Shillong, Mar 19: In a step towards rebuilding peace, a delegation comprising members of the Tura-based Church Leaders Forum, Mothers’ Union, and Garo Baptist Convention (ABDK), visited the Gimegre relief camp under Dadenggre Block of West Garo Hills on Wednesday.
The camp currently shelters around 1,500 displaced persons affected by the violence over participation of non-tribals in the district council elections in the Garo Hills region.
The delegation departed from Chandmari Krima Office under police escort after a prayer led by Rev. Frithing D. Sangma. En route, they were received at Sadolpara Baptist Church.
At the camp, the team interacted with residents, listened to their concerns, and extended support. Relief materials were handed over to authorities for proper distribution.
Later, a peace meeting attended by about 75 participants, including community leaders, Mothers’ Union members, Gaonburas from the Muslim community, and local authorities, was held at Shyamnagar under the leadership of Pittingson R Sangma, ADC and Dr. Rikrak N. Marak, BDO Demdema Block.
Speakers emphasised that peace remains the top priority, urging communities to reject rumours and misinformation that could fuel tension. Participants called for forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity, and resolved to hold similar peace meetings in other areas with active involvement of local bodies.
The meeting also stressed on respecting the rights and aspirations of indigenous communities, while upholding justice as essential for lasting peace. The programme began and concluded with prayers, reflecting a shared commitment to harmony.
The visit concluded with a renewed resolve among all stakeholders to promote peace and translate discussions into sustained grassroots action.
