Tura, Mar 2: Combined groups from Garo Hills on Monday warned that any attempt to jeopardize the decision taken by the Executive Committee of the GHADC, mandating the production of an ST certificate to contest the upcoming MDC elections, would be met with stiff and unrelenting opposition by the people of Garo Hills.
The warning by the combined groups comprising the FKJGP, ADE, AYWO, ADE and the Zikku Balgra led GSU came after there were reports of certain MDCs not favouring the move and attempting to put pressure on authorities to reverse the move. The groups converged in front of the GHADC office and issued a strong statement vowing to fight against any such attempt.
“We came to know of the bold decision taken by the EC, which was to mandate producing an ST certificate to contest in MDC elections. We were thankful for the move as we had all along been demanding the exclusion of non-tribals in the affairs of the GHADC. However, on that same evening we came to know that certain MDCs (4 in number) were unhappy with the decision and making efforts at overturning it. It has been reported that these four MDCs were putting pressure on the CEM and the Secretary,” ADE President Dalseng Bira said.
Dalseng, while speaking on behalf of the combined groups warned that any attempt to reverse the decision taken by the EC would not be tolerated.
“We have been demanding among others the exclusion of non-tribals from the GHADC since 2015. Now this one demand has been met by the EC and we welcome it. We warn all those who are trying to jeopardize it. The people of Garo Hills will fight against it,” he said.
Dalseng also urged Chief minister Conrad Sangma to ensure that not attempts are made to disrupt the decision.
