Tura, March 27, 2025: In a significant development, representatives from various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) led by the Mothers’ Union convened a crucial meeting with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma at his residence in Tura to address the contentious issue surrounding the Garo Labour Corps and the dismantling of the First World War Cenotaph. The unlawful demolition of the memorial has deeply hurt the sentiments of the Garo Indigenous Tribe, leading to widespread protests and calls for accountability.

The Mothers’ Union, a unit member of IWFNEI (Indigenous Women’s Forum of North East India) and a key ally of AIPP (Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact), has been at the forefront of demanding justice and restoration of the cenotaph. The delegation categorically condemned the unauthorized demolition, citing gross negligence, lack of procedural transparency, and a blatant disregard for indigenous history.

During the meeting, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma acknowledged the concerns raised and assured the formation of a new committee to thoroughly investigate the matter. He further committed to an immediate halt of all activities at the demolished cenotaph site until further notice. According to the assurances given to the Mothers’ Union and the Joint NGOs Forum, the new committee will be constituted within a week, ensuring that all stakeholders, including representatives from indigenous communities, academicians, and cultural experts, are given due representation.

This decision marks a crucial step towards justice for the indigenous Garo people, who have long cherished the cenotaph as a symbol of the sacrifices made by Garo warriors in the First World War. The incident drew national attention after reports surfaced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen paying homage to fallen Indian soldiers at the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille, France, where many Garo Warriors are also buried. This stark contrast where the Indian government honors its war heroes abroad while a significant war memorial in Garo Hills faces destruction has fueled public outrage and demands for accountability.

The Joint NGOs Forum, Mothers’ Union, and various CSOs have reiterated their firm stance that those responsible for the unlawful demolition must be held accountable. Further, the Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills and the CEO of Tura Municipal Board (TMB) have been under heavy scrutiny, with allegations of procedural lapses, lack of transparency in the tendering process, and insensitivity towards the indigenous sentiments. The Right to Information (RTI) report filed by the Garoland State Movement Committee (GSMC) has further exposed irregularities, confirming that no official tender notification was issued, no public announcement was made, and No Objection Certificate (NOC) was obtained from the Tura Town Planning Board before the demolition took place.

The Mothers’ Union also condemned the mistreatment and insults hurled at them by the Deputy Commissioner, stating that they were disrespected simply because they belong to the Garo Indigenous Tribe. The Joint NGOs Forum has called for the immediate transfer of the Deputy Commissioner and the CEO of TMB, citing their failure to uphold administrative integrity and cultural sensitivity.

The formation of the new committee, as promised by the Chief Minister, is seen as a victory for indigenous voices and a necessary step towards restoring justice and historical dignity. However, the CSOs remain vigilant and have urged the government to ensure that the new committee operates with absolute transparency, ensuring that such grave mishandling of indigenous heritage is never repeated.

As the people of Garo Hills await the constitution of the new committee, the spotlight remains on the government’s commitment to rectifying this injustice and ensuring that the memory of the Garo Labour Corps warriors is preserved with the honor and respect they rightfully deserve.