Building Bridges: Insights from the Peace Meeting at Ampati
In Tura on February 2, a Peace Meeting was held by the South West Garo Hills District Administration in response to unrest affecting betelnut sales due to communal tensions in the Garo Hills. This meeting brought together members of the Nokma Council, leaders from various religious groups, civil society representatives, senior citizens, market committee members, and both farmers and traders of betelnuts.
During the assembly, speakers voiced the concerns of betelnut farmers and stressed the need for peace and communal harmony, while acknowledging the sentiments of local residents. The recent turmoil sparked by an incident in Goalgaon village, Rajabala, was condemned, with attendees urging for the restoration of peace and normalcy in the area.
Participants reiterated that historically, the people in the region have coexisted peacefully, even prior to Independence, and that disturbances instigated by a few individuals have typically been resolved amicably.
Deputy Commissioner Smt. Anendya Raajsshre, IAS, addressed the gathering, noting the district’s long-standing reputation for peaceful coexistence among diverse communities and religions. She urged citizens to uphold communal unity, collaborate with the district administration, and avoid taking law enforcement matters into their own hands.
The administration reassured attendees that it is pursuing a long-term resolution in coordination with both the West Garo Hills district and South Salmara district in Assam, urging traders and residents to remain patient and calm during this period.
Superintendent of Police Sri Vikash Varma, IPS, also called on all communities to maintain peace, be cautious with information shared on social media, and report any troubling incidents to their nearest police station rather than taking matters into their own hands.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2026/02/02/peace-meeting-held-at-ampati/
Category: MEGHALAYA,News Alert
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Publish Date: 2026-02-02 20:38:00