By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 10: Pressure is mounting on the Dhormonath Ch. Sangma-led Garo Hills Autonomous District Council to amend existing laws and create separate electoral roll to exclude non-tribals from GHADC elections.
Several pressure groups from Garo Hills on Friday submitted a petition to the CEM, congratulating him on his appointment and demanding swift action on their demands.
The joint memorandum was submitted by organisations including Association of Democratic Empowerment (ADE), A•chik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM), A•chik Youth Welfare Organisation (AYWO), Federation of A•chik Freedom (FAF), Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP), and the Garo Students’ Union (GSU).
A major demand was electoral reform. The groups argued that allowing non-tribals to vote or contest in GHADC elections violates the spirit of the Sixth Schedule. They sought amendments to restrict voting rights and candidature exclusively to Scheduled Tribe members of Meghalaya, warning that ST certificates alone may not prevent proxy representation.
Citing rising tensions between tribal and non-tribal communities due to unresolved grievances, the petition highlighted rampant encroachment of tribal lands. They cited specific cases in Wa•dagokgre A•king (Phulbari) and Boldamgre A•king (Halidayganj/Singgimari).
The groups pointed out that the Garo Hills District (Transfer of Land) Act, 1955 and the Meghalaya Transfer of Land (Regulation) Act, 1972 prohibit non-tribals from owning land in Sixth Scheduled areas, but weak enforcement and low penalties have failed to stop violations. They demanded stricter penalties, including fines running into lakhs of rupees.
They also raised concerns over illegal mining, timber smuggling, and unauthorised settlements by non-tribals. To tackle these issues effectively, the organisations called for a strong coordination mechanism involving Land & Revenue, Home, Forest, and Police departments.
The petition urged the CEM and his team to initiate necessary reforms to protect tribal rights, identity, and interests, and promote long-term peace in the region.
