Dimapur, November 3 (MExN): The Nagaland Garo Tribal Council (NGTC) has expressed deep concern over reported remarks by the Chief Minister of Nagaland Dr Neiphiu Rio referring to the Garos as “migrants” during discussions concerning Indigenous Inhabitants, saying the statement has hurt the community's sentiments.
NGTC President Diganto Sangma and General Secretary Cliff Sangma in a statement said the remarks, which appeared in local dailies on October 31, have caused concern among Garo community members, who believe their historical presence, identity and connection to the Dimapur region deserve recognition and respect.
The council asserted that the Garos are an aboriginal community of Dimapur District with deep historical roots dating back to time immemorial, noting that Darogapathar Village, established in 1811, is the oldest recognised Garo village in Nagaland and among the oldest villages in and around the district.
At present, there are five Garo villages in Nagaland, all concentrated in Dimapur District — Darogapathar (1811), Eralibill (1910), Dubagaon (1910), Ekranipathar (1942) and Samaguri (1951). Garo community members also reside in Dimapur town, Padumpukhuri village, Chümoukedima District and Kohima District, among other places, even where they do not have a separate permanent village.
The community pointed out that the Garos are constitutionally recognised as a Scheduled Tribe in Nagaland under the Constitution (Nagaland) Scheduled Tribes Order, 1970.
The NGTC said historical identity and constitutional recognition should not be questioned through generalised statements, and emphasised that protecting the rights and identity of indigenous Naga communities should go hand in hand with respecting the history and legitimate rights of other tribal communities.
Urging the CM and concerned authorities to exercise sensitivity and fairness when making public statements concerning the history, identity and settlement of minority tribal communities, the council said the Garo community seeks dignity, historical recognition, equal treatment and justice.
“Our history deserves to be heard, not dismissed or neglected,” the Council stated.
