Tura: In a decisive move to curb encroachment, the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) on Tuesday demolished six illegally constructed houses along Meghalaya’s border with Assam. The structures, built without proper documentation, were razed after the occupants reportedly failed to comply with eviction notices issued by the council.
According to Nikman Ch Marak, Deputy Chief Executive Member of the GHADC, the council had repeatedly served notices to the settlers, demanding proof of land ownership. “They could not show documents to prove ownership of land and continued to occupy the area even after the deadline, so we had to act,” Marak stated. He further highlighted a growing concern over repeated attempts by individuals of Assam origin to encroach upon council land. Marak affirmed the GHADC’s commitment to protecting its territorial integrity, drawing parallels with Assam’s stringent actions against encroachment within its own boundaries. “As Assam has taken strong action against encroachment within its own boundaries, we too must act to protect our land in the border areas,” he emphasised. The GHADC is now reportedly collaborating closely with local traditional heads, including Nokmas and Rangbah Shnongs, to identify and preempt such illegal activities in the future.
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