From Our Correspondent
TURA, March 15: People from the plains belt of Garo Hills have sought a clarification from the BJP’s state leaders over their recent claims that most residents of the area are from Bangladesh.
In a statement, a group of people from the plains belt dismissed the BJP leaders’ claims as irresponsible and misleading.
Recently, the region was racked by violence on the issue of non-tribals’ participation in the now-deferred Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections. The West Garo Hills district had been on the edge from March 9-11 in the wake of the violence, prompting authorities to clamp curfew and suspend mobile internet services.
“We strongly urge the leaders of the BJP to clarify their repeated statements, claiming that a majority of Bengali-speaking Muslims living in the plains belt areas under the GHADC are Bangladeshis. Such allegations are irresponsible and misleading,” the statement stated.
The residents asked the BJP to point out exactly where the Bangladeshi people were living in the plains belt.
“If such claims are made, they should clearly identify the villages and the locations instead of making random accusations against an entire community. It is unfortunate that such statements are being made at a time when elections are approaching. This appears to be an attempt to mislead the majority community and create unnecessary tensions between communities for political gain. Political parties should focus on development and genuine issues rather than spreading suspicion and division,” the statement said.
It added, “We respect the GHADC which exists to protect the land, forests, culture, and rights of the tribal people. We have no objection to safeguards that protect the interests of the tribal community. However, genuine citizens, who have been living in the plains belt since the time of independence, like our families and forefathers, should not be branded as foreigners. Many of us have lived here peacefully for generations and are rightful citizens of this land.”
The residents invited the BJP leaders to visit the plains belt and identify exactly who they claim are Bangladeshis and where they are located, instead of making generalised statements that harm communal harmony.
“We appeal to all responsible leaders not to mislead the people of Garo Hills or create division between communities. The people of the plains belt believe in peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between all communities. Let us work together to maintain harmony, unity, and justice for all genuine citizens” the statement further stated.
