Guwahati: A Meghalaya-based group has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to step in and address what it calls a “serious humanitarian and constitutional crisis” in the Garo Hills region, allegedly caused by illegal migrants from Bangladesh.
The Garoland State Movement Committee (GSMC), which advocates for the division of Meghalaya, said the recent killing of a tribal youth, Dilseng M. Sangma, highlights a serious concern.
The attack, carried out by a group mainly consisting of migrants from Bangladesh and parts of Assam, underscores the growing challenges faced by indigenous communities in the northeast.
In a letter to the Prime Minister dated January 13, 2026, GSMC claimed Sangma’s death highlighted significant lapses in governance, law enforcement, and protection of tribal rights under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
“There is increasing concern about unchecked illegal immigration in the northeastern region, especially in areas protected under the Sixth Schedule. Reports suggest forced occupation of tribal lands, large-scale falsification of identity documents including Aadhaar and voter IDs, and manipulation of administrative processes to legitimize unlawful settlements,” GSMC general secretary Tony Tojrang B. Marak stated.
He further warned that these developments not only threaten indigenous land rights and the demographic balance but also pose risks to national security and constitutional safeguards.
The organisation urged an investigation into possible foreign or organised networks supporting such illegal activities.
The GSMC accused both the Meghalaya government and the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council of failing to act effectively against illegal immigration, land encroachment, and related unlawful practices.
“This continued inaction has strengthened illegal networks and created fear, insecurity, and a sense of injustice among the local tribal population. If not addressed, these issues could permanently change the demographic structure of the region and undermine constitutionally protected tribal lands, while triggering long-term law-and-order problems,” the group said.
The organisation requested the Prime Minister to take concrete steps, including identifying and deporting illegal migrants, cancelling unlawful land and revenue documents, dismantling networks involved in forged identity papers, and holding responsible officials accountable.
A group linked to illegal stone quarrying reportedly killed Dilseng Sangma on January 10 in West Garo Hills, causing local unrest that was later brought under control after Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma called for peace.