By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 2: The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO) has welcomed Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma’s statement supporting the implementation of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state, but stressed that assurances are not enough without concrete action.
Addressing reporters after a meeting with BJP state president Rikman Momin, CoMSO chairman Roy Kupar Synrem said the organisation expects the state government to take proactive steps to ensure that SIR is implemented at the earliest.
“We are thankful that the Chief Minister has publicly stated the government is on the same page as CoMSO regarding SIR. However, it is not only about making statements but also about doing what is required,” Synrem said.
He urged the state government to actively coordinate with the central government and the Election Commission of India to expedite the implementation process.
According to him, engagement with relevant authorities, including the Home Ministry, is essential to address the issue effectively.
Synrem disclosed that CoMSO has decided to broaden its engagement by reaching out to all political parties in the state.
He said that the organisation plans to meet representatives in person where possible and send formal communications to others, seeking their support on two key issues — implementation of SIR and amendment to the ST Order, 1950.
“As elected representatives, political parties have an important role to play. We are urging them to take proactive steps and raise these matters with the state and central governments,” he said.
During the meeting with the BJP state unit, CoMSO submitted a representation seeking support for the implementation of SIR and the amendment to the ST Order.
Synrem said the BJP leadership assured that they also favour early implementation and would take up the matter with authorities concerned.
On the issue of the ST Order, the CoMSO chairman expressed concern over delays in the functioning of committees constituted by the government.
Synrem pointed out that although a working group committee was formed in December 2024 to study the matter, there has been little visible progress.
“It is a fact that the government is quick to form committees, but these committees often take years to complete their work. We have not seen any significant activity or outreach from the committee studying the ST Order,” he said.
He emphasised that while CoMSO appreciates the formation of such committees, it is equally important for them to complete their tasks within a stipulated timeframe, given that these issues directly affect the rights of indigenous communities in Meghalaya.
“We urge the government to ensure that committees deliver results within a defined period. These are crucial issues, and delays cannot be justified,” he added.
