SHILLONG, MAR 5: The President of the Jaintia National Council (JNC), Sambormi Lyngdoh, has strongly rejected allegations made by Leader of Opposition and All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Dr. Mukul Sangma that students join non-government organisations to “collect illegal money.”
Addressing a gathering organised by the Nangrimgimin Achik Dol (NAD)—a coalition of NGOs from the Garo Hills—at Ampati in South West Garo Hills on Thursday, Lyngdoh asserted that students participate in such organisations out of a sense of responsibility toward their communities.
“Students do not join organisations for financial gain,” Lyngdoh said. “They come together to defend their communities, safeguard indigenous rights, and raise issues that affect their future.”
He further stated that the increasing participation of youth in civil society organisations reflects a growing lack of confidence in political leadership. According to him, many students and community members believe that civil society groups have been more proactive in advocating for indigenous rights, protecting ancestral lands, and highlighting pressing social issues affecting the region.
The gathering focused on two major concerns affecting the Garo Hills region. Participants demanded swift and fair justice in connection with the killing of late Delsing Marak, a member of one of the constituent organisations under the NAD coalition.
Civil society leaders urged authorities to ensure that those responsible for the incident are identified and brought to justice without delay.
The organisations also called for strong and immediate action by the government to identify and push back illegal migrants from Bangladesh reportedly settled in parts of the Garo Hills. According to them, the issue raises serious concerns about demographic changes, regional security, and the protection of indigenous communities and their land rights.
Leaders present at the meeting emphasised the need for greater accountability from elected representatives and reiterated the crucial role of civil society in defending the interests and rights of indigenous communities in Meghalaya.
Following the meeting, a public rally witnessed significant participation from NGOs and community representatives from across the Garo Hills region, reflecting widespread concern over governance, security, and the protection of indigenous rights.