COMSO revived, seeks to unite indigenous voices of Meghalaya 

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 13, 2025

The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (COMSO), a platform aimed at uniting the indigenous voices from across Khasi, Jaintia and Garo region, was revived on Saturday in a landmark meeting held at Tura. 

Roykupar Synrem, President of Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) was elected as the Chairman, while Sambormi Lyngdoh, President of the Jaiñtia National Council (JNC), and  Roger D. Shira, President of the A’chik Progressive Approach (APA), were chosen as the Vice-Chairmen. 

Balkarin Ch. Marak, Acting Chairman of the Garoland State Movement Committee (GSMC), was selected as the General Secretary, and Bandari Ryntathiang, President of the Confederation of Ri-Bhoi People (CORP) as Additional General Secretary.

The committee also saw the appointment of Organising Secretaries for each region: Jacius Sangma for Garo Hills, Rhembor G. Saibon for Khasi Hills, and Nangshwa Sutnga for Jaiñtia Hills. The Publicity Secretary positions were assigned to Jubanjoy Swer and Tony Marak for Khasi & Jaiñtia Hills and Garo Hills, respectively. A key addition to the leadership team is the appointment of Cherian Momin, a seasoned social activist as the official Adviser to COMSO, underscoring the importance of expert guidance and strategic insight in COMSO’s mission.

Speaking at the meeting, Synrem stressed the importance of forging a collective vision for the indigenous communities of Meghalaya. 

He reminded those present at the earlier discussions that had taken place in Shillong, where a shared commitment was made to form a unified platform to address common issues and challenges. 

The most pressing of these concerns include the demand for the Inner Line Permit (ILP), the amendment of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), and the establishment of a 44% reservation for indigenous people in central government jobs.

“The revival of COMSO thus brings together the combined strength and resolve of the Khasi, Jaiñtia, and Garo communities, creating a cohesive front to address these concerns,” the COMSO said in a statement.

“Synrem’s leadership and vision for COMSO’s rebirth were evident as he articulated the need for a robust and cohesive strategy that would ensure the protection of indigenous rights. This platform will work tirelessly to create awareness, garner support, and pursue advocacy through the legal and political channels necessary to bring about lasting change,” it stated.

Further, the statement said, “One of the primary issues highlighted in the meeting was the need to address land encroachment by Assam, as well as the illegal settlements by non-indigenous communities within Meghalaya. This issue, raised by John Marak, calls for urgent intervention, as land rights and the protection of indigenous territories are fundamental to the survival of indigenous peoples in Meghalaya. This issue, alongside the protection of culture, language, and natural resources, will be central to COMSO’s advocacy efforts.”