SHILLONG, Jan 28: Social activist Greneth M. Sangma has urged the Meghalaya government to step up security measures in West Garo Hills following the circulation of a poster on social media allegedly threatening local residents.

In a letter addressed to Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home, Prestone Tynsong, Sangma demanded the deployment of additional security forces, establishment of more security camps, and intensive search operations to safeguard the people of the Garo Hills.

The appeal comes after a poster, purportedly signed by ISIS-K and Aminur Islam, described as an Area Commander of the Plain Belt Area, warned members of the Garo community to vacate their land before 2027. The authenticity of the poster has not been officially confirmed.

“I strongly demand that immediate action be taken to deploy security forces in West Garo Hills, set up additional camps, conduct search operations against ISIS-K and its associates, identify and remove outsiders with illegal claims to land, and ensure protection of the people of the Garo Hills,” Sangma stated in his letter.

He said the alleged threat has caused concern among residents, particularly in areas such as Phulbari, Rajabala, Tikrikilla, Selsela, Garobhada, and Tura.

Sangma further alleged that some individuals from Bangladesh possess dual voting rights in Assam and Meghalaya and are attempting to lay claim to land belonging to the Garos, which is protected under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

Stressing the need for stronger safeguards, he called for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Meghalaya, deletion of dual voters, creation of a separate electoral roll for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), introduction of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state, and strict enforcement of laws protecting tribal land rights.

The activist urged the government to act swiftly to prevent any potential threat and to reassure the people of the region.