SHILLONG: In a high-stakes meeting to safeguard the peace of Garo Hills, Tura MP Saleng A. Sangma took the region’s concerns straight to the top today.
Meeting with Meghalaya Governor C. H. Vijayashankar at Lok Bhawan, the Congress MP delivered an urgent plea to deploy more security camps immediately to stabilize a region currently on edge.
As the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections approach, though the new dates are yet to be announced, the atmosphere remains volatile following clashes during the nomination process.
Sangma is pushing for at least two additional security strongholds—likely involving the CRPF—in high-risk zones to protect citizens and restore public trust.
Sangma raised the alarm over international border security, specifically citing reports of illegal entries.
“We talked at length about the border issue and how Rohingyas are entering not only our state but other parts through the international border,” Sangma revealed.
The MP also addressed the “elephant in the room”—the heated debate over Sixth Schedule protections. He noted that the youth are increasingly agitated about non-tribal participation in these protected areas. Sangma pointed the finger at a historical lack of clear rules, blaming “carelessness” from previous leadership for the current constitutional confusion that has left the District Council in a bind for years.
Despite the tension, the MP offered a glowing tribute to the Meghalaya Police and district administrations. He credited their “very, very nice” handling of the situation for preventing the violence from spiraling completely out of control.
He also expressed deep gratitude to the spiritual heart of the community, thanking the Bishop, Reverend, and local preachers whose constant prayers and calls for peace have been instrumental in calming the nerves of a worried public.
What’s Next?
Saleng Sangma is heading back to the frontlines soon. He plans to huddle with community elders, legal advisors, and intellectuals to find a permanent fix for the GHADC rulebook.
“The 6th Schedule is for the tribal—everybody knows it, and everybody SHOULD know it.”
With the Governor reportedly taking a “very positive” stance on these constitutional amendments, all eyes are now on Garo Hills to see if peace can be permanently restored before the first ballot is cast.
