Tura, Mar 17, 2025: The Constitutional Rights Forum (CRF), HQ. Tura, has written complaint to Nikman Ch.Marak Deputy CEM, i/c Land & Revenue of the Garo Hills-ni Autonomous District Council (GHADC), regarding the illegal sale of Tribal Land to Non-Tribals, under Sixth Schedule.
The President and Secretary of the CRF, HQ Tura expressed their strong objection against the illegal sale of tribal land to non-tribals at Bulujora under Babilgre A-king Land, Wadagokgre, Rajabala, Phulbari and its surrounding areas. The letter serves formal complaint and demand for immediate verification and action of the individuals.
“We have received credible information that non-tribals are obtaining ID cards and documents, facilitating their illegal migration from Assam to Meghalaya. We urge Deputy CEM to verify the details and take immediate action to prevent illegal activities” said Greneth M.Sangma President of CRF.
The Meghalaya Transfer of Land Regulation Act, 1971, prohibits the transfer of land from tribals to non-tribals without prior sanction from the competent authority. Furthermore, the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution protects the rights of tribal communities over their land and resources, added Sangma.
“We request Deputy CEM to take immediate action and to verify the authenticity of the ID cards and documents obtained by non-tribals. To prevent illegal sale of tribal land to non-tribals.To take action against those responsible for facilitating illegal migration and land sale of individuals. Ensure to protection of tribal land and resources as per ‘Meghalaya Transfer of Land Regulation Act, 1971’ and the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Investigate and prevent the sale of tribal land without consent of the Nokma concerned A·king Land, as reported by our sources” said CRF.
This same letter will be submitted to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of West Garo Hills and Superintendent of Police (SP), Tura for information and necessary action.
In this regard CRF requested, Deputy CEM and I/c Land & Revenue to look into the matter and urged immediate initiate joint investigation with the authorities, Police, NGOs and other stakeholders into the illegal obtaining of land and take stern legal action against the individuals.
