Congress MP from Tura, Saleng A. Sangma, has raised alarm over the escalating communal tensions in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya, where he alleges that illegal Rohingya intruders are conducting violent attacks against tribal communities. He accuses these individuals of vandalizing religious monuments, issuing threats to local residents to vacate their homes, and suggests a potential motive to occupy the region. In an urgent appeal to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Sangma has requested immediate government intervention to safeguard the lives and properties of vulnerable tribal groups in his constituency.
Sangma has highlighted the precarious border situation, calling on the Cabinet Committee on Security, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to recognize the rapidly deteriorating scenario. He pointed out the presence of threatening posters in various areas, including Rajabala, Tikrikilla, and Phulbari, which demand that tribal residents evacuate or face dire consequences. This, he claims, reflects a coordinated intimidation effort aimed at undermining regional stability.
Further underscoring the alarming nature of events, Sangma referenced the recent killings of two Garo tribals, as well as incidents of arson, including the destruction of a shop in Chibinang and the vandalism of a statue of Mother Mary. These acts, he claims, are damaging to religious sentiments and exacerbating communal tensions. He pointed out that police reports suggest that some incidents may involve individuals of immigrant background and have potential ties to extremist networks such as ISIS.
Describing the situation as both a physical and psychological threat, Sangma warned that these violent actions could lead to displacement and long-term disruption among indigenous communities. He has called for a thorough intelligence investigation to uncover the groups and motivations behind these incidents. Additionally, he has recommended the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces to ensure heightened security in vulnerable areas. Given the unrest, a curfew has been in place for several days, forcing the postponement of the scheduled Autonomous District Council elections for six months.
