HSPDP, GSMC set to visit Delhi with demand for separate states

SHILLONG, Dec 7: The demand for bifurcation of Meghalaya into separate Khasi-Jaintia and Garo states is now set to echo on the streets of the national capital with the Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) all set to meet central leaders over their demand.
The HSPDP will be supported by the Garoland State Movement Committee (GSMC) and the National Federation for New States (NFNS).
In sync with the demand, NPP leader and Nongstoin legislator Macmillan Byrsat on Wednesday voiced his support for creation of a separate Khasi-Jaintia state.
“This is a long-pending demand of the people of Khasi-Jaintia and Garo Hills. I agree to the demand for a separate state for the Khasis and the Jaintias,” said Byrsat.
Justifying his stand, Byrsat said the Khasis and Jaintias share common customs and traditions while are different from other tribes in the state.
“I think it will be better for us if we get our own state,” he said, adding that a separate state will ensure that administration percolates down to the grassroots.
The Garo Hills region is also witnessing a growing demand for a separate Garoland. Recently, a massive rally was organised by the GSMC to press forward the demand for a separate Garo state. The demand got ample support from the NFNS.