Shillong, Jul 30: The Garoland State Movement Committee (GSMC) has submitted a memorandum to the Chief Executive Member of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, urging action on 10 long-pending issues concerning the rights and welfare of the indigenous Garo community during the ongoing budget session.
The key demands include the enactment and codification of the Garo Customary Law to address marriage, inheritance and traditional institutions, and a review of the GHADC’s role under the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, 2016 to strengthen protection of indigenous residents.
The committee also called for the creation of a separate Electoral Roll, introduction of anti-defection provisions for the council, and a review of the contract registration framework to safeguard the economic interests of Garo Hills tribals. It further sought a temporary suspension of new appointments in GHADC until administrative and recruitment policies are reviewed.
Other issues raised include examination of the applicability of Article 243ZC in Sixth Schedule areas, an inquiry into the delay in construction of the two-storied GHADC guest house in Shillong where the contractor allegedly withdrew ₹1.38 crore in 2023-24, regulated issuance of TNT to local residents, and a review and possible cancellation of land pattas issued to non-tribal persons found to be in violation of law.
GSMC General Secretary Tony Tojrang B. Marak and Organizing Secretary Jason Tekrang M. Sangma urged the Executive Committee and council members to deliberate on the demands with sincerity and adopt suitable resolutions in the larger interest of the indigenous people of Garo Hills.
