Activists from the Garo Hills region of Meghalaya staged a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, raising concerns over alleged land encroachment and threats to indigenous rights.
The demonstration, led by the Nangrimingin A’chik Dol (NAD), brought together multiple organizations and community members who accused unauthorized settlers of occupying tribal land and resources. Protesters claimed that such activities have led to rising tensions and disturbances in the region.
Highlighting constitutional protections under the Sixth Schedule, the groups warned that continued encroachment could undermine the legal safeguards granted to Indigenous communities. They also alleged that certain recent conflicts were deliberate attempts to destabilize local populations.
The NAD criticized authorities for failing to curb unauthorized settlements and raised concerns over the treatment of human rights defenders supporting indigenous causes, including reports of temporary detentions.
Among their key demands, the protesters called for an independent and comprehensive inquiry into alleged illegal land occupation, as well as the removal of unauthorized settlers in accordance with regulations of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council. They also sought stricter monitoring along regional borders to prevent further encroachment.
The activists further demanded a probe by the National Investigation Agency into the killing of Dilseng M. Sangma and urged authorities to ensure proper investigation into recent incidents reported in the Chibinang area.
In addition, the groups called for compensation for the victim’s family and appealed to both state and central governments to take concrete steps to protect the land, cultural heritage, and legal rights of the A’chik community.
The protest underscored growing concerns among indigenous groups over land security and governance, bringing national attention to issues affecting communities in Meghalaya’s Garo Hills region.