TURA, Feb 2: In view of the prevailing unrest affecting the sale of betelnuts by traders and farmers due to communal tension in the Garo Hills, a Peace Meeting was convened by the South West Garo Hills District Administration at Ampati on Monday.
The meeting was attended by members of the Nokma Council, leaders of various religious groups, civil society organizations, senior citizens, market committees, betelnut farmers and traders.
During the meeting, speakers highlighted the concerns of betelnut farmers while emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace, communal harmony, and at the same time keeping in mind the sentiments of the people of region.
The recent incident at Goalgaon village in Rajabala, which led to the ongoing tension, was condemned, with participants calling for the restoration of peace and normalcy in the region.
It was reiterated that people in the area have historically lived together peacefully since pre-Independence times, and that disturbances caused by a few anti-social elements were always settled amicably.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner, South West Garo Hills, Smt. Anendya Raajsshre, IAS, stated that the district has long been known for its peaceful coexistence despite its diverse communities and religions. She appealed to the public to uphold communal harmony, cooperate with the district administration, and refrain from taking law and order into their own hands.
The Administration assured the participants in the meeting that it is working towards a long-term solution in coordination with West Garo Hills district and South Salmara district of Assam, and urged traders and residents to remain patient and calm in the interim.
Superintendent of Police, Sri Vikash Varma, IPS, also appealed to all communities to maintain peace, verify information circulated on social media, and report any untoward incidents to the nearest police station instead of resorting to self-action.
