ASPF urges CM to intervene, says GH boundary clearly demarcated
Mangsang, April 20: Amidst the ongoing debate over jurisdiction of a ‘disputed area’ between the Khasi and Garo Hills boundary, a civil society organisation (CSO) called Achik State People’s Forum (ASPF) has called the claims by the KHADC that the area falls under their jurisdiction, as unacceptable and condemnable.
ASPF team members visited the villages of Nongkongkil and Moronga in the Mangsang area of East Garo Hills on April 17, where they spoke to villagers of the two villages claimed by the KHADC. “These villages are illegally claimed as part of KHADC. During our visit, we met with the local Laskers and the residents of Nongkongkil and Moronga villages. It is essential to emphasise that the villages of Mogru, Nongkongkil and Moronga are under the jurisdiction of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC),” said general secretary, Bernita Marak.
Earlier, locals from the Mangsang area, including CSOs came down heavily on the assertion of the KHADC with some claiming that the land being illegally occupied is more than 10 km within the boundary of the GHADC’s jurisdiction.
“Historically, these villages have been integral to Garo Hills, substantiated by valid documentation and established boundaries. The residents have exercised their voting rights within the GHADC since its inception without any disturbances,” added ASPF.
Taking a stand on the matter, ASPF stated that it would protect its lands at all costs especially with Garo Hills having clearly demarcated boundaries and there was no need to create unnecessary chaos.
“This could incite tension and hatred between the two communities that have coexisted peacefully and harmoniously since the formation of the State. We request the intervention of the CM, Conrad Sangma to quickly address this matter as it could lead to unrest and misunderstandings between two communities that have lived in harmony,” felt the CSO.
Further it also urged the CM to initiate a comprehensive digital mapping of GHADC boundaries to facilitate the identification of any encroachments within GHADC territory, particularly near the borders with KHADC and Assam.