ASPF slams KHADC’s claim over Garo villages, urges govt action to prevent border tensions

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 18, 2025

The Achik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) on Thursday visited the villages of Nongkongkil and Moronga in the Mangsang area of East Garo Hills, responding to what it calls illegal claims by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC).

The ASPF team met with local Laskers and residents to reaffirm that the villages—along with nearby Mogru—fall squarely under the jurisdiction of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC). The population in these areas is predominantly Garo.

“KHADC’s claim over these villages is baseless and unacceptable,” said ASPF general secretary Bernita Marak. “These villages have always been part of Garo Hills. Boundaries are clear, documents back it, and the residents have consistently voted under GHADC without disruption.”

Marak called on the KHADC to stop stoking unnecessary conflict. “Garo Hills has defined boundaries. Creating chaos only risks damaging the peaceful relationship between Garos and Khasis that has existed since the State was formed.”

ASPF has requested Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to step in immediately to prevent the issue from escalating. Marak also urged the GHADC Chief Executive Member to launch a full digital mapping of GHADC boundaries to identify and address any encroachments, especially along borders with KHADC and Assam.