GSU submits memo on influx of ‘outsiders’

TURA: The Garo Students’ Union (GSU), Phulbari Regional Unit has submitted a memorandum to West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Pravin Bakshi expressing concern over the alarming influx of ‘outsiders’ into Western Plain Belt areas of Garo Hills.
According to GSU, influx is taking place mostly in places like New Bhaitbari, Phersakandi, Rajabala, Khetadowa, Old Bhaitbari, Rajpur, Budubella, Koilar Ghat, Nimaighata, Puskgnipara, Nagar Bandh (Phulbari), Chibinang, Bholarbita, Haribanga, Paham, Maulakandi Burijhar and others, all under Dadenggre Civil Sub-Division.
“People from Assam have been entering into these places since 1987 as many places in South Salmara were washed out by the Brahmaputra River. At first they set up temporary shelters but many have never left and made it their permanent homes,” GSU President, Francewell Marak said.
Marak also revealed that the illegal immigrants also try to enroll themselves in the Meghalaya Electoral Rolls and said a comparison of the electoral roll with the Job Card holders of MGNREGS from each village would supplement the desired result.