Garo organizations ban GSU in Assam over alleged betrayal

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 4, 2025

The Garo community in Assam, under the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC), has taken a decisive stand against the Garo Students’ Union (Assam State Zone) [GSU (ASZ)], accusing it of betraying their long-standing demand for a distinct Garo Autonomous Council.

The Garo community has been steadfast in its pursuit of a Garo Autonomous Council to address its unique socio-political and cultural needs. Their demands include the exclusion of Garo villages from the RHAC before the council is granted Sixth Schedule status. However, recent developments have caused outrage within the community, with accusations of betrayal directed at the GSU (ASZ).

In a contentious move, the GSU (ASZ) has reportedly aligned itself with the Rabha Hasong Sixth Schedule Demand Committee (RHSSDC). The union’s support for granting Sixth Schedule status to the RHAC, purportedly on behalf of the Garo community, has been labeled a severe betrayal of the community’s interests.

“The GSU (ASZ) has acted against the unified and genuine aspirations of the Garo people by endorsing the Sixth Schedule status for the RHAC without consulting the community,” read a joint statement by Garo organizations.

In response, the Garo Autonomy Demand Committee (GACDC) and All Assam Garo NGOs Forum have unanimously imposed a ban on the GSU (ASZ). This decision underscores the community’s collective disapproval of the union’s actions and their commitment to justice for the Garo people.

GACDC chairman Benhur K. Sangma stated, “Our decision to ban the GSU (ASZ) reflects our unwavering commitment to our cause and unity. Their unilateral actions are unacceptable and deeply condemnable.”

The controversy intensified following a statement from the GSU (ASZ) on December 23, 2024, targeting UGACMC Chairman Pholince Sangma for his criticism of their support for the RHSSDC and participation in a dharna at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi.

The All Assam Garo NGOs Forum strongly condemned the GSU (ASZ) for supporting the Sixth Schedule for the RHAC without consulting Garo leaders, NGOs, and stakeholders. The forum described the actions as a “blatant disregard for the collective voices of the Garo people.”

The Garo community remains resolute in its pursuit of a distinct autonomous council. Benhur K. Sangma called upon all Garo individuals and organizations to unite in the fight for justice and the protection of their rights.

“This betrayal by the GSU (ASZ) is a grave injustice to the Garo people. We will not tolerate any actions that undermine our legitimate aspirations. Our fight for a distinct Garo Autonomous Council continues with unwavering resolve,” he said.

The Garo community urged solidarity and vigilance in this struggle, emphasizing the importance of ensuring their voices are heard and demands are met.