Sir Sanyal. The peace rally today is not to demand but to appeal to the abductors for his unconditional release�, said Fr Janaurius Sangma, principal of Don Bosco School.
The rally was also attended by NGOs including NESO, GSU, Bengalee Association, Nepali Association, amongst others.
No outfit from the region has taken responsibility for the kidnapping, though sources revealed that talks are on between the family and abductors to seek a safe release of Sanyal.
�He has been an architect of many a life in the Garo Hills region and was still contributing to another school when he was kidnapped by about four people�, said the principal.
In a startling revelation, some teachers are being demanded money by outfits on a monthly basis and they had to comply to ensure their own safety.
Meanwhile, police sources in Dhubri, Assam, revealed that though the kidnapping took place in Assam, Sanyal is said to have been brought to Garo Hills. DC West Garo Hills Pravin Bakshi stated that investigation into the case was on. �It is too early to comment and the police is on the job to ensure the release of Sanyal�, he said.
