Shillong, Jul 28: The A·chik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM) has submitted a formal appeal to the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of South West Garo Hills, expressing serious concerns regarding what it says is the growing issue of illegal settlers in the villages of Takuranbari and Ishakuri.
The pressure group alleged that unknown communities have been continuously encroaching on land in these villages, reportedly aided by local individuals. They claim that these groups are acquiring land and illegally settling by using fake documents and ration cards to obtain voter identity cards, leading to a sharp increase in population every five years due to illegal migration.
Despite a joint inspection conducted on February 21, 2023 following earlier complaints, no further action has been taken. AHAM also raised concern about the Assam government’s implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and PMAY in these areas, which lie under Meghalaya’s jurisdiction, allegedly encouraging encroachment.
AHAM strongly demanded a door-to-door re-verification of voter identity cards in these areas, examining documents submitted over the past 10 years.
Additionally, AHAM highlighted Mirjumala, an interstate border area with Assam, as a vulnerable entry/exit point for illegal activities such as robbery, drug trafficking and undocumented migration. It warned that with the ongoing eviction drive of so-called illegal settlers in Assam, many may now attempt to relocate to Takuranbari and Ishakuri, posing a threat to the local tribal population.
