Shillong: Several civil society groups in Meghalaya’s Garo Hills have condemned the killing of Dilseng M. Sangma, a member of the Garo organisation ACHIK.
Organizations including Chokpot NGOs coalition, FAF, Niksamso Garo Community Organisation, and GSU Western Zone (West) have called for a fast and impartial investigation, urging that all those responsible be identified and punished.
The groups criticized the district administration and the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) for failing to act against illegal stone quarries in areas such as Singgimari, Chatibui, Tangaon, Phulbari, and Rajabala.
Complaints about these quarries were reportedly submitted more than three years ago, but no effective measures were taken.
According to Niksamso, “This tragedy is the result of years of neglect.” The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO) demanded the arrest and prosecution of all involved, eviction of illegal settlers, and a complete shutdown of unauthorized quarries.
They said the incident underscores a failure of governance and law enforcement, putting indigenous communities at risk.
The Northeast Indigenous People’s Association also condemned the attack, urging authorities to act swiftly to protect citizens and prevent further violence.