Umroi MLA George Lyngdoh, of the Congress Party, has urged the state government to select a delegation of MLAs to visit Bangladesh and show solidarity with the indigenous tribals (Khasis, Garos and Jaiñtia) living there.
Taking the issue of reported atrocities against Khasis in Bangladesh, Lyngdoh also urged the state government to take proactive steps to convey its concerns for the indigenous Khasi, Jaiñtia and Garo populace in Bangladesh to the Indian government.
“I appeal to the Bangladesh government to protect the rights of our Khasi, Jaiñtia and Garo friends who are minorities in their country,” the Umroi MLA said.
He said that the people of Meghalaya stand in solidarity with their fellow community members over the international border, who have long been separated because of partition.
“We are citizens of two different countries but the feeling of oneness has not diminished till date. This issue is very delicate and needs to be handled diplomatically through proper government channels,” Lyngdoh said.
In reply, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said that the issue was related to the attack on Khasis and Garos, including damage to their property. Sangma said that this is a matter for the Indian government to take up at the diplomatic level but, as a state, Meghalaya has also taken the initiative in forwarding a memorandum for necessary action.
According to reports, on August 24, 28,000 betel trees belonging to the Khasi and Garo communities were destroyed and three days later three Khasi youths were attacked on their way home in Bangladesh.
On September 2, a protest was held in Press Club Chattar, Moulvi Bazaar, with the demand to ensure that the land rights of the Khasis are protected with a memorandum to this effect handed over to the Deputy Commissioner the same day.
A few days later a reconciliation rally was held at the minority community centre in which various officials attended.
