Tura, Aug 13: GHADC MDC Rinaldo K Sangma has urged the Voice of the People Party (VPP) to exercise restraint in its statements on the proposed GHADC electoral roll, cautioning that the issue could create divisions among Meghalaya’s indigenous tribal communities.
Sangma, MDC from the 23-Rongrong constituency, said the inclusion of members of other Scheduled Tribe communities in the GHADC electoral roll should not be portrayed as a threat to Garo identity or political rights.
Reacting to remarks by VPP Garo Hills President K N. Marak, Sangma said issues concerning tribal identity, electoral rights and the Sixth Schedule should be addressed through constitutional and legislative processes rather than political rhetoric.
He pointed out that members of Khasi, Jaintia and other ST communities have historically participated in the GHADC electoral process, while Garos and other ST communities have also participated in KHADC elections.
Sangma said the Sixth Schedule was meant to protect tribal self-governance and representation, and appealed to political parties to promote consultation and mutual respect. He maintained that the GHADC electoral roll issue should be settled through constitutional provisions, the Sixth Schedule and applicable electoral procedures rather than statements that could deepen divisions among indigenous communities.