Illegal Settlers and Construction in NGH: ASPF Seeks Urgent Intervention
Mendipathar, August 13 – The Achik People’s State Forum (ASPF) has written to the Deputy Commissioner of North Garo Hills, expressing deep concern over the presence of illegal settlers and unauthorised construction at Mendipathar Bazaar. The ASPF, a prominent organisation representing the interests of the indigenous Achik people, has called for immediate action to restore public property and prevent further violations of land use regulations.
The Discovery of Illegal Occupation
According to ASPF chief organisation secretary, Raksim Marak, a building structure is being constructed adjacent to the Council’s Forest Department office. Upon investigation, it was discovered that a non-tribal individual is occupying the land without any legal documents or permissions from the relevant authorities. Despite being confronted, the individual claimed to possess land pattas, but failed to produce any documentation to support their claim.
Lack of Oversight and Diligence
The ASPF has expressed serious concerns about the lack of diligence and oversight exercised by the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), the local Bazaar Committee, and the District Administration. The organisation believes that the failure to prevent these illegal settlers from occupying public land is a clear indication of the need for stronger measures to protect the rights of indigenous communities.
Calling for Immediate Action
The ASPF has sought an inquiry to be initiated and immediate eviction measures to be implemented to restore public property in the interest of the local community. They have also urged the competent authorities to take a strong stand against benami transactions or arrangements that involve land being held in the name of a tribal individual for the benefit of a non-tribal person. Such arrangements, the ASPF believes, should be declared void and unenforceable to prevent exploitation of tribal lands and ensure that land rights remain firmly with the indigenous communities.
The Importance of Protecting Tribal Lands
The ASPF has been at the forefront of efforts to protect the rights of indigenous communities in North Garo Hills. The organisation has consistently highlighted the need for stronger measures to prevent the exploitation of tribal lands and ensure that the rights of indigenous communities are respected. The current situation at Mendipathar Bazaar is a stark reminder of the need for urgent action to protect the rights of the Achik people and prevent further violations of land use regulations.
A Call to the Authorities
The ASPF has urged the competent authorities to take immediate action to address the situation at Mendipathar Bazaar. The organisation believes that the failure to act decisively will only embolden those who seek to exploit tribal lands and undermine the rights of indigenous communities. It is imperative, therefore, that the authorities take a strong stand against illegal settlers and unauthorised construction, and work towards protecting the rights of the Achik people.
As the ASPF continues to fight for the rights of the indigenous communities in North Garo Hills, it is clear that the situation at Mendipathar Bazaar is a critical test of the authorities’ commitment to protecting the rights of the Achik people. The ASPF remains resolute in its efforts to protect the rights of the indigenous communities, and will continue to advocate for stronger measures to prevent the exploitation of tribal lands.