Priyank Kanoongo, member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), visited Chenga Benga Temple in Gandhipara, South West Garo Hills, today, the concluding day of the Ashoka Ashtami celebrations.
During his visit, the Meghalaya Indigenous Minority Tribal Forum (MIMTF) submitted a memorandum detailing critical issues faced by indigenous minority tribal communities in the state.
The memorandum highlighted grievances related to the state’s job reservation policy, the need for Assembly constituency delimitation, restrictions on Durga Puja celebrations, absence of a Hindu graveyard in Baghmara, issues in Ichamati, challenges concerning the permanent resident certificate (PRC) and a demand for the creation of a regional council for minority tribes.
Thousands of devotees attended the four-day festival from April 4 to 7.
Kanoongo interacted with temple authorities, community leaders and local residents. Community members renewed their call for justice in connection with an alleged gang rape incident during last year’s mela, urging the NHRC to ensure stronger security measures during future festivals.
While this year’s celebrations were peaceful on the Meghalaya side, an incident of assault was reported from Assam.
A devotee, Basudev Hajong from Poskunipara village in South Salmara-Mankachar district, was allegedly beaten en route to the mela in Teporpara, Assam.
Kanoongo was accompanied by Vikash Kumar, Superintendent of Police; Zanera R Marak, District Social Welfare Officer; Tanweera M Sangma, District Child Protection Officer; Harkumar Hajong, retired IES officer and Dalu MDC Pramod Koch. His visit was part of an official NHRC tour of North Eastern states.
